Microsoft MN-500 User guide
M
user,s guide.
Microsoft® Broadband Networking
Wireless Base Station| MN-500
Important
Do not plug a phone jack (RJ-11) into any Ethernet (RJ-45) port on your base station. Doing so may damage the device.
You must use twisted pair cables with RJ-45 connectors that conform to FCC standards in the device’s Ethernet ports.
Important
Ne branchez pas une ligne téléphonique dans aucuns des port de réseau (RJ45).
Caution
For use with UL Listed, CSA and GS approved personal computers.
Only use AC Adapter provided with the unit, Part number FA-4A030-1
Not intended for use in machinery, medical or industrial applications.
Do not use onboard an aircraft or in hazardous locations such as gas stations or other explosive environment.
For indoor use only.
Do not touch or re-orient the antenna while the device is transmitting.
Device should be located at least 20 cm (8 inches) away from any human body in order to meet FCC exposure limits.
Exposure time should be limited if the distance is less.
Avertissement
N’utilisez qu’avec des composantes homologuées UL, CSA ou TUV.
N’utilisez qu’avec le bloc d’alimentation fourni avec cet appareil No de modèle FA-4A030-1
Ne pas utiliser ce dispositif dans une application industrielle ou médicale.
Ne pas utiliser dans un avion ou en présence de vapeur explosive (station = service).
N’utiliser qu’à l’intérieur.
Ne touchez pas à l’antenne lorsque l’appareil est en fonction
Ce dispositif doit être à plus de 20 cm (8 pouces) de toute personne.
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Unless otherwise noted, the example companies, organizations, products, domain names, e-mail addresses, logos, people,
places and events depicted herein are fictitious, and no association with any real company, organization, product, domain
name, e-mail address, logo, person, place or event is intended or should be inferred. Complying with all applicable copyright
laws is the responsibility of the user. Without limiting the rights under copyright, no part of this document may be reproduced,
stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise), or for any purpose, without the express written permission of Microsoft Corporation.
Microsoft may have patents, patent applications, trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual property rights covering subject
matter in this document. Except as expressly provided in any written license agreement from Microsoft, the furnishing of this
document does not give you any license to these patents, trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual property.
© 2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
Microsoft, Windows and Xbox are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
contents.
1 | Introduction ................................................................................................... 1
Base Station Indicators and Controls ................................................ 3
Resetting the Base Station ................................................................. 3
Restoring Base Station Factory Settings ........................................... 4
Placing and Positioning the Base Station ......................................... 4
Understanding Wireless Connections .................................................... 5
Recommendations for Best Wireless Performance ......................... 5
Adjusting the Antennas ........................................................................ 5
Wireless Range Table ........................................................................... 6
Understanding Wireless Security (WEP) ............................................ 6
Understanding Ethernet Connections ................................................... 6
Ethernet Cables, Phone Cables, and Connections ........................... 7
Straight-Through and Crossover Ethernet Cables ............................. 7
2 | Planning .......................................................................................................... 9
Determining Your Network Settings ..................................................... 14
3 | Setup ............................................................................................................ 15
Typical Setup Steps................................................................................ 16
Step 1: Install the software ............................................................... 16
Step 2: Connect the base station to the computer ........................ 17
Step 3: Configure the base station and network ............................ 18
Step 4: Test your network .................................................................. 18
Other Setup Methods ............................................................................ 19
If You Have a Non-Ethernet Modem ................................................. 19
Using the Base Station as a Wireless Access Point Only ............... 19
If You Have No Ethernet Computers ................................................. 20
Connecting the Base Station Wirelessly .......................................... 20
Replacing Existing Networks ................................................................ 22
Connecting Existing Networks .............................................................. 22
Connecting Ethernet Networks to the Base Station ....................... 23
Connecting HomePNA or HomeRF Networks .................................. 23
Connecting Existing Wireless Networks ........................................... 23
If Your Computers Are on a Domain ................................................. 24
Setting Up the Base Station on a Windows 2000 Computer ........... 24
Setting Up the Base Station on a Non-Windows Computer .............. 24
Adding to Your Network ......................................................................... 24
Adding Wireless Computers to Your Network .................................. 25
Adding Ethernet Computers to Your Network.................................. 25
Adding Non-Computer Devices to Your Network ............................. 25
If You Connected the Hardware First ................................................... 26
If You Do Not Want to Use the Setup Wizard ...................................... 26
4 | Networking .................................................................................................. 27
Logging on to Your Network .................................................................. 27
Allowing Access to an Internet Connection ......................................... 28
Allowing Access to Files and Folders ................................................... 28
Allowing Access to Printers ................................................................... 31
About Sharing Other Peripheral Devices ............................................. 32
About Reading E-Mail Messages on a Network ................................. 32
Playing Games on a Network and the Internet................................... 32
Connecting to Other Wireless Networks .............................................. 33
5 | Monitor......................................................................................................... 35
View the Status of Your Computer ....................................................... 36
View the Status of Your Network Connection ..................................... 36
View the Status of Your Internet Connection ...................................... 36
View the Status of Other Network Devices ......................................... 36
View and Change Network Settings ..................................................... 37
Update Software, Drivers, and Firmware ............................................ 37
Secure Your Network ............................................................................. 38
Protect Your Network from Hackers ................................................. 38
Protect Your Network from Computer Viruses ................................. 39
Protect Your Network from Unauthorized Access ........................... 39
6 | Configure ..................................................................................................... 41
Opening the Base Station Management Tool ................................. 42
Logging Off .......................................................................................... 42
Navigating the Base Station Management Tool ............................. 42
Configuring the Base Station ............................................................ 44
Configuring Network Computers ....................................................... 45
Using the Base Station As a Bridge .................................................. 46
