Reference Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602v3

does not offer. With this feature, WPA provides roughly comparable security to VPN tunneling with WEP, with the benefit of easier administration and use. This is similar to 802.1x support and requires a RADIUS server in order to implement. The Wi-Fi Alliance will call this, 'WPA-Enterprise.'

One variation of WPA is called WPA Pre Shared Key or WPA-PSK for short - this provides an authentication alternative to an expensive RADIUS server. WPA-PSK is a simplified but still powerful form of WPA most suitable for home Wi-Fi networking. To use WPA-PSK, a person sets a static key or "passphrase" as with WEP. But, using TKIP, WPA-PSK automatically changes the keys at a preset time interval, making it much more difficult for hackers to find and exploit them. The Wi-Fi Alliance will call this, 'WPA-Personal.'

Wi-Fi Protected Access and IEEE 802.11i Comparison

Wi-Fi Protected Access will be forward-compatible with the IEEE 802.11i security specification currently under development by the IEEE. Wi-Fi Protected Access is a subset of the current 802.11i draft, taking certain pieces of the 802.11i draft that are ready to bring to market today, such as its implementation of 802.1x and TKIP. These features can also be enabled on most existing Wi-Fi CERTIFIED products as a software upgrade. The main pieces of the 802.11i draft that are not included in Wi-Fi Protected Access are secure IBSS, secure fast handoff, secure de-authentication and disassociation, as well as enhanced encryption protocols such as AES-CCMP. These features are either not yet ready for market or will require hardware upgrades to implement.

Wi-Fi Protected Access for the Enterprise

Wi-Fi Protected Access effectively addresses the WLAN security requirements for the enterprise and provides a strong encryption and authentication solution prior to the ratification of the IEEE 802.11i standard. In an enterprise with IT resources, Wi-Fi Protected Access should be used in conjunction with an authentication server such as RADIUS to provide centralized access control and management. With this implementation in place, the need for add-on solutions such as VPNs may be eliminated, at least for the express purpose of securing the wireless link in a network.

Wi-Fi Protected Access for Home/SOHO

In a home or Small Office/ Home Office (SOHO) environment, where there are no central authentication servers or EAP framework, Wi-Fi Protected Access runs in a special home mode. This mode, also called Pre-Shared Key (PSK), allows the use of manually-entered keys or passwords and is designed to be easy to set up for the home user. All the home user needs to do is enter a password (also called a master key) in their access point or home wireless gateway and each PC that is on the Wi-Fi wireless network. Wi-Fi Protected Access takes over automatically from that point. First, the password allows only devices with a matching password to join the network, which keeps out eavesdroppers and other unauthorized users. Second, the password automatically kicks off the TKIP encryption process, described above.

Wi-Fi Protected Access for Public Access

The intrinsic encryption and authentication schemes defined in Wi-Fi Protected Access may also prove useful for Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) offering Wi-Fi public access in "hot spots" where

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Glossary

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NETGEAR WG602v3 manual Wi-Fi Protected Access and Ieee 802.11i Comparison
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WG602v3 specifications

The NETGEAR WG602v3 is a wireless access point designed primarily for home and small office environments. As part of the NETGEAR family of networking devices, the WG602v3 ensures reliable and secure wireless connectivity, making it an essential component for users who require a seamless internet experience.

One of the main features of the NETGEAR WG602v3 is its support for the IEEE 802.11g wireless standard, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This standard ensures compatibility with older 802.11b devices while providing enhanced performance for newer wireless devices. The WG602v3 operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, ensuring widespread coverage and the ability to penetrate walls and barriers, making it suitable for diverse environments.

Another significant characteristic of this access point is its user-friendly setup process. The WG602v3 includes an intuitive web-based user interface that allows users to configure settings with ease. This simplifies the installation process and enables users, even those with limited technical knowledge, to quickly establish a robust wireless network.

Security is paramount in today’s interconnected world, and NETGEAR has incorporated several security features into the WG602v3. The device supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) encryption protocols, ensuring that users can secure their data and prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, the WG602v3 includes a MAC address filtering feature that further enhances network security by allowing only designated devices to connect to the network.

The WG602v3 is also equipped with a detachable antenna, allowing users to customize their wireless coverage based on their specific needs. This adaptability makes it easier to optimize the access point’s performance in different physical layouts. Furthermore, it supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling installation in locations without an accessible power outlet, which is particularly useful in unconventional setups.

In summary, the NETGEAR WG602v3 wireless access point combines ease of use, robust security features, and flexibility in installation to provide reliable connectivity. Its compatibility with both 802.11g and b devices, combined with user-friendly configuration options, ensures that it meets the needs of various users, from casual home users to small office setups, making it a versatile solution for enhancing wireless networks.
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