How to Change Linksys wireless security from WEP to WPA ?

Question

I've done a bit of research, and I'm still confused as to how to safely change my internet security from WEP to WPA, but depending on what site your on, people give different answers which make it all the more confusing. I have an older Linksys WT54g Router, and the wireless network was originally set on my old Vista laptop with WEP security (I still use this laptop as well). My newer laptop Windows 8 is obviously using the same wireless network. And here's where I'm confused.
1. If I want to change my wireless network security from WEP to WPA, which computer do I do this from? Does it matter? 
2. If I change the security settings, do I need to go into the control panel of EACH laptop individually and change the WEP to WPA, or just do it through one and it takes care of the rest?
OR
3. I have learned how to type in the Linksys IP address 
http://192.168.1.1/ and it takes me to my setting to change them from the WEP to WPA, BUT do you also have to go into your control panel and set it up there as well? I am scared I will not do every step and screw it up to the point I cant get back into my wireless network at all! I don't understand why some people take about going through the control panel and others mention the http://192.168.1.1/ to login to. Can anybody please simplify this so I can understand, I am on information overload!

Greg K · Answer

There are two sides to this question.  The settings in the Linksys and the settings in each device that will connect to it.

You will need to change the setting in the Linksys first.  It sounds like you know how to access the Linksys' admin screen.  Change the security to WPA Personal or WPA2 Personal.  Enter the code you will use as the key.  Then save the settings.  The router will reboot and your computer won't automatically reconnect because it doesn't have the new key.

You may have to delete the current WiFi settings on your computer if it doesn't ask you for the key when you reconnect to it.  But it should prompt you when you reconnect.

You will have to enter the new key in each device that uses the Linksys.  When that's done you'll have upgraded the WiFi security.

Good Luck

Anonymous · Answer

You need to download the manual for the router, log in to it using a web browser as described, on a WIRED connection from any machine. You do NOT use the control panel, it is NOTHING to do with any computer. Idiots should stick to giving cookery advice. Do NOT use wireless to configure it, this can shut you out leaving the router state undefined or even not working. Browse the router pages to wireless security and then set the encryption type to WPA. Set a new key. It is advisable to also change the SSID, this makes reconnecting easier. Save all your settings. Then disconnect the cable and attempt to connect using wireless. Since it can not see the original router SSID it will offer you a list of connections. Select the new name and tell the machine to connect. It will ask for the new key.

Claire · Answer

HI think if you changed it from the control panel it means you're changing it just for the device itself that you're using. But if you used the 192.168.1.1 you'll be securing the whole network for all the devices that will connect to this network. I'm not really sure about this but I think it works this way.

And if you made a mistake you can reset the router to its factory settings, on the router page or you can look at your router there should be a tiny hole to place a poppy pin to reset manually.

Hope this helps.

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How to Change Linksys wireless security from WEP to WPA ?

3 Answers