Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit
An Insider's View of the NSLU2-Linux Open-Source Project

Rod Whitby

<rod@whitby.id.au> NSLU2-Linux Project Lead

1. The Linksys NSLU2

Hardware Specs Linksys Firmware RedBoot Bootloader

5. 6. 7.

Official Kernel Support

NSLU2, NAS100D, Loft,

Official Debian Support
Debian Etch Loves The Slug

Unslung Firmware

Project Inception Unslung 1.x Unslung 2.x to 5.x Unslung 6.x

The Fun

NSLU2-Linux Exhibitions NSLU2-Linux Community NSLU2-Linux Development Project Infrastructure

Optware Packages

NSLU2, WL500g, Distributed Development

The Profit

How to Make a Small Fortune Donations for Hardware

The Future

What to do next

SlugOS Firmware

OpenSlug, DebianSlug

10 Feb 2007

Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au>
The Linksys NSLU2 - Hardware Specs
Network Attached Storage (NAS) Consumer Device
27.5mm x 135mm x 96mm 5V DC, Maximum 2 Amps

Intel XScale IXP420

Big-endian ARM 133MHz (under-clocked)
10/100 Ethernet 2 x USB 2.0 Host Ports 32 MB RAM 8 MB Flash Serial, JTAG, I2C, NSLU2 -> NSLUG -> Slug
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 3
The Linksys NSLU2 - Stock Linksys Firmware
Designed to be a stand-alone Samba server for attached USB hard disks.
Ext3 filesystem with 3 partitions Must be formatted on the device

Linux 2.4.22 Kernel

Major modifications to the USB and SCSI subsystems
Snapgear-based root filesystem
busybox, samba, thttpd, etc.
Linksys binary-only utilities
Set_Led, USB_Detect, Watchdog, CheckPowerButton, CheckResetButton
Source code available for kernel and root filesystem, but not for Linksys binaries
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 4
The Linksys NSLU2 - RedBoot Bootloader
Loads kernel and initial ramdisk into memory, then executes kernel.
Kernel size is limited to 1MB Ramdisk size is set at 10MB (can extend to 12MB if required) MAC address for internal ethernet interface stored alongside Redboot
Significant modifications by Linksys
Addition of move, boot, and upgrade commands Removal of FIS directory functions
Not intended to be user-accessible
unless you solder on a connector for a serial port Linksys left in a telnet 2 second window of opportunity Upgrade mode is another exploit mechanism
Good enough for our purposes, so left alone.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 5
Unslung Firmware - Project Inception
12 July 2004 Jim Buzbee finds the Telnet exploit. 31 July 2004 nslu2-linux mailing list is created. 5 Aug 2004 Toms Hardware article published. Mailing list has 13 members. 10 Aug 2004 First successfully modified image. 11 Aug 2004 Serial port and Redboot TFTP. Unslung concept based on /linuxrc. Jims journal links to the mailing list. 15 Aug 2004 iTunes server ported. 16 Aug 2004 Busybox, dropbear and wget ported. Donations requested ($240 on first day). 17 Aug 2004 Rods NSLU2 arrives in the post.
18 Aug 2004 Slug sacrificed to find JTAG traces. Jims journal page is slashdotted, and the mailing list feels the effect. 19 Aug 2004 nslu2-linux.org domain registered. 22 Aug 2004 nslu2-general mailing list created. 24 Aug 2004 First boot from external hard disk. Serial port mod published. 25 Aug 2005 Linksys releases kernel source. 30 Aug 2005 RedBoot telnet access found. RedBoot upgrade mode found. 31 Aug members and 1000 list emails. 13 Sep 2005 Wiki installed at www.nslu2-linux.org

Unslung Firmware - Unslung 1.x
Designed to be a minimal-changes firmware replacement
Retains all of the standard NSLU2 product functionality unchanged Adds the capability to load the root filesystem from external storage and download and install packages onto that external storage to be used alongside the standard product functionality. Also defines the package format for downloadable packages.
Unslung 1.7-alpha source code was released on 3 Sep 2004.
The goal was to free up 10MB of RAM by pivoting from an initial switchbox ramdisk to JFFS2 or an external disk or NFS root filesystem. Built from a Makefile in a SourceForge CVS repository. Used a binary sed to modify the Linksys kernel.
Unslung 1.11-beta binary image was released on 14 Sep 2004.
There were well over 1000 downloads of Unslung 1.x
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 7
Unslung Firmware - Unslung 2.x and 3.x
Unslung 2.12-beta binary image was released on 6 Nov 2004.
The goal was to build the firmware from source. Support for ext3 flash disks on Port 1 Full downloadable package support USB enclosure fixes (Genesys) Kernel compiled from source (including some fixes)
Unslung 3.16-beta binary image was released on 25 Dec 2004.
The goal was to add a persistent JFFS2 root file system. USB devfs support (driven by Topfield puppy development) NFS kernel support Recovery mode and Maintenance mode added.
Unslung Firmware - Unslung 4.x and 5.x
Unslung 4.20-beta binary image was released on 15 May 2005.
The goal was to become self-hosting being able to build Optware packages natively, and to free up another 1MB of RAM by booting directly to a /linuxrc in JFFS2 instead of using the switchbox initrd. The internal JFFS2 partition became an initfs and recovery filesystem. More kernel modules were enabled (and kernel module ipkg feed added)
RAID, USB Audio, USB Cameras, Traffic Shaping, Tape Drives, etc.
Quite a few people stuck with 3.18-beta until 5.5-beta was released.

