A Division of Cisco Systems, Inc.
®
WIRELESS
Model No.
WRT54GC
Compact
Wireless-G
Broadband Router
User Guide
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 © 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc . All
rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
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.
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:
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 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 question mark provides you with a reminder about
something you might need to do while using the
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.
In addition to these symbols, there are definitions for technical terms that are presented like this:
word: definition.
Also, each figure (diagram, screenshot, or other image) is provided with a figure number and description, like
this:
Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description
Figure numbers and descriptions can also be found in the “List of Figures” section in the “Table of Contents”.
WRT54GC-UG-41215NC 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
The Top Panel 9
Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router 10
Overview 10
Hardware Installation for Connection to your Broadband Modem 10
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router 12
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router 14
Overview 14
How to Access the Web-based Utility 15
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup 15
The Setup Tab - DDNS 19
The Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone 20
The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing 21
The Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings 22
The Wireless Tab - Wireless Security 23
The Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter 25
The Wireless Tab - Advanced Wireless Settings 26
The Security Tab - Firewall 28
The Security Tab - VPN Passthrough 29
The Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access Policy 29
The Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Range Forwarding 31
The Applications & Gaming Tab - Port Range Triggering 33
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Applications and Gaming Tab - DMZ 34
The Administration Tab - Management 35
The Administration Tab - Log 37
The Administration Tab - Diagnostics 38
The Administration Tab - Factory Defaults 39
The Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 39
The Status Tab - Router 40
The Status Tab - Local Network 41
The Status Tab - Wireless 42
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 43
Common Problems and Solutions 43
Frequently Asked Questions 51
Appendix B: Wireless Security 58
Security Precautions 58
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks 58
Appendix C: Upgrading Firmware 61
Appendix D: Windows Help 62
Appendix E: Finding the MAC Address and IP Address for Your Ethernet Adapter 63
Windows 98SE or Me Instructions 63
Windows 2000 or XP Instructions 63
For the Router’s Web-based Utility 64
Appendix F: Glossary 65
Appendix G: Specifications 72
Appendix H: Warranty Information 74
Appendix I: Regulatory Information 75
Appendix J: Contact Information 77
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 3-4: The Router’s Top Panel 9
Figure 4-1: Connecting your Broadband Modem 10
Figure 4-2: Connecting Your Network Devices 11
Figure 4-3: Connecting the Power 11
Figure 4-4: Diagram for Connection to Another Router 12
Figure 4-5: Connecting Another Router 12
Figure 4-6: Connecting Your Network Devices 13
Figure 4-7: Connecting the Power 13
Figure 5-1: Router’s IP Address 15
Figure 5-2: Router Login Screen 15
Figure 5-3: Setup Tab - Basic Setup 15
Figure 5-4: Static IP Connection Type 16
Figure 5-5: PPPoE Connection Type 16
Figure 5-6: PPTP Connection Type 17
Figure 5-7: Static DHCP Client List 18
Figure 5-8: DHCP Client Table 18
Figure 5-9: DynDNS.org 19
Figure 5-10: TZO.com 20
Figure 5-11: Setup Tab - MAC Address Clone 20
Figure 5-12: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Gateway) 21
Figure 5-13: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Router) 21
Figure 5-14: Wireless Tab - Basic Wireless Settings 22
Figure 5-15: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WEP) 23
Figure 5-16: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA Personal) 23
Figure 5-17: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA2 Personal) 24
Figure 5-18: Wireless Tab - Wireless Security (WPA2 Mixed Mode) 24
Figure 5-19: Wireless Tab - Wireless MAC Filter 25
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Figure 5-20: Wireless Tab - Wireless Client List 25
Figure 5-21: Wireless Tab - Advanced Wireless Settings 26
Figure 5-22: Security Tab - Firewall 28
Figure 5-23: Security Tab - VPN Passthrough 29
Figure 5-24: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access Policy 29
Figure 5-25: Access Restrictions Tab - Summary 30
Figure 5-26: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access PCs List 30
Figure 5-27: Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Range Forwarding 31
Figure 5-28: Applications and Gaming Tab - Port Triggering 33
Figure 5-29: Applications and Gaming Tab - DMZ 34
Figure 5-30: Administration Tab - Management 35
Figure 5-31: Administration Tab - Log 37
Figure 5-32: Incoming Log 37
Figure 5-33: Administration Tab - Diagnostics 38
Figure 5-34: Ping Test 38
Figure 5-35: Traceroute Test 38
Figure 5-36: Administration Tab - Factory Defaults 39
Figure 5-37: Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 39
Figure 5-38: Status Tab - Router 40
Figure 5-39: Status Tab - Local Network 41
Figure 5-40: DHCP Client Table 41
Figure 5-41: Status Tab - Wireless 42
Figure C-1: Administration Tab - Firmware Upgrade 61
Figure E-1: IP Configuration Screen 63
Figure E-2: MAC Address/Adapter Address 63
Figure E-3: MAC Address/Physical Address 63
Figure E-4: Wireless MAC Filter List 64
Figure E-5: MAC Address Clone 64
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.
nat (network address translation): NAT
technology translated IP addresses of a
local area network to a different IP address
for the Internet.
mbps: one million bits per second; a unit of
measurement for data transmission.
browser: an application program that
provides a way to look at and interact with all
the information on the World Wide Web.
lan (local area network): the computers and
networking products that make up the network
in your home or office.
ethernet: an IEEE standard network protocol that
specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from
a common transmission medium.
