NETGEAR MA111 User Manual

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

NETGEAR, Inc.

4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

202-10032-01 Version v1.0 June 2004

Technical Support

Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at www.netgear.com/register

, we can provide you with faster expert technical support and

timely notices of product and software upgrades. NETGEAR, INC. Support Information Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR, for US & Canada only. For other countries, see your Support

information card. E-mail: support@netgear.com Web site: www.netgear.com

Statement of Conditions

In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice.

NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.

©2004 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's Connecting are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved

June 2004

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the Model MA11 1 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 in st ructions for correct handling.

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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 MA111v2 Wireless USB 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 rea sonable 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.

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iii

NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Tested to Comply with FCC Standards

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved byNETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate the equipment.

PY3MA111V2

Export Restrictions

This product or software contains encryption code which may not be exported or transferred from the US or Canada without an approved US Department of Commerce export license.

Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity

This device is a 2.4 GHz low power RF device intended for home and office use in EU and EFT A member states. In some EU / EFTA member states some restrictions may apply. Please contact local spectrum management authorities for further details before putting this device into operation.

This product is certified for Switzerland and all EU countries. Marking by the above symbol indicates compliance with the Essential Requirements of the R&TTE Directive of the European Union (1999/5/EC). This equipment meets the following conformance standards: EN300 328, EN301 489-17, EN60950

Requirements For Operation in the European Community

Countries of Operation and Conditions of Use in the European Community

The user should run the client utility program provided with this product to check the current channel of operation and confirm that the device is operating in conformance with the spectrum usage rules for European Community countries as described in this section.

This device is intended to be operated in all countries of the European Community.

Operation Using 2.4 GHz Channels in France

The following radio channel usage limitations apply in France. The radio spectrum regulator in France, Autorité de regulation des telecommunications (ART), enforces the following

rules with respect to use of 2.4GHz spectrum in various locations in France. Please check ART's web site for latest

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requirements for use of the 2.4GHz band in France: http://www.art-telecom.fr/eng/index.htm. When operating in the following metropolitan regions (départements) in France, this device may be operated under the following conditions:

Indoors using any channel in the 2.4-2.4835 GHz band (Channels 1-13) Outdoors using channels in the 2.4-2.454 GHz band (Channels 1-7) When operating outside of the following regions (départements) in France (see table below), this product must be

operated under the following conditions:

• Indoors using channels in the 2.4465-2.4835 GHz band (Channels 10-13).

• Outdoor operation not permitted. Please refer to the ART web site for further details.

Metropolitan Regions with Eased Restrictions in 2.4GHz Band

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Declaration of Conformity in Languages of the European Community

Finnish: Valmistaja NETGEAR, Inc. vakuuttaa täten että Radio LAN device tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien direktiivin muid en ehtojen mukainen.

Dutch: Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR, Inc. dat het toestel Radio LAN device in overeenstemming is met de essentiële eisen en de andere relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG.

French: Par la présente NETGEAR, Inc. déclare que l'appareil Radio LAN device est conforme aux exigences essentielles et aux autres dispositions pertinentes de la directive 1999/5/CE.

Swedish: Härmed intygar NETGEAR, Inc. att denna Radio LAN device står I överensstämmelse med de väsentliga egenskapskrav och övriga relevanta bestämmelser som framgår av direktiv 1999/5/EG.

Danish: Undertegnede NETGEAR, Inc. erklærer herved, at følgende udstyr Radio LAN device overholder de væsentlige krav og øvrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF.

German: Hiermit erklärt NETGEAR, Inc., dass sich dieser/diese/dieses Radio LAN device in Übereinstimmung mit den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den anderen relevanten Vorschriften der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG befindet.

Italian: Con la presente NETGEAR, Inc. dichiara che questo Radio LAN device è conforme ai requisiti essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni pertinenti stabilite dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE.

Spanish: Por medio de la presente NETGEAR, Inc. declara que el Radio LAN device cumple con los requisitos esenciales y cualesquiera otras disposiciones aplicables o exigibles de la Directiva 1999/5/CE.

Portugese: NETGEAR, Inc. declara que este Radio LAN device está conforme com os requisitos essenciais e outras disposições da Directiva 1999/5/CE.