Unslung 5.5-beta binary image was released on 14 June 2005.
Upgraded to be based on Linksys V2.3R29 firmware. Changed from broken maintenance mode to stable upgrade mode. Disabled the Linksys download daemon (in favor of upgrade mode). There have been almost 18000 downloads of Unslung 5.5-beta.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 9
Unslung Firmware - Unslung 6.x
Unslung 6.8-beta binary image was released on 12 April 2006.
Updated to Linksys R63 firmware, which includes the Paragon commercial NTFS kernel module with full write support. Many usability improvements (to try and reduce the number of installation-related questions on the mailing list). The new Unslung logo is now featured in the Web GUI There have been over 28000 downloads of Unslung 6.8-beta.
Optware Packages - NSLU2, WL500g,
Began as Unslung Packages now over 750 packages strong. The set of packages have been ported to many targets:
Linksys NSLU2 (armeb, glibc) Asus WL500g/gx (mipsel, uclibc) Synology DS-101 (armeb, glibc) Freecom FSG-3 (armeb, glibc) Maxtor Shared Storage (armeb, uclibc) Iomega NAS 100d (armeb, glibc) Synology DS-101g+ (powerpc, glibc) Linksys WRT54G* (mipsel, uclibc) Technologic Systems TS72xx (arm, glibc)
Diverse range of packages:
Apache, MySQL, Perl/PHP/Python, Squid Email, IRC, CUPS, Torrent, CVS, SVN, Git, Monotone Webcam, Network Sound, USB PVR, X10, Samba PDC, Topfield EPG MediaWiki, Asterisk, Gallery, iTunes Server, CCXStream, TwonkyVision
Optware Packages - Distributed Development
More than 100 Optware package developers.
Send a new package.mk file to the nslu2-developers mailing list and you are granted CVS write access.
An identified package feed manager for each of the targets. New and modified packages are built automatically every half hour, and the package feeds for all targets are updated upon successful builds. Build logs are published on the web for package developers to peruse (and fix any problems).
NSLU2 Asterisk PBX (on 512MB flash stick) Sipura SPA-3000 ATA/Gateway
SlugOS Firmware - OpenSlug, DebianSlug
SlugOS refers to our legacy-free distributions based on OpenEmbedded
Latest 2.6.x kernel (currently 2.6.20)
Support for the NSLU2 written from scratch and contributed to kernel.org
OpenEmbedded-based root filesystem
Draws on the 1500+ packages available in OpenEmbedded
No legacy Linksys proprietary source code or binaries
OpenSlug (SlugOS/BE) refers to slugos-bag (big-endian, arm, glibc), DebianSlug (SlugOS/LE) refers to slugos-lag (little-endian, arm, glibc)

UcSlugC refers to slugos-btu (big-endian, thumb, uClibc), but is no longer supported. DebianSlug name has been deprecated, now that Debian/NSLU2 exists.
OpenSlug 1.12-beta binary image was released on 15 May 2005. OpenSlug 2.7-beta binary image was released on 28 Sep 2005. SlugOS 3.10-beta binary images (current release, both BE and LE) were released on 9 June 2006.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 13
There were 484 downloads of the OpenSlug 1.12-beta binary image, 625 downloads of OpenSlug 2.0-beta (since 22 July 2005), 1032 downloads of OpenSlug 2.5-beta (since 9 Aug 2005), 2669 downloads of OpenSlug 2.7-beta (since 28 Sep 2005) and 9129 downloads of SlugOS 3.10-beta (since 9 Jun 2006).
SlugOS releases generally occur in response to major kernel version changes. Quite a few SlugOS users build their own firmware from source.
DebianSlug (SlugOS/LE) is compatible with packages from the official Debian ARM port.
Official Kernel Support - NSLU2, NAS100d, Loft,
Kernel support (2.6.20) for the supported targets:
MACH_NSLU2 MACH_NAS100D MACH_LOFT MACH_DS101 Linksys NSLU2 Iomega NAS 100d GiantShoulderInc Loft Synology DS101
NSLU2-Linux team has contributed to other items:
Maclist support RTC class New LEDs class Open Source IXP Ethernet driver
Many patches already pushed upstream
But many patches still to be pushed
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 15
Official Debian Support - Debian Etch Loves The Slug
Debian Etch has full support for the NSLU2, including all the latest Kernel patches and the open source IXP ethernet driver. debian-installer will read configuration from flash, bring up network and SSH. Installation done via SSH. Normal Debian installation to external USB storage. Full support for in-place kernel upgrades. There have been over 4400 downloads of the Debian/NSLU2 installation image.
The Fun - NSLU2-Linux Exhibitions

Linux World Expo 2005

SCALE 4x 2006
The Fun - NSLU2-Linux Community
Unslung, Optware and SlugOS are good examples of usersupported / user-developed software done right. What makes it work so well?
Separate lists for users and developers. Revision-control systems. We use monotone and subversion. Wikis. We have a community rule that encourages users to add to and improve the wiki. Freenode IRC. The core developers are available to help on a number of IRC channels e.g. #nslu2-linux. Community rules about bothering them. Easy to become a developer. Publicly post a working package recipe and you get cvs write access. We have had no rogue developers yet, and if we did, any damage would be reverted. A wiki-like model of development.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 18
NSLU2-Linux Community - The Community Rules
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Never ever use the Linksys EraseAll tool - it will brick your slug permanently. You will search the wiki first and read the FAQ before asking questions on the mailing lists or IRC channels. You must read and follow the steps in the README file precisely when flashing firmware. Those who ask the questions, update the wiki when they get the answers. Those who complain about the documentation, update the wiki to make it better. Friends don't let friends flash custom firmware without confirmed RedBoot upgrade mode access. Friends don't let friends flash custom boot loaders without confirmed JTAG access.

