LINKSYS WUSBF54G Wireless-G USB Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder User Manual Book
LINKSYS LLC Wireless-G USB Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder Book
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Contents
- 1. Users Manual 1
- 2. Users Manual 2
Users Manual 1
A Division of Cisco Systems, Inc.
®
Model No.
USB Network Adapter
Wireless-G
WUSBF54G
User Guide
WIRELESS
GHz
2.4
802.11g
with Wi-Fi Finder
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 © 2005 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 Wireless-G USB Network Adapter
with Wi-Fi Finder 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 Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder.
This checkmark means there is a Note of interest and is something you should pay special
attention to while using the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder.
This question mark provides you with a reminder about something you might need
to do while using the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder.
word: definition.
Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description
WUSBF54G-UG-50810NC 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.
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 and Using the Wireless-G Network Adapter
with Wi-Fi Finder 6
The Front Panel 6
Using the Wi-Fi Finder 7
The Side Panels 8
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter
with Wi-Fi Finder 9
Starting the Setup Wizard 9
Connecting the Adapter 10
Setting Up the Adapter 10
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor 20
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor 20
Link Information Screens 20
Site Survey 23
Profiles 24
Creating a New Profile 25
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 35
Common Problems and Solutions 35
Frequently Asked Questions 36
Appendix B: Using Windows XP Wireless Configuration 39
Appendix C: Wireless Security 42
Security Precautions 42
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks 42
Appendix D: Windows Help 45
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Appendix E: Glossary 46
Appendix F: Specifications 53
Appendix G: Warranty Information 54
Appendix H: Regulatory Information 55
Appendix I: Contact Information 57
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
List of Figures
Figure 3-1: Front Panel 6
Figure 3-2: Wi-Fi Finder’s Wireless Network Screen 7
Figure 3-3: Wi-Fi Finder’s ON/OFF Switch and Buttons 8
Figure 4-1: Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen 9
Figure 4-2: Setup Wizard’s License Agreement 9
Figure 4-3: The Connecting the Adapter Screen 10
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Network 10
Figure 4-5: Available Wireless Network 11
Figure 4-6: Wireless Security - WEP 11
Figure 4-7: Wireless Security - WPA Personal 12
Figure 4-8: Congratulations 12
Figure 4-9: Available Wireless Network 13
Figure 4-10: Network Settings 13
Figure 4-11: Wireless Mode 14
Figure 4-12: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 14
Figure 4-13: Wireless Security 15
Figure 4-14: Wireless Security - WEP 15
Figure 4-15: Wireless Security - WPA Personal 16
Figure 4-16: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - EAP-TLS 17
Figure 4-17: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP 17
Figure 4-18: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 18
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 18
Figure 4-20: Confirm New Settings 19
Figure 4-21: Congratulations 19
Figure 5-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 20
Figure 5-2: Link Information 20
Figure 5-3: More Information - Wireless Network Status 21
Figure 5-4: More Information - Wireless Network Statistics 22
Figure 5-5: Site Survey 23
Figure 5-6: WEP Key Needed for Connection 23
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Figure 5-7: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection 23
Figure 5-8: Profiles 24
Figure 5-9: Import a Profile 24
Figure 5-10: Export a Profile 24
Figure 5-11: Create a New Profile 25
Figure 5-12: Available Wireless Network 25
Figure 5-13: Available Wireless Network 26
Figure 5-14: WEP Key Needed for Connection 26
Figure 5-15: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection 27
Figure 5-16: The Congratulations Screen 27
Figure 5-17: Available Wireless Network 28
Figure 5-18: Network Settings 28
Figure 5-19: Wireless Mode 29
Figure 5-20: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 29
Figure 5-21: Wireless Security 30
Figure 5-22: Wireless Security - WEP 30
Figure 5-23: Wireless Security - WPA Personal 31
Figure 5-24: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - EAP-TLS 32
Figure 5-25: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP 32
Figure 5-26: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 33
Figure 5-27: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 33
Figure 5-28: Confirm New Settings 34
Figure 5-29: The Congratulations Screen 34
Figure B-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 39
Figure B-2: Windows XP - Use Windows XP Wireless Configuration 39
Figure B-3: Windows XP Wireless Configuration Icon 39
Figure B-4: Available Wireless Network 40
Figure B-5: No Wireless Security 40
Figure B-6: Network Connection - Wireless Security 41
Figure B-7: Wireless Network Connection 41
1
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Thank you for choosing the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder. 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. It also has a convenient Wi-Fi Finder that enables you to
find an available wireless network to connect to with just a click of a button.
