Can't Connect to WEP Protected WiFi ?

nuro305 · 06-15-2008, 09:45 AM

Having a problem connecting to an "Open" "WEP" protected connection via my WiFi.

It's sees the connection, prompts me for password (I enter it correctly) and it just hangs and can't connect. I'm trying with all connection options in the drop-down box and using "Passphrase".

I have a Windows laptop here and it's WiFi connects fine with the same password and it shows as an "Open" "WEP" connection after connection. (embarrassing me in front of my relatives with my "Cool" Linux laptop!)

I just connected to an unprotected WiFi last night at a hotel just fine, but this protected one won't connect!? Any thoughts on what to check?

RUNNING: SLED 10 SP2, Gnome

pixellany · 06-15-2008, 10:05 AM

When entering a WEP key, there are two modes: hex and ascii. Depending on the tool, you sometimes have to put "s:" in front of an ascii code. (Or maybe check a box that tells it to use ascii).

I don't like any of the GUI wireless tools. I just use iwconfig, etc. in the terminal

nuro305 · 06-15-2008, 06:04 PM

Thanks for the reply but no-go.

I'm using Network Applet Manager 0.6.4 GUI (standard with SuSE Gnome) and it sucks!

When I select anything but the 128 Bit PASSPHRASE option the "Logon" button remains grayed out. It'll only let me select Passphrase and then I can try and even with the s: it still fails...

I read part of the MAN page on iwconfig and it's just too much of a pain in the arse. That's why use SuSE because it usually just works.

It's pitiful that a Windows PC can connect immediately but this one can't.

Thanks for the tip though.

pixellany · 06-15-2008, 07:34 PM

OK....if you want help getting it working, let us know.....

I find this pretty easy---no pain in any part of my anatomy:
iwconfig wlan0 essid apname key s:mykey
dhcpcd wlan0

YMMV

nuro305 · 06-16-2008, 08:17 AM

Thanks.

Yes as your Sig. says.... It's ALWAYS something ;-)

Thanks for the syntax. I know I can always count on my Linux bretherin for help. I'll give it a go now that I have the syntax.

It just sucks that the GUI tool can't handle a simple ACCII connection. I've also had the same weird problem at a friends house with a HEX protected connection.

Perhaps SP3 will fix it.

Thanks Again!