LINKSYS WUSB54GC Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter User Manual Book
LINKSYS LLC Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter Book
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Contents
- 1. User manual 1 rev
- 2. User manual 2 rev
User manual 1 rev
A Division of Cisco Systems, Inc.
®
Model No.
USB Adapter
Wireless-G
WUSB54GC
User Guide
WIRELESS
GHz
2.4
802.11g
Compact
Compact Wireless-G USB 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 © 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All
rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
How to Use this User Guide
This User Guide has been designed to make understanding networking with the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
easier than ever. Look for the following items when reading this User Guide:
In addition to these symbols, there are definitions for technical terms that are presented like this:
Also, each figure (diagram, screenshot, or other image) is provided with a figure number and description, like
this:
Figure numbers and descriptions can also be found in the "List of Figures" section in the “Table of Contents”.
This exclamation point means there is a Caution or warning and is something that
could damage your property or the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter.
This checkmark means there is a Note of interest and is something you should
pay special attention to while using the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter.
This question mark provides you with a reminder about something you might need
to do while using the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter.
word: definition.
Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description
WUSB54Gv4-UG-50418NC BW
WARNING: This product contains chemicals, including lead, known
to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction 1
Welcome 1
What’s in this Guide? 2
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network 4
Network Topology 4
Roaming 4
Network Layout 5
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter 6
The LED Indicators 6
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter 7
Starting the Setup Wizard 7
Connecting the Adapter 8
Setting Up the Adapter 9
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor 23
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor 23
Link Information Screens 23
SecureEasySetup 26
Site Survey 28
Profiles 29
Creating a New Profile 30
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 44
Common Problems and Solutions 44
Frequently Asked Questions 45
Appendix B: Using Windows XP Wireless Configuration 48
Appendix C: Wireless Security 51
Security Precautions 51
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks 51
Appendix D: Windows Help 54
Appendix E: Glossary 55
Appendix F: Warranty Information 60
Appendix G: Specifications 61
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix H: Regulatory Information 63
Appendix I: Contact Information 69
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
List of Figures
Figure 3-1: Front Panel 6
Figure 4-1: Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen 7
Figure 4-2: Setup Wizard’s License Agreement 7
Figure 4-3: The Connecting the Adapter Screen 8
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Network 9
Figure 4-5: Available Wireless Network 10
Figure 4-6: SecureEasySetup 10
Figure 4-7: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location 10
Figure 4-8: SecureEasySetup Complete 11
Figure 4-9: Available Wireless Network 12
Figure 4-10: WEP Key Needed for Connection 12
Figure 4-11: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection 13
Figure 4-12: PSK2 Needed for Connection 13
Figure 4-13: The Congratulations Screen 14
Figure 4-14: Available Wireless Network 15
Figure 4-15: Network Settings 15
Figure 4-16: Wireless Mode 16
Figure 4-17: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 16
Figure 4-18: Wireless Security 17
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - WEP 17
Figure 4-20: Wireless Security - WPA Personal 18
Figure 4-21: Wireless Security - PSK2 18
Figure 4-22: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - EAP-TLS 19
Figure 4-23: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP 19
Figure 4-24: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 20
Figure 4-25: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 20
Figure 4-26: Wireless Security - LEAP 21
Figure 4-27: Confirm New Settings 22
Figure 4-28: Congratulations 22
Figure 5-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 23
Figure 5-2: Link Information 23
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Figure 5-3: More Information - Wireless Network Status 24
Figure 5-4: More Information - Wireless Network Statistics 25
Figure 5-5: The SecureEasySetup Button 26
Figure 5-6: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location 26
Figure 5-7: SecureEasySetup 26
Figure 5-8: SecureEasySetup is Complete 27
Figure 5-9: Site Survey 28
Figure 5-10: WEP Key Needed for Connection 28
Figure 5-11: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection 28
Figure 5-12: PSK2 Needed for Connection 29
Figure 5-13: Profiles 29
Figure 5-14: Import a Profile 29
Figure 5-15: Export a Profile 30
Figure 5-16: Create a New Profile 30
Figure 5-17: Available Wireless Network 30
Figure 5-18: Available Wireless Network 31
Figure 5-19: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location 31