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.
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?
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
What’s in this Guide?
This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder.
• 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: Setting Up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder.
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.
• Appendix G: Warranty Information
This appendix supplies the Adapter’s warranty information.
3
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
• 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
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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.
802.11g: an IEEE wireless networking standard that
specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and
an operating frequency of 2.4GHz. It is backward
compatibility with 802.11b devices.
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.
802.11b: A wireless networking standard that specifies a
maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an operating
frequency of 2.4GHz.
802.11a: A wireless networking standard that specifies a
maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an operating
frequency of 5GHz.
6
Chapter 3: Getting to Know and Using the Wireless-G Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
The Front Panel
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Chapter 3: Getting to Know and Using the Wireless-G
Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
The Front Panel
The Network Adapter's LEDs and Wi-Fi Finder LCD screen are located on the Front Panel.
LEDs
Power Green. The Power LED lights up when the Adapter is powered on.
Link Green. The Link LED lights up when there is wireless activity.
Figure 3-1: Front Panel
Power LED
Link LED
Wi-Fi Finder’s
Wireless
Network Screen
USB
Connector
7
Chapter 3: Getting to Know and Using the Wireless-G Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Using the Wi-Fi Finder
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Using the Wi-Fi Finder
Figure 3-2: Wi-Fi Finder’s Wireless Network Screen
Wireless
Network Name
(SSID)
Channel (1-11) Wireless Network Scan Modes
A = All
U = Unsecured
S = Specific Network Name
Number of
Available
Wireless
Networks
(maximum of 15)
Wireless Network’s
Security Status
(Secured or Unsecured)
Wireless
Mode
B = 802.11b
G = 802.11g
Battery Power Status
Low or Normal (Normal
shown, Low is displayed
as small amount of black)
Signal
Strength
8
Chapter 3: Getting to Know and Using the Wireless-G Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Using the Wi-Fi Finder
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
ON/OFF Switch The ON/OFF switch is located on the side panel. Slide the button to the right side to turn on the
Wi-Fi Finder.
Scan The Scan button is located on the side panel. Push the Scan button to scan for a wireless
network.
There are three Wireless Network Scan Modes (shown in bottom right corner of screen):
A = All Networks (default mode), U = Unsecured Networks, S = Specific Network Name
To change the mode, push and hold the Scan button.
• All Networks: This default mode scans and displays all secure and unsecure networks.
• Unsecured Networks: This mode scans and displays only unsecured networks.
• Specific Network Name: This mode scans and displays any networks with a selected
specific network name. First, while in the All Networks mode, use the Scroll button and
scroll until the network that you want is on your screen, then push and hold the Scan
button to change the icon to S. Then, push the Scan button again to scan for any network
with the selected name.
Scroll The Scroll button is located on the side panel. Push the Scroll button to view the next available
wireless network, which will be displayed in the order of strongest to weakest signal strength.
A maximum of fifteen wireless networks can be viewed.
Figure 3-3: Wi-Fi Finder’s ON/OFF Switch and Buttons
9
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Starting the Setup Wizard
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB
Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
The Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder 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.
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.
10
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Connecting the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
3. Windows will begin copying the files onto your PC.
4. The Setup Wizard will now prompt you to connect the Adapter to your PC’s USB port. Once you’ve connected,
click Next.
