Linksys Compact Wireless-G User Manual

Model No.

Broadband Router

Wireless-G

WRT54GC (EU/LA)

User Guide

WIRELESS

Compact

GHz

802.11g

2,4

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Copyright and Trademarks

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Linksys is a registered trademark or trademark of Cisco
Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. Copyright © 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All
rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.

How to Use This User Guide

This User Guide has been designed to make understanding networking with the Compact Wireless-G Broadband
Router easier than ever. Look for the following items when reading this User Guide:

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

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

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

This exclamation point means there is a caution or warning
and is something that could damage your property or the
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

This checkmark means there is a note of interest and is
something you should pay special attention to while using
the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

This question mark provides you with a reminder about
something you might need to do while using the
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

word: definition.

Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description

WRT54GC_V2-EU-UG-60912NC BW

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

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
Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode 4
Network Layout 4

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router 6

The Back Panel 6
The Front Panel 7
The Bottom Panel 8

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router 9

Overview 9
Hardware Installation for Connection to your Broadband Modem 9
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router 11

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router 13

Overview 13
How to Access the Web-based Utility 14
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup 14
The Setup Tab - DDNS 18
The Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone 19
The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing 20
The Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings 21
The Wireless Tab - Wireless Security 22
The Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter 24
The Wireless Tab - Advanced Wireless Settings 25
The Security Tab - Firewall 27
The Security Tab - VPN Passthrough 28
The Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access Policy 28
The Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Range Forwarding 30
The Applications & Gaming Tab - Port Range Triggering 32
The Applications and Gaming Tab - DMZ 33

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Administration Tab - Management 34
The Administration Tab - Log 36
The Administration Tab - Diagnostics 37
The Administration Tab - Factory Defaults 38
The Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 38
The Status Tab - Router 39
The Status Tab - Local Network 40
The Status Tab - Wireless 41

Appendix A: Troubleshooting 42

Common Problems and Solutions 42
Frequently Asked Questions 50

Appendix B: Wireless Security 57

Security Precautions 57
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks 57

Appendix C: Upgrading Firmware 60
Appendix D: Windows Help 61
Appendix E: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for Your Ethernet Adapter 62

Windows 98SE or Me Instructions 62
Windows 2000 or XP Instructions 62
For the Router’s Web-based Utility 63

Appendix F: Glossary 64
Appendix G: Specifications 69
Appendix H: Warranty Information 71
Appendix I: Regulatory Information 72
Appendix J: Contact Information 86

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

List of Figures

Figure 3-1: The Router’s Back Panel 6
Figure 3-2: The Router’s Front Panel 7
Figure 3-3: The Router’s Bottom Panel 8
Figure 4-1: Connecting your Broadband Modem 9
Figure 4-2: Connecting Your Network Devices 10
Figure 4-3: Connecting the Power 10
Figure 4-4: Diagram for Connection to Another Router 11
Figure 4-5: Connecting Another Router 11
Figure 4-6: Connecting Your Network Devices 12
Figure 4-7: Connecting the Power 12
Figure 5-1: Router’s IP Address 14
Figure 5-2: Router Login Screen 14
Figure 5-3: Setup Tab - Basic Setup 14
Figure 5-4: Static IP Connection Type 15
Figure 5-5: PPPoE Connection Type 15
Figure 5-6: PPTP Connection Type 16
Figure 5-7: Static DHCP Client List 17
Figure 5-8: DHCP Client Table 17
Figure 5-9: DynDNS.org 18
Figure 5-10: TZO.com 19
Figure 5-11: Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone 19
Figure 5-12: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Gateway) 20
Figure 5-13: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Router) 20
Figure 5-14: Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings 21
Figure 5-15: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WEP) 22
Figure 5-16: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA Personal) 22
Figure 5-17: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA2 Personal) 23
Figure 5-18: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA2 Mixed Mode) 23
Figure 5-19: Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter 24
Figure 5-20: Wireless Tab - Wireless Client List 24