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations

This digital apparatus (NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111) 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-MA111V2

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Chapter 1 About This Manual

Audience, Scope, Conventions ......................................................................................1-1

Chapter 2 Introduction

About the MA111 ............................................................................................................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

MA111 Default Wireless Configuration Settings .............................................................3-3

Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................3-4

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA111 ..............................................................3-4

For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a MA111 ............................................3-8

MA111 Wireless Connection Indicators ........................................................................3-12

Interpreting the LED on the MA111 ........................................................................3-12

Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................................3-13

Troubleshooting .................................................. .......................................................... 3-13

Basic Tips ...............................................................................................................3-14

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................3-14

Chapter 4 Configuration

Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................4-1

Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................4-1

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile ...........................................................4-2

How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ............ ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..4-3

Contents vii

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How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network .......................................4-5

Enabling Wireless Security Features ........................ .................... ................... ...............4-5

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........4-6

How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................4-7

How to Configure WPA Encryption Security ............................................................4-8

Statistics Page ........................................................................................................4-10

Advanced Settings Page ........................................................................................4-10

Appendix A Technical Specifications

Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics

Wireless Networking Overview ..................................................................... ... ... .... ... ... . B-1

Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................................. B-1

Ad-Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) .................................. ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . B-2

Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................ B-2

Wireless Channels ....................... .... ... ... ... ..................................................................... B-2

Authentication and WEP ........................... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................. B-4

802.11 Authentication .............................................................................................. B-4

Open System Authentication .............................. .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... .......................B-5

Shared Key Authentication ...................................................................................... B-5

Overview of WEP Parameters ................................................................................ B-6

Key Size .................................................................................................................. B-7

WEP Configuration Options ............... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ................................. B-8

WPA Wireless Security ..................................................................................................B-8

How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................B-9

How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-10

What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-10

WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User

Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS .................................................. B-12

WPA Data Encryption Key Management ........................................................ B-14

Is WPA Perfec t? .... ... .... ... ... ... .............................................................................. .. B-16

Product Support for WPA ......................................................................................B-16

Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients ............................... B-16

Changes to Wireless Access Points ...............................................................B-16

Changes to Wireless Network Adapters .........................................................B-17

Changes to Wireless Client Programs .......................... ......................... ......... B-18

viii Contents

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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 V erify 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 V erify 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 Index

Contents ix

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x Contents

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 Resource CD (240-10082-01), and on the NETGEAR Web site.

This manual uses the following typographical conventions:

Table 1. Typographical conventions

italics Emphasis.

bold User input. [Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets.

SMALL CAPS

DOS 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 1-1. Manual Specifications

Product Version NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 Manual Part Number 202-10032-01 Manual Publication Date June 2004

Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at

www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.

About This Manual 1-1

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

1-2 About This Manual

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Chapter 2

Introduction

This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111.

About the MA111

The NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 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 acces s among multiple PCs in and a round your home. It is designed for PC computers running Microsoft and is compatible with USB 2.0 ports.

Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer at up to 11 Mbps for maximum throughput or dynamic range shifting to lower speeds due to distance or op erating limitations in an environment with a lot of electromagnetic interference.

Windows®. It is a USB 1.1 device

The MA111 Wireless USB Adapter provides reliable, standards-based 802.11b 11 Mbps WLAN connectivity that is protected with industry-standard security. It works with Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems.

Key Features

The MA111 Wireless USB Adapter provides the following features:

• Reliable IEEE 802.11b standards-based wireless technology.

• 11 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 o r to improve data transfer rate.

Introduction 2-1

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

What’s in the Box?

The product package should contain the following items:

• NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

• Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 (202-1032-01)

• NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 Resource CD (240-10082-01), including: — Driver and Configuration Utility Software — User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 — Animated Network Properties Configuration Tu torial — 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 Introduction

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Connect to a wireless network

Protect my wireless connection from snooping, hacking, or information theft.

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 impleme n t are in addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.

1. Identify the wireless network name (SSID) and, if used, the wireless security settings.

2. Set up the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 with the settings from step

1. Assure that the wireless network has security features enabled.

2. Configure my MA111 with the security settings of the wireless network.

3. Use Windows security features.

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.

1. A wireless network with authentication and WEP encryption enabled.

2. Wireless networking equipment that supports WEP encryption, such as the MA111 and all NETGEAR wireless networking products.

To set up the MA111, see

Chapter 3, “Basic Setup” and

follow the instructions provided. To learn about wireless

networking technology, see

Appendix , “Wireless Networking Overview” for a general

introduction.

To learn about wireless networking security, see

“Authentication and WEP” on page B-4.

To use WEP security features, see “Enabling Wireless Security

Features” on page 4-5 and

configure your MA111 accordingly.

Introduction 2-3

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Connect to the Internet over my wireless network.

1. Activate my wireless link and verify my network connection.

2. Open an Internet browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.

1. An active Internet connection like those from cable or DSL service providers.

2. A wireless network connected to the cable or DSL Internet service through a cable/DSL router as illustrated in

“How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile” 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.

