User manual NETGEAR WPN111

User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA 202-10076-01 Version v1.0 February 2005 202-10076-01 Technical Support Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at http://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: http://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. © 2005 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. February 2005 Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer It is hereby certified that the Model WPN111 wireless USB 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 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. VCCI Statement This equipment is in the Class B category (information equipment to be used in a residential area or an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Data Processing Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling. ii 202-10076-01 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 This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Declaration Of Conformity We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that the model WPN111 Cardbus Card Wireless Adapter complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: · · This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Regulatory Compliance Information This section includes user requirements for operating this product in accordance with National laws for usage of radio spectrum and operation of radio devices. Failure of the end-user to comply with the applicable requirements may result in unlawful operation and adverse action against the end-user by the applicable National regulatory authority. NOTE: This product's firmware limits operation to only the channels allowed in a particular Region or Country. Therefore, all options described in this user's guide may not be available in your version of the product. FCC Requirements for Operation in the United States Radio Frequency Interference Warnings & Instructions 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 in a residential installation. This equipment 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. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. 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 methods: · · · · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver Connect the equipment into an electrical outlet on a circuit different from that which the radio receiver is connected Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. iii 202-10076-01 NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Tested to Comply with FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE PY3WG111T Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved byNETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate the equipment. 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. Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations This digital apparatus (NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111) 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-WG111T iv 202-10076-01 Contents Chapter 1 About This Manual Audience, Scope, Conventions ......................................................................................1-1 How to Use this Manual ..................................................................................................1-2 How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3 Chapter 2 Introduction About the WPN111 .........................................................................................................2-1 Key Features ..................................................................................................................2-1 What's in the Box? ..........................................................................................................2-2 A Road Map for `How to Get There From Here' .............................................................2-2 Chapter 3 Basic Setup What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................3-1 Verifying System Requirements ...............................................................................3-1 Observing Location and Range Guidelines ..............................................................3-2 Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................3-2 WPN111 Default Wireless Configuration Settings ..........................................................3-3 Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................3-3 For Windows XP Users Installing a WPN111 ...........................................................3-4 For Windows 2000 Users Installing a WPN111 ........................................................3-8 WPN111 Wireless Connection Indicators ..................................................................... 3-11 Interpreting the LED on the WPN111 ..................................................................... 3-11 Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................................3-12 Chapter 4 Configuration Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................4-1 Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................4-1 Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................4-2 How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile .....................................................4-2 Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode ....................................................................4-4 Contents 202-10076-01 v How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ...............................................................4-4 How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network .......................................4-6 Enabling Wireless Security Features ..............................................................................4-7 Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........4-7 How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................4-8 How to Configure WPA-PSK Encryption Security ....................................................4-9 Statistics Page ........................................................................................................4-10 Advanced Settings Page ........................................................................................ 