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Figure 5-21: Wireless Tab - Advanced Wireless Settings 25
Figure 5-22: Security Tab - Firewall 27
Figure 5-23: Security Tab - VPN Passthrough 28
Figure 5-24: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access Policy 28
Figure 5-25: Access Restrictions Tab - Summary 29
Figure 5-26: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access PCs List 29
Figure 5-27: Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Range Forwarding 30
Figure 5-28: Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Triggering 32
Figure 5-29: Applications and Gaming Tab - DMZ 33
Figure 5-30: Administration Tab - Management 34
Figure 5-31: Administration Tab - Log 36
Figure 5-32: Incoming Log 36
Figure 5-33: Administration Tab - Diagnostics 37
Figure 5-34: Ping Test 37
Figure 5-35: Traceroute Test 37
Figure 5-36: Administration Tab - Factory Defaults 38
Figure 5-37: Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 38
Figure 5-38: Status Tab - Router 39
Figure 5-39: Status Tab - Local Network 40
Figure 5-40: DHCP Client Table 40
Figure 5-41: Status Tab - Wireless 41
Figure C-1: Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 60
Figure E-1: IP Configuration Screen 62
Figure E-2: MAC Address/Adapter Address 62
Figure E-3: MAC Address/Physical Address 62
Figure E-4: Wireless MAC Filter List 63
Figure E-5: MAC Address Clone 63

1

Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Linksys Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router. The Compact Wireless-G Broadband
Router will allow you to network wirelessly better than ever, sharing Internet access, files and fun, easily and
securely.

How does the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router do all of this? A router is a device that allows access to an
Internet connection over a network. With the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router, this access can be shared
over the four switched ports or via the wireless broadcast at either up to 11Mbps for Wireless-B or up to 54Mbps
for Wireless-G. In addition, the whole network is protected by NAT technology. For wireless networking, you also
have a choice of wireless security methods. Additional security features, as well as configuration options, are
accessible through the easy-to-use, browser-based utility.

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 on a wired network create a LAN, or Local Area Network. They are connected with Ethernet cables, which is
why the network is called “wired”.

PCs equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the
same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network. This is sometimes called
a WLAN, or Wireless Local Area Network. The Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router bridges wireless networks
of 802.11b and 802.11g standards and wired networks, allowing them to communicate with each other.

With your wired and wireless networks connected to each other and the Internet, you can now share files and
Internet access—and even play games. All the while, the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router protects your
networks from unauthorized and unwelcome users.

Linksys recommends using the Setup CD-ROM for first-time installation of the Router. If you do not wish to run
the Setup Wizard on the Setup CD-ROM, then use the instructions in this Guide to help you connect the
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router, set it up, and configure it to bridge your different networks. These
instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

ethernet: an IEEE standard network protocol that
specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from
a common transmission medium.

lan (local area network): the computers and
networking products that make up the network
in your home or office.

802.11b: an IEEE wireless networking standard
that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of
11Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

802.11g: an IEEE wireless networking standard
that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of
54Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and
backward compatibility with 802.11b devices.

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

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

nat (network address translation): NAT
technology translated IP addresses of a
local area network to a different IP address
for the Internet.

2

Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

What’s in this Guide?

This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

• Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter describes the Router’s applications and this User Guide.

• Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
This chapter describes the basics of wireless networking.

• Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
This chapter describes the physical features of the Router.

• Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
This chapter instructs you on how to connect the Router to your network.

• Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
This chapter explains how to use the Web-Based Utility to configure the settings on the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router.

• Appendix A: Troubleshooting
This appendix describes some problems and solutions, as well as frequently asked questions, regarding
installation and use of the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.

• Appendix B: Wireless Security
This appendix explains the risks of wireless networking and some solutions to reduce the risks.

• Appendix C: Upgrading Firmware
This appendix instructs you on how to upgrade the firmware on the Router should you need to do so.

• 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: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for your Ethernet Adapter.
This appendix describes how to find the MAC address for your computer’s Ethernet adapter so you can use
the MAC filtering and/or MAC address cloning feature of the Router.

• Appendix F: Glossary
This appendix gives a brief glossary of terms frequently used in networking.

3

Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

• Appendix G: Specifications
This appendix provides the technical specifications for the Router.

• Appendix H: Warranty Information
This appendix supplies the warranty information for the Router.

• Appendix I: Regulatory Information
This appendix supplies the regulatory information regarding the Router.

• Appendix J: Contact Information
This appendix provides contact information for a variety of Linksys resources, including Technical Support.

4

Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
Network Topology

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area network (LAN), except that each
computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device to connect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same
frequency channel and SSID, which is an identification name shared by the wireless devices belonging to the
same wireless network.

Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode

Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which they may be set up: infrastructure
and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configuration is a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an
access point. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers communicating directly with each other.
Choosing between these two modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or
peripherals with a wired network or not.

If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessible by a wired network or need to share a peripheral,
such as a printer, with the wired network computers, the wireless network should be set up in Infrastructure
mode. The basis of Infrastructure mode centers around a wireless router or an access point, such as the Compact
Wireless-G Broadband Router, which serves as the main point of communications in a wireless network. The
Router transmits data to PCs equipped with wireless network adapters, which can roam within a certain radial
range of the Router. You can arrange the Router and multiple access points to work in succession to extend the
roaming range, and you can set up your wireless network to communicate with your Ethernet hardware as well.

If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only with the other computers on the
wireless network, then the Ad-Hoc mode can be used. Ad-Hoc mode allows computers equipped with wireless
transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, eliminating the need for a wireless router or
access point. The drawback of this mode is that in Ad-Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to
communicate with computers on a wired network. And, of course, communication between the wireless­equipped computers is limited by the distance and interference directly between them.

Network Layout

The Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router has been specifically designed for use with your 802.11b and

802.11g products. Now, products using these standards can communicate with each other.

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

ssid: your wireless network’s name.

ad-hoc: a group of wireless devices

communicating directly to each other
(peer-to-peer) without the use of an
access point.

access point: a device that allows wireless­equipped computers and other devices to
communicate with a wired network. Also used
to expand the range of a wireless network.

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

ethernet: IEEE standard network protocol that
specifies how data is placed on and retrieved
from a common transmission medium.

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

5

Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
Network Layout

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router is compatible with all 802.11b and 802.11g adapters, such as the
Notebook Adapters for your laptop computers, PCI Adapters for your desktop PCs, and USB Adapters when you
want to enjoy USB connectivity. The Router will also communicate with the Wireless PrintServer and Wireless
Ethernet Bridges.

When you wish to connect your wireless network with your wired network, you can use the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router’s four LAN ports. To add more ports, any of the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router's LAN
ports can be connected to any of Linksys's switches.

With these, and many other, Linksys products, your networking options are limitless. Go to the Linksys website at
www.linksys.com/international for more information about products that work with the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router.

6

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Back Panel

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router

The Back Panel

The Router’s ports are located on the back panel of the Router.

ETHERNET 1, 2, 3, 4 These ports (1, 2, 3, 4) connect the Router to your networked PCs and other Ethernet

network devices.

INTERNET The Internet port is where you will connect your broadband Internet connection.

POWER The POWER port is where you will connect the power adapter.

Figure 3-1: The Router’s Back Panel

broadband: an always-on, fast Internet connection.

port: the connection point on a computer or networking

device used for plugging in cables or adapters.

7

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Front Panel

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Front Panel

The Router’s LEDs, which indicate the status of the Router and network activities, are located on the front panel.

ETHERNET 1-4 Green. These numbered LEDs, corresponding with the numbered ports on the Router’s back

panel, serve two purposes. If the LED is continuously lit, the Router is connected to a device
through that port. A flashing LED indicates network activity over that port.

WIRELESS Green. The WIRELESS LED flashes when there is a successful wireless connection.

INTERNET Green. The INTERNET LED lights up when there is a connection through the Internet port.

POWER Green. The POWER LED lights up and will stay on while the Router is powered on. When the

Router goes through its self-diagnostic mode during every boot-up, this LED will flash. When
the diagnostic is complete, the LED will be solidly lit.

Figure 3-2: The Router’s Front Panel

8

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Bottom Panel

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Bottom Panel

The Router’s Reset button is located on the bottom panel. To access the button, turn the stand perpendicular to
the Router. Use a sharp object like a pencil to push in the button.

RESET Button There are two ways to reset the Router's factory defaults. Either press the RESET button,

for approximately eight seconds, or restore the defaults from the Administration tab ­Factory Defaults in the Router's Web-based Utility.

IMPORTANT: If you reset the Router, all of your
settings, including Internet connection, wireless,
and security, will be deleted and replaced with the
factory defaults. Do not reset the Router if you
want to retain these settings.

Figure 3-3: The Router’s Bottom Panel

STAND

RESET BUTTON

9

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Overview

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router

Overview

Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on the Setup CD-ROM for first-time installation of the Router. For
advanced users, you may follow the instructions in this chapter, and then configure the Router through its Web­based Utility (refer to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router”).

