User manual NETGEAR WG311 - INSTALLATION GUIDE

Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA M0-WG311NA-0 Version v2.0 May 2004 Technical Support Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at www.netgear.com/register, we can provide you with faster expert technical support and timely notices of product and software upgrades. NETGEAR, INC. Support Information Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR, for US & Canada only. For other countries, see your Support information card. E-mail: support@netgear.com Web site: www.netgear.com Statement of Conditions In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice. NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein. ©2004 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's Connecting are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. May 2004 Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer It is hereby certified that the Model WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter has been suppressed in accordance with the conditions set out in the BMPT- AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of some equipment (for example, test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however, be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the ii notes in the operating instructions. Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment on the market and has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations. FCC Information to User This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas only. Any product changes or modifications will invalidate all applicable regulatory certifications and approvals FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure In order to comply with RF exposure limits established in the ANSI C95.1 standards, the user is advised to maintain a distance of at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the antenna of this device while it is in use. FCC Electronic Emission Notices This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. 2. This device may not cause harmful interference This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. FCC Radio Frequency Interference Statement NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Tested to Comply with FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE FCC ID: PY3WG311T2 This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense. iii If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: · · · · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help Export Restrictions This product or software contains encryption code which may not be exported or transferred from the US or Canada without an approved US Department of Commerce export license. Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity This device complies with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the European R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC. Compliance to essential test suites is met per standards: R&TTE Harmonized Standard Description LVD specification EN 60950 EN 60950,ed. (1992), incl A1(1993), A2(1993), A3(1995) and A4(1997) Safety of information technology equipment, including electrical business equipment. Meets R&TTE directive art. 3.1.a of essential requirements on protection of the health and safety of the user. Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment and services; Part 1: Common technical requirements ETSI EMC specification ETSI EN 301 489-1 V1.2.1 (2000-08) ETSI EN 301 489-17 V1.1.1 (2000-09) Part 17: Specific conditions for Wideband data and HIPERLAN equipment Meets R&TTE directive art. 3.1.b of essential requirements on protection with respect to Electro Magnetic Compatibility. iv ETSI RF specification ETSI EN 300 328 Part 1 V1.2.2 (2000-07) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Wideband Transmission systems; data transmission equipment operating in the 2,4 GHz ISM band and using spread spectrum modulation techniques; Part 1: Technical characteristics and test conditions Part 2: Harmonized EN covering essential requirements under article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive Meets R&TTE directive art. 3.2.a on effective use of spectrum so as to avoid harmful interference. This device is a 2.4 GHz low power RF device intended for home and office use in EU and EFTA member states. In some EU / EFTA member states some restrictions may apply. Please contact local spectrum management authorities for further details before putting this device into operation. ETSI EN 300 328 Part 2 V1.1.1 (2000-07) 0336! Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations This digital apparatus (Model WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter) does not exceed the Class B limits for radio-noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. Canada ID: 4054A-WG311T2 v vi Contents Chapter 1 Introduction About the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T ...................................1-1 Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products ............................................................1-1 What's in the Box? ..........................................................................................................1-2 A Road Map for `How to Get There From Here' .............................................................1-3 Chapter 2 Basic Setup What You Will Need Before You Begin ...........................................................................2-1 Verify System Requirements ....................................................................................2-1 Observe Location and Range Guidelines ................................................................2-2 Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................2-2 WG311T Default Wireless Configuration Settings ..........................................................2-3 Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................2-4 For Windows XP Users Installing a WG311T ...........................................................2-4 For Windows 2000 & 98SE/Me Users Installing a WG311T .....................................2-8 WG311T Wireless Connection Indicators .....................................................................2-12 Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................................2-12 Basic Troubleshooting Tips ...........................................................................................2-13 About Page ...................................................................................................................2-14 Chapter 3 Configuration Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................3-1 Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................3-1 Networks Page ...............................................................................................................3-2 Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ...................................................3-3 How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile .....................................................3-3 Connecting to Another PC in Ad-Hoc Mode ...................................................................3-5 How to Configure an Ad-Hoc Mode Profile ..............................................................3-5 How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network .......................................3-7 Enabling Wireless Security Features ..............................................................................3-8 Contents vii Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........3-9 How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................3-9 How to Configure WPA-PSK Encryption Security .................................................. 