4-11 Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Basic Tips .......................................................................................................................5-1 Frequently Asked Questions ..........................................................................................5-2 General Questions ...................................................................................................5-2 Appendix A Technical Specifications ......................................................................................................A1 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 Wireless Channels .................................................................................................. B-2 Wireless Security Overview ........................................................................................... B-6 WEP Overview .............................................................................................................. B-7 WEP Authentication ................................................................................................ B-7 WEP Keys ............................................................................................................... B-9 How to Use WEP Parameters ............................................................................... B-10 802.1x Port Based Network Access Control .................................................................B-11 WPA Wireless Security ................................................................................................ B-13 How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ...................................................................... B-14 How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-15 What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-15 WPA Data Encryption Key Management .............................................................. B-19 Is WPA Perfect? .................................................................................................... B-20 Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-20 vi 202-10076-01 Contents Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ....................................................... C-1 Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking .............................................. C-1 Install or Verify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-1 Enabling DHCP in Windows 98 and Me .................................................................. C-3 Selecting Windows' 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............................................................................................................................... G1 Index Contents 202-10076-01 vii viii 202-10076-01 Contents User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Chapter 1 About This Manual This chapter introduces the conventions and features of this document. Audience, Scope, Conventions This manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD, and on the NETGEAR Web site. This manual uses the following typographical conventions: Table 1-1. italics bold [Enter] Small Caps Typographical conventions Emphasis. User input. Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets. File and directory names. This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages: Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest. This manual is written according to these specifications: Table 1-2. Product Version Manual Part Number Manual Publication Date Manual Specifications NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 202-10076-01 February 2005 Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com/support/main.asp. About This Manual 202-10076-01 1-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 How to Print this Manual To print this manual you can choose one of the following several options, according to your needs. · Printing a Chapter. Use the ­ link at the top right of any page. ­ ­ · Click "PDF of This Chapter" link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to print. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter you were viewing. Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature. Printing the Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser window. ­ ­ ­ Click PDF button. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter you were viewing. Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature. 1-2 202-10076-01 About This Manual User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Chapter 2 Introduction This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. About the WPN111 The NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 gives you ultimate mobility in your office or while you are traveling. It frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring and helps you create a wireless network for sharing your broadband Internet access among multiple PCs in and around your home. It is designed for PC computers running Microsoft® Windows®. It is a USB 2.0 device and is backwards compatible with USB 1.1 ports. Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer at 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 RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides reliable, standards-based 802.11g 108 Mbps WLAN connectivity that is protected with industry-standard security. It works with Windows 98, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems. Key Features The RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides the following features: · · Reliable IEEE 802.11g and b standards-based wireless technology. 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. High level of data encryption using128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption method. A lower level of data encryption or no data encryption is available to simplify your network setup or to improve data transfer rate. · Introduction 202-10076-01 2-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 What's in the Box? The product package should contain the following items: · · · NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD, including: -- Driver and Configuration Utility Software -- User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 -- Animated Network Properties Configuration Tutorial -- PC Networking Tutorial · Warranty and 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. 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, setup, 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. 2-2 202-10076-01 Introduction User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? Connect to a wireless network A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? 1. Identify the wireless network name (SSID) and, if used, the wireless security settings. 2. Set up the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 with the settings from step 1. What's Needed? 