On Sun, 19 Oct 2003 05:13:07 +0100, "ripper" <jim@MS_security.patch>
wrote:
The DG814 has 4 integrated ports. This means you should still have an
opened port on the router? If not, use a small switch to split one of
the existing ones, preferably the least used or the one your laptop
uses when connected via cable.
Purchase a wireless access point (see TIPS for information on speeds
vs. range)
You'll also need a wireless card for your laptop. Obviously, this
should match the chosen standard of the AP.
Depending on the layout of the house and the yard, you may or may not
have to locate the access point on the opposite end of the house as
the router. Try it close to the router first. If you get a good signal
in the locations you prefer, then you're done. If not, then string
CAT5 from the router end of the house to the preferred end and connect
the access point there.
A good free app to test signal strength is Boingo.
http://www.boingo.com/download.html
It will "listen" for any wireless signal and report the strength to
you in an easy to use interface.
Once you have the wireless access point installed and you have good
signal when near it, use your laptop and boingo to roam around and
test the strength in various locations.
TIPS:
Locate the access point nearer to a window for better outdoor
signaling.
Secure the wireless LAN by restricting access by MAC address allowing
only the MAC address of your wireless card.
Do not use the default channel and encryption settings!
WEP is OK, but it is not something that can't be cracked fairly easily
by someone who wants to see your data.
802.11g will be faster, but has less effective range.
802.11b will be plenty fast for surfing and light to moderate file
sharing and data transfer at speeds up to 11 mb.
Harrison
Skype:windowshelp
