Appendix C: Windows Help. Linksys WRK54G (EU/LA)

Wireless-G Broadband Router

Appendix C: Upgrading Firmware

The Broadband Router's firmware is upgraded through the Web-based Utility's Administration tab. Follow these instructions:

1. Download the firmware from Linksys's website at www.linksys.com/international.

2. Click the Firmware Upgrade tab on the Web-Utility's Administration tab, and the Upgrade Firmware screen, shown in Figure C-1, will appear.

3. Enter the location of the firmware's file or click the Browse button to find the file.

4. Then, click the Upgrade button to upgrade the firmware.

Figure C-1: Upgrade Firmware

Appendix C: Upgrading Firmware 55


Appendix D: Windows Help

All Linksys wireless products require Microsoft Windows. Windows is the most used operating system in the world and comes with many features that help make networking easier. These features can be accessed through

Windows Help and are described in this appendix.

TCP/IP

Before a computer can communicate with the Broadband Router, TCP/IP must be enabled. TCP/IP is a set of instructions, or protocol, all PCs follow to communicate over a network. This is true for wireless networks as well.

Your PCs will not be able to utilize wireless networking without having TCP/IP enabled. Windows Help provides complete instructions on enabling TCP/IP.

Shared Resources

If you wish to share printers, folder, or files over your network, Windows Help provides complete instructions on utilizing shared resources.

Network Neighborhood/My Network Places

Other PCs on your network will appear under Network Neighborhood or My Network Places (depending upon the version of Windows you're running). Windows Help provides complete instructions on adding PCs to your network.

Appendix D: Windows Help 56


Appendix E: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for

Your Ethernet Adapter

This section describes how to find the MAC address for your computer’s Ethernet adapter so you can use the MAC filtering and/or MAC address cloning feature of the Router. You can also find the IP address of your computer’s

Ethernet adapter. This IP address is used for the Router’s filtering, forwarding, and/or DMZ features. Follow the steps in this appendix to find the adapter’s MAC or IP address in Windows 98, Me, 2000, or XP.

Windows 98SE or Me Instructions

1. Click Start and Run. In the Open field, enter winipcfg. Then press the Enter key or the OK button.

2. When the IP Configuration screen appears, select the Ethernet adapter you have connected to the Router via a

CAT 5 Ethernet network cable. See Figure E-1.

3. Write down the Adapter Address as shown on your computer screen (see Figure E-2). This is the MAC address for your Ethernet adapter and is shown as a series of numbers and letters.

The MAC address/Adapter Address is what you will use for MAC address cloning or MAC filtering.

The example in Figure E-3 shows the Ethernet adapter’s IP address as 192.168.1.100. Your computer may show something different.

Figure E-1: IP Configuration Screen

Figure E-2: MAC Address/Adapter Address

Note: The MAC address is also called the Adapter Address.

Windows 2000 or XP Instructions

1. Click Start and Run. In the Open field, enter cmd. Press the Enter key or click the OK button.

2. At the command prompt, enter ipconfig /all. Then press the Enter key.

Appendix E: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for Your Ethernet Adapter

Windows 98SE or Me Instructions

Figure E-3: MAC Address/Physical Address

57


3. Write down the Physical Address as shown on your computer screen (Figure E-3); it is the MAC address for your Ethernet adapter. This appears as a series of numbers and letters.

The MAC address/Physical Address is what you will use for MAC address cloning or MAC filtering.

Note: The MAC address is also called the Physical Address.

The example in Figure E-3 shows the Ethernet adapter’s IP address as 192.168.1.100. Your computer may show something different.

For the Router’s Web-based Utility

For MAC filtering, enter the 12-digit MAC address in this format, XXXXXXXXXXXX, WITHOUT the hyphens. See

Figure E-4.

For MAC address cloning, enter the 12-digit MAC address in the MAC Address fields provided, two digits per field. See Figure E-5

Figure E-4: MAC Address Filter List

Appendix E: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for Your Ethernet Adapter

For the Router’s Web-based Utility

Figure E-5: MAC Address Clone

58


Appendix F: Glossary

802.11a - An IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an operating frequency of 5GHz.

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.

Access Point - Device that allows wireless-equipped computers and other devices to communicate with a wired network. Also used to expand the range of a wireless network.

Adapter - This is a device that adds network functionality to your PC.

Ad-hoc - A group of wireless devices communicating directly with each other (peer-to-peer) without the use of an access point.

Backbone - The part of a network that connects most of the systems and networks together, and handles the most data.

Bandwidth - The transmission capacity of a given device or network.

Beacon Interval - The frequency interval of the beacon, which is a packet broadcast by a router to synchronize a wireless network.

Bit - A binary digit.

Boot - To start a device and cause it to start executing instructions.

Bridge - A device that connects two different kinds of local networks, such as a wireless network to a wired

Ethernet network.

Broadband - An always-on, fast Internet connection.

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

Appendix F: Glossary 59


Buffer - A block of memory that temporarily holds data to be worked on later when a device is currently too busy to accept the data.

Cable Modem - A device that connects a computer to the cable television network, which in turn connects to the

Internet.

CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Avoidance) - A method of data transfer that is used to prevent data loss in a network.

CTS (Clear To Send) - A signal sent by a device to indicate that it is ready to receive data.

Daisy Chain - A method used to connect devices in a series, one after the other.

Database - A collection of data that is organized so that its contents can easily be accessed, managed, and updated.

DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System) - The capability of having a website, FTP, or e-mail server-with a dynamic IP address-use a fixed domain name.

Default Gateway - A device that forwards Internet traffic from your local area network.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A protocol that lets one device on a local network, known as a

DHCP server, assign temporary IP addresses to the other network devices, typically computers.

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) - Removes the Router's firewall protection from one PC, allowing it to be “seen” from the Internet.

DNS (Domain Name Server) - The IP address of your ISP's server, which translates the names of websites into IP addresses.

Domain - A specific name for a network of computers.

Download - To receive a file transmitted over a network.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) - An always-on broadband connection over traditional phone lines.

DSSS (Direct-Sequence Spread-Spectrum) - A type of radio transmission technology that includes a redundant bit pattern to lessen the probability of data lost during transmission. Used in 802.11b networking.

DTIM (Delivery Traffic Indication Message) - A message included in data packets that can increase wireless efficiency.



Dynamic IP Address - A temporary IP address assigned by a DHCP server.

Encryption - Encoding data to prevent it from being read by unauthorized people.

Ethernet - An IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common transmission medium.

Finger - A program that tells you the name associated with an e-mail address.

Firewall - Security measures that protect the resources of a local network from intruders.

Firmware - 1. In network devices, the programming that runs the device. 2. Programming loaded into read-only memory (ROM) or programmable read-only memory (PROM) that cannot be altered by end-users.

Fragmentation - Breaking a packet into smaller units when transmitting over a network medium that cannot support the original size of the packet.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) - A standard protocol for sending files between computers over a TCP/IP network and the Internet.

Full Duplex - The ability of a networking device to receive and transmit data simultaneously.