This chapter includes two sets of instructions. If the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router will be the only router
in your network, follow the instructions in “Hardware Installation for Connection to Your Broadband Modem.” If
you want to install the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router behind another router in your network, then follow
the instructions in “Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router.”

Hardware Installation for Connection to your Broadband Modem

1. Power down your network devices.

2. Locate an optimum location for the Router. The best place for the Router is usually at the center of your
wireless network, with line of sight to all of your wireless devices. Normally, the higher you place the
antenna, the better the performance will be.

3. Connect a standard Ethernet network cable from the Router’s Internet port to your broadband modem.

Figure 4-1: Connecting your Broadband Modem

NOTE: For first-time installation of the Router,

Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on
the Setup CD-ROM.

10

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to your Broadband Modem

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

4. Connect a standard Ethernet network cable from one of the Router’s numbered ports to your network PC or
Ethernet device.

5. Connect the AC power adapter to the Router's Power port. Then connect the other end to an electrical outlet.
Only use the power adapter supplied with the Router. Use of a different adapter can cause product damage.

Now that the hardware installation is complete, proceed to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact

Wireless-G Broadband Router.”

Figure 4-2: Connecting Your Network Devices

Figure 4-3: Connecting the Power

IMPORTANT: Make sure you use the power

adapter that is supplied with the Router. Use of a
different power adapter could damage the Router.

11

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router

Before you install the Router, you must change the default IP address of the other router. This is mandatory
because both routers may be set to the same IP address by default. If you do not change the other router’s default
IP address, then you may not be able to set up the Router.

First, make sure the Router is NOT connected to your network. Then follow these instructions:

1. To access the other router’s Web-based Utility, launch Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, and enter the
other router’s default IP address, 192.168.1.1, in the Address field. Then press Enter.

2. A password request page will appear. Leave the User Name field blank. In the Password field, enter the
password you have set (the default password is admin). Then click the OK button.

3. The first screen that appears will display the Setup tab. In the Network Setup section, there is a setting called
Local IP Address (also called Router IP), which is set to 192.168.1.1. Change this to 192.168.2.1.

4. Click the Save Settings button to save your change, and then exit the Web-based Utility.

5. Power down your network devices. Now you will begin the hardware installation of the Router.

6. Locate an optimum location for the Router. The best place for the Router is usually at the center of your
wireless network, with line of sight to all of your wireless devices. Normally, the higher you place the
antenna, the better the performance will be.

7. Connect a standard Ethernet network cable to the Router’s Internet port. Then, connect the other end of the
Ethernet cable to one of the numbered Ethernet ports on your other router.

Figure 4-4: Diagram for Connection to Another Router

NOTE: Steps 1-4 are instructions for a typical

Linksys router; however, if you are using a non­Linksys router, refer to the other router’s
documentation for instructions on how to change its
local IP address to 192.168.2.1.

Internet

Broadband

Modem

Router

Compact
Wireless-G
Broadband

Router

Figure 4-5: Connecting Another Router

Multiple

PCs

12

Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

8. Decide which network computers or Ethernet devices you want to connect to the Router.

Disconnect the selected computers or devices from the other router, and then connect them to the Router’s
numbered ports using standard Ethernet network cabling.

9. Connect the AC power adapter to the Router's Power port and the other end into an electrical outlet. Only use
the power adapter supplied with the Router. Use of a different adapter may result in product damage.

Now that the hardware installation is complete, proceed to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact

Wireless-G Broadband Router.”

Figure 4-6: Connecting Your Network Devices

Figure 4-7: Connecting the Power

IMPORTANT: Make sure you use the power

adapter that is supplied with the Router. Use of a
different power adapter could damage the Router.

13

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Overview

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router

Overview

Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on the Setup CD-ROM for first-time installation of the Router. For
advanced users, you may follow the instructions in the previous chapter, “Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact
Wireless-G Broadband Router”, and then configure the Router through its Web-based Utility.

This chapter will describe each web page in the Utility and each page’s key functions. The utility can be accessed
via your web browser through use of a computer connected to the Router. For a basic network setup, most users
will use these two screens of the Utility:

• Basic Setup. On the Basic Setup screen, enter the settings provided by your ISP.

