Chris Babstock wrote:

> I've read whatever I can find, and nothing seems to help with this problem:
> I cannot connect to my wireless network when I specify in my router (Linksys
> wrt54g) to not broadcast my ssid. I don't know for certain, but I also
> believe that wep encryption is involved...
>
> The hardware i'm using is a Dell Inspiron 1100 with a D-Link DWL-G650 h/w
> version B2.
>
> I got the madwifi driver installed, and emerged wireless-tools, however, I
> cannot set my essid under iwconfig -- just nothing happens. I've tried
> committing and get an error saying 'not supported'
>
> Everything works fine when I turn on 'ssid broadcast' and turn off my WEP
> encryption, but i'm sure as you know, I don't want to just sit around with
> my thumb up my ass waiting for people to steal my net connection.
>
> Any suggestions?

I am not a specialist but have done some testing with Wifi myself.

First of all most Wifi routers do have a possibillity to only admit users known
by their hardware address. You should check this since most of your problems
will be solved if this is set up correctly. Using this option will prevent
anyone from stealing your net connection.

Furthermore is WEP still not standarised officially, leading to numerous
problems with incompatible hardware and drivers. I had also hat to either remove
WEP or throw away some Wifi devices. I threw away WEP:) Moreover since WEP only
prohibits radio amateurs to receive your radio signals and read them. Do you
have any in your Wifi radius?

But indeed banking etc without WEB is basicly unsafe.... Like using a not-SSL
connection, only with a way smaller chance of being wrecked....

Best regards

Richard