Figure 5-20: SecureEasySetup 31
Figure 5-21: SecureEasySetup Complete 32
Figure 5-22: Available Wireless Network 33
Figure 5-23: WEP Key Needed for Connection 33
Figure 5-24: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection 34
Figure 5-25: PSK2 Needed for Connection 34
Figure 5-26: The Congratulations Screen 35
Figure 5-27: Available Wireless Network 35
Figure 5-28: Network Settings 36
Figure 5-29: Wireless Mode 36
Figure 5-30: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 37
Figure 5-31: Wireless Security 37
Figure 5-32: Wireless Security - WEP 38
Figure 5-33: Wireless Security - WPA Personal 39
Figure 5-34: Wireless Security - PSK2 39
Figure 5-35: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - EAP-TLS 40
Figure 5-36: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP 40
Figure 5-37: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 41
Figure 5-38: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 41
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Figure 5-39: LEAP 42
Figure 5-40: Confirm New Settings 43
Figure 5-41: The Congratulations Screen 43
Figure B-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 48
Figure B-2: Windows XP - Use Windows XP Wireless Configuration 48
Figure B-3: Windows XP Wireless Configuration Icon 48
Figure B-4: Available Wireless Network 49
Figure B-5: No Wireless Security 49
Figure B-6: Network Connection - Wireless Security 50
Figure B-7: Wireless Network Connection 50
1
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Thank you for choosing the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter. With this Adapter, your wireless networking
experience will be faster and easier than ever.
How does the Adapter do this? Like all wireless products, the Adapter allows for greater range and mobility
within your wireless network. Connecting to your PC via the USB port means that this Adapter leaves the PC’s
slots open for other purposes. This adapter communicates over the 802.11g wireless standard, one of the newest
wireless standards, to communicate with your network.
But what does all of this mean?
Networks are useful tools for sharing computer resources. You can access one printer from different computers
and access data located on another computer's hard drive. Networks are even used for playing multiplayer video
games. So, networks are not only useful in homes and offices, they can also be fun.
PCs 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.
And now, with SecureEasySetup, setting up your network and your Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter is easier
than ever.
Use the instructions in this Guide to help you connect the Adapter, set it up, and configure it for your network.
These instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Adapter.
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.
adapter: a device that adds network functionality to your PC.
network: a series of computers or devices
connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage,
and/or transmission between users.
2
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
What’s in this Guide?
This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Compact Wireless-G USB 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 Compact USB Adapter
This chapter describes the physical features of the Adapter.
• Chapter 3: Setting Up and Connecting the USB Adapter
This chapter shows you how to setup and connect the Adapter.
• Chapter 4: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
This chapter show you how to use the Adapter’s Wireless Network 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: Using Windows XP Wireless Configuration
This appendix describes how Windows XP users can use Window’s built-in wireless configuration to monitor
their Adapter.
• Appendix C: Wireless Security
This appendix discusses security issues regarding wireless networking and measures you can take to help
protect your wireless network.
• Appendix D: Windows Help
This appendix describes how you can use Windows Help for instructions about networking, such as installing
the TCP/IP protocol.
• Appendix E: Glossary
This appendix gives a brief glossary of terms frequently used in networking.
• Appendix F: Specifications
This appendix provides the Adapter’s technical specifications.
3
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
• Appendix G: Warranty Information
This appendix supplies the Adapter’s warranty information.
• Appendix H: Regulatory Information
This appendix supplies the Adapter’s regulatory information.
• Appendix I: Contact Information
This appendix provides contact information for a variety of Linksys resources, including Technical Support.
4
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network
Network Topology
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
access point: device that allows wireless-
equipped computers and other devices to
communicate with a wired network.
ad-hoc: a group of wireless devices
communicating directly with each other (peer-
to-peer) without the use of an access point
infrastructure: Configuration in which a
wireless network 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
5
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network
Network Layout
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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 for more information about wireless products.
