LINKSYS WUSB54GC Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter User Manual Book
LINKSYS LLC Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter Book
LINKSYS >
Contents
- 1. User manual 1 rev
- 2. User manual 2 rev
User manual 2 rev
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
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.
4. Starting from the Available Wireless Network screen, click the SecureEasySetup button on the right hand
side.
5. 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.
Figure 5-18: Available Wireless Network
Figure 5-19: The SecureEasySetup Logo and Location
Figure 5-20: SecureEasySetup
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
6. 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.
7. 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.
Figure 5-21: SecureEasySetup Complete
NOTE: You can only add one SecureEasySetup device at a time.
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
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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 5-22: Available Wireless Network
Figure 5-23: WEP Key Needed for Connection
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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
Passphrase - Enter a Passphrase, also called a pre-shared key, of 8-63 characters in the Passphrase field.
The longer and more complex your Passphrase is, the more secure your network will be.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
Figure 5-25: PSK2 Needed for Connection
Figure 5-24: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
2. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Connect to
Network to connect to your network.
Congratulations! Setup is complete.
Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup
If you are not taking advantage of SecureEasySetup and your network is not listed among 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).
Figure 5-26: The Congratulations Screen
Figure 5-27: Available Wireless Network
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
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.
Figure 5-28: Network Settings
Figure 5-29: Wireless Mode
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
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 6.
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.
Figure 5-30: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
Figure 5-31: Wireless Security
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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 5-32: Wireless Security - WEP
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
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WPA Personal
WPA Personal offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys.
Select the type of algorithm, TKIP or AES, for the Encryption Type. 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.
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 5-34: Wireless Security - PSK2
Figure 5-33: Wireless Security - WPA Personal
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
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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 5-35: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - EAP-TLS
Figure 5-36: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
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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 5-37: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS
Figure 5-38: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
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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 5-39: LEAP
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
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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. If these settings are not correct, click Back to change
your settings.
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 Profile will open the Wireless Network Monitor’s
Profiles screen.
Congratulations! Setup is complete.
Figure 5-40: Confirm New Settings
Figure 5-41: The Congratulations Screen
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Solutions
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix A: Troubleshooting
This appendix provides solutions to problems usually encountered during the installation and operation of the
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.
Common Problems and Solutions
1.My computer does not recognize the USB Adapter.
• Make sure that the USB Adapter is properly inserted into the USB port.
• Also, make sure that the USB Controller is enabled in the BIOS. Check with your motherboard User Guide for
more information.
2. The USB Adapter does not work properly.
• Reinsert the USB Adapter into the notebook or desktop’s USB port.
• Right-click on My Computer, and select Properties. Select the Adapter, then chose the Device Manager tab,
and click on the Adapter. You will find the USB 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 your USB Adapter is configured on the same channel, SSID, and WEP as the other computers
in the Infrastructure configuration.
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Frequently Asked Questions
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Frequently Asked Questions
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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 PC 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.
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
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Frequently Asked Questions
Compact Wireless-G USB 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.
Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?
The Adapter 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, the Adapter 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 64-bit or 128-bit shared key algorithm, as
described in the IEEE 802.11 standard.
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Appendix B:
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix B: Using Windows XP Wireless Configuration
If your computer is running Windows XP, then this choice will be available. If you want to use Windows XP
Wireless Configuration to control the Adapter, instead of using the Wireless Network Monitor, then right-click on
the Wireless Network Monitor and select Use Windows XP Wireless Configuration.
If you want to switch back to the Wireless Network Monitor, right-click the Wireless Network Monitor icon, and
select Use Linksys Wireless Network Monitor.
1. After installing the Adapter, the Windows XP Wireless Configuration icon will appear in your computer’s
system tray. Double-click the icon.
Figure B-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon
Figure B-2: Windows XP - Use Windows XP
Wireless Configuration
NOTE: For more information about Windows XP Wireless Configuration, refer to Windows Help.
Figure B-3: Windows XP Wireless Configuration Icon
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Appendix B:
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
2. The screen that appears will show any available wireless network. Select the network you want. Click the
Connect button.
If your network does not have wireless security enabled, go to step 3.
If your network does have wireless security enabled, go to step 4.
3. If your network does not have wireless security enabled, click the Connect Anyway button to connect the
Adapter to your network.
NOTE: Steps 2 and 3 are the instructions and
screenshots for Windows XP with Service Pack 2
installed.
Figure B-4: Available Wireless Network
Figure B-5: No Wireless Security
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Appendix B:
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
4. If your network uses wireless security WEP, enter the WEP Key used into the Network Key and Confirm
network key fields. If your network uses wireless security WPA Personal, enter the Passphrase used into
the Network Key and Confirm network key fields. Click the Connect button.
