How to Use WEP Parameters

WEP data encryption is used when the wireless devices are configured to operate in Shared Key authentication mode. There are two shared key methods implemented in most commercially available products, 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.

Before enabling WEP on an 802.11 network, you must first consider what type of encryption you require and the key size you want to use. Typically, there are three WEP Encryption options available for 802.11 products:

Do Not Use WEP: The 802.11 network does not encrypt data. For authentication purposes, the network uses Open System Authentication.

Use WEP for Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the data portion of every packet it sends using a configured WEP key. The receiving 802.11g device decrypts the data using the same WEP key. For authentication purposes, the 802.11g network uses Open System Authentication.

Use WEP for Authentication and Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the data portion of every packet it sends using a configured WEP key. The receiving 802.11 device decrypts the data using the same WEP key. For authentication purposes, the 802.11 network uses Shared Key Authentication.


	Note: Some 802.11 access points also support Use WEP for Authentication Only (Shared Key Authentication without data encryption). However, some NETGEAR products do not offer this option.