Question about WPA2,Linksys WRT54G wireless router and Vista Vista Security Discuss Question about WPA2,Linksys WRT54G wireless router and Vista in the Windows Vista forums; Is anyone using a Linksys wireless router like the above? If so which computer should I use as the host, XP, XP-MCE(laptop), or Vista.(XP and Vista are ...

[Vistanoob]

Is anyone using a Linksys wireless router like the above? If so which computer should I use as the host, XP, XP-MCE(laptop), or Vista.(XP and Vista are desktops). And how hard is it to implement WPA2 encryption?? Unless I'm absolutely sure about the security, I will leave my laptop offline.
I've gone to the Linksys website but had no luck really.
Hope this is the right place to ask.
One review suggested skipping the software as it was buggy in their Vista system.

[felix8406]

I shouldn't matter which one is set as the host as long as it's wired, as opposed to wireless. I had a WRT54GS and never had any issues. The setup is very simple ad is done through your browser. Get the ip address from the linksys website.

[Vistanoob]

Excellent, thanks! I was 99% sure but thought I would ask. What kind of encryption did you use and was the set-up intuititive? This will be my first time.

[felix8406]

When dealing with wireless network you should use WAP, as it's more secure than WEP. However, if you have an older 802.11 device, you may not have a choice but to use WEP. Setup is very simple.

If you're not too familiar with home networking, Linksys has a tool that can setup your router: http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satel...=7829277881L05

This article from MS titled "4 steps to set up your home wireless network", has some excellent info as well: http://www.microsoft.com/athome/more...lesssetup.mspx

[Snuffy]

Security should be NO problem to set... I found Linksys web site was very helpful.
I also use a Linksys Wireless Router on my Vista Ultimate and use it on Pre- Vista, and all during Vista Beta.. it also worked well on Pre XP and XP Beta and XP.

I also recommend this: If you are not using the wireless... turn it off.
I set a shortcut to mine... for fast access to enable or disable Wireless, you also can set to
1. broadcast SSID or non broadcast SSID.
2. Limit the number of allowable to connect. I have 2 laptops so I allow 2 connections via wireless...
3. you can also set for specific mac addresses..only.

[Vistanoob]

Oh excellent! I know the weaknesses of WEP so I was planning to use WPA or even WPA2 if possible. Only 1 laptop will connect wirelessly and it conforms to the 802.11g standard, so I can set it to that. 1 device only (wireless)
Love the idea of a shortcut. I had planned to manually shut it off on my laptop,but that's even easier. I'll follow all of the above and disable SSID broadcasting for sure. and set for specific mac addresses too. Thanks
What about a short-cut to disconnect from the router when offline. To prevent outbound communication in the background when browser and e-mail are closed?? (on my wired computers)
Thanks for the links too! I haven't checked them out yet, but will right away.
Oh yeah, just came from the Linksys site. Wow,fantasic, even Vista links!!Thanks,(gonna go back)
Just found the "connect on demand' of stay connected options. another question answered screen shots are great!!!

[Snuffy]

No problem, on that... very easy to fix.
1. start
2. use mouse and move to > on far right hand corner --> follow that to SHUT DOWN.
or you can push the on/off button for about 3 secs...
it is called TURN THE COMPUTER OFF..

or I added a on/off switch to the router... Turn the Router OFF.

I do make it easy - Huh?

[Vistanoob]

Novel suggestions!!! .....off eh???? yup it doesn't get any easier.
I kinda meant closing the connection while the computer is still on, so I'm not online for nothing. I know others too, who would rather close the connection when not e-mailing or browsing. Depends on what gagets are running too, of course.
that's just my personall preference.
Oh yes, I went back and it looks like the setup will be a breeze. I hadn't found it on my own (the link) Thanks a lot for the help, much appreciated.

[Snuffy]

or I added a on/off switch to the router... Turn the Router OFF.

I do make it easy - Huh?

This was honestly the answer to your question.. fast, easy, and 100% safe.
it also is what I do...the switch is w/i easy reach... an fastest way I know of to "NOT BE ON THE INTERNET"... THERE Are several ways to disable the connection, but I prefer the on/off switch for the modem..

[Vistanoob]

Yes, that makes the most sense. For some reason I missed the suggestion about the on/off switch for the router, all I saw was the TURN OFF COMPUTER, and "do I make it easy?"I have to learn to read more slowly(by my missing that line, I thought it was a joke..now I get it.) Thanks again. (duh!)
I can't switch off the modem, because it is also the gateway for our cable, but the other solutions sound good too. I appreciate the help.