Planex GW-AP54SGX User Manual page 17

Using an open system with WEP enabled means the access point and wireless stations encrypt
only the data in each packet. WEP is not used for the purpose of authentication, that is,
encryption does not prevent any station from associating with the access point.
‧ Shared Key
With this setting only stations using a shared key encryption identified by the access point are
allowed to associate with it. Shared key WEP prohibits non-WEP WLAN stations from
associating with the access point. Shared key WEP uses encryption for both data and
authentication.
‧ WPA
If you use WPA you do not need to supply a WEP key. This is an access control system used for
Ethernet and wireless networks and a key is generated automatically from a server or switch. In
order to use WPA you must have the system running on your network. That is, you need a
Radius server or computer or switch capable of implementing PAE. After applying the settings
and restarting the Access Point, you must choose to use a Radius server or a local server or
switch for Authentication. Use the Encryption menu to select where authentication information
comes from and what size key to use.
Encryption
You can choose the Enabled option to Disabled or Enabled encryption
Key Type and Size
Keys are defined by the type (HEX or ASCII) of characters entered and size in bits. HEX or
Hexadecimal characters are numbers and the letters A – F, upper and lower case are
recognized as the same for HEX characters. ASCII characters include all printable characters
(including spaces) available on a standard keyboard. ASCII upper and lower cases are
recognized as different characters.
The size of the key relates to the level of encryption complexity. Keep in mind however that
throughput can be affected by WEP and the higher the level of complexity, the more it will
influence throughput. This should not be a problem for most users however, even at the highest
levels.
Key Table for HexValue
Use the Key Table to define the WEP keys according to the restriction you have selected (key
size and type). The Key Table will allow only keys of the correct size and type to be entered. If
you should enter a key of an incorrect character type or size an error message informs you
when you attempt to apply the changes. The Valid Key determines which Key (Key 1 to Key 4)
encrypts and decrypts the transmitting and received by the access point. Make sure you
configure your wireless adapters exactly the same way. That is, make sure that Key 1 on the
access point is the exactly the same as Key 1 on the adapters, and so on for the other keys in
the table.