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.
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
1
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.
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?
2
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.
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this Guide?
3
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: a series of computers or devices
connected for the purpose of data sharing,
storage, and/or transmission between users.
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.
infrastructure: a wireless network
that is bridged to a wired network via
an access point.
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.
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.
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.
Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
Network Topology
4
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 (WPC55AG, WPC54G, WPC11) for your laptop computers, PCI Adapters (WMP55AG, WMP54G,
WMP11) for your desktop PCs, and USB Adapters (WUSB54G, WUSB11) when you want to enjoy USB connectivity.
The Router will also communicate with the Wireless PrintServer (WPS54GU2, WPS11) and Wireless Ethernet
Bridges (WET54G, WET11).
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 (such as the EZXS55W or EZXS88W).
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 products that work with the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router.
Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
Network Layout
5
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G
Broadband Router
The Back Panel
The Router’s ports and Reset button are located on the back panel of the Router.
Figure 3-1: The Router’s Back Panel
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.
port: the connection point on a computer or networking
device used for plugging in cables or adapters.
POWER The POWER port is where you will connect the power adapter.
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Back Panel
broadband: an always-on, fast Internet connection.
6
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.
Figure 3-2: The Router’s Front Panel
Wireless Green. The WLAN LED flashes when there is a successful wireless connection.
Ethernet 1, 2, 3, 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 successfully
connected to a device through that port. A flashing LED indicates network activity over that
port.
Internet Green. The Internet LED lights up when there is a connection made 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.
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Front Panel
7
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.
STAND
RESET BUTTON
Figure 3-3: The Router’s Bottom Panel
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.
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.
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Bottom Panel
8
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Top Panel
The Router comes with a built-in antenna, but there is an optional high gain antenna, model number HGA7S, that
is available for longer range. The Router’s SMA Port (connector) for the optional antenna is located on the top
panel. To access the SMA Port, flip open the tab. To attach the antenna, insert the base of the antenna into the
SMA port and tighten it clockwise by hand.
OPTIONAL LINKSYS LONGER RANGE
ANTENNA (HGA7S)
TAB
Figure 3-4: The Router’s Top Panel
ANTENNA BASE
SMA Port
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Top Panel
9
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. If you are using the optional external
antenna, adjust it now for optimum performance. Normally, the higher you place the antenna, the better the
performance will be.
3. Connect a standard Eth ernet network cable from the Router’s Internet port to your broadband modem.
NOTE: For first-time installation of the Router,
Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on the
Setup CD-ROM.
Figure 4-1: Connecting your Broadband Modem
Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Overview
10
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
4. Connect a standard Eth ernet network cable from one of the Router’s numbered ports to your network PC or
Ethernet device.
Figure 4-2: Connecting Your Network Devices
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.
Figure 4-3: Connecting the Power
Now that the hardware installation is complete, proceed to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact
Wireless-G Broadband Router.”
Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to your Broadband Modem
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
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.
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.
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.
7. If you are using the optional external antenna, adjust it now for optimum performance. Normally, the higher
you place the antenna, the better the performance will be.
8. Connect a standard Eth ernet 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.
Broadband
Internet
Modem
Router
Compact
Wireless-G
Broadband
Router
Multiple
PCs
Figure 4-4: Diagram for Connection to Another Router
Figure 4-5: Connecting Another Router
Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router
12
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
9. 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.
Figure 4-6: Connecting Your Network Devices
10. 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.
Figure 4-7: Connecting the Power
Now that the hardware installation is complete, proceed to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact
Wireless-G Broadband Router.”
Chapter 4: Connecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router
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
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.
NOTE: For first-time installation of the Router,
Linksys recommends using the Setup Wizard on the
Setup CD-ROM.
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.
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
Overview
14
Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
How to Access the Web-based Utility
T o access the W eb-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 5-1: 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.
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
How to Access the Web-based Utility
Figure 5-3: Setup Tab - Basic Setup
15
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.
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.
Figure 5-5: PPPoE Connection Type
pppoe: a type of broadband connection that
provides authentication (username and
password) in addition to data transport
User Name and Password. Enter the User Name and Password provided by your ISP.
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup
packet: a unit of data sent over a network
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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
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
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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.
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
The Setup Tab - Basic Setup
Figure 5-7: Static DHCP Client List
Figure 5-8: DHCP Client Table
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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.
dynamic ip address: a temporary IP
address assigned by a DHCP server.
Figure 5-9: DynDNS.org
Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router
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