802.11b: an IEEE wireless networking standard
that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of
11Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.
switch: 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.
router: a networking device that connects multiple networks
together, such as a local network and the Internet.
6
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
The LED Indicators
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G USB
Adapter
The LED Indicators
The Adapter's LEDs display information about network activity.
Link Green. The Link LED flashes when there is network activity.
Figure 3-1: Front Panel
7
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Starting the Setup Wizard
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
The USB Adapter is set up with the Setup Wizard that comes on the CD enclosed with the Adapter. This chapter
will guide you through the setup procedure.
Starting the Setup Wizard
To begin the setup process, 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:
Click Here to Start - Click the Click Here to Start button to begin the software installation process.
User Guide - Click the User Guide button to open this User Guide.
Exit - Click Exit to exit the Setup Wizard.
1. To install the Adapter, click the Click Here to Start button on the Welcome screen.
2. After reading the License Agreement, click Next if you agree and want to continue the installation, or click
Cancel to end the installation.
3. Windows will begin copying the files onto your PC.
Figure 4-1: Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen
Figure 4-2: Setup Wizard’s License Agreement
IMPORTANT: Do not connect the Adapter until you are instructed to
do so or the setup will not work.
8
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Connecting the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
4. The Setup Wizard will now prompt you to connect the Adapter to your PC’s USB port. Once you’ve connect,
click Next.
5. Windows 98SE and ME users will need to restart their PCs.
Connecting the Adapter
1. Connect the Adapter’s connector to one of the USB ports on your computer.
Figure 4-3: The Connecting the Adapter Screen
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
The next screen to appear will be the Available Wireless Network screen.
This screen provides three options for setting up the Adapter
•SecureEasySetup. This Adapter features SecureEasySetup. This means that you can set it up with just the
press of a button when connecting to wireless routers or access points that also feature SecureEasySetup.
Both devices on the network must feature SecureEasySetup for this to work.
•Available Wireless Network. (For most users.) Use this option if you already have a network set up with
devices that do not have SecureEasySetup. The networks available to this Adapter will be listed on this
screen. You can choose one of these networks and click the Connect button to connect to it. Click the
Refresh button to update the Available Wireless Network list.
•Manual Setup. If you are not taking advantage of SecureEasySetup and your network is not listed on this
screen, select Manual Setup to set up the adapter manually. This method of setting up the Adapter is
intended for Advanced Users only.
The setup for each option is described, step by step, under the appropriate heading on the following pages.
Click Exit to close the Setup Wizard, if you wish to set up the Adapter later.
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Network
10
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter with SecureEasySetup
With SecureEasySetup, setting up the Adapter is as simple as pushing a couple of buttons. Before you press any
buttons, though, you should locate the SecureEasySetup button on the device you’re connecting the Adapter to,
such as a wireless router or access point.
1. Starting from the Available Wireless Network screen, click the SecureEasySetup button on the right hand
side.
2. You will be asked to locate the SecureEasySetup button on the device with which the Adapter will be
communicating. If you are not sure where to find this button, click Where can I find the button?.
This will walk you through a couple of screens to help you find the button, which is usually located on the
front of the wireless router or access point.
Figure 4-5: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-6: SecureEasySetup
Figure 4-7: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
3. Press the Cisco logo or SecureEasySetup button on the wireless router or access point. When it turns white
and begins to flash, click the Next button on the Setup Wizard screen. The logo or button will stop flashing on
the wireless router or access point when the Adapter has been successfully added to the network. Repeat
this procedure for any additional SecureEasySetup device.
4. When SecureEasySetup is complete, you may save your configuration to a text file by clicking the Save
button, or print the configuration by clicking the Print button. Click Connect to Network to connect to your
network.
Congratulations! Setup is complete.
To check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration
changes, refer to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor.
NOTE: You can only add one SecureEasySetup device at a time.