The Development Rules

NSLU2-Linux is run as a meritocracy those who contribute the most are the ones who get to make the key development decisions. Key contributors are invited to become part of the Core Team, and are assigned a role in line with their major contribution, skill, or external influence. If its not in the source repository, then it doesnt exist. If it cannot be built automatically from source, then it cannot be released. It either goes up (-stream) or it goes out.
NSLU2-Linux Community - Community Growth
Over 12,000 mailing list subscribers. Over 50,000 downloads of the Unslung firmware. Over 10,000 downloads of the SlugOS firmware. Over 10,000 downloads of the Debian/NSLU2 firmware. The www.nslu2-linux.org wiki serves over 12000 hits and 200MB of data each day. The ipkg.nslu2-linux.org package feeds serve over 5GB of data per day (in total) from four world-wide mirror locations. We maintain over 2.5GB of publicly accessible information, source code and executables.
NSLU2-Linux Community Growth
Aug-04 Feb-05 Aug-05 Feb-06 Aug-06 Feb-07

Members Posts

The Fun - NSLU2-Linux Development
100 Optware package developers 20 Core Team members SlugTime covers the globe:
HST, PST, CST, EST, GMT, CET, ACST, NZST

4 Firmware Distributions

Unslung, SlugOS/BE, SlugOS/LE, Debian/NSLU2
"While Linksys does not support any of the alternate firmware available for the NSLU2, we are always delighted to see a product gain such widespread acceptance. Like the similar community that emerged to enhance the WRT54G before it, the creativity and ingenuity of Linksys customers inspires us to continually improve our products." -- Mike Wagner, Director of Marketing, Linksys.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 21
NSLU2-Linux Development - Build Systems and SCM
Unslung 1.x was developed using a simple Makefile in a CVS repository on SourceForge.net
It unpacked the Linksys firmware binary image, modified the kernel using a binary sed, added new files to the rootfs, and then packed it all back up again ready to be flashed.
Unslung 2.x was developed using the OpenEmbedded build system in a BitKeeper repository in bkbits.net
Kernel built from source, rootfs unpacked from Linksys firmware image.
Optware packages continue to be developed using a simple template-based Makefile build system in a Subversion repository at svn.nslu2-linux.org
This is designed to minimize the barrier to entry for new developers.
Unslung 3.x and later, and SlugOS, use the OpenEmbedded build system and a monotone repository at monotone.nslu2-linux.org
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 22
The Fun - Project Infrastructure
Web, Wiki, SVN, Monotone, Bug tracking

limax.nslu2-linux.org

Limax maximus
Automated Cross-compile Build Machine

nudi.nslu2-linux.org

Nudibranch
Automated Native Unslung Build Machine

gastro.nslu2-linux.org

Gastropoda Automated Native OpenSlug Build Machine

banana.nslu2-linux.org

Four ipkg mirrors around the world

ipkg.nslu2-linux.org

Norway, Oregon, California, Illinois, Georgia.
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au>

Banana Slug

The Profit - How to Make a Small Fortune
How do you make a small fortune hacking Linux firmware for consumer devices? Start with a large fortune!
The Profit - Donations for Hardware
The project has raised almost USD$10,000 since 16 Aug 2004 All monies are spent on hardware or project expenses Examples of purchases:
Intel/AMD Infrastructure Servers Intel/AMD Development/Build Server Native Build Hosts Core Team Development Slugs Notable Third Party Developer Slugs Developer Bounty Hardware

Up to $50 hardware driver bounty
Domain fees Exhibition expenses (LinuxWorld Expo 2005, SCALE 2006) Donations to cia.navi.cx, irc.freenode.net, www.loglibrary.com,
10 Feb 2007 Hacking Consumer Devices for Fun and Profit Rod Whitby <rod@whitby.id.au> 25
The Future - What to do next
Complete the task of pushing all patches upstream Push the open source IXP ethernet driver upstream Track latest kernel versions Debian support for NAS100d, DSM-G600, FSG-3, Add OpenWRT firmware support Find the next new device to hack

A Division of Cisco Systems, Inc.

Network Storage Link

for USB 2.0 Disk Drives

User Guide

Model No.
Network Storage Link for USB 2.0 Disk Drives

Copyright and Trademarks

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Linksys is a registered trademark or trademark of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. Copyright 2004 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

How to Use this Guide

Your guide to the Network Storage Link for USB 2.0 Disk Drives has been designed to make understanding networking with the Network Storage Link easier than ever. Look for the following items when reading this guide: This checkmark means there is a note of interest and is something you should pay special attention to while using the Network Storage Link Drives.
This exclamation point means there is a caution or warning and is something that could damage your property or the Network Storage Link.
This question mark provides you with a reminder about something you might need to do while using the Network Storage Link.
In addition to these symbols, there are definitions for technical terms that are presented like this: word: definition.
Also, each figure (diagram, screenshot, or other image) is provided with a figure number and description, like this: Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description
Figure numbers and descriptions can also be found in the "List of Figures" section.

NSLU2-UG-40503B KL

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome Whats in this Guide?
Chapter 2: Getting to Know the Storage Link
The Back Panel The Front Panel
Chapter 3: Connecting the Storage Link
Overview Hardware Installation Changing a Flash Memory Disk (for the Disk 2 Port) Changing a USB Hard Drive
Chapter 4: Setting Up the Storage Link

Overview Setup Wizard

Chapter 5: Install Utility for Using Flash Disks

Overview Installation

Chapter 6: Configuring the Storage Link
Overview Home Tab User Password Tab Administration Tab Administration Tab Administration Tab User Guide Linksys Web
Appendix A: Troubleshooting Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage
Overview TCP/IP Setup Network Logon (Windows 95/98/ME only) Storing Files
Appendix C: Windows Help Appendix D: Glossary Appendix E: Specifications Appendix F: Warranty Information Appendix G: Regulatory Information Appendix H: Contact Information