5. If prompted by Windows, Windows 98SE and ME users will need to restart their PCs.
Connecting the Adapter
1. Insert the USB connector end of the Adapter into the USB port of the PC.
2. The Power LED should light up when the Adapter is plugged in.
Setting Up the Adapter
The next screen to appear will be the Available Wireless Network screen.
This screen provides two options for setting up the Adapter
•Available Wireless Network. (For most users.) Use this option if you have already set up a network and the
network is listed on the screen. Select the network and click the Connect button to connect to it. If you need
to update the Available Wireless Network list, click the Refresh button.
•Manual Setup. If 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 4-3: The Connecting the Adapter Screen
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Network
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter with Available Networks
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.
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 4-5: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-6: Wireless Security - WEP
12
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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.
The passphrase must match the devices on your wireless network.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
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 4-7: Wireless Security - WPA Personal
Figure 4-8: Congratulations
13
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup
If 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 Router or 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 4-9: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-10: Network Settings
14
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 4-11: Wireless Mode
Figure 4-12: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
15
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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, WPA-Enterprise, or Radius 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, and RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. If you don’t want to use
encryption, select Disabled.
Then, click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
WEP
WEP - To use WEP encryption, select 64-bits or 128-bit characters from the drop-down menu, and enter a
passphrase or key.
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 systemNetshared
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 4-13: Wireless Security
encryption: encoding data transmitted in a network.
Figure 4-14: Wireless Security - WEP
wep (wired equivalent privacy): a method of encrypting network
data transmitted on a wireless network for greater security.
16
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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.
The passphrase must match the devices on your wireless network.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-15: Wireless Security - WPA Personal
17
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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. Select
EAP-MSCHAP v2. 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 4-17: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise - PEAP
Figure 4-16: Wireless Security - WPA Enterprise -
EAP-TLS
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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
Enter the Login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. From the Certificate drop-down menu,
select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network.
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. Select
EAP-MSCHAP v2.
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 - RADIUS - EAP-TLS
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 4-20: Confirm New Settings
Figure 4-21: Congratulations
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 Network Adapter.
21
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information Screens
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information Screens
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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
18 dBm
23
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Site Survey
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Figure 5-5: Site Survey
Figure 5-6: WEP Key Needed for Connection
Figure 5-7: 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.
24
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Profiles
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 5-8: Profiles
Figure 5-9: Import a Profile
NOTE: If you want to export more than one profile, you must export them one at a time.
Figure 5-10: Export a Profile
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 two options for setting up the Adapter
•Available Networks. Use this option if you already have a network set up. The networks available to this
Adapter will be listed on this screen. Select the network and click the Connect button to connect to it. Click
the Refresh button to update the Available Wireless Network list.
•Manual Setup. If 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 5-11: Create a New Profile
Figure 5-12: Available Wireless Network
26
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter with Available Networks
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.
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 5-13: Available Wireless Network
Figure 5-14: WEP Key Needed for Connection
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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.
The passphrase must match the devices on your wireless network.
Then, click Connect and proceed to the Congratulations screen. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
2. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Connect to
Network to connect to your network.
Congratulations! The profile has been configured.
Figure 5-15: WPA-Personal Needed for Connection
Figure 5-16: The Congratulations Screen
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup
If 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).
If your network does not have a Router or 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 5-17: Available Wireless Network
Figure 5-18: Network Settings
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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 5-19: Wireless Mode
Figure 5-20: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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, WPA-Enterprise, or Radius 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, and RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. If you don’t want to use
encryption, select Disabled.
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 5-21: Wireless Security
Figure 5-22: Wireless Security - WEP
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Creating a New Profile
Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder
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. The passphrase must match the devices on your wireless network.
Click the Next button to continue to the Confirm New Settings screen or the Back button to return to the
previous screen.
Figure 5-23: Wireless Security - WPA Personal