3-11 Statistics Page ..............................................................................................................3-12 Advanced Settings Page ..............................................................................................3-13 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions ..........................................................................................4-1 General Questions ...................................................................................................4-1 Why do I see no more than 54 Mbps on the Configuration Utility status line? ..4-1 The WG311T Smart Configuration Utility keeps asking me to save my settings 4-1 Ad Hoc mode is not working correctly ...............................................................4-2 How to know if the WG311T card has received a valid IP address from the Wireless Router/AP ..........................................................................................................4-2 How to use XP's own Wireless configuration utility that comes with Windows XP 4-2 How to remove the WG311T utility and software ...............................................4-2 I cannot connect to the AP that I want from the Networks browser list .............4-3 The WG311T is not getting an IP address .........................................................4-3 Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) Questions ...............................................................4-3 Why is my WG311T not connecting to my WPA router? ....................................4-3 Why is the icon in the System Tray flashing Green to Red alternately? ............4-3 How do I know that my WG311T WPA is working? ...........................................4-4 Why is the WAN port not working after configuring WPA? ................................4-4 Appendix A Technical Specifications Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics Wireless Networking Overview ...................................................................................... B-1 Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................................. B-1 Ad-Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) ................................................................ B-2 Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................ B-2 Authentication and WEP ................................................................................................ B-2 802.11 Authentication .............................................................................................. B-3 Open System Authentication ................................................................................... B-3 Shared Key Authentication ...................................................................................... B-4 Overview of WEP Parameters ................................................................................ B-5 viii Contents Key Size .................................................................................................................. B-6 WEP Configuration Options .................................................................................... B-6 Wireless Channels ......................................................................................................... B-7 WPA Wireless Security .................................................................................................. B-8 How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................ B-9 How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-10 What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-10 WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS .................................................. B-12 WPA Data Encryption Key Management ........................................................ B-14 Is WPA Perfect? .................................................................................................... B-16 Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-16 Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients is Discouraged ...... B-16 Changes to Wireless Access Points ............................................................... B-17 Changes to Wireless Network Adapters ......................................................... B-17 Changes to Wireless Client Programs ............................................................ B-18 Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ....................................................... C-1 Configuring Windows 98SE and Me for TCP/IP Networking ......................................... C-1 Install or Verify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-1 Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 98SE and Me C-3 Selecting the Internet Access Method ..................................................................... C-5 Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-5 Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking ............................................. C-6 Install or Verify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-6 DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 ......................................... C-7 DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ..................................................... C-7 DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 .................................................. C-9 Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 ........................................... C-11 Glossary List of Glossary Terms ................................................................................................... D-1 Index Contents ix x Contents Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Chapter 1 Introduction This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. About the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T The NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T gives you flexibility to install the PC in the most convenient location available. The WG311T frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring that is limited by cabling requirements. Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer up to 108 Mbps for maximum throughput or dynamic range shifting to lower speeds due to distance or operating limitations in an environment with a lot of electromagnetic interference. The WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter provides reliable, standards-based 802.11b 11 Mbps Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) connectivity that is protected with industry-standard security. In addition, it offers the faster speeds of the 802.11g standard. The WG311T works with Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems. Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products The WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter provides the following features: · · · Reliable IEEE 802.11b/g standards-based wireless technology. Supports roaming between access points when configured in Infrastructure mode. 108 Mbps high speed data transfer. Wireless nodes negotiate to operate in the optimal data transfer rate. In a noisy environment or when the distance between the wireless nodes is far, the wireless nodes automatically fall back to operate at lower transfer rates. Introduction 1-1 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T · High level of data encryption using128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption method. Lower level of data encryption or no data encryption is available to simplify your network setup or to improve the data transfer rate. The following NETGEAR products can be configured to communicate with the WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter: · · · · · · · · · · WGT634U 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router WGT624 108 Mbps Wireless Firewall Router WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WGR614 54 Mbps Cable/DSL Wireless Router WGR511 54 Mbps Wireless PC Card MA111 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter MR814 802.11b Wireless Cable/DSL Routers MA521 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card What's in the Box? The product package should contain the following items: · · · NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD, including: -- Driver Software -- Wireless Assistant -- Installation Guide Warranty card Support information card · · If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR dealer. Keep the carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need to return the product for repair. 1-2 Introduction Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T A Road Map for `How to Get There From Here' The introduction and adoption of any new technology can be a difficult process. Wireless technology has removed one of the barriers to networking--running wires. It allows more people to try networking, while at the same time exposes them to the inherent complexity of networking. General networking concepts, set up, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition, wireless technology adds issues such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to the picture. To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using wireless networks, the table below identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless network, assuring appropriate security measures are taken, browsing the Internet through your wireless connection, exchanging files with other computers and using printers in the combined wireless and wired network. Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What's Needed? 1. A wireless network 2. A desktop PC within the operating range of the wireless network. For guidelines about the range of 802.11b/g wireless networks, please see "Observe Location and Range Guidelines" on page 2-2. How Do I? To set up the WG311T, see Chapter 2, "Basic Setup" and follow the instructions provided. To learn about wireless networking technology, see Appendix B, "Wireless Networking Basics" for a general introduction. If I Want To ... ? What Do I Do? Connect to a wireless network 1. Identify the wireless network name (SSID) and, if used, the wireless security settings. 2. Set up the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T with the settings from step 1. Introduction 1-3 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What's Needed? How Do I? To learn about wireless networking security, see "Authentication and WEP" on page B-2. To use WEP security features, please see "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 3-8 and configure your WG311T accordingly. If I Want To ... ? What Do I Do? Protect my 1. Assure that the 1. A wireless network with wireless wireless authentication and WEP connection from network has encryption enabled. snooping, security 2. Wireless networking hacking, or features equipment that supports WEP information enabled. encryption, such as the theft. 2. Configure my WG311T and all NETGEAR WG311T with wireless networking products. the security settings of the wireless network. 3. Use Windows security features. Note: Secure Internet sites such as banks and online merchants use encryption security built into browsers like Internet Explorer and Netscape. Any wireless networking security features you might implement are in addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites. Connect to the 1. Activate my Internet over my wireless link wireless and verify my network. network connection. 2. Open an Internet browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. 1. An active Internet connection like those from cable or DSL service providers. 2. A wireless network connected to the cable or DSL Internet service through a cable/DSL router as illustrated in "Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode" on page 3-3. To configure your WG311T in Infrastructure Mode, see "Basic Installation Instructions" on page 2-4, and locate the section for your version of Windows. For assistance with configuring the TCP/IP Internet software on a PC, see "Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking" on page C-1 or refer 3. TCP/IP Internet networking to the PC Networking Tutorial on software installed and the NETGEAR 108 Mbps configured on my PC Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T according to the requirements Resource CD and the Help of the Internet service provider information provided in the Windows system you are using. 4. A browser like Internet . Explorer or Netscape Navigator. 1-4 Introduction Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What's Needed? How Do I? For assistance with Windows networking software, see Appendix C, "Preparing Your PCs for Network Access" for configuration scenarios or refer to the Help system included with your version of Windows. Windows Domain settings are usually managed by corporate computer support groups. Windows Workgroup settings are commonly managed by individuals who want to set up small networks in their homes, or small offices. For assistance with setting up Windows networking, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial on the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using. If I Want To ... ? What Do I Do? Exchange files 1. Use the 1. The desktop computer I am Windows using to connect to the between a Network wireless network needs to be wirelessly Neighborhood configured with the Windows connected feature to Client and File and Print notebook browse for Sharing. computer and computers in 2. The desktop computer I am other the combined using to connect to the wireless and computers in a wireless network needs to be wired network. configured with the same my combined 2. Browse the Windows Workgroup or wireless and hard drive of Domain settings as the other wired the target