List of Figures

Figure 2-1: Back Panel Figure 2-2: Front Panel Figure 3-1: Ethernet Connection Figure 3-2: Flash Drive Connection Figure 3-3: Hard Drive Connection Figure 3-4: Power Connection Figure 3-5: Power Button Figure 4-1: The Setup Wizards Main Menu Figure 4-2: Select the Network Storage Link Figure 4-3: Enter a Password Figure 4-4: IP Settings Figure 4-5: Date/Time Settings Figure 4-6: Confirm New Settings Figure 4-7: Change Settings Figure 4-8: Format Figure 4-9: Congratulations Figure 5-1: Welcome Figure 5-2: Destination Location Figure 5-3: Program Folder Figure 6-1: Accessing the Web Utility Figure 6-2: Home Tab Figure 6-3: User Password Tab Figure 6-4: Administration Tab - LAN Figure 6-5: Administration Tab - System Figure 6-6: Administration Tab - Users Figure 6-7: The User Membership Screen Figure 6-8: Administration Tab - Status Figure 6-9: Administration Tab - Advanced/Groups 21 23

Figure 6-10: Administration Tab - Advanced/Shares Figure 6-11: Administration Tab - Advanced/Backup Figure 6-12: The Define Backup Job Screen Figure 6-13: Administration Tab - Advanced/Disk Figure 6-14: Administration Tab - Advanced/Upgrade Figure 6-15: The Online User Guide Figure B-1: Network Logon Figure B-2: Locating the Storage Link Figure B-3: Mapping the Network Drive

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Network Storage Link for USB 2.0 Disk Drives. Now you can quickly and easily add USB storage devices onto your network with the Network Storage Link. This stand-alone Network Attached Storage device features two USB ports. One port can be used for a USB Flash Drive, and the other can be connected to any USB hard drive. As your storage needs grow, you can simply install a larger hard drive. Installation of the Network Storage Link is simple - just plug it directly into your Ethernet network, and it's instantly available, provided you have a DHCP server on your network. If you don't, it takes only a few minutes to run the Windows setup utility and configure the Network Storage Link for your network. The Network Storage Link features built-in disk utilities that are accessible through your web browser. You can format a drive for initial use, and scan the disk for errors. If you've installed a second Network Storage Link, you can back up data from one Network Storage Link to the other. You can also autmatically back up data to or from a shared folder on a Windows system on your network. For even more flexibility and utility, the Network Storage Link can be set up to be accessible directly from the Internet, which allows access to stored files via a web browser. Files can be available publicly in your network, or you can create password-protected accounts for your authorized users. The Network Storage Link is a powerful, flexible, and economical addition to your network. Use the instructions in this User Guide to help you connect the Network Storage Link for USB 2.0 Disk Drives, set it up, and configure it for easy use. These instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Network Storage Link for USB 2.0 Disk Drives.
Chapter 1: Introduction Welcome

Whats in this Guide?

This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Storage Link. Chapter 1: Introduction This chapter describes the Storage Links applications and this User Guide. Chapter 2: Getting to Know the Storage Link This chapter describes the Storage Links physical features. Chapter 3: Connecting the Storage Link This chapter shows you how to connect the Storage Link to your Network Chapter 4: Setting up the Storage Link This chapter shows you how to use the Storage Links Setup Wizard to quickly and easily set it up Chapter 5: Install Utility for Using Flash Disks Follow the directions in this chapter when using Flash Disks. Chapter 6: Configuring the Storage Link This chapter show you how to use the Storage Links web utility for online management. Appendix A: Troubleshooting This appendix describes some potential problems and solutions, as well as frequently asked questions, regarding installation and use of the Storage Link. Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage This chapter helps you with using the Storage Link and Windows. Appendix C: Windows Help This appendix describes how you can use Windows Help for instructions about networking, such as installing the TCP/IP protocol. Appendix D: Glossary This appendix gives a brief glossary of terms frequently used in networking. Appendix E: Specifications This appendix provides the Storage Links technical specifications. Appendix F: Warranty Information This appendix supplies the Storage Links warranty information.

Chapter 1: Introduction Whats in this Guide?
Appendix G: Regulatory Information This appendix supplies the Storage Links regulatory information. Appendix H: Contact Information This appendix provides contact information for a variety of Linksys resources, including Technical Support.

The Back Panel

The Storage Links ports and connectors are located on the back panel.

Ethernet

This LAN (Local Area Network) port connects to Ethernet network devices, such as a switch or router. Insert your USB Flash Drive (USB key) or USB disk here. Connect your USB hard drive here. (Flash drives will not be recognized.) This button has 2 functions: If the Network Storage Link's IP Address is lost, press and hold this button for two seconds. The IP Address will be set to the default value of 192.168.1.77 and it will beep once to indicate the reset has occurred. If the Network Storage Link's password is lost, press and hold this button for 10 seconds. The password will then be set to the default value of "admin", and the Network Storage Link will beep again.
Disk 2 Disk 1 Reset Button
Connect the power adapter here. Important: Resetting the Network Storage Link will erase all of your settings and replace them with the factory defaults. Do not reset the Network Storage Link if you want to retain the settings.

Figure 2-1: Back Panel

Chapter 2: Getting to Know the Storage Link The Back Panel

The Front Panel

The Storage Links LEDs, where information about network activity is displayed, and power switch are located on the front panel.

Ready/Status

This LED will begin blinking when you turn on the Storage Link. This is the Storage Link running a self-test. When this test has completed, the LED will appear solid green. An Amber LED indicates an error with the Storage Link. (See Appendix A: Troubleshooting for more information.) Green. The Ethernet LED serves two purposes. If the LED is continuously lit, the Network Storage Link is successfully connected to a device through the Ethernet port. A blinking LED indicates network activity. This will light up when a Flash disk or USB hard drive is connected. When the light is blinking slowly, this means the disk or drive can be disconnected. A fast blinking light means data is being transferred over your network. This will light up when a USB hard drive is connected. A blinking LED indicates network activity. The power switch is a "soft switch". If the Storage Link is powered off, you can start it up by briefly pressing the power switch. To power down the Network Storage Link, press the power switch, and wait for it to shutdown and the LEDs to turn off.

