I went on the Linksys site to see if there were downloads for my router, and lo and behold, there was a firmware update. The site had the update “binary”, a TFTP client that automatically put it on the right place in my router, and specific download instructions. There was source code available for programmers. After I downloaded what I needed, the updater worked perfectly.

The firmware update fixed some bugs (that I hadn’t noticed!) and some vulnerability issues (well that was just a matter of time). They added AOL Parental Controls support (useless) and removed support for PC-Cillin and ZoneAlarm (which just got in the way). I was looking for basic improvements in security, and I got one. The router can now hide the wireless SSID, the service identifier that lets people casually find a network. If one already knows the SSID they still connect without any trouble.

So I turn on this feature to test it out, and the funny thing is, the Windows XP machines still found the network during a scan even after I cleared the service information. On my Palm, when I use the Enfora antenna for my PDA, the scan doesn’t detect the hidden SSID. I’m left to assume Windows still remembers the service identifiers.

This unsolicited geek update brought to NR by Linksys, whose equipment has treated me well. :)

So this brings me to an unrelated, scary thought. I’m 30 years old, and I can still figure out stuff. 10-15 years ago, VCR clocks stymied the parents, and the clocks usually had to be set or reset by the kids. I just wonder what future appliance is going to come out that is so advanced that the twins will get it down pat and I’ll be left in the dust.