Gateway - A system that interconnects networks.

Half Duplex - Data transmission that can occur in two directions over a single line, but only one direction at a time.

Hardware - The physical aspect of computers, telecommunications, and other information technology devices.

HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol) - The communications protocol used to connect to servers on the World

Wide Web.

IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) - An independent institute that develops networking standards.

Infrastructure - Currently installed computing and networking equipment.

Infrastructure Mode - Configuration in which a wireless network is bridged to a wired network via an access point.

IP (Internet Protocol) - A protocol used to send data over a network.

IP Address - The address used to identify a computer or device on a network.



IPCONFIG - A Windows 2000 and XP utility that displays the IP address for a particular networking device.

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) - A VPN protocol used to implement secure exchange of packets at the IP layer.

ISM band - Radio band used in wireless networking transmissions.

ISP (Internet Service Provider) - A company that provides access to the Internet.

LAN (Local Area Network) - The computers and networking products that make up the network in your home or office.

MAC (Media Access Control) Address - The unique address that a manufacturer assigns to each networking device.

Mbps (Megabits Per Second) - One million bits per second; a unit of measurement for data transmission.

Multicasting - Sending data to a group of destinations at once.

NAT (Network Address Translation) - NAT technology translates IP addresses of a local area network to a different IP address for the Internet.

Network - A series of computers or devices connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage, and/or transmission between users.

NNTP (Network News Transfer Protocol) - The protocol used to connect to Usenet groups on the Internet.

Node - A network junction or connection point, typically a computer or work station.

OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) - A type of modulation technology that separates the data stream into a number of lower-speed data streams, which are then transmitted in parallel. Used in 802.11a,

802.11g, and powerline networking.

Packet - A unit of data sent over a network.

Passphrase - Used much like a password, a passphrase simplifies the WEP encryption process by automatically generating the WEP encryption keys for Linksys products.

Ping (Packet INternet Groper) - An Internet utility used to determine whether a particular IP address is online.

POP3 (Post Office Protocol 3) - A standard protocol used to retrieve e-mail stored on a mail server.

Port - 1. The connection point on a computer or networking device used for plugging in a cable or an adapter. 2.

The virtual connection point through which a computer uses a specific application on a server.



PPPoE (Point to Point Protocol over Ethernet) - A type of broadband connection that provides authentication

(username and password) in addition to data transport.

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) - A VPN protocol that allows the Point to Point Protocol (PPP) to be tunneled through an IP network. This protocol is also used as a type of broadband connection in Europe.

Preamble - Part of the wireless signal that synchronizes network traffic.

RJ-45 (Registered Jack-45) - An Ethernet connector that holds up to eight wires.

Roaming - The ability to take a wireless device from one access point's range to another without losing the connection.

Router - A networking device that connects multiple networks together, such as a local network and the Internet.

RTS (Request To Send) - A packet sent when a computer has data to transmit. The computer will wait for a CTS

(Clear To Send) message before sending data.

Server - Any computer whose function in a network is to provide user access to files, printing, communications, and other services.

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) - The standard e-mail protocol on the Internet.

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) - A widely used network monitoring and control protocol.

Software - Instructions for the computer. A series of instructions that performs a particular task is called a

“program”.

Spread Spectrum - Wideband radio frequency technique used for more reliable and secure data transmission.

SSID (Service Set IDentifier) - Your wireless network's name.

Static IP Address - A fixed address assigned to a computer or device that is connected to a network.

Static Routing - Forwarding data in a network via a fixed path.

Subnet Mask - An address code that determines the size of the network.

Switch - 1. Device that is the central point of connection for computers and other devices in a network, so data can be shared at full transmission speeds. 2. A device for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an electrical circuit.



TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) - A network protocol for transmitting data that requires acknowledgement from the recipient of data sent.

Telnet - A user command and TCP/IP protocol used for accessing remote PCs.

TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol) - A version of the TCP/IP FTP protocol that uses UDP and has no directory or password capability.

Throughput - The amount of data moved successfully from one node to another in a given time period.

Topology - The physical layout of a network.

TX Rate - Transmission Rate.

UDP (User Datagram Protocol) - A network protocol for transmitting data that does not require acknowledgement from the recipient of the data that is sent.

Upgrade - To replace existing software or firmware with a newer version.

Upload - To transmit a file over a network.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator) - The address of a file located on the Internet.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) - A security measure to protect data as it leaves one network and goes to another over the Internet.

WAN (Wide Area Network) - The Internet.

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) - A method of encrypting data transmitted on a wireless network for greater security.

WINIPCFG - A Windows 98 and Millennium utility that displays the IP address for a particular networking device.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associated devices that communicate with each other wirelessly.



Appendix G: Specifications

Model

Standards

Channels

Ports/Buttons

WRK54G

IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b

11 Channels (most of North, South, and Central America)

13 Channels (most of Europe)

Internet: One 10/100 RJ-45 Port

LAN: Four 10/100 RJ-45 Switched Ports

One Power Port

One Reset Button

Cabling Type

LEDs

RF Power Output

UPnP able/cert

Security Features

Wireless Security

Dimensions

Unit Weight

Ethernet Network Cable

Power, DMZ, WLAN, Ethernet (1-4), Internet

20 dBm maximum

Able

NAT Firewall, Internet Policy

Wi-Fi Protected Access™ (WPA), WEP, Wireless MAC Filtering

186 mm x 48 mm x 154 mm

0.34 kg

Power

Certifications

External, 12V DC, 1.0A

FCC, CE, IC-03

Operating Temp.

Appendix G: Specifications

0ºC to 40ºC (32ºF to 104ºF)

65


Storage Temp.

-20ºC to 70ºC (-4ºF to 158ºF)

Operating Humidity 10% to 85%, Non-Condensing

Storage Humidity 5% to 90%, Non-Condensing

Appendix G: Specifications 66


Appendix H: Warranty Information

WARRANTY

Linksys warrants to You that, for a period of three years (the “Warranty Period”), your Linksys Product will be substantially free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Your exclusive remedy and Linksys' entire liability under this warranty will be for Linksys at its option to repair or replace the Product or refund Your purchase price less any rebates.

This limited warranty extends only to the original purchaser.

If the Product proves defective during the Warranty Period call Linksys Technical Support in order to obtain a Return

Authorization Number, if applicable. BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE ON HAND WHEN CALLING. If You are requested to return the Product, mark the Return Authorization Number clearly on the outside of the package and include a copy of your original proof of purchase. RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. You are responsible for shipping defective Products to Linksys. Linksys pays for UPS Ground shipping from Linksys back to You only. Customers located outside of the United States of America and Canada are responsible for all shipping and handling charges.

ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE LIMITED

TO THE DURATION OF THE WARRANTY PERIOD. ALL OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONDITIONS, REPRESENTATIONS AND

WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF NON-INFRINGEMENT, ARE DISCLAIMED. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to You. This warranty gives

You specific legal rights, and You may also have other rights which vary by jurisdiction.