Home Page ............................................................................................. 47
Wide Area Network ............................................................................. 47
Local Area Network ............................................................................ 48
DHCP Client List .................................................................................. 49
Base Station Information ................................................................... 49
ii Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Management Settings ........................................................................... 50
Reset the Base Station ...................................................................... 50
Restore Factory Default Settings ...................................................... 50
Back Up Base Station Settings ......................................................... 51
Restore Base Station Settings from a Backup................................ 52
Upgrade Base Station Firmware ....................................................... 53
Establish Base Station Time Zone ................................................... 54
Synchronize Time to Internet Time Server ....................................... 54
Change the Base Station Password ................................................. 55
Local Area Network Settings ................................................................ 56
IP Address and Subnet Mask ............................................................ 56
DHCP Server ........................................................................................ 57
Wide Area Network Settings ................................................................. 57
Dynamic Internet Connection ............................................................ 58
MAC Addresses ................................................................................... 58
Static Internet Connection ................................................................. 59
PPPoE Internet Connection ............................................................... 59
Disabled Connection .......................................................................... 60
Wireless Settings ................................................................................... 60
Wireless Network Name (SSID) ........................................................ 61
Wireless Channel ................................................................................ 61
Data Rate ............................................................................................ 61
Security Settings .................................................................................... 62
Wireless Security (WEP) ..................................................................... 62
Firewall Settings .................................................................................. 63
Network Mode ..................................................................................... 64
Port Forwarding .................................................................................. 65
Virtual Demilitarized Zone ................................................................. 68
MAC Filtering ....................................................................................... 69
Client Filtering ..................................................................................... 71
Base Station Log ................................................................................ 72
7 | Troubleshooting ......................................................................................... 73
Software .................................................................................................. 73
Hardware ................................................................................................. 75
Networks ................................................................................................. 76
Internet Connections ............................................................................. 78
Contents iii
Reference .................................................................................................... 79
Technical Support .................................................................................. 79
Regulatory Information .......................................................................... 80
Limited Warranty .................................................................................... 81
Technical Specifications........................................................................ 83
System Requirements ........................................................................... 84
Glossary ....................................................................................................... 85
iv Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Note
The Setup Wizard guides you
through the process of
connecting and configuring
your base station. Install the
software and then follow the
steps in the wizard to connect
your new base station.
introduction.
The Microsoft Broadband
Networking Wireless Base Station
Congratulations on the purchase of your Microsoft® Broadband
Networking Wireless Base Station! The base station allows you to
share an Internet connection, files, printers, and other devices
among all the computers on a wireless network. Your box contains:
Setup CD-ROM
Install This First!
Wireless
Base Station
Base Station Stand
(Detachable)
Blank Floppy
Disk
Power Supply
The Microsoft Wireless Base Station can support over 200
simultaneous wired and wireless connections. You can use this
flexibility to choose the best type of network connection for each of
your networked devices. For a discussion of connection options,
see Chapter 2.
The typical network configuration is for the base station to serve
as the central access point for your wireless network and share
your broadband Internet connection with all the computers on the
network. For setup instructions, see Chapter 3.
The base station includes a firewall and network address
translation (NAT), which provide security for your broadband
Internet connection. This is especially important when an “alwayson” broadband Internet connection is shared among computers on
a home or small office network. With the base station installed,
intruders from the Internet cannot access the computers or files
on your network.
Even with the base station installed, however, your wireless
network is vulnerable to eavesdropping by other wireless networks,
and your system can be attacked by computer viruses. To protect
your network, establish a wireless security (also known as Wired
Equivalent Privacy, or WEP) key during setup, use an antivirus
program to protect against computer viruses, and follow basic
security rules such as setting strong passwords and not opening
unknown attachments.
Blue Ethernet
Cable
User’s Guide and
Start Here Guide
Antenna
Optional
Stand
Base Station
(Front View)
Indicator lights, which
display Power, Modem and
Wireless status
Indicator lights, which
display Ethernet port status
and correspond to the
Ethernet ports on the back
of the base station
Reset Button
Ethernet ports 1-4,
which correspond to
the status indicator
lights on the front
of the base station
To Modem port, which
connects to your modem
with an Ethernet cable
Power Port
Base Station
(Back View)
2 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Base Station Indicators and Controls
The preceding diagram shows the location of all ports, jacks,
controls, and indicator lights on the base station.
The base station contains two antennas, one internal and one
external. The external antenna is adjustable for best wireless
reception.
The front of the base station has seven green (and labeled)
indicator lights. After the base station is connected, these lights
will be on, off, or blinking, indicating the following states.
Light On Off Blinking
Important
Do not hold down the reset
button for more than five
seconds, unless you want to
erase all of your base station
settings and return them to
the factory defaults.
Power Receiving power Not receiving power Green or orange during
reset and restore
Modem Modem connected Modem off or Data being sent
and on not connected or received on modem
Wireless Radio enabled Radio disabled Wireless data being
status sent or received
Ethernet Ethernet device Ethernet device Data being sent or
status (4) connected and on off or not connected received over Ethernet
Resetting the Base Station
To reset the base station to correct temporary connectivity
problems, use a pointed object to briefly press and release the
reset button on the back of the base station, as shown in the
following illustration.
