WPA and Windows 98SE

I have a home network that uses US Robotics MAXg components to link
computers running Windows XP. The encryption is set to "WPA2 and WPA" and
all works fine. I also have an older computer running Windows 98SE. It would
be useful to connect this to the network from time to time, preferably using
a USB adapter. However, I know that some adapters require Windows XP to
function with WPA. Is this a fundamental requirement (i.e. do all adapters
require XP)?

Is it possible to connect the 98SE computer and continue to use WPA? If so,
what do I need to buy?

I can accept a reduction in network speed whilst the 98SE computer is
connected. However, it would be unworkable to change the encryption method
each time!

Stephen wrote:
> I have a home network that uses US Robotics MAXg components to link
> computers running Windows XP. The encryption is set to "WPA2 and WPA"
> and all works fine. I also have an older computer running Windows
> 98SE. It would be useful to connect this to the network from time to
> time, preferably using a USB adapter. However, I know that some
> adapters require Windows XP to function with WPA. Is this a
> fundamental requirement (i.e. do all adapters require XP)?
>
> Is it possible to connect the 98SE computer and continue to use WPA?
> If so, what do I need to buy?
>
> I can accept a reduction in network speed whilst the 98SE computer is
> connected. However, it would be unworkable to change the encryption
> method each time!

Well, "something" must be provided for the WPA functionality. In XP
there are two choices: Wireless Zero Configuration service with a WPA
supplicant or no WZC and a proprietary managagement utility. Most
wireless adapters have a proprietary management utility that will
perform the function of WZC/WPA supplicant.

In Win9x, though, there are two problems: first is Win9x compatibility
of the driver and software. Second, there is noWZC in Win9x so the
security functionality must be supplied by the vendor's utility,
provided it is compatible with Win9x *or* be directly set in the
properties of the device (as we used to to with ethernet cards).

Since Win9x compatibility is not a high priority with newly released
hardware, you are best advised to check directly with the vendor for
both Win9x compatibility of the device, for WPA compatibility, and the
method used to manage the secure connection.

Q

"Stephen" <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote:
>Is it possible to connect the 98SE computer and continue to use WPA? If so,
>what do I need to buy?

One option might be to use a wireless client with an Ethernet
interface. For instance, the Linksys WAP54G will act as a client to
another WAP54G...

Then you don't have any issues with drivers or Win98 compatibility...

Stephen wrote:
> I have a home network that uses US Robotics MAXg components to link
> computers running Windows XP. The encryption is set to "WPA2 and WPA" and
> all works fine. I also have an older computer running Windows 98SE. It would
> be useful to connect this to the network from time to time, preferably using
> a USB adapter. However, I know that some adapters require Windows XP to
> function with WPA. Is this a fundamental requirement (i.e. do all adapters
> require XP)?
>
> Is it possible to connect the 98SE computer and continue to use WPA? If so,
> what do I need to buy?
>
> I can accept a reduction in network speed whilst the 98SE computer is
> connected. However, it would be unworkable to change the encryption method
> each time!
>
>
It may be worthwhile trying the free prog here
http://www.wirelesssecuritycorp.com/...PAAssistant.do
Your wireless card will have to have the drivers that support WPA.

Rob