This warranty does not apply if the Product (a) has been altered, except by Linksys, (b) has not been installed, operated, repaired, or maintained in accordance with instructions supplied by Linksys, or (c) has been subjected to abnormal physical or electrical stress, misuse, negligence, or accident. In addition, due to the continual development of new techniques for intruding upon and attacking networks, Linksys does not warrant that the Product will be free of vulnerability to intrusion or attack.

TO THE EXTENT NOT PROHIBITED BY LAW, IN NO EVENT WILL LINKSYS BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOST DATA, REVENUE OR PROFIT,

OR FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, REGARDLESS OF THE THEORY OF

LIABILITY (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT

(INCLUDING ANY SOFTWARE), EVEN IF LINKSYS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT

WILL LINKSYS’ LIABILITY EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID BY YOU FOR THE PRODUCT. The foregoing limitations will apply even if any warranty or remedy provided under this Agreement fails of its essential purpose. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to You.

This Warranty is valid and may be processed only in the country of purchase.

Please direct all inquiries to: Linksys, P.O. Box 18558, Irvine, CA 92623.

Appendix H: Warranty Information

87


Appendix I: Regulatory Information

FCC Statement

This product has been tested and complies with the specifications for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used according to the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which is found by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment or devices

• Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receiver's

• Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body.

Appendix I: Regulatory Information

41


Compliance Information for 2.4-GHz Wireless Products Relevant to the EU and Other Countries Following

EU Directive 1999/5/EC (R&TTE Directive)

Declaration of Conformity with Regard to the EU Directive 1995/5/EC (R&TTE Directive)

Deutsch

[German]:

Dieses Gerät entspricht den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den weiteren entsprechenden Vorgaben der Richtlinie 1999/5/EU.

Dansk

[Danish]:

English:

Español

[Spanish]:

Ελληνική

[Greek]:

Dette udstyr er i overensstemmelse med de væsentlige krav og andre relevante bestemmelser i Direktiv 1999/5/EF.

This equipment is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.

Este equipo cumple con los requisitos esenciales asi como con otras disposiciones de la Directiva 1999/5/CE.

Αυτός ο εξοπλισµός είναι σε συµµόρφωση µε τις ουσιώδεις απαιτήσεις

και άλλες σχετικές διατάξεις της Οδηγίας 1999/5/EC.

Français

[French]:

Íslenska

[Icelandic]:

Italiano

[Italian]:

Nederlands

[Dutch]:

Norsk

[Norwegian]:

Português

[Portuguese]:

Suomi

[Finnish]:

Svenska

[Swedish]:

Cet appareil est conforme aux exigences essentielles et aux autres dispositions pertinentes de la Directive 1999/5/EC.

Þetta tæki er samkvæmt grunnkröfum og öðrum viðeigandi ákvæðum

Tilskipunar 1999/5/EC.

Questo apparato é conforme ai requisiti essenziali ed agli altri principi sanciti dalla Direttiva 1999/5/CE.

Dit apparaat voldoet aan de essentiele eisen en andere van toepassing zijnde bepalingen van de Richtlijn 1999/5/EC.

Dette utstyret er i samsvar med de grunnleggende krav og andre relevante bestemmelser i EU-direktiv 1999/5/EF.

Este equipamento está em conformidade com os requisitos essenciais e outras provisões relevantes da Directiva 1999/5/EC.

Tämä laite täyttää direktiivin 1999/5/EY olennaiset vaatimukset ja on siinä asetettujen muiden laitetta koskevien määräysten mukainen.

Denna utrustning är i överensstämmelse med de väsentliga kraven och andra relevanta bestämmelser i Direktiv 1999/5/EC.

NOTE: If you need any technical documentation, see the “How to Access Technical

Documents on www.linksys.com/international” section for more information.


42


The following standards were applied during the assessment of the product against the requirements of the Directive

1999/5/EC:

• Radio: EN 300.328

• EMC: EN 301 489-1, EN 301 489-17

• Safety: EN 60950

CE Marking

For the Linksys Wireless-B and Wireless-G products, the following CE mark, notified body number (where applicable), and class 2 identifier are added to the equipment.

or or

Check the CE label on the product to find out which notified body was involved during the assessment.

National Restrictions

This product may be used in all EU countries (and other countries following the EU directive 1999/5/EC) without any limitation except for the countries mentioned below:

Ce produit peut être utilisé dans tous les pays de l’UE (et dans tous les pays ayant transposés la directive 1999/5/CE) sans aucune limitation, excepté pour les pays mentionnés ci-dessous:

Questo prodotto è utilizzabile in tutte i paesi EU (ed in tutti gli altri paesi che seguono le direttive EU 1999/5/EC) senza nessuna limitazione, eccetto per i paesii menzionati di seguito:

Das Produkt kann in allen EU Staaten ohne Einschränkungen eingesetzt werden (sowie in anderen Staaten die der EU

Direktive 1995/5/CE folgen) mit Außnahme der folgenden aufgeführten Staaten:

Belgium

Outdoor wireless links with a range in excess of 300 meters need to be notified at the Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications (BIPT). Please check http://www.bipt.be for more details.

Draadloze verbindingen voor buitengebruik en met een reikwijdte van meer dan 300 meter dienen aangemeld te worden bij het Belgisch Instituut voor postdiensten en telecommunicatie (BIPT). Zie http://www.bipt.be voor meer gegevens.


43


Les liaisons sans fil pour une utilisation en extérieur d’une distance supérieure à 300 mètres doivent être notifiées à l’Institut Belge des services Postaux et des Télécommunications (IBPT). Visitez http://www.ibpt.be pour de plus amples détails.

France

In case the product is used outdoors, the output power is restricted in some parts of the band. See Table 1 or check http://www.art-telecom.fr/ for more details.

Dans la cas d’une utilisation en extérieur, la puissance de sortie est limitée pour certaines parties de la bande. Reportezvous à la table 1 ou visitez http://www.art-telecom.fr/ pour de plus amples détails.

Table 1: Applicable Power Levels in France

Location

Indoor (No restrictions)

Outdoor

Frequency Range (MHz)

2400-2483.5

2400-2454

2454-2483.5

Power (EIRP)

100 mW (20 dBm)

100 mW (20 dBm)

10 mW (10 dBm)

Italy

This product meets the National Radio Interface and the requirements specified in the National Frequency Allocation Table for Italy. Unless operating within the boundaries of the owner’s property, the use of this 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN product requires a ‘general authorization’. Please check with http://www.comunicazioni.it/it/ for more details.

Questo prodotto è conforme alla specifiche di Interfaccia Radio Nazionali e rispetta il Piano Nazionale di ripartizione delle frequenze in Italia. Se non viene installato all’interno del proprio fondo, l’utilizzo di prodotti Wireless LAN a 2.4 GHz richiede una “Autorizzazione Generale”. Consultare http://www.comunicazioni.it/it/ per maggiori dettagli.

Product Usage Restrictions

This product is designed for indoor usage only. Outdoor usage is not recommended.

