User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

•Enhanced data privacy

•Robust key management

•Data origin authentication

•Data integrity protection

The Wi-Fi Alliance is now performing interoperability certification testing on Wi-Fi Protected Access products. Starting August of 2003, all new Wi-Fi certified products will have to support WPA. NETGEAR will implement WPA on client and access point products and make this available in the second half of 2003. Existing Wi-Fi certified products will have one year to add WPA support or they will loose their Wi-Fi certification.

The 802.11i standard is currently in draft form, with ratification due at the end of 2003. While the new IEEE 802.11i standard is being ratified, wireless vendors have agreed on WPA as an interoperable interim standard.

How Does WPA Compare to WEP?

WEP is a data encryption method and is not intended as a user authentication mechanism. WPA user authentication is implemented using 802.1x and the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). Support for 802.1x authentication is required in WPA. In the 802.11 standard, 802.1x authentication was optional. For details on EAP specifically, refer to IETF's RFC 2284.

With 802.11 WEP, all access points and client wireless adapters on a particular wireless LAN must use the same encryption key. A major problem with the 802.11 standard is that the keys are cumbersome to change. If you don't update the WEP keys often, an unauthorized person with a sniffing tool can monitor your network for less than a day and decode the encrypted messages. Products based on the 802.11 standard alone offer system administrators no effective method to update the keys.

For 802.11, WEP encryption is optional. For WPA, encryption using Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is required. TKIP replaces WEP with a new encryption algorithm that is stronger than the WEP algorithm, but that uses the calculation facilities present on existing wireless devices to perform encryption operations. TKIP provides important data encryption enhancements including a per-packet key mixing function, a message integrity check (MIC) named Michael, an extended initialization vector (IV) with sequencing rules, and a re-keying mechanism. Through these enhancements, TKIP addresses all of known WEP vulnerabilities.

Wireless Networking Basics

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202-10060-01, September 2004

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NETGEAR WG602NA manual How Does WPA Compare to WEP?
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WG602NA specifications

The NETGEAR WG602NA is a wireless access point that has garnered attention for its robust performance and reliability in various networking environments. Designed primarily for home and small office use, this device offers users an efficient way to expand their network's coverage, providing both flexibility and convenience in connectivity.

One of the standout features of the WG602NA is its adherence to the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows it to deliver wireless connectivity speeds of up to 54 Mbps. This speed makes it suitable for a variety of online activities, including web browsing, streaming videos, and online gaming. The device also supports backward compatibility with 802.11b devices, ensuring that older devices can still connect seamlessly.

The WG602NA utilizes advanced wireless security protocols to protect users' data. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) for basic encryption, as well as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) for more robust security measures. This ensures that your network remains secure from unauthorized access and data breaches.

In terms of connectivity, the WG602NA offers a straightforward setup process that is user-friendly, even for those with minimal technological knowledge. The device features a simple web interface that guides users through the configuration process, allowing them to customize settings according to their needs. It also includes a variety of options for network configuration, such as DHCP and static IP addressing, which can accommodate different network setups.

For those looking to set up multiple access points, the WG602NA can be configured to operate in bridge mode, enabling seamless roaming across larger areas without losing connectivity. This feature is particularly beneficial in larger homes or office settings where consistent signal strength is essential.

The compact design of the WG602NA makes it an unobtrusive addition to any setting, and it is equipped with a power over Ethernet (PoE) option, allowing it to be powered through an Ethernet cable. This flexibility facilitates easier installations as there is no need for searching for an electrical outlet nearby.

Overall, the NETGEAR WG602NA is a reliable access point that combines speed, security, and ease of use. Its features make it an excellent choice for individuals or small businesses seeking to enhance their wireless network capabilities, ensuring consistent and secure connectivity for all connected devices.
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