1. A wireless network 2. A PC within the operating range of the wireless network. For guidelines about the range of wireless networks, see "Observing Location and Range Guidelines" on page 3-2. How Do I? To set up the WPN111, see Chapter 3, "Basic Setup" and follow the instructions provided. To learn about wireless networking technology, see "Wireless Networking Overview" on page B-1 for a general introduction. Protect my 1. Assure that the 1. A wireless network with wireless wireless network authentication and WEP connection from has security encryption enabled. snooping, features enabled. 2. Wireless networking hacking, or 2. Configure my equipment that supports information WPN111 with the WEP encryption, such as theft. security settings of the WPN111 and all the wireless NETGEAR wireless network. networking products. 3. Use Windows security features. To learn about wireless networking security, see "WEP Authentication" on page B-7. To use WEP security features, see "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 4-7 and configure your WPN111 accordingly. 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. Introduction 202-10076-01 2-3 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What's Needed? 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 4-2. 3. TCP/IP Internet networking software installed and configured on my PC according to the requirements of the Internet service provider. 4. A browser like Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. How Do I? To configure your WPN111 in Infrastructure Mode, see "Basic Installation Instructions" on page 3-3, 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 to the PC Networking Tutorial on the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using. . Connect to the 1. Activate my Internet over my wireless link and wireless verify my network network. connection. 2. Open an Internet browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. 2-4 202-10076-01 Introduction User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? Exchange files between a wirelessly connected PC and other computers in a my combined wireless and wired network. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What's Needed? How Do I? For assistance with Windows networking software, see "Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking" on page C-1 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using. 1. Use the Windows 1. The PC I am using to Network connect to the wireless Neighborhood network needs to be feature to browse configured with the for computers in Windows Client and File the combined and Print Sharing. wireless and wired 2. The PC I am using to network. connect to the wireless 2. Browse the hard network needs to be drive of the target configured with the same computer in the Windows Workgroup or network in order to Domain settings as the locate the directory other Windows computers or files you want to in the combined wireless work with. and wired network. 3. Use the Windows 3. Any Windows networking Explorer copy and security access rights paste functions to such as login user name/ exchange files password that have been between the assigned in the Windows computers. network or for sharing particular files must be provided when Windows prompts for such information. 4. If so-called Windows `peer' Workgroup networking is being used, the drive, file system directory, or file need to be enabled for sharing. Introduction 202-10076-01 2-5 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What's Needed? 1. The PC I am using to connect to the wireless network needs to be configured with the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing. 2. The PC I am using to connect to the wireless network needs to be configured with the same Windows Workgroup or Domain settings as the other Windows computers in the combined wireless and wired network. 3. Any Windows networking security access rights such as login user name/ password that have been assigned in the Windows network must be provided when Windows prompts for such information. 4. If so-called Windows `peer' networking is being used, the printer needs to be enabled for sharing. 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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. Use printers in a 1. Use the Windows combined Printers and Fax wireless and features to locate wired network. available printers in the combined wireless and wired network. 2. Use the Windows Add a Printer wizard to add access to a network printer from the PC you are using to wirelessly connect to the network. 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. 2-6 202-10076-01 Introduction Chapter 3 Basic Setup This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 4, "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 outside your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 provides highly effective security features which are covered in "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 4-7 in this manual. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs. What You Need Before You Begin You need to verify 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 USB adapter and connect. Verifying System Requirements Before installing the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met: · You must have a PC with a Pentium® 300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port. Note: If you do not have a USB 2.0 port on your PC, the throughput of the WPN111 will be limited to the 14 Mbps of the USB 1.1 standard. · · A CD-ROM drive. 5 Mbytes of free hard disk space. Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 · Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000. Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the WPN111 driver software. Note: Windows XP users must install SP2 or install the KB822603 Hot fix which fixes the USB 2.0 Host controller driver. Go to the following link to install the Hot fix: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/ details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=733dd867-56a0-4956-b7fe-e85b688b7f86 Observing Location and Range Guidelines Computers can connect over wireless networks indoors at a range which vary significantly based on the physical location of the computer with the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. For best results, avoid potential sources of interference, such as: · · · Large metal surfaces Microwaves 2.4 GHz Cordless phones In general, wireless devices can communicate through walls. However, if the walls are constructed with concrete, or have metal, or metal mesh, the effective range will decrease if such materials are between the devices. Two Basic Operating Modes The RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter 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 Access Point 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 AP. 