• Management. Click the Administration tab and then the Management tab. The Router’s default password is
admin. To secure the Router, change the Password from its default.

There are seven main tabs: Setup, Wireless, Security, Access Restrictions, Applications & Gaming, Administration,
and Status. Additional tabs will be available after you click one of the main tabs.

Make the necessary changes through the Web-based Utility. On each screen, click the Save Settings button to
apply your changes or Cancel Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side
of the screen.

HAVE YOU: Enabled TCP/IP on your PCs? PCs
communicate over the network with this protocol.
Refer to “Appendix D: Windows Help” for more
information on TCP/IP.

NOTE: For first-time installation of the Router,
Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on
the Setup CD-ROM.

14

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
How to Access the Web-based Utility

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

How to Access the Web-based Utility

To access the Web-based Utility, launch Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, and enter the Router’s default IP
address, 192.168.1.1, in the Address field. Then press Enter.

A password request page will appear. Leave the User Name field blank. The first time you open the Web-based
Utility, use the default password admin. (You can set a new password from the Administration tab’s Management
screen.) Then click the OK button.

The Setup Tab - Basic Setup

The first screen that appears displays the Setup tab. This allows you to change the Router's general settings.

Internet Setup

The Internet Setup section configures the Router to your Internet connection. Most of this information can be
obtained from your ISP.

Internet Connection Type

Choose the type of Internet connection your ISP provides from the drop-down menu.

• Automatic Configuration - DHCP. By default, the Router’s Internet Connection Type is set to Automatic
Configuration - DHCP, which should be kept only if your ISP supports DHCP or you are connecting through a
dynamic IP address.

Figure 5-3: Setup Tab - Basic Setup

Figure 5-1: Router’s IP Address

Figure 5-2: Router Login Screen

ip (internet protocol): a protocol used to send data
over a network.

ip address: the address used to identify a computer
or device on a network.

15

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

• Static IP. If you are required to use a permanent IP address to connect to the Internet, select Static IP.

Internet IP Address. This is the Router’s IP address, when seen from the Internet. Your ISP will provide you
with the IP Address you need to specify here.

Subnet Mask. This is the Router’s Subnet Mask, as seen by users on the Internet (including your ISP). Your ISP
will provide you with the Subnet Mask.

Default Gateway. Your ISP will provide you with the Gateway Address, which is the ISP server’s IP address.

DNS (1-3). Your ISP will provide you with at least one DNS (Domain Name System) Server IP Address.

• PPPoE. Some DSL-based ISPs use PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) to establish Internet
connections. If you are connected to the Internet through a DSL line, check with your ISP to see if they use
PPPoE. If they do, you will have to enable PPPoE.

User Name and Password. Enter the User Name and Password provided by your ISP.

Connect on Demand: Max Idle Time. You can configure the Router to cut the Internet connection after it has
been inactive for a specified period of time (Max Idle Time). If your Internet connection has been terminated
due to inactivity, Connect on Demand enables the Router to automatically re-establish your connection as
soon as you attempt to access the Internet again. If you wish to activate Connect on Demand, click the radio
button. In the Max Idle Time field, enter the number of minutes you want to have elapsed before your Internet
connection terminates.

Keep Alive Option: Redial Period. If you select this option, the Router will periodically check your Internet
connection. If you are disconnected, then the Router will automatically re-establish your connection. To use
this option, click the radio button next to Keep Alive. In the Redial Period field, you specify how often you want
the Router to check the Internet connection. The default Redial Period is 30 seconds.

• PPTP. Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is a service that applies to connections in Europe only.

Specify Internet IP Address. This is the Router’s IP address, as seen from the Internet. Your ISP will provide
you with the IP Address you need to specify here.

Subnet Mask. This is the Router’s Subnet Mask, as seen by users on the Internet (including your ISP). Your ISP
will provide you with the Subnet Mask.

Gateway. Your ISP will provide you with the Gateway Address.

User Name and Password. Enter the User Name and Password provided by your ISP.

