Setting Wep Encryption - Linksys EtherFast Instant Broadband BEFW11S4 User Manual

Setting WEP Encryption

Note: WEP Encryption is an additional data security measure and
not essential for Router operation.
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) Encryption is a method of encrypting data
that is transmitted over your wireless network to insure data security. In a
wired network, data security is maintained through the physical wire. WEP
Encryption provides the same level of security for your wireless data as if it
were being transmitted over standard network cabling (which is how the name
is derived). In order to duplicate wired network security levels, wireless data
is encrypted at its point of transmission. It is decoded by the receiving
device. This allows users to have the same amount of security over their
wireless network as they would over a wired network. This level of security
is above that already provided by the use of password protection by your net-
work operating system.
The present standard for this encryption, set by the IEEE (the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers), is defined as 64-bit (sometimes also
called 40-bit) encryption. The Router allows you to choose between 64-bit
and 128-bit. These numbers refer to the complexity of the algorithms gener-
ated in order to code and decode the data transmitted. The higher the bit
number, the greater the complexity of the algorithm, which is designed to
provide a more secure the encryption. Be aware, however, that higher levels
of encryption often negatively affect network data transmission rates. This
encryption is not necessary for the operation of your wireless network
device. Your need for security can only be determined by you. If your secu-
rity needs are such that ordinary password protection is sufficient, you may
decide not to use the additional WEP Encryption. However, should your
security needs dictate it, the Wireless Access Point + Cable/DSL Router can
provide as secure a connection as is available in wireless networking.
1. At the Setup Screen, if you choose to enable
WEP Encryption, select Mandatory under the
WEP section.
2. Press the WEP Key Setting button to set the
WEP Encryption type and level.
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Instant Broadband Series
TM
N N o o t t e e : : In order for WEP
Encryption to be enabled,
wireless functions must first
be enabled. Select E E n n a a b b l l e e
under the Wireless section
before prcceeding.
EtherFast ® Wireless Access Point + Cable/DSL Router with 4-Port Switch
3. The following screen will appear, where you will choose your WEP
Encryption settings. If you select 64 Bit, choose your WEP Encryption
settings in the screen below.
4. If you select 128 Bit as shown in the screen above, the following screen
will appear, allowing you to create a new WEP key.
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