Disk 2

Disk 1

Power Switch

Figure 2-2: Front Panel

Chapter 2: Getting to Know the Storage Link The Front Panel

Overview

The following section instructs you on how to physically connect the Storage Link to the network, and how to configure the Storage Link for basic operation in your Windows environment. Everything you need to do to get your Storage Link up and running is covered here. Before the Storage Link can be installed on your network, the TCP/IP protocol must be set up on your network PCs.

Hardware Installation

IMPORTANT: The Network Storage Link is not hotswappable. Make sure that the Network Storage Link is powered off before you connect or disconnect any USB flash or hard drive. Follow the steps below to begin the installation of the Storage Link. 1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Storage Link. Plug it into the Ethernet port on the Storage Link's back panel, and connect the other end of the cable to a hub or switch on your network
2. Connect the USB Storage Devices. If using a USB flash memory device (USB Key), insert it in the Disk 2 port.
If connecting a USB hard drive, you can connect it to either port. You should connect the first hard drive to the Disk 1 port, leaving the Disk 2 port available for Flash Disks.
Figure 3-1: Ethernet Connection
Chapter 3: Connecting the Storage Link Overview
3. Plug the supplied power cord into the Storage Link's power port, located on the Network Storage Link's back panel. Connect the other end of the power cord to a surge protector outlet.
Figure 3-2: Flash Drive Connection
Figure 3-3: Hard Drive Connection
4. Power on the Network Storage Link by pressing the power button once on the front panel.
5. The Storage Link will run a brief self-test (two or three seconds) prior to actually booting up. During the selftest, all of the Storage Link's LEDs will be illuminated or flashing. When the self-test is complete, the amber Status LED will turn off, the green Ready LED will blink continuously, and the Ethernet LED will blink occasionally. This shows that the Storage Link is booting up, which could take up to three minutes. It will take longer on the first boot up, and on any boot up following an improper shutdown. When the Storage Link has booted up, the Ready (Green) LED and the Ethernet LED will be on. If a Flash Memory or USB Disk is connected to the disk 2 port, that LED should be on. If a USB hard drive is connected to the Hard Disk port, that LED should be on. If the Network Storage Link repeatedly beeps, there is a hardware problem. Refer to the Troubleshooting section of this User Guide for possible solutions. Figure 3-4: Power Connection Figure 3-5: Power Button

Chapter 3: Connecting the Storage Link Hardware Installation
Changing a Flash Memory Disk (for the Disk 2 Port)
Inserting a Flash Memory Disk
You can insert a Flash Memory Disk at any time after the utility is installed (refer to Chapter 6: Configuring the Storage Link). Once that LED comes on and stays on, the Flash Memory Disk is available for use.
Removing a Flash Memory Disk
1. From the Storage Link utility in your System Tray, select Safely Remove Drive. 3. Select the desired Network Sorage Link and click Eject. 5. Wait for the disks LED to start blinking slowly. (A message will appear on your Windows desktop when it is safe to detach the Flash Memory disk.) 6. Remove the Flash Memory Disk. NOTE: If the Flash Memory Disk is not removed, it will not be re-connected. You must remove and re-insert the Flash Disk to have it re-connected.
Changing a USB Hard Drive
IMPORTANT: Make sure to power off the Storage Link before disconnecting the USB hard drive. The USB Hard Drive can only be changed when the Storage Link is powered off. While the Storage Link is powered off, you can safely disconnect an existing USB drive, and connect the desired USB drive. A new USB hard drive must be formatted before it can be used. For initial installation, the Windows-based Setup Wizard will check if the USB hard drive has been formatted, and will offer to format an unformatted drive. The format operation will destroy any existing data on the disk. If a new USB hard drive is connected at a later date, you can use the Web-based Utility to format the new hard drive. This option is on the Disk screen, which is accessed via the Administration menu.
Chapter 3: Connecting the Storage Link Changing a Flash Memory Disk (for the Disk 2 Port)
IMPORTANT: The Storage Link's format is NOT compatible with Windows. You cannot swap USB hard drives between Windows systems and the Storage Link.
Now that everything is connected and powered on, you are ready to configure the Storage Link so that it is accessible to the users on your network. You will have to run the Storage Link s Setup Wizard on your PC to set up the Storage Link s basic settings. To run the Setup Wizard on your Windows 98, Me, NT 4.0, 2000, or XP PC, follow the instructions below. Note: This procedure only has to be done once by the Storage Link s administrator.

Setup Wizard

1. Insert the Setup Wizard CD-ROM into your PCs CD-ROM drive. 2. An autorun menu should appear after a few seconds. If the autorun menu does not appear, click the Start button, select Run, enter D:\SetupUtility.exe (where D is the letter of your CD-ROM drive) into the field that appears and press Enter. This Main Menu screen provides you with these options buttons: Setup. Click the Setup button to continue with the setup procedure. Install Utility. If using a flash memory disk, install this utility (after the Setup Wizard) to map a flash memory disk to your PC. See Chapter 5: Install Utility for Flash Disks. User Guide. Clicking on this opened this User Guide. LINKSYS Web, connects you to the Linksys web site if you have an active Internet connection. Lastly, clicking the Exit button will exit the Setup Wizard. After clicking the Setup button, follow these instructions. 3. From the following screen, the Setup Wizard will automatically search for any Storage Link currently on your network or attached to your PC. If it fails to detect the Storage Link or if a Storage Link has been installed since the Setup Wizards last search, click Search Again to locate the Storage Link. Select the Storage Link that you want to set up. Then, click the Yes button to change any of the Storage Link s settings or click the No button to accept the settings and exit the Setup Wizard. Figure 4-1: The Setup Wizards Main Menu
Figure 4-2: Select the Network Storage Link 9
Chapter 4: Setting Up the Storage Link Overview
4. Next, you will need to enter a password. The default password is admin. After entering the password, click the OK button.
Figure 4-3: Enter a Password 5. The next screen that appears has the Storage Link s IP settings. Select the Automatically obtain an IP address (DHCP) setting if you already have a DHCP server setting IP Addresses on your network devices. If you select Set IP configuration manually, you will set the Storage Link s IP Address and network information. Enter the following information. IP Address. Enter the Storage Link s IP Address here, making sure that it is on the same LAN segment as the PC running the Setup Wizard. IP Mask. Enter the Subnet Mask in the fields. It must match the other devices on your network. It is set by default to 255.255.255.0. Gateway. This value is left blank by default. If you have a router on your network, however, enter its IP Address here. Figure 4-4: IP Settings Click the Next button to proceed or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
6. From the next screen, you can change the time and date on the Storage Link. Time Zone. Select your local time zone from the drop-down menu here. Date. Set your current date here. Time. Set your current time here. Click the Next button to proceed or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-5: Date/Time Settings
Chapter 4: Setting Up the Storage Link Setup Wizard