Figure 5-5: PPPoE Connection Type

Figure 5-4: Static IP Connection Type

static ip address: a fixed address
assigned to a computer or device
connected to a network.

subnet mask: an address code that
determines the size of the network.

default gateway: a device that forwards
Internet traffic from your local area network.

pppoe: a type of broadband connection that
provides authentication (username and
password) in addition to data transport

16

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Connect on Demand: Max Idle Time. You can configure the Router to cut the Internet connection after it has
been inactive for a specified period of time (Max Idle Time). If your Internet connection has been terminated
due to inactivity, Connect on Demand enables the Router to automatically re-establish your connection as
soon as you attempt to access the Internet again. If you wish to activate Connect on Demand, click the radio
button. In the Max Idle Time field, enter the number of minutes you want to have elapsed before your Internet
connection terminates.

Keep Alive Option: Redial Period. If you select this option, the Router will periodically check your Internet
connection. If you are disconnected, then the Router will automatically re-establish your connection. To use
this option, click the radio button next to Keep Alive. In the Redial Period field, you specify how often you want
the Router to check the Internet connection. The default Redial Period is 30 seconds.

Optional Settings

Some of these settings may be required by your ISP. Verify with your ISP before making any changes.

Host Name and Domain Name. These fields allow you to supply a host and domain name for the Router. Some
ISPs, usually cable ISPs, require these names as identification. You may have to check with your ISP to see if your
broadband Internet service has been configured with a host and domain name. In most cases, leaving these
fields blank will work.

MTU. MTU is the Maximum Transmission Unit. It specifies the largest packet size permitted for Internet
transmission. Select Manual if you want to manually enter the largest packet size that will be transmitted. The
recommended size, entered in the Size field, is 1500. You should leave this value in the 1200 to 1500 range. To
have the Router select the best MTU for your Internet connection, keep the default setting, Auto.

Network Setup

The Network Setup section changes the Router’s local network settings. Changes to the Router’s wireless
network settings are performed through the Wireless tab.

Router IP

IP Address and Subnet Mask. This shows both the Router’s IP Address and Subnet Mask, as seen by your
network. The default IP Address is 192.168.1.1, and the default Subnet Mask is 255.255.255.0. In most cases,
keeping the default values will work.

Figure 5-6: PPTP Connection Type

packet: a unit of data sent over a network

17

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

DHCP Server Settings

The settings allow you to configure the Router’s Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server function. The
Router can be used as a DHCP server for your network. A DHCP server automatically assigns an IP address to
each computer on your network. If you choose to enable the Router’s DHCP server option, you must make sure
there is no other DHCP server on your network.

DHCP Server. DHCP is enabled by factory default. If you already have a DHCP server on your network, or you
don’t want a DHCP server, then select Disabled (no other DHCP features will be available).

Assign Static DHCP. Every time a PC reboots, it is assigned a new local IP address by the Router. If you want a PC
to be assigned the same IP address every time it reboots, then click the Assign Static IP button.

On the Static DHCP Client List screen, enter a client name, then enter the static local IP address in the Assign this
IP field, and enter the MAC address of the PC in the To this MAC field. Then click the Enabled checkbox. When you
have finished your entries, click the Save Settings button to save your changes. Click the Cancel Changes
button to cancel your changes. To exit this screen, click the Close button.

If you want to see a list of DHCP clients, click the DHCP Client Table button. On the DHCP Client Table screen, you
will see a list of DHCP clients with the following information: Client Names, Interfaces, IP Addresses, and MAC
Addresses. From the To Sort by drop-down menu, you can sort the table by Client Name, Interface, IP Address, or
MAC Address. To view the most up-to-date information, click the Refresh button. To exit this screen, click the

Close button.

Start IP Address. Enter a value for the DHCP server to start with when issuing IP addresses. Because the

Router’s default IP address is 192.168.1.1, the Starting IP Address must be 192.168.1.2 or greater, but smaller
than 192.168.1.254. The default Starting IP Address is 192.168.1.100.

Maximum Number of Users. Enter the maximum number of PCs that you want the DHCP server to assign IP
addresses to. This number cannot be greater than 253. The default is 50.

IP Address Range. The range of DHCP addresses is displayed here.

Client Lease Time. The Client Lease Time is the amount of time a network user will be allowed connection to the

Router with their current dynamic IP address. Enter the amount of time, in minutes, that the user will be “leased”
this dynamic IP address. After the time is up, the user will be automatically assigned a new dynamic IP address.
The default is 0 minutes, which means one day.

WINS. The Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS) manages each PC’s interaction with the Internet. If you use
a WINS server, enter that server’s IP Address here. Otherwise, leave this blank.