Windows computers in the network. computer in combined wireless and wired the network in network. order to locate 3. Any Windows networking the directory or security access rights such as files you want login user name/ password to work with. that have been assigned in the 3. Use the Windows network or for Windows sharing particular files must be Explorer copy provided when Windows and paste prompts for such information. functions to 4. If so-called Windows `peer' exchange files Workgroup networking is being between the used, the drive, file system computers. directory, or file need to be enabled for sharing. Introduction 1-5 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What's Needed? How Do I? Windows Domain settings are usually managed by corporate computer support groups. Windows Workgroup settings are commonly managed by individuals who want to set up small networks in their homes, or small offices. For assistance with setting up Windows networking, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial on the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using. For assistance with setting up printers in Windows, refer to the Help and Support information that comes with the version of the Windows operating systems you are using. If I Want To ... ? What Do I Do? Use printers in 1. Use the 1. The desktop computer I am Windows using to connect to the a combined Printers and wireless network needs to be wireless and Fax features to configured with the Windows wired locate Client and File and Print network. available Sharing. printers in the 2. The desktop computer I am combined using to connect to the wireless and wireless network needs to be wired network. configured with the same 2. Use the Windows Workgroup or Windows Add Domain settings as the other a Printer Windows computers in the wizard to add combined wireless and wired access to a network. network printer 3. Any Windows networking from the PC security access rights such as you are using login user name/ password to wirelessly that have been assigned in the connect to the Windows network must be network. provided when Windows 3. From the File menu of an application such as Microsoft Word, use the Print Setup feature to direct your print output to the printer in the network. prompts for such information. 4. If so-called Windows `peer' networking is being used, the printer needs to be enabled for sharing. 1-6 Introduction Chapter 2 Basic Setup This section describes how to install your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 3, "Configuration" in this manual. Note: Indoors, computers can easily connect to 802.11 wireless networks at distances of several hundred feet. Because walls do not always block wireless signals, others from outside your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T provides highly effective security features which are covered in "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 3-8. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs. What You Will Need Before You Begin You need to verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements and identify the wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can configure your wireless pc adapter and connect. Verify System Requirements Before installing the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met: · Pentium® III class computer with an available PCI slot · CD-ROM drive · 20 Mbytes of free hard disk space · Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the WG311T driver software Basic Setup 2-1 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Observe Location and Range Guidelines Computers can connect over 802.11g wireless networks indoors at a range which varies significantly based on the physical location of the computer with the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. For best results, avoid potential sources of interference, such as: · · · Large metal surfaces Microwaves 2.4 GHz Cordless phones In general, 802.11g wireless devices can communicate through walls. However, if the walls are constructed with concrete, or have metal, or metal mesh, the 802.11g effective range will decrease if such materials are between the devices. Two Basic Operating Modes The WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter, like all 802.11b/g adapters, can operate in the following two basic modes: · Infrastructure Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices and computers communicate with each other by first going through an access point (AP). For example, this mode is used when computers in a house connect to an AP that is attached to a router which lets multiple computers share a single Cable or DSL broadband Internet connection. · Ad-Hoc Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers communicate directly with each other, without the use of an access point. For example, Ad-Hoc Mode is used when two Windows computers are configured with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files directly between them. Both of these configuration options are available with the WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter. Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered below. Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in Chapter 3, "Configuration" of this manual. 2-2 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T WG311T Default Wireless Configuration Settings If this is a new wireless network installation, use the factory default settings to set up the network and verify wireless connectivity. If this is an addition to an existing wireless network, you will need to identify the wireless configuration and security parameters already defined. Your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T factory default basic settings are: · Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): ANY -- a special name which indicates the first available network will be used Note: In order for the WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter to communicate with a wireless access point or wireless adapter, all devices must be configured with the same wireless network name (SSID). · · Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure Data security WEP encryption: Disabled The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T for basic wireless connectivity to an access point. The procedures provide step-by-step installation instructions for Windows PCs. Use the procedure that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using. Basic Setup 2-3 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Basic Installation Instructions Use the procedure below that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using. For Windows XP Users Installing a WG311T Install the WG311T software. a. Power on your computer, let the operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed. Insert the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. b. WG311T Resource CD c. d. Click the "Install Driver & Utility" link. Note: If this page does not automatically appear, Follow the Smart Wizard - Install Assistant steps, and click Finish when done to restart your computer. browse the root of the CD and double-click on autorun.exe to display this page. Smart Wizard - Install Assistant Note: If a Windows XP Certification warning appears, click Continue Anyway to proceed. 