I am trying to secure my wireless router to prevent unauthorized users and interceptions

I have tried many things and have been searching the internet for solutions with no luck.

here is the problem:
When I try to setup the router via the "web-based" utility through my web browser, I am UNABLE to log onto it.
The install program will not completely setup the router either.

hardware information:

Router: Linksys WRT54G2 v.1
Connected to computer via LAN
Router is connected to CABLE modem
I am using onboard network adapters
Internet CONNECTION: High-speed cable broad-band internet

Some command prompt Info about connection:

DHCP Enabled. . . . . . . . . . . : Yes
Autoconfiguration Enabled . . . . : Yes
IPv4 Address. . . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.102(PREFERRED)
Subnet Mask . . . . . . . . . . . : 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.1
DHCP Server . . . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.1

I've tried many things:
Downloading install software from lynksys... I get error 323 during installation when program attempts to connect to the router
I've verified all connections
Tried setting up the router using the web-based utility, using 192.168.1.1 in web browser [firefox, chrome, and IE]. Will not accept passwords given [user: "blank" pass: admin][user: admin pass: admin]
Tried the above after holding the reset button on the back of the router for over 30 seconds
I currently have an internet connection and wireless laptops can also connect to the internet using the wireless router
I have all expected lights displayed on the router and modem
I've tried releasing my IP address using command prompt and restarting computer
I've pinged the router 4 times. All attempts were successful with no latency
I've checked to MAKE sure that IPv4 settings were set to automatic and that i am using a DHCP/dynamic setup
Turning everything off. then [one at a time] turned on modem, router, then computer.
I've contacted linksys, whom cannot help me because the router is past warrenty [makes no sense]
I've contacted my internet service provider and there are no problems on their end or with the modem
I've uninstalled network magic [program that installed itself with the setup file] and i could not find any router drivers in device manager

I just can't figure this one out.


http://www.howtodothings.com/computers-internet/how-to-protect-a-linksys-wrt54g-router-using-wap-and-wepI've tried that, i can't get past the password screenIf memory serves me right, you can set-up this router by using the lan/ethernet cable.  Then check if you can connect to the web based interface.  Also, you can try resetting the hardware itself.  Usually there is a small button there which you can push using a pen or something with a pointed tip.  If you still find no luck, maybe it is the hardware’s problem already and bring it back to where you got it.  One note, you try pinging the address of your router and see if it registers a loss.I'm already connected to it using a lan cable. I've tried resetting it and it still wont take the passwords. I've also pinged it and the tests were successful. My warranty is no longer available. I got this router from a friend who previously had it secured at one point.

 Have you tried leaving user blank and typing "Admin" as password? You may need to ask your friend for the PW if the hardware reset is not making any changes.
http://www.pcwintech.com/wireless-setup-linksys-wrt54g2-linksys-firmwareI've already tried leaving the username blank and using admin as the password. I never thought that the router could be simply not reseting. I'll have to take it back to my friend and see if he remembers the old password.Have you RESET the router using a paper clip or ink pen? On the back is a hole with a visible metal piece that needs to be pressed by a paper clip to complete a circuit to reset the router to factory settings.
This will remove all changes applied to the router including password.

John