Linksys BEFW11S4-RM User Guide - Page 14

Instant BroadbandTM Series 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 network 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 generated 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 security 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 Note: In order for WEP WEP Encryption, select Mandatory under the Encryption to be enabled, WEP section. wireless functions must first be enabled. Select Enable 2. Press the WEP Key Setting button to set the under the Wireless section before prcceeding. WEP Encryption type and level. 21 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. 22