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. 3-2 202-10076-01 Basic Setup User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Both of these configuration options are available with the RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter. Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered below. Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in Chapter 4, "Configuration" of this manual. WPN111 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 factory default basic settings are: · Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (First available network) Note: In order for the RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 for basic wireless connectivity to an access point. The procedures below provide step-by-step installation instructions for Windows PCs. Use the procedure that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using. Basic Installation Instructions Use the procedure below that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using. Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-3 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 For Windows XP Users Installing a WPN111 Install the WPN111 driver and configuration utility software. a. Power on your PC, let the operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed. b. Insert the Resource CD for the WPN111 into your CD drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. c. Click Install Driver and Utility. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps. You will be prompted to choose the country you are located in. Select your location from the list. d. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer. WPN111 Resource CD Note: If this screen fails to load automatically, browse to the CD and double-click on autorun.exe. InstallShield Wizard Note: If a Windows XP Certification warning appears, click Continue Anyway to proceed. 3-4 202-10076-01 Basic Setup User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Install the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. a. Locate an available USB port on your PC. Connect the USB cable to the WPN111 and insert the other end of the cable into the USB slot on your PC. b. After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays. The first time that you install the WPN111 on a computer, the wizard will install the bootloader device. Follow the installation prompts. Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message. c. After the bootloader device is installed, the Found New Hardware Wizard will display again and install the WPN111. Follow the installation prompts. d. Next you will be prompted to enable the NETGEAR Smart Wireless Settings Utility configuration utility. Click Yes to accept this option. If you choose No, you must read the Windows XP documentation for an explanation of how to use the Windows XP wireless network configuration utility e. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer. You will see the WPN111 system tray icon on the lower right portion of the Windows task bar. Found New Hardware Wizard Note: If the USB port in your computer is not a USB v2.0 type port but rather a USB v1.1 type port, you will see a "HI_SPEED USB Device Plugged into non-I-SPEED USB Hub" message. The WPN111 will work but the USB v1.1 port maximum speed is 14 Mbps whereas the maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. So, when the WPN111 is connected to a USB v1.1 port, the communications speed will be limited to the maximum of the USB v1.1 port. Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message. Enable NETGEAR Utility Configuration WPN111 System Tray Icon Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-5 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Configure your WPN111. a. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the WPN111 Smart Wizard Wireless Settings Utility. The utility opens to the Settings tab page. Click Help for instructions on using the Smart Wizard Wireless Utility. b. Change the Network Name SSID to match your network. Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the drop-down list or the Networks tab to view the available wireless networks, and choose the one you want. c. Click Apply to activate the connection. You can also enter a profile name and click Save Profile to store the current settings. Tip: Create profiles called work and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for your current location. Click here to open the configuration utility. WPN111 system tray icon Smart Wizard Wireless Utility Settings page Tip: Click Help to view the context-sensitive help information. Note: The NETGEAR default settings are Infrastructure mode, with Any (first available network that replies) for the wireless network name SSID, and WEP disabled. If your WLAN settings are different from the NETGEAR default settings, you will not connect. Set up your WPN111 accordingly. Note: This procedure assumes you are connecting to a wireless network which is not using WEP security. If your network includes WEP settings, click the Settings tab page and configure the WPN111 accordingly. For help with these steps, click the Help button in the WPN111 Configuration Utility to view context- sensitive help information, or see "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 4-7. 3-6 202-10076-01 Basic Setup User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your wireless network. b. Check the color of the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection. c. Check the WPN111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good connection; off means the WPN111 is not plugged in. d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources. Note: If you are unable to connect, see Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting" . Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-7 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 For Windows 2000 Users Installing a WPN111 Install the WPN111 driver and configuration utility software. Note: Windows 2000 may require you to be logged on with administrator rights. a. Power on your PC, let the operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed. b. Insert the Resource CD for the WPN111 into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. c. Click Install Driver and Utility. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps. You will be prompted to choose the country you are located in. Select your location from the list. d. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer. WPN111 Resource CD Note: If this screen fails to load automatically, browse to the CD and double-click on autorun.exe. InstallShield Wizard Note: If a Windows 2000 Digital Signature warning appears, click Yes to proceed. 3-8 202-10076-01 Basic Setup User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Install the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. a. Locate an available USB port on your PC. Connect the USB cable to the WPN111 and insert the other end of the cable into the USB slot on your PC. b. After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays. The first time that you install the WPN111 on a computer, the wizard will install the bootloader device. Follow the installation prompts. Note: Click Yes if you are prompted with a Digital Signature Not Found message. c. After the bootloader device is installed, the Found New Hardware Wizard will display again and install the WPN111. Follow the installation prompts. Note: Click Yes if you are prompted with a Digital Signature Not Found message. d. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer. a. You will see the WPN111 system tray icon on the lower right portion of the Windows task bar. WPN111 System Tray Icon Found New Hardware Wizard Note: If your computer does not have a USB v2.0 port but rather a USB v1.1 type port, the WPN111 will be limited to the maximum speed of the USB v1.1 port. USB v1.1 port maximum speed is 14 Mbps whereas the maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-9 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Configure your WPN111 and save the Profile. a. Click on the WPN111 icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the WPN111 configuration utility. The utility opens to the Settings tab page. Click Help for instructions on using the Smart Wizard Wireless Utility. b. For the Network Name (SSID), use the default of Any (First available network) or type an SSID for your network. Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the drop-down list or the Networks tab to view the available wireless networks, and choose the one you want. c. Click Apply to activate the connection. d. You can also enter a profile name and click Save Profile to store the current settings. Tip: If you use your desktop PC to connect to a wireless network at work and at home, create profiles called work and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for wherever you are located. Click here to open the configuration utility. WPN111 system tray icon WPN111 Configuration Utility Note: The NETGEAR default settings are Infrastructure mode, with Any (first available network that replies) for the wireless network name SSID, and WEP disabled. If your WLAN settings are different from the NETGEAR default settings, you will not connect. Set up your WPN111 accordingly. Note: This procedure assumes you are connecting to a wireless network which is not using WEP security. If your network includes WEP settings, click the Security tab page and configure the WPN111 accordingly. For help with these steps, click the Help button in the WPN111 Configuration Utility to view context- sensitive help information, or see "Enabling Wireless Security Features" on page 4-7. 3-10 202-10076-01 Basic Setup User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your wireless network. b. Check the color of the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection. c. Check the WPN111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good connection; off means the WPN111 is not plugged in. d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources. Note: If you are unable to connect, see Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting" . WPN111 Wireless Connection Indicators The NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 provides the following three indicators which give you feedback on the status of your wireless connection: · · The status LED on the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 indicates the condition of wireless link. The color of the SysTray icon is on the System Tray portion of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop indicates the status of the connection. Interpreting the LED on the WPN111 Table 3-1. LED Descriptions Status LED LED OFF Meaning · The WPN111 in not plugged in to the PC. · Power save mode (default from power up or reset). Looking for network association. Associated or joined with network. Blink On Basic Setup 202-10076-01 3-11 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 WPN111 has no connection to any wireless node. Description The WPN111 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. Yellow The WPN111 has a connection with another wireless node. 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. Green The WPN111 has a connection with another wireless node. The WPN111 has established good communication with an access point and the signal quality is strong. 3-12 202-10076-01 Basic Setup Chapter 4 Configuration This chapter describes how to configure your NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 WPN111 configuration utility. For Windows XP users to use the NETGEAR configuration utility, the Windows XP configuration utility must be deselected. If you did not enable the NETGEAR utility when you installed the RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter, 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 WPN111 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 WPN111 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 202-10076-01 4-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 For example, if you use your notebook 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. Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode This section provides instructions for configuring the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 WPN111 Configuration Utility. a. Make sure the WPN111 software is installed and the WPN111 is connected to your PC. b. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray. c. Click on the Settings tab to display the view shown below. 4-2 202-10076-01 Configuration User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Figure 4-1: Settings page 2. Configure the wireless Network settings. a. In the Network Type section, be sure that Access Point (Infrastructure) is selected. b. 