Figure 4-8: SecureEasySetup Complete
12
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter with Available Networks
If you’re not setting up the Adapter with SecureEasySetup, another method for setting up the Adapter is with the
available networks listed on the Available Wireless Network screen. The available networks are listed in the table
on the center of the screen by SSID. Select the wireless network you wish to connect to and click the Connect
button. (If you do not see your network listed, you can click the Refresh button to bring the list up again.) If the
network utilizes wireless security, you will need to configure security on the Adapter. If not, you will be taken
directly to the Congratulations screen.
1. If wireless security has been enabled on this network, you will see a wireless security screen. If your network
utilizes WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption, the WEP Key Needed for Connection screen will appear. If
your network utilizes WPA-Personal (Wi-Fi Protected Access) encryption, the WPA-Personal Needed for
Connection screen will appear. If your network utilizes PSK2 (Pre-Shared Key 2) encryption, the PSK2 Needed
for Connection screen will appear.
WEP Key Needed for Connection
Select 64-bit or 128-bit.
Then, enter a passphrase or WEP key.
Passphrase - Enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. The
passphrase is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. It 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.)
WEP Key - The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. For 64-bit encryption,
enter exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. For 128-bit encryption, enter exactly 26 hexadecimal characters.
Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
Figure 4-9: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-10: WEP Key Needed for Connection
wep (wired equivalent privacy): a method of encrypting network
data transmitted on a wireless network for greater security.
encryption: encoding data transmitted in a network.
13
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
WPA-Personal Needed for Connection
Encryption - Select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down
menu.
Passphrase - Enter a Passphrase, also called a pre-shared key, of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
PSK2 Needed for Connection
Enter a Passphrase of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
Figure 4-11: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection
Figure 4-12: PSK2 Needed for Connection
14
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
2. After the Adapter has been configured for the network, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Connect
to Network to connect to your network.
Congratulations! Setup is complete.
To check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration
changes, refer to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor.
Figure 4-13: The Congratulations Screen
15
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup
If you are not taking advantage of SecureEasySetup and your network is not listed with the available networks,
click Manual Setup on the Available Wireless Network screen to set up the adapter manually.
1. After clicking Manual Setup, the Network Settings screen will appear. If your network has a router or other
DHCP server, click the radio button next to Obtain network settings automatically (DHCP).
If your network does not have a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Specify network settings. Enter
an IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS addresses 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
addresses, leave these fields empty.
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.
Click Next to continue, or click Back to return to the Available Wireless Network screen.
Figure 4-14: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-15: Network Settings
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
2. The Wireless Mode screen shows a choice of two wireless modes. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio
button if you want to connect to a wireless router or access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you
want to connect to another wireless device directly without using a wireless router or access point. Then,
enter the SSID for your network.
Infrastructure Mode - Use this mode if you want to connect to a wireless router or access point.
Ad-Hoc Mode - Use this mode if you want to connect to another wireless device directly without using a
wireless router or access point.
SSID - This is the wireless network name that must be used for all the devices in your wireless network. It is
case- sensitive and should be a unique name to help prevent others from entering your network.
Click Next to continue or Back to return to the previous screen.
3. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 4 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, the Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
screen will appear.
Select the correct Channel for your wireless network. 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, keep the default
setting.
Then, select the Network Mode in which your wireless network will operate. In Mixed Mode, Wireless-B and
Wireless-G devices can both operate on the network, though at a slower speed. In G-Only Mode, no Wireless-
B devices can operate in the network.
Click Next to continue or click Back to change any settings.
Figure 4-16: Wireless Mode
Figure 4-17: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
4. The Wireless Security screen will appear. This step will configure wireless security.
If your wireless network doesn’t use wireless security, select Disabled and then click the Next button to
continue. Proceed to Step 5.
Select WEP, WPA-Personal, PSK2, WPA Enterprise, Radius, or LEAP for the Encryption Method. WEP
stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, WPA stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access, which is a security standard
stronger than WEP encryption, PSK2 stands for Pre-Shared Key 2, which is a security standard stronger than
WPA-Personal, RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, and LEAP stands for
Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol. 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.