This product is designed for use with the included integral or external (dedicated) antenna(s). Use of non-dedicated or third-party antenna(s) is not recommended and is not supported by Linksys.


44


Power Output of Your Device

To comply with your country’s regulations, you may have to change the power output of your wireless device. Proceed to the appropriate section for your device.

Note: The power output setting may not be available on all wireless products.

For more information, refer to the documentation on your product’s CD or at http://www.linksys.com/international.

Wireless Adapters

Wireless adapters have the power output set to 100% by default. Maximum power output on each adapter does not exceed

20 dBm (100 mW); it is generally 18 dBm (64 mW) or below. If you need to alter your wireless adapter’s power output, follow the appropriate instructions for your computer’s Windows operating system:

Windows XP

1. Double-click the Wireless icon in your desktop’s system tray.

2. Open the Wireless Network Connection window.

3. Click the Properties button.

4. Select the General tab, and click the Configure button.

5. In the Properties window, click the Advanced tab.

6. Select Power Output.

7. From the pull-down menu on the right, select the wireless adapter’s power output percentage.

Windows 2000

1. Open the Control Panel.

2. Double-click Network and Dial-Up Connections.

3. Select your current wireless connection, and select Properties.

4. From the Properties screen, click the Configure button.

5. Click the Advanced tab, and select Power Output.

6. From the pull-down menu on the right, select the wireless adapter’s power setting.

If your computer is running Windows Millennium or 98, then refer to Windows Help for instructions on how to access the advanced settings of a network adapter.

Wireless Access Points, Routers, or Other Wireless Products

If you have a wireless access point, router or other wireless product, use its Web-based Utility to configure its power output setting (refer to the product’s documentation for more information).


45


Technical Documents on www.linksys.com/international

Follow these steps to access technical documents:

1. Browse to http://www.linksys.com/international.

2. Click the region in which you reside.

3. Click the name of the country in which you reside.

4. Click Products.

5. Click the appropriate product category.

6. Select a product.

7. Click the type of documentation you want. The document will automatically open in PDF format.

Note: If you have questions regarding the compliance of these products or you cannot find the information you are looking for, please contact your local sales office. Visit http://www.linksys.com/international for more details.


46


Appendix J: Contact Information

Need to contact Linksys?

Visit us online for information on the latest products and updates to your existing products at: http://www.linksys.com/international

If you experience problems with any Linksys product, you can e-mail us at:

In Europe

Austria

Belgium

Denmark

France

Germany

Italy

Netherlands

Norway

Portugal

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

United Kingdom & Ireland

E-mail Address [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Outside of Europe

Latin America

U.S. and Canada

Appendix J: Contact Information

E-mail Address [email protected]

[email protected]

88

A Division of Cisco Systems, Inc.

®

2,4 GHz

802.11g

WIRELESS

Wireless-

G

Notebook Adapter User Guide

Model No.

WPC54G (EU/LA)

Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

Copyright and Trademarks

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Linksys is a registered trademark or trademark of Cisco

Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. Copyright © 2004 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

This User Guide

The User Guide to the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter has been designed to make understanding networking easier than ever. Look for the following items when reading this guide:

This checkmark means there is a note of interest and is something you should pay special attention to while using the Adapter.

This exclamation point means there is a caution or warning and is something that could damage your property or the Adapter.

This question mark provides you with a reminder about something you might need to do while using the Adapter.

In addition to these symbols, there are definitions for technical terms that are presented like this:

word: definition.

Also, each figure (diagram, screenshot, or other image) is provided with a figure number and description, like this:

Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description

Figure numbers and descriptions can also be found in the “List of Figures” section in the “Table of Contents”.

WPC54G-EU-LA_V4-UG-40503NC JL


Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

What’s in this Guide?

Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network

Network Topology

Roaming

Network Layout

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

The LED Indicators

Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration

The Installation Procedure

Chapter 5: Hardware Installation

Connecting the Adapter

Chapter 6: Using the WLAN Monitor

Accessing the WLAN Monitor

Link Information

Site Survey

Profiles

Creating a New Profile

Appendix A: Troubleshooting

Common Problems and Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Security Precautions

Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

Appendix C: Windows Help

Appendix D: Glossary

Appendix E: Specifications

Appendix F: Warranty Information

Appendix G: Regulatory Information

Appendix H: Contact Information

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List of Figures

Figure 3-1: Front Panel

Figure 4-1: The Setup Wizard’s Welcome screen

Figure 4-2: The Setup Wizard’s License Agreement

Figure 4-3: The Setup Wizard’s Network Mode screen

Figure 4-4: The Setup Wizard’s Wireless Channels screen

Figure 4-5: The Setup Wizard’s Finalize Settings screen

Figure 4-6: The Setup Wizard’s Congratulations Screen

Figure 5-1: How the Adapter installs into your notebook

Figure 6-1: The WLAN Monitor icon

Figure 6-2: Link Information

Figure 6-3: More Information-Network Settings

Figure 6-4: More Information-Network Statistics

Figure 6-5: Site Survey

Figure 6-6: Profiles

Figure 6-7: Importing a Profile

Figure 6-8: Exporting a Profile

Figure 6-9: Creating a New Profile

Figure 6-10: Enter Profile Name

Figure 6-11: Choose a network type

Figure 6-12: Wireless Settings for New Profile

Figure 6-13: Network Setting for New Profile

Figure 6-14: Security Setting for New Profile

Figure 6-15: WEP Settings

Figure 6-16: WPA-PSK Settings

Figure 6-17: TKIP Settings

Figure 6-18: WPA RADIUS Settings

Figure 6-19: TKIP Settings

Figure 6-20: EAP-TLS Authentication

Figure 6-21: EAP-TTLS Authentication

Figure 6-22: EAP-MD5 Authentication

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Figure 6-23: EAP-PEAP Authentication

Figure 6-24: EAP-LEAP Authentication

Figure 6-25: RADIUS Settings

Figure 6-26: EAP-TLS Authentication

Figure 6-27: EAP-TTLS Authentication

Figure 6-28: EAP-MD5 Authentication

Figure 6-29: EAP-PEAP Authentication

Figure 6-30: LEAP Authentication

Figure 6-31: Confirm New Settings for New Profile

Figure 6-32: Congratulations for New Profile

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Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter. With this Adapter, your wireless networking experience will be faster and easier than ever.

Like all wireless products, the Adapter allows for greater range and mobility within your wireless network. This adapter communicates over the 54Mbps 802.11g wireless standard, which is almost five times faster than

802.11b. But since they share the same 2.4GHz radio band, the Adapter can also communicate with the widely used 11Mbps 802.11b standard.

PCs equipped with wireless cards and adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network.

The included Setup Wizard will walk you through configuring the adapter to your network's settings, step by step.

Then just slide it into your notebook's PC Card slot and enjoy network access with your notebook computer, while retaining true mobility.

Once you're connected, you can keep in touch with your e-mail, access the Internet, and share files and other resources such as printers and network storage with other computers on the network. At home, you can surf the web or use instant messaging to chat with friends while sitting out on the patio. Your wireless connection is protected by the new, industrial-strength security of Wireless Protected Access (WPA).