Figure 5-7: Static DHCP Client List

Figure 5-8: DHCP Client Table

dynamic ip address: a temporary IP
address assigned by a DHCP server.

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Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - DDNS

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Time Settings

Change the time zone in which your network functions from this pull-down menu. Click the checkbox if you want
the Router to automatically adjust for daylight savings time.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel

Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

The Setup Tab - DDNS

The Router offers a Dynamic Domain Name System (DDNS) feature. DDNS lets you assign a fixed host and domain
name to a dynamic Internet IP address. It is useful when you are hosting your own website, FTP server, or other
server behind the Router.

Before you can use this feature, you need to sign up for DDNS service at one of two DDNS service providers, DynDNS.org or
TZO.com. If you do not want to use this feature, keep the default setting, Disable.

DDNS

DDNS Service. If your DDNS service is provided by DynDNS.org, then select DynDNS.org from the drop-down
menu. If your DDNS service is provided by TZO, then select TZO.com. The features available on the DDNS screen
will vary, depending on which DDNS service provider you use.

DynDNS.org

User Name, Password, and Host Name. Enter the User Name, Password, and Host Name of the account you

set up with DynDNS.org.

Internet IP Address. The Router’s current Internet IP Address is displayed here. Because it is dynamic, it will
change.

Status. The status of the DDNS service connection is displayed here.

Figure 5-9: DynDNS.org

19

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

TZO.com

E-mail Address, Password, and Domain Name. Enter the Email Address, Password, and Domain Name of

the service you set up with TZO.

Internet IP Address. The Router’s current Internet IP Address is displayed here. Because it is dynamic, this
will change.

Status. The status of the DDNS service connection is displayed here.

When you have finished making changes to this screen, click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or

Cancel Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

The Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone

A MAC address is a 12-digit code assigned to a unique piece of hardware for identification. Some ISPs will
require you to register a MAC address in order to access the Internet. If you do not wish to re-register the MAC
address with your ISP, you may assign the MAC address you have currently registered with your ISP to the Router
with the MAC Address Clone feature.

MAC Address Clone

Enabled/Disabled. To have the MAC Address cloned, select Enabled from the drop-down menu.

MAC Address. Enter the MAC Address registered with your ISP here.

Clone My PC’s MAC. Clicking this button will clone the MAC address of the PC you are currently using.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel
Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

Figure 5-11: Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone

mac address: the unique address that a
manufacturer assigns to each networking device.

Figure 5-10: TZO.com

20

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing

This tab is used to set up the Router’s advanced functions. Operating Mode allows you to select the type(s) of
advanced functions you use. Dynamic Routing will automatically adjust how packets travel on your network. Static
Routing sets up a fixed route to another network destination.

Operating Mode

. Select the mode in which this Router will function. If this Router is hosting your network’s

connection to the Internet, select

Gateway

. If another Router exists on your network, select

Router

. When Router is

chosen,

Dynamic Routing

will be enabled.

Dynamic Routing

. This feature enables the Router to automatically adjust to physical changes in the network’s
layout and exchange routing tables with the other router(s). The Router determines the network packets’ route
based on the fewest number of hops between the source and the destination. This feature is

Disabled

by default.

From the drop-down menu, you can also select

LAN & Wireless

, which performs dynamic routing over your

Ethernet and wireless networks. You can also select

WAN

, which performs dynamic routing with data coming from

the Internet. Finally, selecting

Both

enables dynamic routing for both networks, as well as data from the Internet.

Static Routing

. To set up a static route between the Router and another network, select a number from the Static

Routing drop-down list. (A static route is a pre-determined pathway that network information must travel to reach a

specific host or network.) Enter the information described below to set up a new static route. (Click the

Delete This

Entry

button to delete a static route.)

Enter Route Name

. Enter a name for the Route here, using a maximum of 25 alphanumeric characters.

Destination LAN IP

. The Destination LAN IP is the address of the remote network or host to which you want to

assign a static route.

Subnet Mask

. The Subnet Mask determines which portion of a Destination LAN IP address is the network

portion, and which portion is the host portion.

Default Gateway

. This is the IP address of the gateway device that allows for contact between the Router and

the remote network or host.