Resetting or Restoring the Base Station
Power Indicator
Light
Chapter 1: Introduction 3
Observe the power indicator light, and release the button as soon
as the light turns from green to orange. The light will return to
green when the reset is complete. Do not unplug the base station
during a reset.
Restoring Base Station Factory Settings
To return the base station to its factory default settings (for
example, if you forget your base station password), you can use the
reset button on the back of the base station to clear all base
station settings, restore the default settings, and reset the base
station.
To restore the base station factory settings
1. Use a pointed object to press the reset button on the back of
the base station, while observing the power indicator light. Hold
the button down until the light starts to blink green and orange,
about five seconds.
2. Release the button and wait for the light to turn solid orange
and then green, which can take up to 60 seconds.
Do not unplug the base station during a restore.
Placing and Positioning the Base Station
You can place the base station vertically in the provided stand, as
shown in the following diagram, or horizontally without the stand.
You can also rotate the base station to obtain the best wireless
performance.
Attaching the Base Station Stand
The Microsoft Wireless Base Station must be physically connected
to a power outlet and to your broadband modem, so the base
station should be placed near these.
To place the base station and adjust its antenna for the best
wireless performance, see “Recommendations for Best Wireless
Performance” in this chapter.
4 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Understanding Wireless Connections
Your base station uses a wireless protocol called IEEE 802.11b,
or Wi-Fi (wireless-fidelity), which works by radio transmission.
Although wireless transmission speed is usually faster than
broadband connection speed, it is slower than Ethernet.
Wi-Fi radio waves travel in all directions, and can transmit through
walls and floors. Wireless transmission can theoretically cover up
to 1,000 square feet and occur at speeds of up to 11 megabits per
second (Mbps), but actual network range and data throughput rate
will be less, depending on several factors.
Important
Do not rely on radio
transmission limitations to
secure your network. Enable
wireless security (WEP) to
protect your network from
unwanted access. For more
information, see
“Understanding Wireless
Security (WEP)” in this chapter.
Recommendations for Best Wireless Performance
The following information will help you achieve the best wireless
range, coverage, and transmission rate from your wireless devices:
• You should place the base station near the center of your
intended wireless network area. This will also minimize the
possibility of eavesdropping by neighboring wireless networks.
• Radio signals can travel farther outside of buildings, and the
best performance is when wireless components are in direct
line of sight to one another.
• Putting wireless components in high places helps avoid obstacles
and provides better coverage to upper stories of buildings.
• Building construction such as metal framing, UV window film,
metallic paint, and concrete or masonry walls and floors will
reduce radio signal strength. Try to avoid putting wireless
components next to walls, fireplaces, or other large, solid
objects; or next to large metal objects such as computer cases,
monitors, and appliances.
• Wireless signal range, speed, and strength can be affected by
interference from neighboring wireless networks and devices.
Electro-magnetic devices such as televisions, radios,
microwave ovens, and cordless phones, especially those with
frequencies in the 2.4 GHz range, may also interfere with
wireless transmission.
• Standing or sitting too close to wireless equipment can also
affect radio signal quality.
Adjusting the Antennas
You can adjust the wireless antennas for the best radio reception.
Start with the antenna pointing straight up, and adjust the antenna
if wireless reception is poor. Certain areas, such as directly below
the antenna, get relatively poor reception. Pointing the antenna
toward another wireless component does not improve reception.
The antennas should not be placed next to large pieces of metal,
because this can cause interference.
Chapter 1: Introduction 5
Wireless Range Table
The following table shows the interaction between wireless
coverage area and transmission speed for Microsoft wireless
components under typical installation circumstances.
Data Rate Open Environment Closed Environment
11 Mbps up to 900 feet up to 160 feet
5.5 Mbps up to 1300 feet up to 200 feet
2 or 1 Mbps up to 1500 feet up to 300 feet
Understanding Wireless Security (WEP)
Anyone within wireless range who knows your wireless network
name will be able to access the network and any data that is being
transmitted over it, unless you enable wireless security. Microsoft
wireless components use wireless security called Wireless
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) to prevent unauthorized users from
accessing your network. A network key—called a WEP key—
encrypts, or codes, data so that it is readable only by other
computers that have the key. The WEP key is stored on each
networked computer, so that data can be encrypted and decrypted
as it is transmitted over the network.
It is recommended that you enable WEP during base station setup.
You can simply choose to enable WEP security and allow the Setup
Wizard to assign your network a WEP key, or you can set your own
WEP key and choose other advanced options. For more information
about WEP and security, see “Securing Your Network” in Chapter 5
and “Security Settings” in Chapter 6.
Understanding Ethernet Connections
In most cases, the Microsoft Wireless Base Station uses Ethernet
to connect to your broadband modem and at least one computer.
You can also connect up to three additional Ethernet devices, such
as the Microsoft Broadband Networking 10/100 Ethernet PCI
Adapter and the Microsoft Broadband Networking 10/100
Ethernet 5-Port Switch, to the Microsoft Wireless Base Station. By
using hubs or switches, you can connect many more Ethernet
devices to your base station.
Ethernet is the most common and one of the fastest wired network
protocols, with connection speeds of 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, or
higher. Although power outlets, fluorescent lights, power supplies,
and coiled or overlong cables can interfere with Ethernet
transmission, interference is seldom a problem in Ethernet
networks.
To connect to your base station through Ethernet, a computer or
other device must have an Ethernet network interface card, which
provides an external port for an Ethernet cable.