To configure your MA111 in Infrastructure Mode, see “Basic

Installation Instructions” on page 3-4, and locate the section

for your version of Windows. For assistance with configuring

the TCP/IP Internet software on a PC, see “Preparing Your

Computers for TCP/IP Networking” on page C-1 or refer

to the PC Networking Tutorial on the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless

USB Adapter MA1 11 Resource CD (240-10082-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using. .

2-4 Introduction

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Exchange files between a wirelessly connected PC and other computers in a my combined wireless and wired network.

1. Use the Windows Network Neighborhood feature to browse for computers in the combined wireless and wired network.

2. Browse the hard drive of the target computer in the network in order to locate the directory or files you want to work with.

3. Use the Windows Explorer copy and paste functions to exchange files between the computers.

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 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.

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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA1 11 Resource CD (240-10082-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using.

Introduction 2-5

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Use printers in a combined wireless and wired network.

1. Use the Windows Printers and Fax features to locate 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.

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.

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.

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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA1 11 Resource CD (240-10082-01) 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.

2-6 Introduction

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Chapter 3

Basic Setup

This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 provides highly effective security features which are covered in “Enabling Wireless Security Features” on page 4-5 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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:

• You must have a PC with a Pentium available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port.

•A CD-ROM drive.

• 5 Mbytes of free hard disk space.

• Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000, Me, or 98SE. Some versions of Windows may ask for the original W in dows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the MA111 driver software.

Basic Setup 3-1

300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111. 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 MA111 Wireless USB 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.

Both of these configuration options are available with the MA111 Wireless USB 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.

3-2 Basic Setup

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

MA111 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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 factory default basic settings are:

• Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (First available network) Note: In order for the MA111 Wireless USB 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 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 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 Setup 3-3

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Basic Installation Instructions

Use the procedure below that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using.

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA111

Install the MA111 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 MA111

into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page loads.

Note: If this screen fails to load automatically, browse to the CD and double-click on autorun.exe.

c. Click Install Driver and Utility. d. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps

and choose the country where you are located.

e. Click Finish when done, and if prompted

restart your computer.

Resource CD Main page

InstallShield Wizard

Note: If a Windows XP Certification warning appears, click Continue Anyway to proceed.

3-4 Basic Setup

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Install the MA111 Wireless Adapter.

a. Locate an available USB port on your

PC. Connect the USB cable to the MA111 and insert the other end of the cable into the USB slot on your PC.

After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays.

Note: If you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message, click Continue Anyway.

b. Next you will be prompted to choose the

country where you are located. 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

Found New Hardware Wizard

Enable NETGEAR Utility Configuration

c. Click Finish when done, and if prompted

restart your computer. The MA11 1 system tray icon appears on

the lower right portion of the Windows

MA111 System Tray Icon

task bar.

Basic Setup 3-5

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Configure your MA111 and Save the Profile.

a. Click the icon on the Windows

desktop or in the system tray to open the

Click here to open the configuration utility.

Wireless Configuration Utility. Tip: You can click Help to view

MA111 system tray icon

context-sensitive help.

b. Click the Configuration tab. Change the

Network Name SSID to match your network.

Tip: You can select an available wireless network from the drop-down list.

If your network uses WEP security, select Enable Encryption. For more information about configuring WEP, click Help, or see

“Enabling Wireless

Security Features” on page 4-5.

c. Click Apply to activate the connection. d. You can use the Profile tab to 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

Wireless Configuration Utility page

and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for wherever you are located.

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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 MA111 accordingly.

User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

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 MA111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow

indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection.

c. Check the MA111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good

connection; off means the MA111 is not plugged in.

d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you are unable to connect, see “Troubleshooting” on page 3-13.

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For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a MA111

Install the MA111 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 MA111

into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page loads.

Note: If this screen fails to load automatically, browse to the CD and double-click on autorun.exe.

Resource CD Main page

c. Click Install Driver and Utility. d. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps.

Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer.

InstallShield Wizard

Note: If a Windows 2000 Digital Signature warning appears, click Yes to proceed.

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Install the MA111 Wireless Adapter.

a. Locate an available USB port on your

PC. Connect the USB cable to the MA111 and insert the other end of the cable into the USB slot on your PC.

After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays.

Note: If Windows 2000 displays a Digital Signature Not Found message, click Yes to continue the installation.

b. Follow the Found NEw Hardware

Wizard steps. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer.

c. When prompted, choose the country

where you are located.

Found New Hardware Wizard

d. The MA111 system tray icon appears on

the lower right portion of the Windows

MA111 System Tray Icon

task bar.

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Configure your MA111 and save the Profile.

a. Click the MA111 icon on the

Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the MA111 configuration utility.

Tip: You can click Help to view context-sensitive help.

The utility opens to the Status tab. The Signal Strength and Link Quality indicators report the status of your wireless connection. The default Network Name (SSID) is set as Any (First available network).

b. If you want to specify the SSID or if

your network uses WEP security, click the Configuration tab.