5. Your wireless network will appear as Connected when your connection is active.
For more information about wireless networking on a Windows XP computer, click the Start button, select Help,
and choose Support. Enter the keyword wireless in the field provided, and press the Enter key.
The installation of the Windows XP Wireless Configuration is complete.
NOTE: Windows XP Wireless Configuration does not
support the use of a passphrase. Enter the exact WEP
key used by your wireless router or access point.
Figure B-6: Network Connection - Wireless Security
Figure B-7: Wireless Network Connection
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Appendix C: Wireless Security
Security Precautions
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix C: 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:
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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Appendix C: Wireless Security
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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. Two modes are
available: WPA-Personal and WPA-Enterprise. WPA-Personal 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 Standard), which
utilizes a symmetric 128-Bit block data encryption. WPA-Enterprise offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES,
with dynamic encryption keys, and it uses a RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) 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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Appendix C: Wireless Security
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
WPA-Personal. If you do not have a RADIUS server, select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES,
and enter a password in the Passphrase field of 8-63 characters.
WPA-Enterprise. 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-Enterprise offers two encryption methods, TKIP and
AES, with dynamic encryption keys.
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.
54
Appendix D: Windows Help
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix D: 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 the Access Point, 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.
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Appendix E: Glossary
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix E: Glossary
This glossary contains some basic networking terms you may come across when using this product. For more
advanced terms, see the complete Linksys glossary at http://www.linksys.com/glossary.
Access Point - A 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.
Ad-hoc - A group of wireless devices communicating directly with each other (peer-to-peer) without the use of
an access point.
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) - A security method that uses symmetric 128-bit block data encryption.
Bandwidth - The transmission capacity of a given device or network.
Bit - A binary digit.
Boot - To start a device and cause it to start executing instructions.
Broadband - An always-on, fast Internet connection.
Browser - An application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the
World Wide Web.
Byte - A unit of data that is usually eight bits long
Cable Modem - A device that connects a computer to the cable television network, which in turn connects to the
Internet.
Daisy Chain - A method used to connect devices in a series, one after the other.
DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System) - Allows the hosting of a website, FTP server, or e-mail server with a
fixed domain name (e.g., www.xyz.com) and a dynamic IP address.
Default Gateway - A device that forwards Internet traffic from your local area network.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A networking protocol that allows administrators to assign
temporary IP addresses to network computers by "leasing" an IP address to a user for a limited amount of time,
instead of assigning permanent IP addresses.
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Appendix E: Glossary
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
Dynamic IP Address - A temporary IP address assigned by a DHCP server.
EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) - A general authentication protocol used to control network access.
Many specific authentication methods work within this framework.
Encryption - Encoding data transmitted in a network.
Ethernet - IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common
transmission medium.
Firewall - A set of related programs located at a network gateway server that protects the resources of a
network from users from other networks.
Firmware - The programming code that runs a networking device.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) - A protocol used to transfer files over a TCP/IP network.
Full Duplex - The ability of a networking device to receive and transmit data simultaneously.
Gateway - A device that interconnects networks with different, incompatible communications protocols.
Half Duplex - Data transmission that can occur in two directions over a single line, but only one direction at a
time.
HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol) - The communications protocol used to connect to servers on the World
Wide Web.
Infrastructure - A wireless network that is bridged to a wired network via an access point.
IP (Internet Protocol) - A protocol used to send data over a network.
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Appendix E: Glossary
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
ISP (Internet Service Provider) - A company that provides access to the Internet.
LAN - The computers and networking products that make up your local network.
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.
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.
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 mail server commonly used on the Internet.
Port - The connection point on a computer or networking device used for plugging in cables or adapters.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) - A technology enabling an Ethernet network cable to deliver both data and power.
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.
RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) - A protocol that uses an authentication server to control
network access.
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Appendix E: Glossary
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
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.
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.
SPI (Stateful Packet Inspection) Firewall - A technology that inspects incoming packets of information before
allowing them to enter the network.
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. A data switch that connects computing devices to host computers, allowing a large number of
devices to share a limited number of ports. 2. A device for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an
electrical circuit.
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A network protocol for transmitting data that requires acknowledgement
from the recipient of data sent.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) - A set of instructions PCs use to communicate over a
network.
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 has no directory or password
capability.
Throughput - The amount of data moved successfully from one node to another in a given time period.
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Appendix E: Glossary
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) - a wireless encryption protocol that provides dynamic encryption keys for
each packet transmitted.