6 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Ethernet Cables, Phone Cables, and Connections
Ethernet ports and cables resemble telephone connections and
lines, but are thicker and wider. To determine whether a cable is an
Ethernet or phone cable, look at the end and count the number of
wires or contacts in the connector. Ethernet (RJ-45) connectors
have eight contacts, whereas standard phone line (RJ-11)
connectors have four, as shown in the following diagram.
RJ-45 Ethernet
(8 wires)
RJ-11 Telephone
(4 or 6 wires)
Use only Ethernet cables to connect to your base station. Plugging
a phone jack into the base station could damage the base station.
Straight-Through and Crossover Ethernet Cables
Data is sent and received through specific wires in Ethernet cables.
Depending on the arrangement of the send and receive wires
within the cable, Ethernet cables may be the straight-through type
or the crossover type.
Most broadband modems are connected to computers through
Ethernet, and they may use straight-through or crossover cables.
To connect the modem to the base station, it is important to use
the original cable that came with your modem, or the same type.
To connect computers to the base station, you should
use straight-through Ethernet cables. If the blue cable provided in
your kit is not long enough for your needs, you can use any
straight-through cable.
Chapter 1: Introduction 7
To determine which type of Ethernet cable you have, inspect the
cable ends. The following diagram shows the arrangement of wires
in each type of cable.
Both ends of a
Straight-Through
Ethernet Cable
Crossover
Ethernet Cable
straight-through
cable have the
same arrangement
of colored wires.
In a crossover cable,
the arrangement of
the colored wires
changes between
the two ends.
8 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
2
planning.
Wireless Base Station Setup
Options
The easiest and fastest way to set up your Microsoft® Broadband
Networking Wireless Base Station is to follow the setup
instructions in the Start Here guide or the “Typical Setup Steps”
in Chapter 3 of this manual.
Set up the base station on the computer that is now connected to
your broadband modem, by running the Setup Wizard and
connecting your base station when the wizard prompts you to do so.
Set up the base station before you install any wireless network
adapters on other computers,
Your finished network setup may resemble the following diagram.
Typical Setup
First Computer
One computer, and your broadband modem, connect to the base
station with Ethernet cables. Other computers can make wired or
wireless connections to the base station.
Active Internet Connection
Broadband Modem
(DSL or Cable)
Wireless Base Station
Second Computer
Note
You cannot set up the base
station on a Windows 2000
computer by using the Setup
Wizard. You can use a
different computer to set up
the base station, you can use
the Base Station Management
Tool to set up the base station
on the Windows 2000
computer, or you can set up a
network by installing wireless
adapters only.
Note
If you are not sure which types
of connections your computer
or modem has, see Chapter 1.
You can use this setup method on a computer that is running
Microsoft Windows
®
XP, Windows Millennium Edition, Windows 98
SE, or Windows 98, and is not currently networked. The computer
must have a working broadband Internet connection and must
connect directly to your broadband modem with an Ethernet cable.
If you have a different computer configuration, or want a different
setup method, look through this chapter for the description that
best matches your situation.
My modem doesn’t connect to my computer through Ethernet.
• If your modem connects through USB but also has an Ethernet
connection, you can switch to the Ethernet port. For
instructions, see page 19.
• If your modem has no Ethernet connection, you have three
choices:
• You can obtain a new modem that has an Ethernet
connection.
• You can set up a network by using wireless adapters only and
no base station. For information, see the documentation that
came with your adapter.
• You may be able to set up the base station as a wireless
access point only, as shown in the following diagram. For
more information, see page 19.
Wireless Base Station
First Computer*
Ethernet or Wireless
Adapter
*To connect the base station, the first computer requires an installed Ethernet
adapter (shown), or wireless adapter.
I don’t have a working Internet connection, or I don’t want to
share my Internet connection through my base station.
The Setup Wizard cannot configure the base station automatically
if your computer does not have an active Internet connection. It is
highly recommended that you establish a working broadband
Internet connection before you set up the base station.
10 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Second Computer
Wireless Notebook
Adapter shown
If you have a broadband Internet connection, but it is not working
during setup or the Setup Wizard cannot access your Internet
settings, you can enter the settings manually. For instructions, see
Chapter 6, or specific procedures in Chapter 3 that require this.
The base station was designed to share a broadband Internet
connection over a wireless network. If you want to set up a wireless
network without sharing an Internet connection through the base
station, it is recommended that you set up a network by using
wireless adapters only and no base station. For instructions, see
your adapter documentation.
None of my computers have Ethernet connections.
By using wireless adapters, you can connect all your computers to
the base station wirelessly, as shown in the following diagram. For
instructions, see page 20.
Active Internet Connection
Broadband Modem
(DSL or Cable)
Wireless Base Station
First Computer
Wireless USB
Adapter shown
Second Computer
Wireless Notebook
Adapter Shown
I want all my computers to connect to the base station
wirelessly.
You can switch a computer to a wireless connection to the base
station after first using it to set up the base station with a wired
connection. For instructions, see page 21.
Chapter 2: Planning 11
I want to replace my existing base station, router, or gateway
with the Microsoft Wireless Base Station.
For instructions, see page 22. Do not disconnect your existing base
station until you are instructed to do so during setup.
I want to add my existing network to the base station.
• The following diagram shows how you can add an Ethernet hub
or switch to the base station. For instructions, see page 23.
Active Internet Connection
Broadband Modem
(DSL or Cable)
Wireless Base Station
Ethernet Hub
or Switch
• To connect HomePNA or HomeRF networks, see page 23.
