Linksys Model WCG200
Hardware version 1.2b (Note Version 1 has 2 antennae, Version 2 only 1 antenna) Firmware: 1.12.9.4-1104
This device is a cable modem/router/WiFi hub. I wanted to change the configuration of my router because I wanted to setup port forwarding for faster bit torrent downloads. I also wanted to improve security. Unfortunately, I had forgotten my password. Googling for a solution to this problem, I found that resetting the modem will set the user ID and password to the factory setting. It will also set the modem/router/WiFi settings to their factory default values. I also found that everyone who then attempts to change the user ID and password gets locked out of the modem setup. Then the only way to get back in is to reset the modem. For security reasons you do not want to leave the default user ID and password since anyone connecting to the modem could login and change the settings. So most people change the ID and password and get locked out. Then the only way to get in is to do a reset. Then you have to again change your settings back. It is secure but it is a hassle. While playing around with the settings, I accidentally figured out why this happens. So I made this post hoping it might help someone else. I also included some additional notes about this product.
Reset the Cable Modem
There is a rest button on the back of the modem. It is located next to the plug where the AC adaptor plugs in. The reset button is recessed. You will need a sharp pencil or pen to push the button. While the modem is powered up press and hold the reset for about 5 seconds
Log IN
It is best to connect to the WCG200 with an ethernet connection since there are no settings to change to get it to work.. You might be able to connect through WiFi but you just reset the hub parameters so you might have setup problems. Set your browser to 192.168.0.1. You will receive a login prompt. Leave the user ID blank. The password is 'admin' (no quotes all lower case). That is it, you are in.
Change the Password
Click Administration and then Security. You will see 2 boxes. The user manual mistakenly says enter new user ID and password. If you do this and click Save Changes, you will be locked out. If you look carefully at these boxes, you will see Enter password between the boxes and then confirm password below the second box. You should enter your password in the first box and then enter the password again in the second box. Theere is no user ID. Click save changes. When you log in leave the user ID blank and enter your new password. It seems really obvious once you see it. It is a case of poor documentation and poor dialog box design.
Change Settings to improve security
1.) Change your password.
2.) Disable remote/access control.
3.) Change SSID from the default. It is set to Linksys.
4.) Change SSID to not broadcast. Someone trying to connect to the hub must then know the ID to get in.
5.) Use 128 bit encryption.
6.) Used Shared authentication not Open.
7.) Restrict the number of IP's the router will assign to the number you need. Do not leave the default 255.
Want to upgrade you firmware - TOO BAD
It is a conspiracy. Apparently cable modem firmware can only be changed through the cable interface. So only the cable company can change your firmware. The is particularly bad for the WCG200. The firmware controls not only the modem but the router and hub. So it is strongly advised to record your firmware version. If you have strange problems or the WCG200 stops working you can check if the firmware has been "upgraded". There have been several anecdotes about cable companies uploading the wrong firmware. One common problem is having the wrong version firmware for version of the hardware. Version 1 hardware has firmware version beginning with a 1. Version 2 hardware has firmware version beginning with a 2 The only solution is to purchase a separate modem, router and hub. This is the only way to have control over your router and hub..