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 Network tab to view a list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at the location where you are. 3. Save your settings in a Profile. a. Type a descriptive name for the Profile in the "Profiles" field. b. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click Apply. d. Click Close to exit the configuration utility or Cancel to return to the previous settings Configuration 202-10076-01 4-3 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 4. Verify wireless connectivity to your network. 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 Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting. Also, for problems with 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 peer-to-peer setting of the WPN111 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 static IP addresses (such as 192.168.0.1). For instructions on setting up static IP addresses on a Windows PC, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial included on the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD. Follow the instructions below to configure an Ad-hoc mode profile. 1. Run the WPN111 Configuration Utility. a. Make sure the WPN111 software is installed and the WPN111 is connected to your PC. b. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray. c. Click the Settings tab. d. Select Computer-to-computer (Ad-hoc) for the Network Type. e. Enter the SSID for the Ad-Hoc network. f. Click Apply. 4-4 202-10076-01 Configuration User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 2. Save your settings in a Profile. a. Type a descriptive name in the "Profiles" field. b. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click Apply. d. 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, refer to the networking tutorial on your NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD. b. Restart the PCs. 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. Figure 4-2: Windows Run program dialog box b. 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. c. 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." Configuration 202-10076-01 4-5 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Figure 4-3: Ping test results At this point the connection is established. You may need to reboot in certain Windows operating systems such as Windows 98. Note: If you cannot connect, see the "" on page 3-12. Also, for problems with 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. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). 2. Select the Computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc) network type. 3. Click Initiate Ad-Hoc. The Ad-Hoc Setting dialog box will appear, as shown below. Figure 4-4: Ad-Hoc Setting page 4. Choose the wireless settings for your Ad-Hoc computer-to-computer network. 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. 5. Click OK. 4-6 202-10076-01 Configuration User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 "WEP Authentication" on page B-7. In addition to the WPN111 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. 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 (First available network) is the default WPN111 wireless network name (SSID). You may 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 USB 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: ____________________________ Configuration 202-10076-01 4-7 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 WPN111. How to Configure WEP Encryption Security Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security. 1. Run the WPN111 Configuration Utility. a. Make sure the WPN111 software is installed and the WPN111 is connected to your PC. b. Open the configuration utility by clicking on the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray. c. Click on the Settings tab to display the view shown below. Figure 4-5: WEP security 2. Configure the Security settings. a. Select WEP. b. 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. 4-8 202-10076-01 Configuration User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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. Type a descriptive name in the "Profiles" field. b. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click Apply. d. Click Close to exit the configuration utility. 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 802.11b wireless devices. 6. The Default Key setting must match what is set in the access point and the other 802.11 wireless devices. 7. 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. Configuration 202-10076-01 4-9 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 To configure WPA-PSK security, click the Advanced Security button. The Advanced Security button is located in the Settings page, Security section. Figure 4-6: Advanced Security page The Passphrase can be between 8 and 63 characters For more information on WPA security, see "WPA Wireless Security" on page B-13. Statistics Page The Statistics page provides real time and historical trend information on the data traffic and performance of your wireless adapter. · · · · Transmit/Receive Performance (%): A real time graph identifying the total, receive, and transmit utilization as a percentage the total possible. Total/Receive/Transmit Graph: Identifies the trend of transmit/receive data communications over time. 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. 4-10 202-10076-01 Configuration User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Advanced Settings Page To display the Advanced Settings page, click the Advanced Settings button on the Settings page. Figure 4-7: Advanced Settings page 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. · · · 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 108 Mbps 802.11g mode, you must include that in your selection (for example, if you are using the WPN111 with the NETGEAR WGT624 108 Mbps Wireless Firewall Router). Fragmentation Threshold: This is the maximum packet size used for fragmentation. Packets larger than the size programmed in this field will be fragmented. The Fragmentation Threshold value must be larger than the RTS/CTS Threshold value. · Configuration 202-10076-01 4-11 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 · 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. 4-12 202-10076-01 Configuration Chapter 5 Troubleshooting This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. 