WRT160N problem. Ghost networks.

Question

My new WRT160N works perfectly fine, but creates ghost wireless networks along with the main network.  These ghost networks are non-functional 99% of the time, and no matter what the main SSID is, the ghost networks are named linksys 2 3 4 5 6, linksys 2 3 4 5, linksys 2 3 4, linksys 2 3, linksys 2; these ghost networks are randomly secure and unsecure, using my original WEP passwords if secured.
On occasion, the main network will disable itself and default to a secondary, yet unstable network.
I have reset the router multipule times, changed the wireless signal type from N to G to B, changed SSIDs, and toggled just about every logical setting to combat thisissue.
Anyone had this problem?  I've searched the forums, to no avail.
Message Edited by kent07 on 04-13-2009 06:29 PM

Answer 1

Ghost networks are generally caused by the software and drivers that run your wireless adapter, not by the router.  Typically they will appear for a day or two after you change your router's SSID, encryption setting, or wireless password.
Your router can only generate one wireless network at a time.  If you can log into other wireless networks, then perhaps you are logging into your neighbor's router.
To correct this problem with ghost networks:
1)  Give your router a new unique SSID.  Do not use "linksys", "linksys 2" or any variation of "linksys".  How about calling it "topgun44" , or something else that is unique?  Leave your "SSID broadcast" set to "enabled".
2)  In the router, set your encryption to WPA2, or at least WPA, and pick a strong password.  (Note: for WPA2, if you use Win XP, you will need SP3)
3)  Next go to your computer, to your wireless software, and go to "Preferred Networks" (sometimes called "Profiles" ). There are probably a few networks listed. Delete any network named "linksys".   Also delete all other networks.  Reboot computer.  Return to "Preferred Networks" and enter your new network info (SSID, encryption, and key). Then select your new network and make it your default network, and set it to automatic login. You may need to go to "settings" to do this, or you may need to right click on your network and select "Properties" or "settings".  Reboot computer.  You should connect automatically to your new network.  If not, temporarily turn off your computer software firewall, and see if that helps.
4) Ignore any remaining ghost networks for 3 days.  After 3 days, if they are still present, try to connect to them.  If you can connect, they are your neighbors.  If you cannot connect, then either the ghost will disappear, or else it is your neighbor's encrypted network.  Note that your neighbor's networks are not ghosts, and you cannot get rid of them.
5)  If you continue to have trouble with ghost networks, download and install the latest driver for your wireless card, then repeat step 3 and 4.
Message Edited by toomanydonuts on 04-14-2009 02:31 AM