2-4 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Install the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. a. Shut down the PC and remove the power cord. Hold the PCI Adapter with the NETGEAR logo facing up and insert it into an available PCI slot. Connect the antenna to the adapter and position the antenna to the up position. Reconnect the power cord and reboot the computer. Add New Hardware Wizard b. The Found New Hardware Wizard displays. Click Next and follow the prompts to proceed. Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message. WG311T System Tray Icon c. After the installation completes, click Finish to close the wizard. You should see the WG311T system tray icon on the lower right portion of the Windows task bar. Windows XP will display a Wireless Network Connection message. Windows XP Network Connection Alert Basic Setup 2-5 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Configure your WG311T and save the Profile. a. Open the WG311T Smart Wireless Configuration Utility by clicking on the Click the system tray icon to open the Smart Wireless icon in the Windows system tray. The Configuration utility. utility opens to the Settings page. Change the Network Name SSID to match your network. Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the Network tab to view the available wireless networks. Double-click on the desired network. b. c. d. Click Apply to activate the connection. Enter a name for your profile and click Save Profile to store the current settings. WG311T Configuration Utility Tip: If you use your notebook PC to connect to a wireless network at work Note: The NETGEAR default settings are and at home, create profiles called work Infrastructure mode, with ANY for the wireless and home. network name SSID, and WEP disabled. Note: This procedure assumes your wireless network is not using WEP security. If your wireless network uses WEP, set up your WG311T accordingly. To view WEP settings help, click the Advanced button and click the "Learn about..." link on the Windows XP Local Area Connection Wireless Networks Properties tab page. 2-6 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Open the WG311T utility by clicking on the icon in the Windows system tray. Note: You can use the Networks tab to verify the availability of wireless networks and their SSIDs. For more information, see "Understanding the Configuration Options" on page 3-1. b. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources. Note: If you are unable to connect, see "Basic Troubleshooting Tips" on page 2-13. Basic Setup 2-7 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T For Windows 2000 & 98SE/Me Users Installing a WG311T Install the WG311T software. Note: Windows 2000 may require you to be logged on with administrator rights. a. Power on your computer, let the operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed. Insert the Resource CD for the WG311T into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. Click the "Install Driver & Utility" link. Follow the Smart Wizard - Install Assistant steps, and click Finish when done to restart your computer. WG311T Resource CD b. c. d. Note: If you are prompted to restart your computer, choose instead to shut it down. This will let you install the WG311T before restarting. Windows will find the new hardware and can use the software you installed. Smart Wizard - Install Assistant 2-8 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Install the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. a. Shut down the PC and remove the power cord. Insert the WG311T Wireless PCI Adapter with the NETGEAR logo facing up into an available PCI slot. Reconnect the power cord and reboot the computer. After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays. Click Next and follow the prompts to proceed. After the installation completes, click Finish to close the wizard. b. Add New Hardware Wizard Note: If Windows displays a Digital Signature Not Found warning, click Yes to continue. c. You should see the WG311T system tray icon on the lower right portion of the Windows task bar. WG311T System Tray Icon Basic Setup 2-9 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Configure your WG311T and save the Profile. a. Open the WG311T Smart Wireless Configuration Utility by clicking on the icon in the Windows system tray. The utility opens to the Settings page. Change the Network Name SSID to match your network. Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the Network tab to view the available wireless networks. Double-click on the desired network. Click here to open the configuration utility. WG311T system tray icon b. c. d. Click the Apply button to activate the connection. WG311T Configuration Utility Enter a name for your profile and click Note: The NETGEAR default settings are the Save Profile button to store the Infrastructure mode, with ANY for the wireless current settings. network name SSID, and WEP disabled. Tip: If you use your notebook PC to connect to a wireless network at work and at home, create profiles called work and home. Note: This procedure assumes you are connecting to a wireless network which is not using WEP security. If your network includes WEP settings, enter the security information in the Security section. For help with these steps, see "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 3-8. 2-10 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Verify that your connection information matches your wireless network. Note: You can use the Networks tab to verify the availability of wireless networks and their SSIDs. For more information, see "Understanding the Configuration Options" on page 3-1. b. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources. Note: If you are unable to connect, see "Basic Troubleshooting Tips" on page 2-13. Basic Setup 2-11 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T WG311T Wireless Connection Indicators The NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T SysTray icon, which is on the System Tray portion of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop, is an indicator that gives you feedback on the status of your wireless connection. The color of the SysTray icon indicates the status of the connection. Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors The System Tray (SysTray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop. Color Red Condition The wireless PCI Adapter has no connection to any other wireless node. Description The wireless PCI Adapter is not able to link to any other wireless node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better. The wireless link is weak. You may deed to move to a better spot, such as closer to the wireless access point. Also, look for possible interference such as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or large metal surface. Yellow The wireless PCI Adapter has a connection with another wireless node. Green The wireless PCI Adapter has a connection with another wireless node. The wireless PCI Adapter has established good communication with an access point and the signal quality is strong. 