• To connect existing wireless networks, see page 23.
One or more of my computers is on a domain.
To set up computers that are already on a domain, see page 24.
I want to install the base station on a computer that is running
Microsoft WIndows 2000.
You cannot set up the base station on a Windows 2000 computer
by using the Setup Wizard. For setup options, see page 24.
12 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Existing Ethernet
Network
I want to install the base station on Macintosh or other
computers that are not running Windows.
For base station setup instructions, see page 24 and Chapter 6.
I want to add more computers or other devices to my base
station.
• To add computers that have wireless adapters, see page 25.
• To add computers that have Ethernet adapters, see page 25.
• To add non-computer devices, see page 25.
I am not sure whether to use wired or wireless connections to
add devices to my base station.
Consider the following factors:
• Speed. If connection speed between your network components
is very important, you may want to use Ethernet connections.
• Convenience. Wireless connections don’t require cabling or
opening your computer cases, but connecting existing networks
to the base station through Ethernet may be more convenient.
• Range and coverage. An environment that contains many
physical barriers or interference factors may not be ideal for
wireless networking.
• Mobility. Mobility may be relatively unimportant for a desktop
computer, but is much more useful for a laptop, notebook, or
other portable computer.
• Security. Because of the unrestricted nature of their
transmission, wireless networks have inherent security issues.
However, the base station’s built-in firewall and NAT provide
security, and you can also use WEP encryption.
I don’t want to use the Setup Wizard.
To set up the base station by using the Base Station Management
Tool, see Chapter 6.
I connected the base station before running the Setup Wizard.
For setup options, see page 26.
Chapter 2: Planning 13
Determining Your Network Settings
If your system matches the configuration described on page 10
and you are using the typical setup method, the Setup Wizard can
detect your settings automatically and use them to set up your
network. However, if your system configuration or chosen setup
option requires you to enter your settings manually, the following
instructions will help you locate them. You can record this
information on the inside back cover of this User’s Guide for future
reference.
To determine your workgroup name in Windows XP or
Windows 2000
1. Click Start, then click Control Panel, and then double-click
System.
2. For Windows XP, click the Computer Name tab.
For Windows 2000, click the Network Identification tab.
To determine your workgroup name in Windows 98
1. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Network, and then double-click Locating your
network workgroup.
To determine your Internet settings
Your Internet settings may include such information as dynamic or
static IP address, username, password, primary and secondary
DNS, and default gateway. To determine these:
• Use your modem’s utility program if you have one.
• Call your Internet service provider or locate the documentation
they sent you when you signed up for DSL or cable service.
• Before starting setup or disconnecting your modem, you can
use the Windows Network or Network Connections control panel
to determine the settings. For more information, see Windows
Help.
To determine your wireless network settings
• If you are adding to a Microsoft wireless network, use the
Broadband Network Utility to determine your wireless network
name, channel, and WEP security key (if set).
• If you have a non-Microsoft wireless network, use your network
utility program to determine the settings.
14 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
3
Important
Run the Setup Wizard before
connecting your base station.
If you connected your base
station before installing the
software, or if you do not want
to use the Setup Wizard, see
“If You Connected the
Hardware First” and “If You Do
Not Want to Use the Setup
Wizard” in this chapter.
setup.
Installing, Connecting, and
Configuring Your Wireless Base
Station
The typical connection method for the base station resembles the
following diagram.
Active Internet Connection
Ethernet Connection
Easy setup: Use the blue
Ethernet cable to connect
the base station to your
first computer.
You can change this to a
wireless connection later.
Broadband Modem
(DSL or Cable)
Wireless Base Station
Note
You cannot set up the base
station on a Microsoft
Windows 2000 computer by
using the Setup Wizard. You
can use a different computer
to set up the base station, you
can use the Base Station
Management Tool to set up
the base station on the
Windows 2000 computer, or
you can set up a network by
installing wireless adapters
only.
First Computer*
Installing the software on
this computer configures
the base station.
*In this setup method, the first computer requires an installed Ethernet adapter to
connect the base station, as shown here.
One computer, and your broadband modem, connect to the base
station with Ethernet cables. Other computers can make a wireless
or wired connections to the base station.
You can use this setup method for a Microsoft
Windows Me, Windows 2000, Windows 98 SE, or Windows 98
based computer that is connected directly to a DSL or cable
modem with an Ethernet cable. The computer must have a working
Internet connection and must not be connected to any other
computers or networks.
Second Computer
Installing the software on
this computer configures
the adapter.
®
Windows® XP,
Important
If you have an existing
network, do not use the typical
setup steps. See Chapter 2 to
locate the correct setup
method. Do not disconnect
your existing network until you
are instructed to do so.
Do not use this setup method if your computers do not match the
above configuration, or if they are already connected to a network.
See Chapter 2 to choose an alternate setup method.
It is important to follow the setup steps in the exact order given.
Install the software first, and then connect the base station. This
takes advantage of the software’s ability to detect your current
Internet and system settings and use them to configure your
wireless network.
Set up the Microsoft Wireless Base Station before you set up other
devices on your wireless network.
Note
During setup, you may be
prompted to restart your
computer or insert your
Windows Setup CD-ROM. You
may also need to specify the
location of the needed setup
files on the Windows Setup
CD-ROM by typing D:\win98.
Substitute the drive letter of
your CD-ROM drive.
Note
If you have questions or
problems during setup, click
the Help button on each setup
page for more information. If
you need to start setup over,
choose the Repair option.
