The WRT54G wireless router allows both older WEP encryption as well as newer WPA and WPA2 encryption. EarthLink recommends using WPA2, but remember that every wireless device on your network must support at least the first version of WPA in order to use it. Many older wireless adapters for desktops and laptops only support WEP, so you may have to use this method. If all equipment on your network supports WPA, continue following this article. If not, see KB article 32391 for instructions on configuring WEP. For more detailed general information on wireless encryption, see KB article 62613.
 

Configuring WPA and WPA2 Encryption on the Linksys WRT54G Wireless-G Router

1. Type the router's IP address in your browser address bar. The default IP is 192.168.1.1.
   
   
   
   
   
2. You will receive a login prompt. Type in the current password for the router. If it is still in default configuration, you will leave the User Name field blank and type "admin" in the Password field to gain entry.
   
   NOTE: If the password screen doesn't appear after you click enter, make sure that the Ethernet cable from your computer to the router is in place. See KB article 32426 if you need help connecting the devices properly. If the Ethernet cable is connected properly, restart your computer. If you still can't get to the password screen after you restart, see KB article 35842 to set up your network control panel to use DHCP and then try again.
   
   
   
   
   NOTE: You should change the default password for your router for greater security if you have not already. See KB article 32315 for instructions on changing the password.
   
   
3. Click on the Wireless tab across the top menu, and choose the Wireless Security tab that appears underneath it.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Choose WPA2 Pre-Shared Key Mixed in the Security Mode drop down menu. This option will allow devices on your network to use either WPA or WPA2 depending on which they are capable of.
   
   
   
   
   
5. In the fields that appear, fill out this information:
   • Change WPA Algorithms to TKIP†AES.
   • The Pre-Shared Key may be between 8 and 63 characters of any type. The longer the password used, the stronger the encryption will be. You should write this key down as it will be used when configuring wireless adapters on your network to use WPA or WPA2.
   • Leave the Group Key Renewal set to 3600 seconds.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
6. Hit the Save Settings button. Your router is now configured for WPA/WPA2 encryption. You should now configure each wireless adapter on your network with the same settings.