You'll also be able to connect with any of the growing number of public wireless hotspots springing up in coffee shops, airport lounges, hotels and convention centers. And as those hotspots upgrade to the new high-speed

Wireless-G standard, you'll be ready to take advantage of the increased speeds.

Get connected to current-standard 802.11b networks today, and be prepared for the future with the Wireless-G

Notebook Adapter from Linksys.

network: a series of computers or devices connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage, and/or transmission between users.

adapter: a device that adds network functionality to your PC.

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 and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

1


What’s in this Guide?

This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter.

• Chapter 1: Introduction

This chapter describes the Adapter’s applications and this User Guide.

• Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network

This chapter discusses a few of the basics about wireless networking.

• Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

This chapter describes the physical features of the Adapter.

• Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration

This chapter instructs you on how to install the Adapter’s Setup Wizard and Configure the Adapter

• Chapter 5: Hardware Installation

This chapter shows you how to connect the Adapter to your PC.

• Chapter 6: Using the WLAN Monitor

This chapter show you how to use the Adapter’s WLAN Monitor.

• Appendix A: Troubleshooting

This appendix describes some problems and solutions, as well as frequently asked questions, regarding installation and use of the Adapter.

• Appendix B: Wireless Security

This appendix discusses security issues regarding wireless networking and measures you can take to help protect your wireless network.

• Appendix C: Windows Help

This appendix describes how you can use Windows Help for instructions about networking, such as installing the TCP/IP protocol.

• Appendix D: Glossary

This appendix gives a brief glossary of terms frequently used in networking.

• Appendix E: Specifications

This appendix provides the Adapter’s technical specifications.

• Appendix F: Warranty Information

This appendix supplies the Adapter’s warranty information.



2


• Appendix G: Regulatory Information

This appendix supplies the Adapter’s regulatory information.

• Appendix H: Contact Information

This appendix provides contact information for a variety of Linksys resources, including Technical Support.



3


Chapter 2: Planning

Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless network is a group of computers, each equipped with one wireless adapter. Computers in a wireless network must be configured to share the same radio channel. Several PCs equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate with one another to form an ad-hoc network.

Linksys wireless adapters also provide users access to a wired network when using an access point or wireless router. An integrated wireless and wired network is called an infrastructure network. Each wireless PC in an infrastructure network can talk to any computer in a wired network infrastructure via the access point or wireless router.

An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of a wireless PC to a wired network, and can double the effective wireless transmission range for two wireless adapter PCs. Since an access point is able to forward data within a network, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure network can be doubled.

Roaming

Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. Roaming means that you can move your wireless PC within your network and the access points will pick up the wireless PC's signal, providing that they both share the same channel and SSID.

Before enabling you consider roaming, choose a feasible radio channel and optimum access point position.

Proper access point positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.

topology: the physical layout of a network.

ad-hoc: a group of wireless devices communicating directly with each other (peerto-peer) without the use of an access point.

infrastructure: a wireless network that is bridged to a wired network via an access point.

roaming: the ability to take a wireless device from one access point's range to another without losing the connection.

ssid: your wireless network's name.

Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network

Network Topology

4


Network Layout

Linksys wireless access points and wireless routers have been designed for use with 802.11a, 802.11b, and

802.11g products. With 802.11g products communicating with the 802.11b standard and some products incorporating both “a” and “g”, products using these standards can communicate with each other.

Access points and wireless routers are compatible with 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g adapters, such at the PC

Cards for your laptop computers, PCI Card for your desktop PC, and USB Adapters for when you want to enjoy

USB connectivity. Wireless products will also communicate with the wireless PrintServer.

When you wish to connect your wired network with your wireless network, network ports on access points and wireless routers can be connected to any of Linksys's switches or routers.

With these, and many other, Linksys products, your networking options are limitless. Go to the Linksys website at www.linksys.com/international for more information about wireless products.

Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network

Network Layout

5


Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

The LED Indicators

The Network Adapter's LEDs display information about network activity.

Figure 3-1: Front Panel

Power

Link

Green. The Power LED lights up when the Adapter is powered on.

Green. The Link LED lights up when the Adapter has an active connection.

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

The LED Indicators

6


Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration

The Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Setup Wizard will guide you through the installation procedure. The Setup

Wizard will install the WLAN Monitor and driver, as well as configure the Adapter.

NOTE: You must run the Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware.

Insert the Setup Wizard CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive. The Setup Wizard should run automatically, and the

Welcome screen should appear. If it does not, click the Start button and choose Run. In the field that appears, enter D:\setup.exe (if “D” is the letter of your CD-ROM drive).

On the Welcome screen, you have the following choices:

Install - Click the Install button to begin the software installation process.

User Guide - Click the User Guide button to open the PDF file of this User Guide.

Exit - Click the Exit button to exit the Setup Wizard.

Figure 4-1: The Setup Wizard’s Welcome screen

Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration 7


The Installation Procedure

1. To install the Adapter, click the Install button on the Welcome screen.

2. After reading the License Agreement, click the Next button if you agree, or click the Cancel button to end the installation.

Figure 4-2: The Setup Wizard’s License Agreement

3. The Setup Wizard will ask you to choose a network mode. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wireless computers to network with computers on your wired network using a wireless access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want multiple wireless computers to network directly with each other.

In the SSID field, enter the SSID of your wireless network. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the network. The default setting is linksys (all lowercase). Click the Next button.

NOTE: Network SSIDs should be unique to your network and identical for all devices within the network.

Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration


Figure 4-3: The Setup Wizard’s Network Mode screen

8


4. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, select the correct operating channel for your network. Then, select the Network Mode from the drop-down menu. Click the

Next button, and go to Step 5. Click the Back button to change any settings.

Channel - The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. If you are unsure about which channel to use, select the default channel.

Network Mode - Select Mixed Mode, and both Wireless-G and Wireless-B computers will be allowed on the network, but the speed will be reduced. Select G-Only Mode for maximum speed, but no Wireless-B users will be allowed on the network.

5. The Setup Wizard will ask you to review your settings before it starts to copy files. Click the Next button to save these settings, or click the Back button to change any settings.

If you’re using Windows 2000, you may see a Windows Digital Signature warning. As this product has been tested to work with Windows, you may continue.

Figure 4-4: The Setup Wizard’s Wireless Channels screen



Figure 4-5: The Setup Wizard’s Finalize Settings screen

9


6. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click the Exit button.

Proceed to “Chapter 5: Hardware Installation.”

Figure 4-6: The Setup Wizard’s Congratulations Screen



10


Chapter 5: Hardware Installation

NOTE: You must run the Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware.

Connecting the Adapter

1. Turn off your notebook PC.

2. Locate an available CardBus slot on your notebook PC.

3. With the connector pin end facing the CardBus slot and the label facing up, as shown in Figure 5-1, slide the

Adapter into the CardBus slot until it locks in place.

