Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Linksys Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster. The Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster will allow you to network wirelessly better than ever, sharing Internet access, files and fun, easily and securely while away from home.

How does the Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster do all of this? The Router has a built-in access point, which lets you connect SpeedBooster-enhanced and regular Wireless-G and Wireless-B devices to the network. There's also an Ethernet port to connect your wired PC. The Router function ties it together and lets your PCs share a wired or wireless Internet connection. The travel-friendly form factor includes a built-in power supply and antenna, and it comes with a travel case. Just plug the Router directly into the wall, and connect the hotel's fast Internet service cable. Then use the Router's push button setup feature to easily connect and configure your wireless devices. You just push the button on the Router and on your other SecureEasySetup-enabled wireless device to automatically create a WPA or WEP encryption-secured wireless connection. You can also use multiple devices on a single hotspot account in a coffee shop or airport lounge and be protected with WPA Personal encryption or a powerful SPI firewall. The Router also supports VPN pass-through and it can serve as a DHCP Server.

But what does all of this mean?

Networks are useful tools for sharing computer resources. You can access one printer from different computers and access data located on another computer's hard drive. Networks are even used for playing multiplayer video games. So, networks are not only useful in homes and offices, they can also be fun.

PCs on a wired network create a LAN, or Local Area Network. They are connected with Ethernet cables, which is why the network is called “wired”.

PCs equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network. This is sometimes called a WLAN, or Wireless Local Area Network. The Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster bridges wireless networks of 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g standards and wired networks, allowing them to communicate with each other.

Linksys recommends using the Setup CD-ROM for first-time installation of the Router. If you do not wish to run the Setup Wizard on the Setup CD-ROM, then use the instructions in this Guide to help you connect the Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster, set it up, and configure it to bridge your network. These instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster.

Chapter 1: Introduction

nat (network address translation): NAT technology translated IP addresses of a local area network to a different IP address for the Internet.

mbps: one million bits per second; a unit of measurement for data transmission.

browser: an application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the World Wide Web.

lan (local area network): the computers and networking products that make up the network in your home or office.

ethernet: an IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common transmission medium.

802.11b: an IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

802.11g: an IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and backward compatibility with 802.11b devices.

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Welcome

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Linksys WTR54GS manual Introduction, Welcome
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WTR54GS specifications

The Linksys WTR54GS is a robust wireless router that combines performance and ease of use for home and small office networks. With its sleek design and advanced technology, it caters to users seeking reliable connectivity for multiple devices. One of its standout features is the Wireless-G technology, which provides a maximum data transfer rate of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it ideal for streaming videos, online gaming, and facilitating smooth internet browsing.

The WTR54GS supports 802.11g standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It also supports backward compatibility with 802.11b devices, which is essential for users with older equipment. Enhanced by SpeedBooster technology, the WTR54GS improves performance by increasing the range and speed of the wireless connection, which is particularly beneficial in larger homes or offices where signal strength might be a concern.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys WTR54GS, offering robust features such as WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols. This ensures that users can maintain a secure connection while protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. Additionally, the router features a built-in firewall that helps defend against potential intrusions, providing an added layer of security for the network.

Equipped with four Ethernet ports, the WTR54GS enables users to connect wired devices for more stable and faster connections. This is particularly useful for activities that require high bandwidth, such as video conferencing or online gaming. The router also includes an intuitive web-based setup interface, allowing users to configure and manage their network settings effortlessly.

Another notable characteristic of the Linksys WTR54GS is its support for Quality of Service (QoS) features, which prioritize bandwidth for important applications, ensuring that critical tasks receive the necessary resources for optimal performance. This is particularly useful for households with multiple users and devices competing for bandwidth.

Overall, the Linksys WTR54GS is a versatile and reliable router that provides excellent performance for various networking needs. With its combination of speed, security, and user-friendly features, it remains a popular choice for those looking to enhance their wireless networking experience.
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