2-12 Basic Setup Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Basic Troubleshooting Tips If you have problems connecting to your wireless network, try the tips below. If this does not solve the problem, see "Frequently Asked Questions" on page 4-1. Symptom Cause Solution I can connect to an access point, but I cannot connect to other computers on the network or the Internet. This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem. Check to make sure that the access point is physically connected to the Ethernet network. Make sure that the IP addresses and the Windows networking parameters are all configured correctly. Restart the cable or DSL modem, router, access point, and notebook PC. Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to Appendix C, "Preparing Your PCs for Network Access" of the Reference Manual on the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD. Basic Setup 2-13 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T About Page The About page displays important information about the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. Figure 2-1: About page The About page shows the following information: · Regional Domain: This is the region setting for the wireless adapter. The approved channels for this region are automatically scanned. Governments regulate the channels used for wireless transmission. Operating the wireless adapter in a different region may violate local laws. Driver Version: The wireless adapter driver version. Driver Date: The wireless adapter driver release date. MAC Address: The MAC address of this adapter. The Media Access Control address is a unique 48-bit hardware address assigned to every network interface card. Some wireless networks will restrict access based on a list of known MAC addresses. If you are communicating with such a network, you would have to provide the address shown here to the network administrator before you would be allowed to connect. Restricting access by MAC address adds an obstacle against unwanted access to your network. However, unless you use data encryption security, the data broadcast over the wireless link is fully exposed. IP Address: The IP address assigned to this adapter. Basic Setup · · · · 2-14 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T · Configuration Utility Software: The version and release date of this utility. Basic Setup 2-15 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T 2-16 Basic Setup Chapter 3 Configuration This section describes how to configure your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T for wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and use the data security encryption features. Note: The instructions in this section refer to the NETGEAR WG311T configuration utility. Windows XP users must first disable the Windows XP configuration utility. Open the network connections from the system tray icon, click the Properties button, click the Wireless Networks tab and then clear the "Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings" check box. Understanding the Configuration Options The WG311T configuration utility provides a complete and easy to use set of tools to: · · · Configure wireless settings. Monitor wireless network connections. Save your settings in configuration profiles. The section below introduces these capabilities of the configuration utility. Using Configuration Profiles The WG311T configuration utility uses profiles to store all the configuration settings for a particular wireless network. You can store multiple profiles and recall the one which matches the network you want to join. Configuration 3-1 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T For example, if you use your PC to connect to a wireless network in an office and a wireless network in your home, you can create a profile for each wireless network. Then, you can easily load the profile that has all the configuration settings you need to join the network you are using at the time. There are two types of wireless network connections you can configure: · · Infrastructure Mode -- uses the 802.11 infrastructure mode. Ad-Hoc Mode -- uses the 802.11 ad-hoc mode For more information on 802.11 wireless network modes, see "Wireless Networking Overview" on page B-1 of this manual. Networks Page The Networks page shows the available networks at your location. Figure 3-1: Networks tab page The Networks page displays the following fields: 3-2 Configuration Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T · Wireless Network Name (SSID): Wireless Network Name (SSID) is the name assigned to a wireless network. This is the same as the SSID or ESSID configuration parameter. Note that, as a security measure, some wireless access points do not broadcast their SSID. In such cases, the SSID field will be blank even though the rest of the information will still be displayed. Channel: The channel determines which operating frequency will be used. Security: Identifies if the wireless network requires WEP security settings. Signal: Identifies the signal strength of the communications. MAC Address: Identifies the hardware address (MAC Address) of the wireless device broadcasting this information. Mode: Identifies the type of wireless network -- Access Point (Infrastructure) or Computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc). · · · · · To connect to a network: 1. 2. 3. 4. Click Scan to view the available networks. Click on the column header to sort for better viewing if you have many networks. Double-click to connect to the SSID. The highlighted SSID is the one currently connected. Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode This section provides instructions for configuring the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T to connect to a wireless access point. How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile Follow the instructions below to configure an infrastructure mode profile for connecting to an access point. 1. Run the WG311T Configuration Utility. a. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WG311T icon system tray. in the Windows Configuration 3-3 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T b. Click on the Settings tab to display the view shown below. Figure 3-2: Settings tab page 2. Configure the wireless Network settings. a. b. In the Network Type section, be sure that Infrastructure is selected. Enter the SSID. This is also called the Wireless Network Name. Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID matches exactly what is configured in the access point. Tip: You can click the Networks tab to view a list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at your location. 3. Save your settings in a Profile. a. b. c. d. Type a descriptive name for the Profile in the "Profiles" name field. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. Click Apply. Click Close to exit the configuration utility or Cancel to return to the previous settings. 4. Verify wireless connectivity to your network. 