Typical Setup Steps
Step 1: Install the software
1. Take the following items to the computer that is now directly
connected by an Ethernet cable to your cable or DSL modem:
• The Microsoft Broadband Networking Setup CD-ROM
• The Microsoft Wireless Base Station
• The blue Ethernet cable that came with your base station
• The AC power supply
• The blank floppy disk from your kit
• These installation instructions
2. Before you proceed with setup, check the following:
• Are you a member of the Administrator group?
On computers running Windows 2000 or Windows XP, you
must be a member of the Administrator group to set up a
network. If you cannot run setup, click Log Off from the Start
menu, press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, and then log on with an
administrator’s name and password.
• Are you running any firewall or Internet connection sharing
software?
Disable any firewall or Internet connection sharing software
on your computers. Your base station will replace these
functions, and the Setup Wizard cannot proceed if they are
enabled.
• Do you have a Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)
Internet connection or a static Internet Protocol (IP) address?
16 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
With these types of Internet connections, the Setup Wizard
will prompt you to enter information—for a PPPoE connection,
your user name, password, and service name; for a static IP
address, the IP, subnet, and ISP gateway addresses. If you
know you have one of these types of connections, gather this
information beforehand. For information about how to
determine your Internet settings, see “Determining Your
Network Settings” in Chapter 2.
3. To install the software, insert the setup CD-ROM into the
CD-ROM drive. If the Setup Wizard does not start automatically
after a few seconds, open My Computer, double-click the
CD-ROM icon, and then double-click Setup or Setup.exe. The
Welcome screen should appear.
4. In the Setup Wizard, choose to set up the base station, and
then proceed through the Setup Wizard.
Note
Leave your computer and
modem on while you connect
your base station.
Important
The modem must use its
original Ethernet cable or one
of the same type to connect to
the base station. For more
information, see “StraightThrough and Crossover
Ethernet Cables” in Chapter 1.
Note
If the blue Ethernet cable is
too short for your needs, you
can use any straight-through
Ethernet cable to connect your
computer to the base station.
For more information about
Ethernet cables, see
“Understanding Ethernet
Connections” in Chapter 1.
Step 2: Connect the base station to the computer
1. When the Setup Wizard instructs you to connect your base
station, position the base station close to your modem and
computer, and near the center of your intended network area. If
you want to position the base station vertically, attach the
included stand. For more information about placing and
positioning your base station, see Chapter 1.
2. Unplug your modem cable from the Ethernet port on the back of
your computer. Leave the other end of the cable plugged in to
the modem. Plug the cable into the port labeled To Modem on
the back of the base station. The base station is now connected
to your modem.
3. Plug one end of the blue Ethernet cable that came with your
base station into the Ethernet port labeled 1 on the back of the
base station and plug the other end into the Ethernet port on
the back of your computer.
4. Plug one end of the power supply that came with your base
station into the Power port on the back of the base station, and
plug the other end into an electrical outlet. The power indicator
light on the front of the base station should illuminate.
5. Return to the Setup Wizard and click Next.
Chapter 3: Setup 17
Your base station setup should now resemble the following
diagram.
First Computer
Wireless
Base Station
Existing
Broadband
Modem
Existing
Ethernet
Cable
Power Port
Blue Ethernet Cable
(included in box)
To Powe r
Supply
Step 3: Configure the base station and network
1. Continue to follow the Setup instructions to establish your
wireless network settings:
• You will be given an opportunity to enable wireless security
(WEP). It is recommended that you choose to enable WEP.
For more information, click Help on the WEP security page, or
see Chapter 1 and Chapter 6 of this manual.
• When you are asked, you can save your network settings to a
floppy disk for use in subsequent setups. A blank floppy disk
is provided for this. If you don’t choose to save to a disk, you
will be given a list of network settings to print or write down.
2. Click Finish to exit Setup.
3. Remove the Setup CD-ROM from the CD-ROM drive and the
floppy disk (if used) from the floppy disk drive. You can use the
same CD-ROM and floppy disk to set up additional computers.
Step 4: Test your network
1. View the status of your network in the Broadband Network
Utility. Ensure that you can see your base station and the
computer that is connected to it in the utility’s status screen.
18 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
2. If your broadband Internet connection is being shared through
your wireless network, open your Web browser and try accessing
a Web site such as www.microsoft.com. If your network is
working properly, you will be able to access the Internet from
the computer you just set up.
Other Setup Methods
In addition to the typical method, there are other ways to set up
your base station, depending on your computer and network
characteristics and the results you want. See Chapter 2 for help in
choosing your base station setup method and finding the
appropriate setup instructions.
If You Have a Non-Ethernet Modem
The Microsoft Wireless Base Station is designed specifically for
use with an external, broadband Ethernet modem. If you have a
modem with both USB and Ethernet connections, you must use the
Ethernet connection to connect to the base station.
To change your USB modem to an Ethernet connection
1. Before running setup, replace the USB cable between your
modem and computer with the Ethernet cable that came with
your modem. If you do not have this cable, see your modem
documentation or contact your Internet service provider to
determine whether you need to obtain a straight-through or
crossover Ethernet cable for the modem. Ensure that your
Internet connection is working through the Ethernet cable
before you start setup.
2. If your system matches the requirements for the typical setup
method, you can now follow the “Typical Setup Steps” in this
chapter.
If your modem does not have an Ethernet connection, you have
three choices:
• You can obtain a new modem that has an Ethernet connection.
• You can set up a network with wireless adapters only and no
base station. For information, see your adapter documentation.