Interface

. This interface tells you whether the Destination IP Address is on the

LAN & Wireless

(Ethernet and

wireless networks), the

WAN

(Internet), or a dummy network in which one PC acts like a network—necessary

for certain software programs).

Click the

Show Routing Table

button to view the Static Routes you’ve already set up.

Change these settings as described here and click the

Save Settings

button to apply your changes or

Cancel

Changes

to cancel your changes.

Figure 5-12: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Gateway)

Figure 5-13: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Router)

21

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings

The basic settings for wireless networking are set on this screen.

Wireless Network

Wireless-G Settings

Mode. From this drop-down menu, you can select the wireless standards running on your network. If you have
both 802.11g and 802.11b devices in your network, keep the default setting, Mixed. If you have only 802.11g
devices, select G Only. If you have only 802.11b devices, select B Only.

Network Name (SSID). The SSID is the network name shared by all devices in a wireless network. The SSID
must be identical for all devices in the wireless network. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 keyboard
characters in length. Make sure this setting is the same for all devices in your wireless network. For added
security, you should change the default SSID (linksys) to a unique name.

Channel. Select the appropriate channel from the list provided to correspond with your network settings. All
devices in your wireless network must broadcast on the same channel in order to communicate.

SSID Broadcast. When wireless clients survey the local area for wireless networks to associate with, they will
detect the SSID broadcast by the Router. To broadcast the Router's SSID, keep the default setting, Enabled. If you
do not want to broadcast the Router's SSID, then select Disabled.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel

Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

Figure 5-14: Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings

22

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

The Wireless Security settings configure the security of your wireless network. There are three wireless security
mode options supported by the Router: WPA Personal, WPA2 Personal, WPA2 Mixed Mode and WEP. (WEP stands
for Wired Equivalent Privacy). These four are briefly discussed here. For detailed instructions on configuring
wireless security for the Router, turn to “Appendix B: Wireless Security.”

Wireless Security

WEP. WEP is a basic encryption method. Select a level of WEP encryption, 64-bit or 128-bit. If you want to use a
Passphrase, then enter it in the Passphrase field and click the Generate button. If you want to enter the WEP key
manually, then enter it in the WEP Key 1-4 field(s). To indicate which WEP key to use, select the appropriate TX
Key number.

WPA Personal. This method offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. Select
the type of encryption method you want to use, TKIP or AES. Enter the Passphrase, which can have 8 to 63
characters. Then enter the Key Renewal period, which instructs the Router how often it should change the
encryption keys.

Figure 5-15: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

(WEP)

Figure 5-16: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

(WPA Personal)

wep (wired equivalent privacy): a method of
encrypting network data transmitted on a
wireless network for greater security.

IMPORTANT: If you are using encryption, always
remember that each device in your wireless
network MUST use the same encryption method
and encryption key, or else your wireless network
will not function properly.

23

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Figure 5-18: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

(WPA2 Mixed Mode)

WPA2 Personal. WPA2 gives you one encryption method, AES, with dynamic encryption keys. Enter a

Passphrase of 8-63 characters. Then enter a Group Key Renewal period, which instructs the Router how often it
should change the encryption keys.

WPA2 Mixed Mode. WPA2 gives you TKIP+AES encryption. Enter a Passphrase of 8-63 characters. Then enter a
Group Key Renewal period, which instructs the Router how often it should change the encryption keys.

Figure 5-17: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security

(WPA2 Personal)

24

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter

Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter

Wireless access can be filtered by using the MAC addresses of the wireless devices transmitting within your
network’s radius.

Wireless MAC Filter

Access Restrictions

To filter wireless users by MAC Address, either permitting or blocking access, click Enabled. If you do not wish to
filter users by MAC Address, select Disabled.

Prevent PCs listed below from accessing the wireless network. Clicking this radio button will block wireless
access by MAC Address.

Permit PCs listed below to access the wireless network. Clicking this radio button will allow wireless access
by MAC Address.

Wireless Client List

Wireless Client List. Click the Wireless Client MAC List button to display a list of network users by MAC
Address.From the To S ort by drop-down menu, you can sort the table by Client Name, IP Address, or MAC
Address. To view the most up-to-date information, click the Refresh button. To exit this screen, click the Close
button.

List users, by MAC Address, whose wireless access you want to control.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel

Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

Figure 5-19: Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter

Figure 5-20: Wireless Tab - Wireless Client List