4. Restart your notebook PC. The Power LED should light up when the Adapter is installed correctly.

5. For Windows 2000, you may be informed that a digital signature has not been found. this is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work with Windows 2000. Click Yes to continue.

6. Windows will begin copying the driver files to your computer. If Windows asks you for the original Windows

CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM, and direct Windows to its correct location (e.g., D:\).

Figure 5-1: How the Adapter installs into your notebook

The installation of the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter is complete.

If you want to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration changes, go to “Chapter 6: Using the WLAN Monitor.”

Chapter 5: Hardware Installation

Connecting the Adapter

11


Chapter 6: Using the WLAN Monitor

Use the WLAN Monitor to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or create profiles that hold different configuration settings.

Accessing the WLAN Monitor

After installing the Adapter, the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter WLAN Monitor icon will appear in your system tray.

Double-click the icon.

The Link Information screen will appear. From this screen, you can find out how strong the current wireless signal is and how good the connection’s quality is. You can also click the More Information button to view additional status information about the current wireless connection. To search for available wireless networks, click the

Site Survey tab. To perform configuration changes, click the Profiles tab.

Link Information

The Link Information screen displays network mode, signal strength, and link quality information about the current connection. It also provides a button to click for additional status information.

Ad-Hoc Mode or Infrastructure Mode - The screen indicates whether the Adapter is currently working in adhoc or infrastructure mode.

Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to 100%.

Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection, from 0 to 100%.

Click the More Information button to view additional information about the wireless network connection.

(Figure 6-3)

Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.

Network Settings

The Networks Settings screen provides information on your current network settings.

Chapter 6: Using the WLAN Monitor

Accessing the WLAN Monitor

Figure 6-1: The WLAN Monitor icon

Figure 6-2: Link Information

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State - The status of the wireless network connection.

SSID - The SSID of the wireless network.

Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set.

Security- The status of the security feature.

Network Mode - The wireless mode currently in use.

IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter.

Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter.

Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter.

DNS - The DNS address of the Adapter.

MAC - The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point.

Click the Statistics button to go to the Network Statistics screen.

Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen.


Figure 6-3: More Information-Network Settings



13


Network Statistics

The Networks Statistics screen provides statistics on your current network settings.

Transmit Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection.(In Auto mode, the Adapter dynamically shifts to the fastest data transfer rate possible at any given time.)

Receive Rate - The rate that data is received.

Authentication - The current security authentication mode.

Network Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use.

Transmit Total - The total number of packets being transmitted.

Receive Total - The total number of packets being received.

Signal to Noise - This tells you the quality of your signal. The higher the number, the better your signal.

Figure 6-4: More Information-Network Statistics

Click the Settings button to go to the Settings screen.

Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen.




14


Site Survey

The Site Survey screen displays a list of infrastructure and ad-hoc networks available for connection in the table on the right. This table shows the network’s SSID, Channel, and the quality of the wireless signal the

Adapter is receiving. You may click SSID, Channel, or Signal, to sort by that field.

Site Information

For each network selected, the following settings are listed:

Network Type - The wireless mode currently in use.


Encryption- The status of the encryption security feature.

MAC - The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point.

Surveyed at - The time when the wireless network was scanned.

Refresh - Click the Refresh button to perform a new search for wireless devices.

Connect - To connect to one of the networks on the list, select the wireless network, and click the Connect button.


Figure 6-5: Site Survey


Site Survey

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Profiles

The Profiles screen lets you save different configuration profiles for different network setups. The table on the right displays a list of infrastructure and ad-hoc networks available for connection This table shows the network’s profile name and the wireless network’s SSID, as set in the connection profile.

Profile Information

For each profile selected, the following are listed:

Network Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use.

Transfer Rate - The Adapter is set to Auto mode, so it will dynamically shift to the fastest data transfer rate possible at any given time.


Encryption- The status of the encryption security feature.

Connect - To connect to a wireless network using a specific profile, select the profile, and click the Connect button.

Edit - Select a profile, and click the Edit button to change an existing profile.

New - Click the New button to create a new profile. See the next section, “Creating a New Profile,” for detailed instructions.

Import - Click the Import button to import a profile that has been saved in another location. Select the appropriate file, and click the Open button.

Export - Select the profile you want to save in a different location, and click the Export button. Direct Windows to the appropriate folder, and click the OK button.

Delete - Click the Delete button to delete a profile.



Profiles

Figure 6-6: Profiles

Figure 6-7: Importing a Profile

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NOTE: If you want to export more than one profile, you have to export them one at a time.

Creating a New Profile

1. On the Profiles screen, click the New button to create a new profile.

2. Enter a name for the new profile, and click the OK button. Click the Cancel button to return to the Profiles screen without entering a name.

Figure 6-8: Exporting a Profile

Figure 6-9: Creating a New Profile



Figure 6-10: Enter Profile Name

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3. The Choose a network type screen shows a choice of two wireless modes. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wireless computers to communicate with computers on your wired network via a wireless access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want multiple wireless computers to communicate directly with each other. Enter the SSID for your network.

Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.

Infrastructure Mode - This mode allows wireless and wired networks to communicate through an access point.

Ad-Hoc Mode - This mode allows wireless-equipped computers to communicate directly with each other. No access point is used.

SSID - The network name. It must be used for all the devices in your wireless network. It is case sensitive. It should be a unique name to help prevent others from entering your network.

4. The Wireless Settings screen will appear. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose

Ad-Hoc Mode, select the correct operating channel for your network from the Channel drop-down menu.

Then, select the Network Mode from the drop-down menu. Click the Next button, and go to Step 5. Click the

Back button to change any settings.

Channel - The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. If you are unsure about which channel to use, select the default channel.

Network Mode - Select Mixed Mode, and both Wireless-G and Wireless-B computers will be allowed on the network, but the speed may be reduced. Select G-Only Mode for maximum speed, but no Wireless-B users will be allowed on the network. Select B-Only Mode for Wireless-B users only.

Figure 6-11: Choose a network type



Figure 6-12: Wireless Settings for New Profile

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5. The Network Setting screen will appear next. If your network has a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP). Click the Next button to continue, or click the Cancel button to return to the Profiles screen.

If your network does not have a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Specify the IP Setting. Enter an

IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS appropriate for your network. You must specify the IP

Address and Subnet Mask on this screen. If you are unsure about the Default Gateway and DNS address, leave these fields empty. Click the Next button to continue, or click the Cancel button to return to the

Profiles screen.

IP Address - This IP Address must be unique to your network.

Subnet Mask - The Adapter’s Subnet Mask must be the same as your wired network’s Subnet Mask.

Default Gateway - Enter the IP address of your network’s Gateway here.

DNS 1 and DNS 2 - Enter the DNS address of your (wired) Ethernet network here

6. The Security Setting screen will appear. Select WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA Radius, or Radius for the Encryption

Method. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, WPA-PSK stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared

Key, which is a security standard stronger than WEP encryption, and RADIUS stands for Remote

Authentication Dial-In User Service. If you don’t want to use encryption, select Disabled. Then, click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.

