Router Setup
22
N150 WiFi Router (N150R)
Preset Security
The router comes with preset security. This means that the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and
the WiFi network password (network key) are preset in the factory. You can find the preset
SSID and passphrase on the bottom of the unit.
•
Wi-Fi network name (SSID)
identifies your network so devices can find it.
•
Passphrase
controls access to your network. Devices that know the SSID and the
passphrase can find your wireless network and connect.
•
Security option
is the type of security protocol applied to your wireless network. The
security protocol in force encrypts data transmissions and ensures that only trusted
devices receive authorization to connect to your network. The preset security option is
WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK mixed mode, described in
Wireless Security Options
on page 23.
The Wireless Settings screen lets you view and change the preset security settings
.
If you
change your preset security settings, make a note of the new settings and store it in a safe
place where you can easily find it.
WiFi Security Basics
Unlike wired network data, wireless data transmissions extend beyond your walls and can be
received by any device with a compatible wireless adapter (radio). For this reason, it is very
important to maintain the preset security and understand the other security features available
to you. Besides the preset security settings described in the previous section, your router has
the security features described here and in
Security Settings
on page 36.
•
Turn off wireless connectivity
•
Disable SSID broadcast
•
Restrict access by MAC address
•
Wireless security options
Disable SSID Broadcast
By default, the router broadcasts its Wi-Fi network name (SSID) so devices can find it. If you
change this setting to not allow the broadcast, wireless devices will not find your router
unless they are configured with the same SSID.
Note:
Turning off SSID broadcast nullifies the wireless network discovery
feature of some products such as Windows XP, but the data is still
fully exposed to a determined snoop using specialized test
equipment like wireless sniffers. If you allow the broadcast, be sure
to keep wireless security enabled.