• You may be able to set up the base station as a wireless access
point only. See the following section.
Using the Base Station as a Wireless Access Point Only
The base station is designed to work with an external Ethernet
modem. If you do not have one, you will not be able to run the
Setup Wizard or share your Internet connection through the base
station. If you do not want to share your Internet connection
through the base station, and you are comfortable with configuring
your base station through the Base Station Management Tool, you
can use the base station as an access point for your wireless
network only.
Chapter 3: Setup 19
To set up the base station as a wireless access point only
1. Plug one end of the blue Ethernet cable that came with your
base station into the Ethernet port labeled 1 on the back of the
base station and plug the other end into the Ethernet port on
the back of your computer.
2. Plug one end of the power supply that came with your base
station into the Power port on the back of the base station, and
plug the other end into an electrical outlet.
3. Use a pointed object to press the reset button on the back of
the base station, while observing the power indicator light. Hold
the button down until the light starts to blink green and orange,
about five seconds.
4. Release the button and wait for the light to turn solid orange
and then green, which can take up to 60 seconds.
5. Configure the base station through the Base Station
Management Tool. See Chapter 6 for instructions.
To set up the base station as a wireless access point if none of
your computers have Ethernet ports
1. Attach a wireless adapter to your computer by following the
instructions in your adapter documentation.
2. Follow steps 2 through 5 in the preceding procedure to connect
and configure the base station.
You should then be able to connect to your base station through
the wireless adapter. Although you may be able to share your
Internet connection through the networked computer, this is not
supported through Microsoft Wireless Setup. If you use a computer
that is running Windows XP to share your Internet connection, be
sure to enable Windows Internet Connection Sharing and Internet
Connection Firewall on that computer.
If You Have No Ethernet Computers
If none of your computers have available Ethernet ports, but they
do have available USB or PC Card connections, you can connect all
of your computers to the base station wirelessly, as described in
the following section. You will need to purchase wireless adapters
to configure your base station this way.
Connecting the Base Station Wirelessly
You can connect all of your computers to the base station
wirelessly if none of the computers have Ethernet connections, if
they cannot be located near the modem and base station, or if you
want all of them to be mobile.
You will need to purchase a wireless adapter for each computer
that you want to connect to the base station.
20 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Important
Setting up the base station
through a wireless adapter is
not recommended, because
your wireless and Internet
settings are vulnerable to
wireless eavesdropper during
setup. If possible, set up the
base station through a wired
connection and then switch to
a wireless connection.
Important
Get your Internet connection
settings before you disconnect
your computer from your
modem.
If you have a computer with an Ethernet connection, the
recommended method for connecting to the base station wirelessly
is to first set up and configure the base station through a wired
connection, and then change the computer to a wireless
connection. That way, you can set up the base station automatically
through the Setup Wizard and use these settings to set up the
wireless connection. The wired setup method is also more secure.
To connect a computer to the base station wirelessly if it was
originally set up with a wired connection
1. Complete the “Typical Setup Steps.” Ensure that your Internet
connection and network are operating correctly through the
wired connections.
2. Remove the blue Ethernet cable between the base station and
the computer that you want to set up wirelessly. Leave the
modem connected to the base station.
3. Install a wireless adapter on the computer according to the
instructions in your adapter documentation. If it is a MIcrosoft
adapter, run the Setup Wizard first.
If none of your computers have Ethernet connections, you can set
up the base station wirelessly from the beginning. You will install a
wireless adapter on the computer that was originally connected to
the modem, and configure the base station through this adapter.
The modem must still connect to the base station through
Ethernet, so if you had a USB modem connection, you must switch
to the Ethernet connection for connecting to the base station.
To configure the base station wirelessly from the beginning
1. Before you start setup or disconnect your modem, get your
Internet settings. For instructions, see “Determining Your
Network Settings” in Chapter 2. For most Internet connections,
you will need your Internet host name. For static IP connections,
you will need your MAC address and IP addresses; and for
PPPoE connections, your user name, password, and service
name. You must enter these settings during setup.
2. After recording your Internet settings, disconnect your modem
from your computer. If your modem previously used a USB cable,
replace the USB cable with an Ethernet cable by following the
instructions under “If You Have a Non-Ethernet Modem” in this
chapter.
3. On the computer that was connected to your broadband modem,
follow the “Typical Setup Steps” in this chapter. Choose to set up
the base station.
Because your modem has now been disconnected from your
computer, the Setup Wizard will alert you that it cannot detect
your Internet connection. Choose to proceed with setup. Later in
setup, you will be able to enter the Internet settings you saved in
step 1 of this procedure.
Chapter 3: Setup 21
Important
You cannot configure the base
station through a nonMicrosoft wireless adapter.
4. In Step 2.1 of the “Typical Setup Steps,” when the Setup Wizard
directs you to connect your base station, connect the Ethernet
cable from your modem to the To Modem port of the base
station, and connect AC power to the base station as instructed.
Your modem is now connected to the base station. Do not
connect your computer to the base station.
5. Continue to follow the Setup Wizard. During the wizard, choose
the type of wireless adapter you are going to install.
6. When the Setup Wizard directs you to connect your adapter,
connect a Microsoft Wireless USB Adapter or Microsoft Wireless
Notebook Adapter to your computer as instructed in the adapter
documentation.
7. When you are prompted, enter the Internet settings you
recorded in step 1 of this procedure.
Important
If you are replacing an existing
network, do not disconnect
any devices on your existing
network until the Setup Wizard
directs you to connect your
base station.