3-4 Configuration Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Verify connectivity by using a browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer to connect to the Internet, or check for file and printer access on your network. You can check the status bar in the configuration utility for the current connection status. Note: If you cannot connect, see the "Basic Troubleshooting Tips" on page 2-13. Also, if you have problems accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to "Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking" on page C-1. Connecting to Another PC in Ad-Hoc Mode The computer-to-computer setting of the WG311T uses Ad-Hoc mode. Ad-Hoc mode is an 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers communicate directly with each other, without the use of an access point. For example, this mode is used when two Windows computers are configured with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files directly between them. How to Configure an Ad-Hoc Mode Profile Note: Ad-Hoc mode will not work using DHCP settings. Ad-Hoc mode requires either static IP addresses (such as 192.168.0.1) or other appropriate Windows networking configuration parameters such as adding IPX protocol support. For instructions on setting up static IP addresses or IPX protocol settings on a Windows PC, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial included on the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD. Follow the instructions below to configure an Ad-Hoc mode profile. 1. Run the WG311T Configuration Utility. a. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WG311T icon system tray. in the Windows Configuration 3-5 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Figure 3-3: Settings tab page b. c. d. e. 2. Click the Settings tab to display the view shown above. Select Ad-Hoc in the Network Type section. Enter the SSID for the Ad-Hoc network. Click Apply. Save your settings in a Profile. a. b. c. d. Type a descriptive name for the Profile Name. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. Click Apply. Click Close to exit the configuration utility. 3. Configure the PC network settings. a. Configure each PC with either a static IP address or with the IPX protocol. Note: For instructions on configuring static IP addresses or the IPX protocol, refer to the networking tutorial on your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD. b. Restart the PCs. Configuration 3-6 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T 4. Verify wireless connectivity between your peer devices. Verify connectivity by using the Ping program: a. On the Windows taskbar click the Start button, and then click Run. b. c. Assuming the target PC is configured with 192.168.0.1 as its IP address, type ping -t 192.168.0.1 and then click OK. This will cause a continuous ping to be sent to the device with the 192.168.0.1 static IP address. The ping response should change to "reply." At this point the connection is established. You may need to reboot in certain Windows operating systems such as Windows 98SE. Note: If you cannot connect, see "Basic Troubleshooting Tips" on page 2-13. Also, if you have problems accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to "Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking" on page C-1. How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network 1. 2. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) network type. Configuration 3-7 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T 3. Click Initiate Ad-Hoc. The Ad-Hoc Setting dialog box will appear, as shown below. Figure 3-4: Ad-Hoc Setting page 4. 5. In the Start Ad-Hoc field, choose the wireless standard (802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g) for your Ad-Hoc computer-to-computer network. In the Channel field, Automatic should work. If you notice interference problems with another nearby wireless device, select a channel that is not being used by any other wireless networks near your wireless adapter. Use the Networks tab page to identify the channels in use in your area. Click OK. 6. Note: The channel number differs depending on the country. The connection speed automatically defaults to the highest speed. Enabling Wireless Security Features You can strengthen the security of your wireless connection by enabling Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption of the wireless data communications. For more information on 802.11 wireless security, see "Authentication and WEP" on page B-2. In addition to the WG311T wireless security features, you should also configure appropriate LAN network security features such as requiring a user name and password to access the shared resources in your network. The procedures below identify how to configure the WEP encryption settings of your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. 3-8 Configuration Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings Print this form, fill in the configuration parameters and put it in a safe place for possible future reference. For an existing wireless network, the person who set up the network will be able to provide this information. · Wireless Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID) identifies the wireless local area network. ANY is the default WG311T wireless network name (SSID). You can customize it using up to 32 alphanumeric characters. Write your customized wireless network name (SSID) on the line below. Note: The SSID in the wireless access point is the SSID you configure in the wireless pc adapter. For the access point and wireless nodes to communicate with each other, all must be configured with the same SSID. Wireless network name (SSID): ______________________________ · WEP Security Encryption key: The default WEP encryption key number is 1, and the default key size is 64 bits. Note: The key number as well as the key value used by all wireless nodes must be the same. If they are different, you will not be able to connect. WEP Encryption Key Size, circle one: 64 or 128 bits WEP Encryption Passphrase, if used: ____________________________ A Passphrase is used to automatically generate the WEP hexadecimal numbers for the key. If the wireless network access point uses a Passphrase, you can also use that here. Otherwise, you will have to manually enter the hexadecimal numbers. WEP Hexadecimal Numbers: ______________________________ The WEP Hexadecimal Numbers are needed if a Passphrase is not used in the wireless network access point but rather if the key is manually entered. Use the procedures below to configure basic security settings in the WG311T. How to Configure WEP Encryption Security Following the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security. 1. Run the WG311T Configuration Utility. Configuration 3-9 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T a. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WG311T icon system tray. in the Windows Figure 3-5: Settings tab page b. Click on the Settings tab to display the view shown above. 2. Configure the Security settings. a. b. Select the Use WEP Encryption check box. Enter the SSID. This is also called the Wireless Network Name. Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID matches exactly what is configured in the access point. Tip: You can click the Networks tab to view a list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at your location. 