WEP Key- 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”.
Passphrase - Instead of manually entering a WEP key, you can enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so
a WEP key is automatically generated. This case-sensitive 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.)
TX 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 TX Key drop-down box.
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.
Click the Next button to continue to the Confirm New Settings screen or the Back button to return to the
previous screen.
Figure 4-18: Wireless Security
encryption: encoding data transmitted in a network.
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - WEP
wep (wired equivalent privacy): a method of encrypting network
data transmitted on a wireless network for greater security.
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
WPA Personal
WPA Personal offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. Select TKIP or
AES for encryption. Then enter a Passphrase that is 8-63 characters in length.
Encryption - Select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down
menu.
Passphrase - Enter a Passphrase, also called a pre-shared key, of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PSK2
Enter a Passphrase of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.
Click the Next button to continue to the Confirm New Settings screen or the Back button to return to the
previous screen.
Figure 4-21: Wireless Security - PSK2
Figure 4-20: Wireless Security - WPA Personal
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
WPA Enterprise
WPA Enterprise features WPA security used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used
when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router.) WPA Enterprise offers two authentication methods, EAP-
TLS and PEAP, as well as two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys.
Authentication - Select the authentication method your network is using, EAP-TLS or PEAP.
EAP-TLS
If you selected EAP-TLS, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
name of the authentication server in the Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down
menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network. Select the type
of encryption, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down menu.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PEAP
If you selected 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. Enter the name of the authentication server in the
Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have
installed to authenticate you on your wireless network; if you want to use any certificate, keep the default
setting, Trust Any. Then select the authentication method (Inner Authen.) used inside the PEAP tunnel. Then,
select the type of encryption, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down menu.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-23: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP
Figure 4-22: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise -
EAP-TLS
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
RADIUS
RADIUS uses the security of a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a RADIUS server is connected to
the Router.) It offers two authentication methods: EAP-TLS and PEAP.
Authentication - Select the authentication method your network is using, EAP-TLS or PEAP.
EAP-TLS
If you selected EAP-TLS, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
name of the authentication server in the Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down
menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network.
PEAP
If you selected 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. Enter the name of the authentication server in the
Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have
installed to authenticate you on your wireless network; if you want to use any certificate, keep the default
setting, Trust Any. Then select the authentication method (Inner Authen.) used inside the PEAP tunnel.
Click the Next button to continue to the Confirm New Settings screen or the Back button to return to the
previous screen.
Figure 4-24: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS
Figure 4-25: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP
21
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
LEAP
If you selected LEAP, then enter the Username and Password that will authenticate you on your wireless
network. Select the Login Method, and if selecting Manual for your login, enter a Username and Password.
Then, enter the password again to confirm it.
Login Method - Select from Windows Login (your usual Windows password) or Manual (password entered
below).
Username - Enter a username used for authentication.
Password - Enter a password used for authentication.
Confirm - Enter the password again.
Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back button to return to the previous screen. Figure 4-26: Wireless Security - LEAP
22
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the USB Adapter
Setting Up the Adapter
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
5. The next screen displays all of the Adapter’s settings. If these are correct, you can save these settings to your
hard drive by clicking Save. Click Next to continue and finish the setup. If these settings are not correct, click
Back to change your settings. To exit the setup, click Exit.
6. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Connect to
Network to connect to your network. Clicking Return to Profiles screen will open the Wireless Network
Monitor’s Profiles screen. For more information about the Wireless Network Monitor, refer to Chapter 5: Using
the Wireless Network Monitor.
Congratulations! Setup is complete.
To check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional
configuration changes, refer to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor.
Figure 4-27: Confirm New Settings
Figure 4-28: Congratulations
23
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Use the Wireless Network Monitor to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or
create profiles that hold different configuration settings.
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor
After Setting Up and Connecting the Adapter, the Wireless Network Monitor icon will appear in your PC’s system
tray. If the Wireless Network Monitor is enabled, then the icon will be green. If the Wireless Network Monitor is
disabled or the Adapter is not connected, then the icon will be gray.