Note
You can leave your computers,
modem, and base station on
while you replace or add
existing networks.
Replacing Existing Networks
If any of your computers are currently connected to a network, you
can remove the computers from the network and connect each of
them to your Microsoft Wireless Base Station by following the
“Typical Setup Steps” in this chapter.
If your computers were disconnected from a base station, router,
or gateway, the Setup Wizard will not be able to access your
Internet or network settings after the existing base station is
removed. Therefore, you should obtain your Internet settings before
disconnecting the existing base station. For instructions, see
“Determining Your Network Settings” in Chapter 2.
For most Internet connections, you will need your Internet host
name. For static IP connections, you will need your MAC address
and IP addresses; and for PPPoE connections, your user name,
password, and service name. You must enter these during setup to
reestablish your Internet connection.
Connecting Existing Networks
You can connect several types of existing networks to the base
station, as explained in the sections that follow. If you are
connecting an existing network to the Microsoft Wireless Base
Station, disable any Internet connection sharing or firewall
software on the network before you start setting up the base
station. The base station replaces this software.
If your existing network contains a router, gateway, or base station,
the existing router may conflict with the Microsoft Wireless Base
Station. If you experience problems with your Internet connection
or with certain programs after adding the Microsoft base station to
an existing wired or wireless router, you may need to disable
network address translation (NAT) on one of the routers. For more
information, see “Network Address Translation” in Chapter 6.
22 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
Note
You can leave your computers,
modem, and base station on
while you replace or add
existing networks.
Note
Some Uplink ports on hubs
have directional switches.
If your base station is not
detected after being
connected to the Uplink
port of your hub, move the
directional switch to the
opposite position and try your
connection again.
Connecting Ethernet Networks to the Base Station
If your computers are networked directly together through
crossover Ethernet cables or through direct parallel, serial, or USB
connections, disconnect them and use non-crossover Ethernet
cables (including the provided blue cable) or wireless adapters to
connect each computer to the base station.
To connect your existing Ethernet hub or switch to the base
station
1. Choose one of the computers on the network to set up first, and
follow the “Typical Setup Steps” in this chapter.
2. In Step 2.1 of the “Typical Setup Steps,” when the Setup Wizard
prompts you to connect your base station, unplug your modem
cable from the Ethernet hub or switch. Leave the cable plugged
in to the modem.
3. Plug the modem cable into the To Modem port on the back of
the base station.
4. Plug one end of the blue Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port
labeled 1 on the back of the base station.
5. Plug the other end of the cable into the Uplink port on your hub.
An alternate connection method is to use a crossover Ethernet
cable to connect the base station to an Ethernet port, rather than
the Uplink port, on the hub.
Connecting HomePNA or HomeRF Networks
You can connect a HomePNA network to your Microsoft Wireless
Base Station by using a HomePNA-to-Ethernet adapter. For more
information, see your HomePNA network documentation or contact
the manufacturer.
Microsoft wireless components are not compatible with HomeRF
technology. To access computers on an existing HomeRF network,
disconnect the computers from the HomeRF network and connect
them to the Microsoft Wireless Base Station by using Ethernet
adapters or Wi-Fi compatible wireless adapters.
Connecting Existing Wireless Networks
You can connect an existing Wi-Fi compatible wireless network to
your Microsoft Wireless Base Station. Ensure that the existing base
station and adapters use the same wireless network name,
channel, and WEP key, if enabled, as your Microsoft Wireless Base
Station. If the routing function of the existing base station, router,
or gateway conflicts with the router on the Microsoft Wireless Base
Station, you may need to disable network address translation (NAT)
on one of the routers. For more information, see “Network Address
Translation” in Chapter 6.
Chapter 3: Setup 23
If Your Computers Are on a Domain
If any of the computers that you want to network are already
members of a domain—for example, if you have a laptop that is on
a domain at work, and you want to connect it to your home
wireless network—the Setup Wizard will detect this and skip the
file-sharing and printer-sharing sections of setup. You will not be
able to share files and printers with other computers on the
wireless network, but you will be able to access your computer’s
domain when you return to work.
It is possible to switch to a workgroup after setup, to access files
on your wireless network. However, you will then have to switch
back to the domain to access your work network. For more
information, see your Broadband Network Utility Help.
Setting Up the Base Station on a Windows 2000
Computer
You cannot use the Setup Wizard to set up the base station on a
computer that is running Windows 2000. Your options are to
• Use a different computer to set up the base station.
• Use the Base Station Management Tool to set up the base
station. See Chapter 6 for instructions.
• Set up a network by installing wireless adapters only. See your
adapter documentation for instructions.
Setting Up the Base Station on a Non-Windows
Computer
You will not be able to use the Setup Wizard to set up the base
station on a Macintosh or other computer that is not running
Windows. You can connect the base station to your broadband
modem and to an Ethernet port on the computer as shown in the
“Typical Setup Steps.” To configure the base station, you can use
the Base Station Management Tool. See Chapter 6 for instructions.
Adding to Your Network
The base station can support over 200 simultaneous wired and
wireless connections. You can add even more Ethernet devices by
connecting Ethernet hubs or switches to the base station. For more
information on connecting hubs or switches, see “Connecting
Ethernet Networks to the Base Station” in this chapter.
The following sections discuss adding wireless computers, wired
computers, and other devices to your network. If you are not sure
whether to use a wired or a wireless connection for adding devices
to your network, see Chapter 2.
24 Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Base Station User’s Guide
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