WEP

WEP - To use WEP encryption, select 64-bits or 128-bit characters from the drop-down menu, and enter a passphrase or key.

Authentication -The default is set to Auto, where it auto-detects for Shared Key or Open system. Shared

Key is when both the sender and the recipient share a WEP key for authentication. Open key is when the sender and the recipient do not share a WEP key for authentication. All points on your network must use the same authentication type.

Passphrase - Instead of manually entering a WEP key, you can enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must match the passphrase of your other wireless network devices and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you have any non-Linksys wireless products, enter the

WEP key manually on those products.)

Figure 6-13: Network Setting for New Profile

Figure 6-14: Security Setting for New Profile



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Transmit Key - The default transmit key number is 1. If your network’s access point or wireless router uses transmit key number 2, 3, or 4, select the appropriate number from the Transmit Key drop-down box.

Key 1- The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. If you are using 64-bit

WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. If you are using 128-bit

WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.

WPA-PSK

WPA-PSK, Wi-Fi Protected Access-Pre-Shared Key, offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. Click the Next button to continue and the screen in Figure 6-17 appears. Click the

Back button to return to the previous screen.

Figure 6-15: WEP Settings



Figure 6-16: WPA-PSK Settings

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Select the type of algorithm, TKIP or AES, for the Encryption Type. Enter a WPA Shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.

Figure 6-17: TKIP Settings



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WPA RADIUS.

WPA RADIUS features WPA used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a

RADIUS server is connected to the Router.) WPA Radius offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. It offers five authentication methods: EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS, EAP-MD5, EAP-PEAP, and LEAP.

Click the Next button to continue and the screen in Figure 6-19 appears. Click the Back button to return to the previous screen.

Select the type of algorithm, TKIP or AES, for the Encryption Type.

Click the Next button to continue. Click the Back button to return to the previous screen.

Figure 6-18: WPA RADIUS Settings



Figure 6-19: TKIP Settings

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The screen in Figure 6-20 appears next. Select the Authentication Method from the drop-down menu. The options are described below.

EAP-TLS

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network. Select

Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid.


EAP-TTLS

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the password of your wireless network in the Password field. Select Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid. Select the TTLS Protocol from the drop-down menu.


Figure 6-20: EAP-TLS Authentication



Figure 6-21: EAP-TTLS Authentication

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EAP-MD5

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the password of your wireless network in the Password field.


EAP-PEAP

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the password of your wireless network in the Password field. Select Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid. Then, select the Peap Inner EAP from the drop-down menu.


LEAP



Figure 6-22: EAP-MD5 Authentication

Figure 6-23: EAP-PEAP Authentication



Figure 6-24: EAP-LEAP Authentication

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RADIUS

RADIUS features WPA used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router.) It offers five authentication methods: EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS, EAP-MD5, EAP-

PEAP, and LEAP.

Click the Next button to continue and the screen in Figure 6-19 appears. Click the Back button to return to the previous screen.

The screen in Figure 6-26 appears next. Select the Authentication Method from the drop-down menu. The options are described below.

EAP-TLS

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network. Select

Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid.


Figure 6-25: RADIUS Settings



Figure 6-26: EAP-TLS Authentication

25


EAP-TTLS

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the password of your wireless network in the Password field. Select Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid. Select the TTLS Protocol from the drop-down menu.


EAP-MD5



Figure 6-27: EAP-TTLS Authentication



Figure 6-28: EAP-MD5 Authentication

26


EAP-PEAP

Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the password of your wireless network in the Password field. Select Validate server certificate to make sure that the certificate for the server is valid. Then, select the Peap Inner EAP from the drop-down menu.


LEAP



Figure 6-29: EAP-PEAP Authentication



Figure 6-30: LEAP Authentication

27


7. The Confirm New Settings screen will appear next showing the new settings. To save the new settings, click the Yes button. To edit the new settings, click the Back button.

8. The Congratulations screen will appear next. Click Activate new settings now to implement the new settings immediately and return to the Link Information screen. Click Activate new settings later to keep the current settings active and return to the Profiles screen.

You have successfully created a connection profile.

Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.

Figure 6-31: Confirm New Settings for New Profile



Figure 6-32: Congratulations for New Profile

28


Appendix A: Troubleshooting

This appendix consists of two parts: “Common Problems and Solutions” and “Frequently Asked Questions.” This appendix provides solutions to problems that may occur during the installation and operation of the Wireless-G

Notebook Adapter. Read the description below to solve your problems. If you can't find an answer here, check the

Linksys website at www.linksys.com/international.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. My computer does not recognize the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter.

Make sure that the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter is properly inserted into the PC Card slot.

2. The Wireless-G Notebook Adapter does not work properly.

Reinsert the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter into the notebook or desktop’s USB port.

For Windows 98SE or Me, right-click on My Computer, and select Properties. Select the Device Manager tab, and click on the Network Adapter. You will find the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter if it is installed successfully. If you see a yellow exclamation mark, the resources may be conflicting and you must follow the steps below:

• Uninstall the driver software from your PC.

• Restart your PC and repeat the hardware and software installation as specified in this User Guide.

3. I cannot communicate with the other computers linked via Ethernet in the Infrastructure configuration.

Make sure that the notebook or desktop is powered on.

Make sure that the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter is configured with the same SSID and security settings as the other computers in the Infrastructure configuration.

Appendix A: Troubleshooting

Common Problems and Solutions

29


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?

This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over a network. Consult the application’s user guide to determine if it supports operation over a network.

Can I play computer games with other members of the wireless network?

Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area network). Refer to the game’s user guide for more information.

What is the IEEE 802.11b standard?

It is one of the IEEE standards for wireless networks. The 802.11b standard allows wireless networking hardware from different manufacturers to communicate, provided that the hardware complies with the 802.11b standard.

The 802.11b standard states a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

What is the IEEE 802.11g standard?

It is one of the IEEE standards for wireless networks. The 802.11g standard allows wireless networking hardware from different manufacturers to communicate, provided that the hardware complies with the 802.11g standard.

The 802.11g standard states a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

What IEEE 802.11b features are supported?

The product supports the following IEEE 802.11b functions:

• CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol

• Multi-Channel Roaming

• Automatic Rate Selection

• RTS/CTS feature

• Fragmentation

• Power Management

What IEEE 802.11g features are supported?

The product supports the following IEEE 802.11g functions:

• CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol

• OFDM protocol

• Multi-Channel Roaming

• Automatic Rate Selection

• RTS/CTS feature

• Fragmentation

• Power Management

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

fragmentation: breaking a packet into smaller units when transmitting over a network medium that cannot support the original size of the packet.



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What is ad-hoc mode?

When a wireless network is set to ad-hoc mode, the wireless-equipped computers are configured to communicate directly with each other. The ad-hoc wireless network will not communicate with any wired network.

What is infrastructure mode?

When a wireless network is set to infrastructure mode, the wireless network is configured to communicate with a wired network through a wireless access point.

What is roaming?

Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continuously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a single access point. Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel number with the access point of dedicated coverage area.