Link Information Screens
The opening screen of the Wireless Network Monitor is the Link Information screen. 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 and statistics about the current wireless connection. To
search for available wireless networks, click the Site Survey tab. To perform configuration changes or create
connection profiles, 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 Ad-
Hoc or Infrastructure mode.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the More Information button to view additional information about the wireless network connection on the
Wireless Network Status screen.
Figure 5-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon
Figure 5-2: Link Information
NOTE: The Wireless Network Monitor should only be
accessed AFTER connecting the Adapter. For more
information on Setting Up and Connecting the
Adapter, refer to Chapter 4: Setting Up and
Connecting the USB Adapter.
24
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information Screens
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Wireless Network Status
The Wireless Network Status screen provides information on your current network settings.
Status - This shows the status of the wireless network connection.
SSID - This is the unique name of the wireless network.
Wireless Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use is displayed here.
Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection is shown here.
Channel - This is the channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
Authentication - This is your wireless network’s authentication method.
IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter is displayed here.
Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter is shown here.
Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter is displayed here.
DNS - This is the DNS address of the Adapter.
DHCP Client - This displays the Adapter’s status as a DHCP client.
MAC Address- The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point or wireless router is shown here.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates the signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen. Click the Statistics button to go to the
Wireless Network Statistics screen. Click the Save to Profile button to save the currently active connection
settings to a profile.
Figure 5-3: More Information - Wireless Network Status
25
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information Screens
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Wireless Network Statistics
The Wireless Networks Statistics screen provides statistics on your current network settings.
Transmit Rate - This is 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 - This is the rate at which data is received.
Packets Received - This shows the packets received by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the
wireless network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Packets Transmitted - This shows the packets transmitted from the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to
the wireless network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Bytes Received - This shows the bytes received by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the wireless
network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Bytes Transmitted - This shows the bytes transmitted by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the
wireless network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Driver Version - This shows the version of the Adapter’s driver.
Noise Level - This shows the level of background noise affecting the wireless signal. A lower reading translates
into a higher quality signal.
Signal Strength - This is the intensity of the wireless signal received by the Adapter.
Transmit Power - This is the power output at which the Adapter is transmitting.
Up Time - This indicates the length of the most recent connection to a wireless network.
Total Up Time - This indicates the cumulative total of the Adapter’s connection time.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates the signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen. Click the Status button to go to the Wireless
Network Status screen. Click the Save to Profile button to save the currently active connection settings to a
profile. Click the Refresh button to reset the statistics.
Figure 5-4: More Information - Wireless Network Statistics
26
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
SecureEasySetup
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Figure 5-5: The SecureEasySetup Button
Figure 5-6: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location
Figure 5-7: SecureEasySetup
SecureEasySetup
While using the Monitor, you might see the SecureEasySetup button on the right-hand side of the screen. This
button can be used to set up the Adapter, if this has not already been done. With SecureEasySetup, setting up the
Adapter is as simple as pushing a couple of buttons. Before you press any buttons, though, you should locate the
SecureEasySetup button on the device you’re connecting the Adapter to, such as a wireless router or access
point.
1. After clicking the SecureEasySetup button, you will be asked to locate the SecureEasySetup button on the
device with which the Adapter will be communicating. If you are not sure where to find this button, click
Where can I find the button?.
This will walk you through a couple of screens to help you find the button, which is usually located on the
front of the wireless router or access point.
If you’ve clicked the button by accident or do not wish to use SecureEasySetup, you can click Cancel to return
to the previous screen.
27
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
SecureEasySetup
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
NOTE: You can only add one SecureEasySetup device at a time.
Figure 5-8: SecureEasySetup is Complete
2. Press the Cisco logo or SecureEasySetup button on the wireless router or access point. When it turns white
and begins to flash, click the Next button on the Setup Wizard screen. The logo or button will stop flashing on
the wireless router or access point when the Adapter has been successfully added to the network. Repeat
this procedure for any additional SecureEasySetup device.