7. On the next screen, review the Network Storage Links settings. If they are correct, click the Save button. If you would like to change them, click the Back button to return to a previous screen.
Figure 4-6: Confirm New Settings
8. The next screen will verify if you want to change the settings. To save these changes, click the OK button or click the Cancel button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-7: Change Settings
9. If the USB hard drive has not previously been used in a Storage Link, its format must be changed. You will be asked to verify if you want to change the format. To change the USB drives format so that it can be used in the Storage Link, click OK. To leave the USB drive unchanged, click Cancel, and you will not be able to store data on the hard drive.

Figure 4-8: Format

10. You have now successfully set up the Network Storage Link with the Setup Wizard. Click the Exit button on the screen that appears to exit the Setup Wizard.
Figure 4-9: Congratulations
If you will use a flash disk with the Storage Link, you will need to install this utility to install the Storage Links Utility into your Windows System Tray.

Installation

1. The Welcome screen will appear. If you need to close your Windows programs, click Cancel. To continue with the installation, click Next. Figure 5-1: Welcome 2. The installation folder will be displayed in next screen. If you want the utility to be installed in the destination shown, click Next. If you want to choose a different folder, click Browse and search for the location. When the location is selected, click Next. To return to the previous screen, click Back.
3. From this screen, select a Program Folder where you can access the utility. The utility will automatically be installed into the selected folder. Figure 5-2: Destination Location
Figure 5-3: Program Folder
Chapter 5: Install Utility for Using Flash Disks Overview
For advanced users, a web-based utility has been programmed into the Storage Link. This chapter will explain all of the functions in this web utility. All administrative tasks are performed through this web utility. The web utility can be accessed by any PC on the network by entering http://192.168.1.77 in the PCs web browser Address window. Note: The Storage Link is designed to function properly after using the Setup Wizard. This chapter is provided solely for those who wish to perform more advanced configuration or monitoring.
After you press the Enter key, the Web Management Home Page will appear.
Figure 6-1: Accessing the Web Utility

Home Tab

Click the disks links to access their contents. If you click the link to User Login (Private Data), you will be required to enter your User Name and Password. Clicking the Disk (Public Data) or Flash (Public Data) options allows you to view the contents of either the USB Hard Disks or Flash Drives that are attached to the Storage Link.

Figure 6-2: Home Tab

Chapter 6: Configuring the Storage Link Overview

User Password Tab

Password Change
From the User Password tab, any user can change their Storage Link password. Simply enter your User Name in the User Name field. This should be the same as your network logon. Then, enter your Storage Link Password. Next, enter your new password in the New Password field. This new password can be up to 15 hexadecimal characters long. Enter this new password again in the Confirm new password field and click the Save button to save this new password.
Click the Save button to save any changes, Cancel to clear all changes, or Help to get further information about anything on this screen.
Figure 6-3: User Password Tab
Chapter 6: Configuring the Storage Link User Password Tab

Administration Tab

When you click the Administration tab, a screen requesting the Administrators password will appear. If this has not been changed from the default setting (admin), enter the default name and password. Then, you can set the Administrators user name and password from the Administration tabs Users screen. After logging in, you will see the Administration tabs LAN screen. From the LAN screen, you will be able to configure some of the settings you saved from the Setup Wizard: IP Address. Select the Automatically obtain an IP address (DHCP) setting if you already have a DHCP server setting IP Addresses on your network devices. If you select Set IP configuration manually, you will set the Storage Link s IP Address and network information. Enter the following information. IP Address. Enter the Storage Link s IP Address here, making sure that it is on the same LAN segment as the PC running the Setup Wizard. Network Mask. Enter the Subnet Mask in the fields. It must match the other devices on your network. It is set by default to 255.255.255.0. Gateway. This value is left blank by default. If you have a router on your network, however, enter its IP Address here. DNS Server. The DNS Server function translates Internet addresses to IP Addresses. Enter the same IP Addresses as set on your network, or recommended by your ISP. You must complete at least one DNS Server entry if using the "E-Mail Alerts" feature on the Status screen. Otherwise, the DNS entries may be left blank. When you complete multiple fields, the first available server will be used. Figure 6-4: Administration Tab - LAN

E-Mail Alerts Check the box next to Send E-Mail alerts. to enable the Storage Link to send alerts via e-Mail. Alerts will be sent when there is some problem requiring the Administrator's attention. Enter the Administrators e-mail address(es) in the E-Mail Address field(s). In the Subject field, you can enter the text you wish to appear in the Subject field of e-Mail generated by e-mail alerts.
Click the Save button to save any changes. Click the Cancel button to clear anything that you entered. Click the Refresh button to update the data shown on the screen. Click the Details button to open a new window that displays further status details, including a list of all PCs and other devices that have been allocated an IP address by the DHCP Server function (if enabled). Click the Help button to get more information about this screen

Advanced

When you click the Advanced tab under Administration, several other tabs with appear: Groups, Shares, Backup, Disk, Upgrade, Setup. These are intended for advanced users and are described below:

Groups

The Groups screen allows you to manage the User Groups assigned on the Storage Link. New Group Use this area to create a new group. Enter the desired name for the new group in the Name field and click the Create button. Existing Groups This shows the list of all Groups. Two groups, administrators and "everyone" refer to those who are administrators and the group of all users. These always exist and cannot be deleted. Figure 6-9: Administration Tab - Advanced/Groups
Click the Access button to display the shares that the members of the current Group are able to access. You can then assign, remove, or modify the access rights for this group. Click the Members button to display the users who are members of the selected Group. You can then add or delete members. The "everyone" Group contains all users, but you cannot add or remove members. Click the Delete Button to delete a selected Group. The "administrators" and "everyone" Groups cannot be deleted. Click the Help button to get more information about this screen.

