The XMEN Clan Forums

Gambino - this is what I wanted to talk to you about on the phone but got completely hung up with other stuff. Sorry I didn't call back.

Here's the issue.... we have a Linksys WRT54G wireless router that no one can seem to connect to wirelessly. If I leave the router completely wide open there's no problem. However, if I enable wireless security I cannot connect. I've tried this from 3 different machines and the result is always the same - they get connected but get stuck on "Acquiring Network Address". It stays here for a while before it times out.

From a security standpoint I have WEP enabled and have also enabled the MAC filter. I've checked, double-checked, and triple-checked to make sure that I have the correct MAC address in the filter list, and that I have the correct network key entered on the client.

Thoughts?

I had the same issue with the exact same router.

I ended up not using the wireless and just went with ethernet. I didn't look back until I got a laptop, and then I got a D-link DIR 655 and everything works flawlessly as well as the stronger WPA2 encryption.

Now, as to your problem and not going out and spending more money, I'd suggest that you double-check your keys/passphrases that you are using for the encryption. Make sure that all of the settings for the passphrase match what you are using on your wireless clients. AND be sure to check what bit length the keys are. And be sure to update the firmware on the router, because I seem to remember a security bug in the original firmware.

After you finish the firmware check/update, you'll want to reboot everything in your network that's connected to the router, starting with your router, then your wired clients, and then your wireless clients.

You'll want to check the settings for the radio (on/off, and transmit strength if available in your firmware). And you'll need to verify the encryption keys/algorithm, as well as verify whether you enter the key as alphanumeric text or a hexadecimal number.

And remember to completely power the router and connected clients off, and then power them on after you make a change to any of the router settings. When I used this router, the power cycling seemed to be absolutely necessary.

*EDIT: for a typo*

Porsche,
If I had that router I would use the dd-wrt.com or the Sveasoft firmware
on it.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DD-WRT
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sveasoft


Makes it MUCH more flexible and more powerful. Just my 2 cents.

It loads a Linux based firmware update on it and allows you much more control of the unit.

A friend at work used to be an admin. He said that patch (if it's the same one) gives that router capabilities that belong on a router an order of magnitude more expensive. I'd patch it if I had that Linksys.

Since Asha has experience with this router I'd take his advice. Sounds good to me. I've never had to get quite that elaborate with my D-Link, though - usually the router reboot works just fine.

Anyone try either of these? I've got the same router as Porsche, and while I've never had his issue, I could stand to gain a little more antenna power. I'm just nervous about it, as Qwests' DSL router can be picky if you sneeze at it funny...

Boogers!

I didn't try anything but the linksys firmware. I thought about going the linux route, but didn't want to try it.

Actually your router is running Linux.

They just hacked it and made it more powerful. I hear really good things about these hacks. Look it up on Wikipedia.

I have a d-link DIR655 now. And I love it.