3. SecureEasySetup is now complete and a configuration profile will has been created automatically. You may
save your configuration profile to a text file by clicking the Save button, or print the configuration by clicking
the Print button. Click Connect to Network to connect to your network.
Congratulations! SecureEasySetup is complete.
28
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Site Survey
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Figure 5-9: Site Survey
Figure 5-10: WEP Key Needed for Connection
Figure 5-11: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection
Site Survey
The Site Survey screen displays a list of available networks in the table on the left. The table shows each
network’s SSID, Channel, and the quality of the wireless signal the Adapter is receiving. You may click SSID, CH
(Channel), or Signal, to sort by that field.
SSID - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network is displayed here.
CH - This is the channel that the network uses.
Signal - This is the percentage of signal strength, from 0 to 100%.
Site Information
For each network selected, the following settings are listed:
SSID - This the SSID or unique name of the wireless network.
Wireless Mode - This is the mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Channel - This is the channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
MAC Address- The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point is displayed here.
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. If the network has encryption enabled, a screen appear requiring security information.
If the network has the wireless security WEP encryption enabled, then you will see the WEP Key Needed for
Connection screen. Select the appropriate level of WEP encryption, 64-bit or 128-bit Then enter the network’s
Passphrase or WEP Key. To connect to the network, click Connect. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
If the network has WPA Personal wireless security enabled, then you will see the WPA-Personal Needed for
Connection screen. Select the appropriate encryption type, TKIP or AES. Enter the network’s Passphrase or pre-
shared key in the Passphrase field. To connect to the network, click Connect. To cancel the connection, click
Cancel.
29
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Profiles
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
If the network has PSK2 wireless security enabled, then you will see the PSK2 Needed for Connection screen.
Enter the network’s Passphrase or pre-shared key in the Passphrase field. To connect to the network, click
Connect. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
Profiles
The Profiles screen lets you save different configuration profiles for different network setups. The table on the left
displays a list of available profiles with their profile names and SSIDs.
Profile - The name of the profile is displayed here.
SSID - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network is displayed here.
Profile Information
For each profile selected, the following are listed:
Wireless Mode - This is the mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Channel - This is the channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
Authentication - The authentication setting for the network is shown here.
Connect - To connect to a wireless network using a specific profile, select the profile, and click the Connect
button.
New - Click New to create a new profile. See the next section, “Creating a New Profile,” for detailed instructions.
Edit - Select the profile you want to change, and then click Edit.
Import - Click Import 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 Export. Direct Windows to the
appropriate folder, and click the Save button.
Delete - Select the profile you want to delete, and then click Delete.
Figure 5-13: Profiles
Figure 5-14: Import a Profile
NOTE: If you want to export more than one profile, you have to export them one at a time.
Figure 5-12: PSK2 Needed for Connection
30
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Creating a New Profile
On the Profiles screen, click the New button to create a new profile. 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.
The Available Wireless Network screen will appear. This screen provides three options for setting up the Adapter
•SecureEasySetup. This Adapter features SecureEasySetup. This means that you can set it up with just the
press of a button when connecting to wireless routers or access points that also feature SecureEasySetup.
Both point on the network must feature SecureEasySetup for this to work.
•Available Networks. Use this option if you already have a network set up with devices that do not have
SecureEasySetup. The networks available to this Adapter will be listed on this screen. You can choose one of
these networks and click the Connect button to connect to it. Click the Refresh button to update the Available
Wireless Network list.
•Manual Setup. If you are not taking advantage of SecureEasySetup and your network is not listed on this
screen, select Manual Setup to set up the adapter manually. This method of setting up the Adapter is
intended for Advanced Users only.
The setup for each option is described, step by step, under the appropriate heading on the following pages.
Click Exit to close the Setup Wizard.
Figure 5-16: Create a New Profile
Figure 5-17: Available Wireless Network
Figure 5-15: Export a Profile