Shares

The Shares screen allows you to create and manage shares. Existing Shares Click the Access button to view and configure the users who are allowed to access the selected share. Click the Browse button to view the contents of the selected share. Click the Delete button to delete the share. Properties Fill in the Name, Comment, Location and Specify fields, as specified below, to add a new share. Click the Save as New Share button to save your new share. Click the Clear Form button to clear the fields in Properties. Name. The shares name must be composed of alphanumeric symbols not exceeding 15 characters in length. Comment. Any comment about the share must be composed of alphanumeric symbols not exceeding 32 characters in length. Location. This specifies the location of the share. Choose the Default folder or Specify to specify a different folder. Click the Save button to save any changes. Click the Help button to get more information about this screen. Figure 6-10: Administration Tab - Advanced/Shares

Options. This shows the scheduling options for when the backup will occur: Never. Choosing this selection will disable this backup job. Every Day. Select this to have the back up job performed each day, at the specified time. Every Monday, Every Tuesday,. Select this to have the backup performed once per week, on the specified day. The time fields ( hour, minute, am/pm ) allow you to specify at what time the back up job should be performed.
The Disk screen allows you to perform disk maintenance. Format Disk Use this after installing a new disk. The disk will be partitioned and formatted. Any data on the disk will be lost. When formatting a disk that is 80 gigabits or larger, it may take five minutes or longer for the formatting to complete. To format disk one, click the Format Disk1 button. To format disk two, click the Format Disk2 button. Scandisk Running the Scandisk (Disk Check) program will check the file system, and correct any errors found. This program should be run regularly. The Scandisk program will also run automatically if an error condition is detected, such as an abnormal shutdown due to loss of power. Click the Start/Stop Disk1 button to scan disk one. Click the Start/Stop Disk2 button to scan disk two. Figure 6-13: Administration Tab - Advanced/Disk Run Scandisk These fields allow you to set up a schedule for running Scandisk regularly. The available options are: Never. Scandisk will not be scheduled to run. Every Day. Select this to have scandisk run each day, at the specified time. Every Monday, Every Tuesday,. Select this to have scandisk run once per week, on the specified day. Use the time fields ( hour, minute, am/pm ) to specify when the scandisk operation should be performed.
Click the Save button to save the settings on this screen. This has no effect on any operations in progress. Click the Cancel button to restore the settings on the screen to their previous values. Clicking Cancel has no effect on operations in progress. Click the Disk Log button to view a log showing the results of the last Scandisk operation. Click the Help button to get more information about this screen.

Upgrade

The Upgrade screen allows you to upgrade the Storage Links firmware.
Current Firmware This shows you the current version of the Storage Links firmware. Click the Check for Update button to browse the Linksys website for the Storage Links latest firmware.

Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage
Supported versions of Windows are: Windows 95/98/ME or later Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000 Windows XP
The following items may need to be checked or configured: TCP/IP protocol. Network Logon (Windows 95/98/ME only) Mapping to the Network Storage Link's storage.

TCP/IP Setup

Normally, no changes are required to each PC. Check with your LAN administrator (or Network Storage Link Administrator) to see if any changes are required.
Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage Overview
Network Logon (Windows 95/98/ME only)
If using Windows 2000 or XP, ignore this section. You do not need to make any changes to your network configuration. If using Windows 95/98/ME, you must log on to the Network correctly in order to use the Network Storage Link:
Check your Window logon using Start - Settings - Control Panel - Network. Verify that the Primary Network Logon is set to "Client for Microsoft Networks". If this is already set, there is no need to make any changes. Windows will then prompt you to log on to the Network when it boots. You must log on. If you press ESC, or click Cancel, no network resources will be available. When you log on, you need to use a valid User Name and Password. If the Network Storage Link Administrator has defined users on the Network Storage Link, use the User Name and password they supply. If you use a User Name and password which is not recognized by the Network Storage Link, you can still use it, with guest access rights. By default, this allows read/write access to the "public" share, but the Administrator can set the guest access rights as they wish.
Figure B-1: Network Logon

Storing Files

To store files on the Storage Link, you should "Map" a drive letter to each folder on the Storage Link folder you wish to access. The "Network Drive" will then be available to all Windows programs. The procedure is as follows:
1. Double-click the Network Neighborhood (or My Network Places) icon on the desktop. 2. On the "View" menu, select Details. The Comment column will now be visible. 3. Locate the Storage Link If it is not listed, double-click Entire Network. Then double-click the Workgroup that the Storage Link is in. (By default, the Storage Link is in Workgroup.)
Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage Network Logon (Windows 95/98/ME only)
Figure B-2: Locating the Storage Link 33
4. Double-click the icon for the Storage Link.
5. Right-click a folder (directory) to which you have access, and select Map Network Drive.
6. Select a drive letter for this folder, and check the Reconnect at Logon checkbox. (If this is not done, the mapping will be lost when you shut down your PC.)