Topology - The physical layout of a network.
TX Rate - Transmission Rate.
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 network data transmitted on a wireless network for
greater security.
WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associated devices that communicate with
each other wirelessly.
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) - a wireless security protocol using TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol)
encryption, which can be used in conjunction with a RADIUS server.
60
Appendix F: Warranty Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix F: Warranty Information
LIMITED WARRANTY
Linksys warrants to the original end user purchaser ("You") that, for a period of three years, (the "Warranty
Period") Your Linksys product will be free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Your
exclusive remedy and Linksys's 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.
If the product proves defective during the Warranty Period call Linksys Technical Support in order to obtain a
Return Authorization Number. BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE ON HAND WHEN CALLING. When
returning a 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.
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, HOWEVER CAUSED
REGARDLESS OF THE THEORY OF LIABILITY, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE
THE PRODUCT, 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 Section 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.
Please direct all inquiries to: Linksys, P.O. Box 18558, Irvine, CA 92623 USA.
61
Appendix G: Specifications
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix G: Specifications
Model WUSB54GC
Standards IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g, USB 1.1, USB 2.0
Channels 802.11b / 802.11g
11 Channels (US, Canada)
13 Channels (Europe)
LEDs Link
Protocols 802.11b: CCK (11 Mbps), DQPSK (2 Mbps),
DBPSK (1 Mbps); 802.11g: OFDM
Transmitted Power 802.11g: 13 ± 1 dBm (Typical)
802.11b: 17 ± 1 dBm (Typical)
Receive Sensitivity 11Mbps @ -80dBm (Typical)
54Mbps @ -65dBm (Typical)
Security features WEP Encryption, WPA
WEP key bits 64, 128-bit
Dimensions 3.86" x 0.43" x 1.10"
W x H x D 91 mm x 11 mm x 28 mm
Unit Weight 0.05 lb (0.023 kg)
Certifications FCC, Wi-Fi
Operating Temp. 0°C ~ 45°C (32°F ~ 113°F)
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Appendix G: Specifications
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Storage Temp. -20°C ~ 60°C (-4°F ~ 140°F)
Operating Humidity 10% ~ 85% Non-Condensing
Storage Humidity 5% ~ 90% Non-Condensing
63
Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix H: 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
Safety Notices
Caution: To reduce the risk of fire, use only No.26 AWG or larger telecommunication line cord.
Do not use this product near water, for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool.
Avoid using this product during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.
Industry Canada (Canada)
This device complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS210 rules.
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes NMB-003 et RSS210 d'Industry Canada.
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Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
User Information for Consumer Products Covered by EU Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electric and Electronic
Equipment (WEEE)
This document contains important information for users with regards to the proper disposal and recycling of Linksys
products. Consumers are required to comply with this notice for all electronic products bearing the following symbol:
65
Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
66
Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
67
Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
68
Appendix H: Regulatory Information
Dual-Band Wireless Access Point
For more information, visit www.linksys.com.
69
Appendix I: Contact Information
Compact Wireless-G USB Adapter
Appendix I: 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 or
ftp.linksys.com
Can't find information about a product you want to buy
on the web? Do you want to know more about networking
with Linksys products? Give our advice line a call at: 800-546-5797 (LINKSYS)
Or fax your request in to: 949-823-3002
If you experience problems with any Linksys product,
you can call us at: 800-326-7114
Don't wish to call? You can e-mail us at: support@linksys.com
If any Linksys product proves defective during its warranty period,
you can call the Linksys Return Merchandise Authorization
department for obtaining a Return Authorization Number at: 949-823-3000
(Details on Warranty and RMA issues can be found in the Warranty
Information section in this Guide.)
Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits 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 in accordance with 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 can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement:
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. End users must follow the specific operating instructions for satisfying RF
exposure compliance. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure compliance
requirements, please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna during transmitting.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.
Linksys declares that WUSB54GC ( FCC ID: Q87-WUSB54GC ) is limited in CH1~CH11 for
2.4 GHz by specified firmware controlled in U.S.A.
IC statement
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1) This device may not cause interference and
2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
Règlement d’Industry Canada
Les conditions de fonctionnement sont sujettes à deux conditions:
1) Ce périphérique ne doit pas causer d’interférence et.
2) Ce périphérique doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences
pouvant perturber le bon fonctionnement de ce périphérique.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
IC Radiation Exposure Statement:
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. End users must follow the specific operating
instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance. To maintain compliance
with IC RF exposure compliance requirements, please avoid direct contact to
the transmitting antenna during transmitting.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.