To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a number of different functions. Each node and access point, for example, must always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must maintain contact with the wireless network even when not actually transmitting data. Achieving these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking technology that links access points and nodes. In such a system, the user’s end node undertakes a search for the best possible access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal strength and quality, as well as the message load currently being carried by each access point and the distance of each access point to the wired backbone. Based on that information, the node next selects the right access point and registers its address. Communications between end node and host computer can then be transmitted up and down the backbone.

As the user moves on, the end node’s RF transmitter regularly checks the system to determine whether it is in touch with the original access point or whether it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives acknowledgment from its original access point, it undertakes a new search. Upon finding a new access point, it then re-registers, and the communication process continues.

What is ISM band?

The FCC and their counterparts outside of the U.S. have set aside bandwidth for unlicensed use in the ISM

(Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band. Spectrum in the vicinity of 2.4 GHz, in particular, is being made available worldwide. This presents a truly revolutionary opportunity to place convenient high-speed wireless capabilities in the hands of users around the globe.

ism band: radio bandwidth utilized in wireless transmissions.

What is Spread Spectrum?

Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequency technique developed by the military for use in reliable, secure, mission-critical communications systems. It is designed to trade off bandwidth efficiency for reliability, integrity, and security. In other words, more bandwidth is consumed than in the case of narrowband transmission, but the trade-off produces a signal that is, in effect, louder and thus easier to detect, provided that



spread spectrum: wideband radio frequency technique used for more reliable and secure data transmission.

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Wireless-G Notebook Adapter the receiver knows the parameters of the spread-spectrum signal being broadcast. If a receiver is not tuned to the right frequency, a spread-spectrum signal looks like background noise. There are two main alternatives,

Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS).

What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?

Frequency-Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS) uses a narrowband carrier that changes frequency in a pattern that is known to both transmitter and receiver. Properly synchronized, the net effect is to maintain a single logical channel. To an unintended receiver, FHSS appears to be short-duration impulse noise. Direct-Sequence Spread-

Spectrum (DSSS) generates a redundant bit pattern for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip

(or chipping code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can be recovered. Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical techniques embedded in the radio can recover the original data without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers.

dsss: Frequency transmission with a redundant bit pattern resulting in a lower probability of information being lost in transit.

Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?

WLAN features two-fold protection in security. On the hardware side, as with Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technology, it has the inherent security feature of scrambling. On the software side, WLAN offers the encryption function (WEP) to enhance security and access control.

What is WEP?

WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a shared key algorithm, as described in the

IEEE 802.11 standard.



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Appendix B: Wireless Security

Linksys wants to make wireless networking as safe and easy for you as possible. The current generation of

Linksys products provide several network security features, but they require specific action on your part for implementation. So, keep the following in mind whenever you are setting up or using your wireless network.

Security Precautions

The following is a complete list of security precautions to take (at least steps 1 through 5 should be followed):

1. Change the default SSID.

2. Disable SSID Broadcast.

3. Change the default password for the Administrator account.

4. Enable MAC Address Filtering.

5. Change the SSID periodically.

6. Use the highest encryption algorithm possible. Use WPA if it is available. Please note that this may reduce your network performance.

7. Change the WEP encryption keys periodically.

Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

Wireless networks are easy to find. Hackers know that in order to join a wireless network, wireless networking products first listen for “beacon messages”. These messages can be easily decrypted and contain much of the network’s information, such as the network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier). Here are the steps you can take:

Change the administrator’s password regularly. With every wireless networking device you use, keep in mind that network settings (SSID, WEP keys, etc.) are stored in its firmware. Your network administrator is the only person who can change network settings. If a hacker gets a hold of the administrator’s password, he, too, can change those settings. So, make it harder for a hacker to get that information. Change the administrator’s password regularly.

SSID. There are several things to keep in mind about the SSID:

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Security Precautions

Note: Some of these security features are available only through the network router or access point. Refer to the router or access point’s documentation for more information.

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1. Disable Broadcast

2. Make it unique

3. Change it often

Most wireless networking devices will give you the option of broadcasting the SSID. While this option may be more convenient, it allows anyone to log into your wireless network. This includes hackers. So, don’t broadcast the SSID.

Wireless networking products come with a default SSID set by the factory. (The Linksys default SSID is “linksys”.)

Hackers know these defaults and can check these against your network. Change your SSID to something unique and not something related to your company or the networking products you use.

Change your SSID regularly so that any hackers who have gained access to your wireless network will have to start from the beginning in trying to break in.

MAC Addresses. Enable MAC Address filtering. MAC Address filtering will allow you to provide access to only those wireless nodes with certain MAC Addresses. This makes it harder for a hacker to access your network with a random MAC Address.

WEP Encryption. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is often looked upon as a cure-all for wireless security concerns. This is overstating WEP’s ability. Again, this can only provide enough security to make a hacker’s job more difficult.

There are several ways that WEP can be maximized:

1. Use the highest level of encryption possible

2. Use “Shared Key” authentication

3. Change your WEP key regularly

WPA. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is the newest and best available standard in Wi-Fi security. Three modes are available: Radius-PSK, WPA Radius, and Radius. Radius-PSK gives you a choice of two encryption methods: TKIP

(Temporal Key Integrity Protocol), which utilizes a stronger encryption method and incorporates Message

Integrity Code (MIC) to provide protection against hackers, and AES (Advanced Encryption System), which utilizes a symmetric 128-Bit block data encryption. WPA RADIUS offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) utilizes a RADIUS server for authentication.



Important: Always remember that each device in your wireless network MUST use the same encryption method and encryption key or your wireless network will not function properly.

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WPA-PSK. If you do not have a RADIUS server, Select the type of algorithm, TKIP or AES, and enter a password in the Passphrase field of 8-63 characters.

WPA RADIUS. WPA used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router or other device.) WPA Radius offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys.

RADIUS. WEP used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router or other device.)

Implementing encryption may have a negative impact on your network’s performance, but if you are transmitting sensitive data over your network, encryption should be used.

These security recommendations should help keep your mind at ease while you are enjoying the most flexible and convenient technology Linksys has to offer.



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Appendix C: Windows Help

All wireless products require Microsoft Windows. Windows is the most used operating system in the world and comes with many features that help make networking easier. These features can be accessed through Windows

Help and are described in this appendix.

TCP/IP

Before a computer can communicate with an access point or wireless router, TCP/IP must be enabled. TCP/IP is a set of instructions, or protocol, all PCs follow to communicate over a network. This is true for wireless networks as well. Your PCs will not be able to utilize wireless networking without having TCP/IP enabled. Windows Help provides complete instructions on enabling TCP/IP.

Shared Resources

If you wish to share printers, folder, or files over your network, Windows Help provides complete instructions on utilizing shared resources.

Network Neighborhood/My Network Places

Other PCs on your network will appear under Network Neighborhood or My Network Places (depending upon the version of Windows you're running). Windows Help provides complete instructions on adding PCs to your network.

Appendix C: Windows Help 36

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