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 RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD. Basic Tips If you have problems connecting to your wireless network, try the tips below. Symptom The LED is not lit. Cause The WPN111 is not connected to the USB port properly or the WPN111 software is not loaded. The WPN111 is attempting to connect to an access point, but cannot connect. This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem. Solution Remove and reinsert the WPN111. Check the Windows device manager to see if the WPN111 is recognized and enabled. Reload the WPN111 software, if necessary. Try to install the WPN111 in a different USB slot on your system if one is available. The access point may not be powered on. Or, the access point and the WPN111 are not configured with the same wireless parameters. Check the SSID and WEP settings. The wireless LED blinks and cannot connect to an access point. I can connect to an access point, but I cannot connect to other computers on the network or the Internet. 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. Refer to "A Road Map for `How to Get There From Here'" on page 2-2 for additional suggestions. Troubleshooting 5-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 WPN111 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. If you are connecting to an 802.11b network, the maximum 802.11b speed is 11 Mbps. If your computer does not have a USB v2.0 port but rather a USB v1.1 type port, the WPN111 will be limited to the maximum speed of the USB v1.1 port. USB v1.1 port maximum speed is 14 Mbps whereas the maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. PC computers can be upgraded with optional add-on USB v2.0 adapters that provide one or more USB v2.0 ports. If you are already using a USB 2.0 controller, make sure that you are using the correct driver for USB 2.0.For Windows XP, you need to upgrade your system to Service Pack 1 in order to utilize the USB 2.0 port. For Windows 2000, you need to upgrade your system to Service Pack 4 in order to utilize the USB 2.0 port. The WPN111 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. 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. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). 2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Type. 3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. 5-2 Troubleshooting User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 4. Accept the default settings or make your changes and click OK 5. 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 WPN111 card has received a valid IP address from the Wireless Router/AP The easiest way is to open up the WPN111 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 WPN111 software is designed so that the user will be asked to choose one of the utility programs during initial software installation. Be sure the WPN111 is connected to the PC and follow these instructions to change your selection. 1. Go to Control Panel and select Network Connections. 2. Right click on the connection and select Properties. 3. Click the Wireless Networks tab. 4. Select or clear the WPN111 "Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings" check box. I cannot connect to the AP that I want from the Networks browser list The access point is available and there is good signal strength. There are a few possibilities: · If the access point (AP) is WPA-PSK protected, you will need to have the correct WPA-PSK passphrase. Otherwise, the WPN111 will still be connected to the previous access point and you will not be able to change to the WPA-PSK access point. If the access point is WEP protected (either 64 or 128 bit encryption), you will be prompted to enter the WEP encryption security information. · New Hardware Wizard appears after installation has completed This happens if the USB device is connected to a different port than the one used during installation. Return the USB device to the original USB port. Troubleshooting 5-3 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 How to get a PDF copy of the Manual In the Manual HTML page, there is a PDF button image at the top right hand corner of the web page. Click the PDF icon to bring up a PDF file of the entire manual. You can also Print, Email, or Bookmark pages using the corresponding icons next to the PDF icon. 5-4 Troubleshooting Appendix A Technical Specifications This appendix provides technical specifications for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111. Antennae Standards Radio Data Rate Frequency Power Emissions Bus interface Provided drivers Operating Environment Encryption Warranty 1 Integrated internal antenna 802.11g, 802.11b 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54, and 108 Mbps (Auto Rate Sensing) 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz CCK and OFDM Modulation) 5V Bus powered FCC, CE USB 5V Microsoft Windows 98SE/ME/XP, 2000 Operating temperature: 0 to 45 degree C 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption Limited 1-year warranty Technical Specifications 202-10076-01 A-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 A-2 202-10076-01 Technical Specifications Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics This chapter provides an overview of wireless networking and security. Wireless Networking Overview The RangeMaxTM WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs) and a product update will bring the WPN111 into conformance to the 802.11g standard when it is ratified. On an 802.11b or g wireless link, data is encoded using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and is transmitted in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.5GHz. The maximum data rate for the 802.11b wireless link is 11 Mbps, but it will automatically back down from 11 Mbps to 5.5, 2, and 1 Mbps when the radio signal is weak or when interference is detected. The 802.11g auto rate sensing rates are 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 54 Mbps. Likewise, the 802.11a wireless link offers a maximum data rate of 54 Mbps, but will automatically back down to rates 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, and 6 Mbps. The 802.11 standard is also called Wireless Ethernet or Wi-Fi by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA, see http://www.wi-fi.net), an industry standard group promoting interoperability among 802.11 devices. The 802.11 standard offers two methods for configuring a wireless network - ad hoc and infrastructure. Infrastructure Mode With a wireless access point, you can operate the wireless LAN in the infrastructure mode. This mode provides wireless connectivity to multiple wireless network