Proper Configuration for Linksys Access Points

Proper configuration of a Linksys Access Point can be accomplished in four simple steps:
        1. Assign a Unique Service Set Identifier (SSID)
        2. Enable and require use of128 bit Wired Equivalnet Privacy (WEP).
        3. Filter access by MAC address.
        4. Disable SSID broadcast.
This page will give step by step instructions for accomplishing these four steps. It should be noted that no access point can ever be 100% secure. These steps will, however, provide reasonable protection for the home user as well as a "No Trespassing" sign for WarDrivers.

If some of the terms on the following pages are unfamiliar to you please use the Webopedia Online Dictionary for Computer and Internet Terms to look them up.

Step 1. Assign a Unique Service Set Identifier (SSID)

In order to assign a unique SSID, you must first access the Linksys AP using your web browser. To do this simply type the IP Address of the AP in the "Address" line of your favorite browser. You will be required to provide the AP password at this time. If you have not changed it, the password is "admin". This should be set (using the password tab) to a strong password that is a combination of letters, numbers and special characters.
Once you have accessed the AP web interface you will see a screen like this image that is big and I didn't want to kill your bandwidth making you download it if you aren't interested
We are concerned with the AP name and SSID feilds on this screen as shown below:

You should name the AP in the AP name field and change the SSID from "Linksys" to a unique SSID of your choice.
After these are set, click the "Apply" button.
Now you need to ensure that the WEP radio button is set to Mandatory as seen in the image above. When this is accomplished you are ready to proceed to Step 2 Enable and require use of 128 bit Wired Equivalnet Privacy (WEP).