3. Save your settings in a Profile. a. b. c. d. Type a descriptive name for the Profile name. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. Click Apply. Click Close to exit the configuration utility. Configuration 3-10 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T 4. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use. The choices are: · · 64-bit WEP data encryption 128-bit WEP data encryption Note: Larger encryption keys require more processing and may slow the communications response times. 5. Select Create with Passphrase and enter the passphrase. The configuration utility will automatically generate the WEP keys. Note: The characters are case sensitive. Be sure to use the same passphrase for all the wireless devices in the network. If the passphrase method is not available in the other devices, you must manually enter the keys to match exactly what is in the access point and other 802.11 wireless devices. 6. 7. The Default Key setting must match what is set in the access point and the other 802.11 wireless devices. Click Apply for the changes to take effect. How to Configure WPA-PSK Encryption Security Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is wireless security with far greater protection than WEP. WPA-PSK (pre-shared key) uses encryption of a shared key as the starting point. WPA has a significant advantages over WEP -- an encryption key differing in every packet. It is extremely difficult for hackers to read messages even if they have intercepted the data. To configure WPA-PSK security, click the Advanced Security button. The Advanced Security button is located in the Settings page, Security section. Figure 3-6: Advanced Security page Configuration 3-11 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T The Passphrase can be between 8 and 63 characters For more information on WPA security, see "WPA Wireless Security" on page B-8. Statistics Page The Statistics page provides real time and historical trend information on the data traffic and performance of your wireless adapter. Figure 3-7: Statistics tab page · Transmit/Receive Performance (%): A real time graph identifying the transmit, receive, or total utilization as a percentage the total possible. The Transmit, Receive, and Total (TxRx) radio buttons let you select whether to display the transmit performance, the receive performance, or the total of both in the same graph. Total is the default. Transmit Statistics: Identifies Transmit megabits per second (Mbps), transmit packets per second (Tx Packets/s), total transmitted packets, and transmit errors. Receive Statistics: Identifies Receive megabits per second (Mbps), receive packets per second (Rx Packets/s), total received packets, and received errors. · · 3-12 Configuration Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Advanced Settings Page Generally, the Advanced settings should not require adjustment. Except for the power saving setting, changing any of the settings incorrectly on this page could cause your wireless connection to fail.To display the Advanced Settings Page, click the Advanced Settings button on the Settings Page. Figure 3-8: Advanced Settings page · · · · Power Saving: Select On if you are using a notebook computer running on battery power. Preamble: A long transmit preamble may provide a more reliable connection or slightly longer range. A short transmit preamble might give slightly better performance. Transmit Power: Lowering the output power level lets you reduce the chance of interference with other nearby access points but reduces the range of your adapter. Wireless Mode: Select the wireless protocols you will use. Depending on your wireless adapter, you can choose some or all of the available 802.11 wireless protocols. Note that, if the wireless network you are communicating with uses the 802.11a Turbo mode, you must include that in your selection. Fragmentation Threshold: This is the maximum packet size used for fragmentation. Packets larger than the size programmed in this field will be fragmented. The Fragment Threshold value must be larger than the RTS Threshold value. · Configuration 3-13 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T · RTS/CTS Threshold: RTS is request to send and CTS is clear to send; their purpose is to avoid collisions. RTS/CTS will be enabled if the data frame size is larger than the threshold value set here. The maximum frame size is 2346 octets, so if the threshold is 2346, RTS/CTS will be disabled. Note: This setting is reserved for wireless testing and advanced configuration only. Do not change this setting unless you are sure you need to. The primary reason for implementing RTS/CTS is to minimize collisions between hidden stations. This occurs when users and access points are spread out and a high number of retransmissions occur on the wireless LAN. 3-14 Configuration Chapter 4 Troubleshooting This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T. After each problem description, instructions are given to help you diagnose and solve the problem. Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to Appendix C, "Preparing Your PCs for Network Access" of the Reference Manual on the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Resource CD. Frequently Asked Questions Use the information below to solve common problems you may encounter. Also, please refer to the knowledge base on the NETGEAR web site at www.netgear.com/support/main.asp. General Questions Why do I see no more than 54 Mbps on the Configuration Utility status line? The product literature says the WG311T can operate at 108 Mbps. You are probably connecting to a standard 802.11g network. If you use the NETGEAR WGT624 108 Mbps Wireless Firewall Router or WG634U 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router, you will see network speeds up to 108 Mbps. The WG311T Smart Configuration Utility keeps asking me to save my settings This is because you have made changes to the settings and the utility is offering you the chance to save the changes. If you want to avoid these Profile setting prompts, simply click Apply before you close the utility program. Troubleshooting 4-1 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311T Ad Hoc mode is not working correctly You need to click the Initiate Ad Hoc button before you click Apply. Here is how you start an Ad Hoc network: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Type. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. Accept the default settings or make your changes and click OK Click Apply. Note: Be sure all computers in your Ad Hoc network are configured with static IP addresses in the same subnet. How to know if the WG311T card has received a valid IP address from the Wireless Router/AP The easiest way is to open up the WG311T utility program and check the IP address in the About page. How to use XP's own Wireless configuration utility that comes with Windows XP The NETGEAR WG311T software is designed so that the user will be asked to choose one of the utility programs during initial software installation. Be sure the WG311T is connected to the PC and follow these instructions to change your selection. 1. 2. 3. 4.