“Open Source Software” means any software or software component or technology that is subject to an open source license. Open source licenses are generally licenses that make source code available for free modification and distribution, but can also apply to technology received and distributed solely in object code form. Need firmware update for Linksys WRT54GS My router's last update was: v1.50.6,Feb. I use the router at home with no problems (we had a desktop and a laptop using it; now just the laptop).
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The Linksys WRT54G router, first released in 2002, has undergone several major revisions. Suitable for use in a small or home office, the WRT54G supports all major forms of wireless encryption, but does not support the newer Wireless-N technology that allows higher speed connections than previous networking standards. The fifth version of the WRT54G router also changed the router's operating system.
Connections
The WRT54G v5 has four ports for Ethernet connections to the Internet and one input for connecting the modem. The router does not support Internet over USB. Wirelessly, the WRT54G supports Wi-Fi connections through either Wireless-B or Wireless-G, also known as 802.11b/g. This router cannot connect to devices using Wireless-N or other upcoming standards such as Wireless-ac. Most computers and devices that use these new technologies also support Wireless-G, so they will still work, albeit at a potentially slower speed.
Security
The WRT54G v5 supports all the major types of wireless security: WPA2, WPA and WEP. Though marketed as a consumer-level device, the router also supports the enterprise versions of WPA2 and WPA, as well as RADIUS. Using these modes requires integration with a RADIUS server on your corporate network. Whichever security type you select on the router, all devices on the network must use the same method. Note that both WEP and WPA security no longer offer adequate protection, and should only be used if another network device does not support WPA2.
Physical Specs
Not counting cables and the power adapter, the router weighs 1.1 pounds. It measures 7.3 inches across by 7.9 inches deep by 1.9 inches tall. To avoid damage, only operate the router between 32 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, with a humidity between 10 and 85 percent. Out of the box, the router includes the router hardware, a power cord, a disc of utility software and a single Ethernet cable.
Operating System
Linksys released the latest official firmware for the v5, version 1.02.8, in 2009. Unlike the first four versions of the WRT54G, v5 does not run on a Linux-based operating system. The v5 uses the VxWorks operating system. For the average user, this will not make much difference. Power users, however, could install additional features onto Linux-based routers that will not work with VxWorks. If you want to modify your WRT54G v5, you will have to remove the VxWorks system and install custom firmware. This will void your warranty, so only do so if you have a specific reason to and the technical expertise required.
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About the Author
Aaron Parson has been writing about electronics, software and games since 2006, contributing to several technology websites and working with NewsHour Productions. Parson holds a Bachelor of Arts from The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash.
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Parson, Aaron. 'WRT54G V5 Specs.' Small Business - Chron.com, http://smallbusiness.chron.com/wrt54g-v5-specs-66307.html. Accessed 11 January 2020.
Parson, Aaron. (n.d.). WRT54G V5 Specs. Small Business - Chron.com. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/wrt54g-v5-specs-66307.html
Parson, Aaron. 'WRT54G V5 Specs' accessed January 11, 2020. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/wrt54g-v5-specs-66307.html
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