devices within a fixed range or area of coverage, interacting with wireless nodes via an antenna. In the infrastructure mode, the wireless access point converts airwave data into wired Ethernet data, acting as a bridge between the wired LAN and wireless clients. Connecting multiple access points via a wired Ethernet backbone can further extend the wireless network coverage. As a mobile computing device moves out of the range of one access point, it moves into the range of another. As a result, wireless clients can freely roam from one access point domain to another and still maintain seamless network connection. Wireless Networking Basics 202-10076-01 B-1 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) In an ad hoc network, computers are brought together as needed; thus, there is no structure or fixed points to the network - each node can generally communicate with any other node. There is no access point involved in this configuration. This mode enables you to quickly set up a small wireless workgroup and allows workgroup members to exchange data or share printers as supported by Microsoft networking in the various Windows operating systems. Some vendors also refer to ad hoc networking as peer-to-peer group networking. In this configuration, network packets are directly sent and received by the intended transmitting and receiving stations. As long as the stations are within range of one another, this is the easiest and least expensive way to set up a wireless network. Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is one of two types of Service Set Identification (SSID). In an ad hoc wireless network with no access points, the Basic Service Set Identification (BSSID) is used. In an infrastructure wireless network that includes an access point, the ESSID is used, but may still be referred to as SSID. An SSID is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying the name of the wireless local area network. Some vendors refer to the SSID as network name. For the wireless devices in a network to communicate with each other, all devices must be configured with the same SSID. Wireless Channels IEEE 802.11g/b wireless nodes communicate with each other using radio frequency signals in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. Neighboring channels are 5 MHz apart. However, due to spread spectrum effect of the signals, a node sending signals using a particular channel will utilize frequency spectrum 12.5 MHz above and below the center channel frequency. As a result, two separate wireless networks using neighboring channels (for example, channel 1 and channel 2) in the same general vicinity will interfere with each other. Applying two channels that allow the maximum channel separation will decrease the amount of channel cross-talk, and provide a noticeable performance increase over networks with minimal channel separation. The wireless frequencies used by 802.11a and 802.11b/g networks are different. These channel frequency options are discussed below. B-2 202-10076-01 Wireless Networking Basics User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 802.11b/g Wireless Channels IEEE 802.11b/g wireless nodes communicate with each other using radio frequency signals in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. Neighboring channels are 5 MHz apart. However, due to spread spectrum effect of the signals, a node sending signals using a particular channel will utilize frequency spectrum 12.5 MHz above and below the center channel frequency. As a result, two separate wireless networks using neighboring channels (for example, channel 1 and channel 2) in the same general vicinity will interfere with each other. Applying two channels that allow the maximum channel separation will decrease the amount of channel cross-talk, and provide a noticeable performance increase over networks with minimal channel separation. The radio frequency channels used in 802.11b/g networks are listed in Table B-1: Table B-1: Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 802.11b/g Radio Frequency Channels Center Frequency 2412 MHz 2417 MHz 2422 MHz 2427 MHz 2432 MHz 2437 MHz 2442 MHz 2447 MHz 2452 MHz 2457 MHz 2462 MHz 2467 MHz 2472 MHz Frequency Spread 2399.5 MHz - 2424.5 MHz 2404.5 MHz - 2429.5 MHz 2409.5 MHz - 2434.5 MHz 2414.5 MHz - 2439.5 MHz 2419.5 MHz - 2444.5 MHz 2424.5 MHz - 2449.5 MHz 2429.5 MHz - 2454.5 MHz 2434.5 MHz - 2459.5 MHz 2439.5 MHz - 2464.5 MHz 2444.5 MHz - 2469.5 MHz 2449.5 MHz - 2474.5 MHz 2454.5 MHz - 2479.5 MHz 2459.5 MHz - 2484.5 MHz Wireless Networking Basics 202-10076-01 B-3 User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMaxTM Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Note: The available channels supported by the wireless products in various countries are different. For example, Channels 1 to 11 are supported in the U.S. and Canada, and Channels 1 to 13 are supported in Europe and Australia. The preferred channel separation between the channels in neighboring wireless networks is 25 MHz (5 channels). This means that you can apply up to three different channels within your wireless network. There are only 11 usable wireless channels in the United States. It is recommended that you start using channel 1 and grow to use channel 6, and 11 when necessary, as these three channels do not overlap. 802.11a Legal Power Output and Wireless Channels IEEE 802.11a utilizes 300 MHz of bandwidth in the 5 GHz Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (U-NII) band. Though the lower 200 MHz is physically contiguous, the FCC has divided the total 300 MHz into three distinct domains, each with a different legal maximum power output. Below is a table of summary for different regulatory domains. Table B-2: U-NII Band Frequency (GHz) Max. Power Output 802.11a Radio Frequency Channels Low 5.15 ­ 5.25 · 50 mW for US · 200 mW for Canada, Europe, and Australia Middle 5.25 ­ 5.35 · 250 mW for US · 200 mW for Europe and Australia · 1 W for Canada High 5.725 ­ 5.825 · 1 W for US and Australia · 4 W for Canada · 25 mW for Europe Note: Please check your local Authority for updated information on the available frequency and maximum power output. IEEE 802.11a uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), a new encoding scheme that offers certain benefits over a spread spectrum in channel availability and data rate. The 802.11a uses OFDM to define a total of 8 non-overlapping 200 MHz channels across the 2 lower bands; each of these is divided into 52 sub carriers and each carrier is approximately 300 KHz wide. B-4 202-10076-01 Wireless Networking Basics