Reference Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless Access Point WPN802

How Does WPA Compare to WPA2 (IEEE 802.11i)?

WPA is forward compatible with the WPA2 security specification. WPA is a subset of WPA2 and used certain pieces of the early 802.11i draft, such as 802.1x and TKIP. The main pieces of WPA2 that are not included in WPA are secure IBSS (Ad-Hoc mode), secure fast handoff (for specialized

802.11VoIP phones), as well as enhanced encryption protocols, such as AES-CCMP. These features were either not yet ready for market or required hardware upgrades to implement.

What are the Key Features of WPA and WPA2 Security?

The following security features are included in the WPA and WPA2 standard:

•WPA and WPA2 Authentication

•WPA and WPA2 Encryption Key Management

–Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP)

–Michael message integrity code (MIC)

–AES support (WPA2, requires hardware support)

•Support for a mixture of WPA, WPA2, and WEP wireless clients to allow a migration strategy, but mixing WEP and WPA/WPA2 is discouraged

These features are discussed below.

WPA/WPA2 addresses most of the known WEP vulnerabilities and is primarily intended for wireless infrastructure networks as found in the enterprise. This infrastructure includes stations, access points, and authentication servers (typically RADIUS servers). The RADIUS server holds (or has access to) user credentials (for example, user names and passwords) and authenticates wireless users before they gain access to the network.

The strength of WPA/WPA2 comes from an integrated sequence of operations that encompass 802.1X/EAP authentication and sophisticated key management and encryption techniques. Its major operations include:

•Network security capability determination. This occurs at the 802.11 level and is communicated through WPA information elements in Beacon, Probe Response, and (Re) Association Requests. Information in these elements includes the authentication method (802.1X or Pre-shared key) and the preferred cipher suite (WEP, TKIP, or AES).

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Wireless Networking Basics

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NETGEAR WPN802 manual How Does WPA Compare to WPA2 Ieee 802.11i?, What are the Key Features of WPA and WPA2 Security?
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WPN802 specifications

The NETGEAR WPN802 is an exceptional wireless access point that has made a significant impact on the home networking landscape. Designed to provide robust wireless connectivity, the WPN802 is an 802.11g compliant device, delivering reliable performance at data rates of up to 54 Mbps. This allows users to enjoy seamless Internet access for streaming, gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive applications.

One of the standout features of the NETGEAR WPN802 is its ease of installation and setup. The device is equipped with a user-friendly setup wizard that guides users step by step through the process, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy. The WPN802 also supports both wired and wireless connections, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into existing network configurations, whether expanding a home network or setting up a new one.

Security is a crucial aspect of any wireless network, and the WPN802 addresses this with several built-in security features. It supports WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the network remains secure from unauthorized access. Additionally, the device provides MAC address filtering, which allows users to control the devices that can connect to the network.

Another significant feature of the NETGEAR WPN802 is its versatility. It can function not only as an access point but also as a wireless bridge or a repeater, enabling users to extend the range of their existing wireless network. This flexibility is particularly valuable in larger homes or offices where coverage may be spotty in certain areas.

The WPN802 also includes Quality of Service (QoS) features that prioritize bandwidth for different applications, ensuring that critical tasks such as video conferencing and online gaming receive the necessary resources for optimal performance. This enhances the overall user experience, especially in environments with multiple connected devices.

In terms of build and design, the NETGEAR WPN802 is compact and lightweight, allowing for easy placement in various locations without being obtrusive. Its stylish exterior ensures it can fit in seamlessly with home or office decor.

In conclusion, the NETGEAR WPN802 is a highly reliable and feature-rich wireless access point that caters to the needs of modern users. With its fast wireless speeds, robust security features, versatile functionality, and user-friendly setup, it remains a commendable choice for anyone looking to enhance their wireless networking experience. Whether used in a residential or small business setting, the WPN802 stands out as a dependable solution that continues to meet the demands of today's connected world.
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