7. Click OK. This drive will now be available in Windows Explorer, and from the File-Open or File-Save As dialog in all Windows applications. On Windows 95/98/ME, when you try to access a folder, you may be prompted for a password. If your Windows logon name is the same as your user name on the Storage Link, but the passwords are different, you can enter your Storage Link password here. If your Windows logon name does not exist on the Storage Link, however, you will have only guest access rights, and there is no password which you can enter in this dialog. Figure B-3: Mapping the Network Drive
Appendix B: Using the Storage Links Storage Storing Files

Appendix C: Windows Help

All networking products require Microsoft Windows. Windows is the most used operating system in the world and comes with many features that help make networking easier. These features can be accessed through Windows Help and are described in this appendix.

TCP/IP

Before a computer can communicate within a network, TCP/IP must be enabled. TCP/IP is a set of instructions, or protocol, all PCs follow to communicate over a network. This is true for wireless networks as well. Your PCs will not be able to utilize wireless networking without having TCP/IP enabled. Windows Help provides complete instructions on enabling TCP/IP.

Shared Resources

If you wish to share printers, folder, or files over your network, Windows Help provides complete instructions on utilizing shared resources.
Network Neighborhood/My Network Places
Other PCs on your network will appear under Network Neighborhood or My Network Places (depending upon the version of Windows you're running). Windows Help provides complete instructions on adding PCs to your network.

Appendix D: Glossary

Boot - To start a device and cause it to start executing instructions. Browser - An application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the World Wide Web. Byte - A unit of data that is usually eight bits long DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A networking protocol that allows administrators to assign temporary IP addresses to network computers by "leasing" an IP address to a user for a limited amount of time, instead of assigning permanent IP addresses. DNS (Domain Name Server) - The IP address of your ISP's server, which translates the names of websites into IP addresses. Domain - A specific name for a network of computers. Download - To receive a file transmitted over a network. Ethernet - IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common transmission medium. Firmware - The programming code that runs a networking device. Gateway - A device that interconnects networks with different, incompatible communications protocols. Hardware - The physical aspect of computers, telecommunications, and other information technology devices. HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol) - The communications protocol used to connect to servers on the World Wide Web. IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) - An independent institute that develops networking standards. IP (Internet Protocol) - A protocol used to send data over a network. IP Address - The address used to identify a computer or device on a network. ISP (Internet Service Provider) - A company that provides access to the Internet.

LAN - The computers and networking products that make up your local network. Network - A series of computers or devices connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage, and/or transmission between users. Port - The connection point on a computer or networking device used for plugging in cables or adapters. Server - Any computer whose function in a network is to provide user access to files, printing, communications, and other services. Subnet Mask - An address code that determines the size of the network. Switch - 1. A data switch that connects computing devices to host computers, allowing a large number of devices to share a limited number of ports. 2. A device for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an electrical circuit. TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A network protocol for transmitting data that requires acknowledgement from the recipient of data sent. TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) - A set of instructions PCs use to communicate over a network. Upgrade - To replace existing software or firmware with a newer version. Upload - To transmit a file over a network. URL (Uniform Resource Locator) - The address of a file located on the Internet.
Appendix E: Specifications
Standards Protocols Network Port Cabling Type Topology LEDs Switches Dimensions (L x W x H) Unit Weight Power IEEE 802.3, 802.3u SMB/CIFS over TCP/IP One 10/100 Mbps RJ-45 Port UTP CAT 5 or better Star Ready/Status, Ethernet, Disk 2, Disk 1 Power, Reset 1.08" x 5.31" x 3.78" (27.5 mm x 135 mm x 96 mm) 185g 5V DC, Maximum 2 Amps, 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz Power Adapter Provided Certifications Operating Temp. Storage Temp. Operating Humidity Storage Humidity
FCC Class B, CE, VCCI 5C to 40C (41F to 104F) -20C to 70C (-4F to 158F) 10% to 85% Non-Condensing 5% to 90% Non-Condensing
Appendix F: Warranty Information
LIMITED WARRANTY Linksys warrants to You that, for a period of three years (the Warranty Period), your Linksys Product will be substantially free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Your exclusive remedy and Linksys' entire liability under this warranty will be for Linksys at its option to repair or replace the Product or refund Your purchase price less any rebates. This limited warranty extends only to the original purchaser. If the Product proves defective during the Warranty Period call Linksys Technical Support in order to obtain a Return Authorization Number, if applicable. BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE ON HAND WHEN CALLING. If You are requested to return the Product, mark the Return Authorization Number clearly on the outside of the package and include a copy of your original proof of purchase. RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. You are responsible for shipping defective Products to Linksys. Linksys pays for UPS Ground shipping from Linksys back to You only. Customers located outside of the United States of America and Canada are responsible for all shipping and handling charges. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE WARRANTY PERIOD. ALL OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONDITIONS, REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF NON-INFRINGEMENT, ARE DISCLAIMED. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to You. This warranty gives You specific legal rights, and You may also have other rights which vary by jurisdiction. This warranty does not apply if the Product (a) has been altered, except by Linksys, (b) has not been installed, operated, repaired, or maintained in accordance with instructions supplied by Linksys, or (c) has been subjected to abnormal physical or electrical stress, misuse, negligence, or accident. In addition, due to the continual development of new techniques for intruding upon and attacking networks, Linksys does not warrant that the Product will be free of vulnerability to intrusion or attack. TO THE EXTENT NOT PROHIBITED BY LAW, IN NO EVENT WILL LINKSYS BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOST DATA, REVENUE OR PROFIT, OR FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, REGARDLESS OF THE THEORY OF LIABILITY (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT (INCLUDING ANY SOFTWARE), EVEN IF LINKSYS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT WILL LINKSYS LIABILITY EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID BY YOU FOR THE PRODUCT. The foregoing limitations will apply even if any warranty or remedy provided under this Agreement fails of its essential purpose. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to You. Please direct all inquiries to: Linksys, P.O. Box 18558, Irvine, CA 92623. 39