Change the Network Name SSID to match your network.

To use WEP security, select Enable Encryption. For information about configuring WEP, click Help, or see

“Enabling Wireless Security Features” on page 4-5.

Click here to open the configuration utility.

MA111 system tray icon

c. Click Apply to activate the connection. d. You can use the Profile tab to 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

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 MA111 accordingly.

MA111 Configuration Utility

and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for wherever you are located.

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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 MA111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow

indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection.

c. Check the MA111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good

connection; off means the MA111 is not plugged in.

d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you are unable to connect, see “Troubleshooting” on page 3-13.

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MA111 Wireless Connection Indicators

The NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 provides the following three indicators which give you feedback on the status of your wireless connection:

• The status LED on the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 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 MA111

Status LED

The status LED is described in this table.

Table 3-1: LED Descriptions

LED Meaning

OFF • The MA111 in not plugged in to the PC.

• Power save mode (default from power up or reset).

Blink Looking for network association.

On Associated or joined with network.

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Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors

The System Tray (SysTray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop.

Color Condition Description

Red

Yellow

Green

The MA111 has no connection to any wireless node.

The MA111 has a connection with another wireless node.

Troubleshooting

The MA111 is not able to link to any other wireless node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better.

The wireless link is weak. Y ou 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.

The MA111 has established good communication with an access point and the signal quality is strong.

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.

Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows 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.

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Basic Tips

If you have problems connected to your wireless network, try the tips below.

Symptom Cause Solution

The LED is not lit. The MA111 is not

connected to the USB port properly or the MA111 software is not loaded.

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.

The MA111 is attempting to connect to an access point, but cannot connect.

This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem.

Remove and reinsert the MA111. Check the Windows device manager to see if the MA111 is recognized and enabled. Reload the MA111 software, if necessary. Try to install th e MA111 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 MA111 are not configured with the same wireless parameters. Check the SSID and WEP settings.

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 the “A Road Map for ‘How to Get There

From Here’” on page 2-2 for additional suggestions.

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions

1. Question: Why does the utility kept asking me to Save my settings when I’m trying to close

the utility? Answer: This is because you’ve 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 clicking Close for the utility program.

2. Question: Why doesn’t Ad-Hoc mode work correctly after I enter a SSID and click Apply?

Answer: Be sure all computers in your Ad-Hoc network are configured with static IP address in the same subnet.

3. Question for XP Professional and XP Home users only: How do I use XP’s own Wireless

configuration utility that came with the OS?

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Answer: The NETGEAR MA111 software is designed in such way that user will be asked to choose one of the utility programs during initial software installation. Be sure the MA111 is connected to the PC and follow these instructions to change your selection. Go to Control Panel> Network Connections> Wireless Network Connection > Properties> Wireless Networks tab> for the MA111 and check or uncheck “Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings”.

4. Question: Is this MA111 IEEE 802.11b standards compliant?

Answer: Yes, the MA111 complies with the IEEE 802.11b standards.

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Chapter 4

Configuration

This chapter describes how to configure your NETGEAR 11 Mbps W ireless USB Adapter MA1 11 for wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and use the data security encryption features.

Note: The instructions in this chapter refer to the NETGEAR MA111 configuration

utility. To use this utility with Windows XP, deselect the Windows XP configuration utility. If you did not enable the NETGEAR utility when you installed the MA111 Wireless USB 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 MA111 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 MA11 1 configuration u tility 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.

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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.

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile

This section provides instructions for configuring the NETGEAR 1 1 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 to connect to a wireless access point.

Follow the instructions below to configure an infrastructure mode profile for connecting to an access point.

1. Run the MA111 Configuration Utility.

a. Make sure the MA111 software is installed and the MA111 is connected to your PC. b. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the Wireless

Configuration Utility. It opens to the Status tab.

2. Configure the wireless Network settings.

a. Click the Configuration tab. b. Make sure that Infrastructure (Access Point) is selected for the Network Mode. c. Enter the SSID. This is also called the Wireless Network Name.

You can type the SSID or select it from the drop-down list. You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID matches exactly what is configured in the access point.

Tip: To view a list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at your location, click the Site Survey tab.

d. Click OK.

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3. Save your settings in a Profile.

a. Click the Profile tab. b. Type a descriptive name for the Profile in the “Profiles” field. c. Click Save. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. d. Click OK to keep the profile or Cancel to return to the previous settings.

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 “Troubleshooting” on page 3-13. 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 Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile

The peer-to-peer setting of the MA1 1 1 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.

Note: Ad-hoc mode will not work using DHCP settings. Ad-hoc mode requires static IP addresses (such as

192.168.0.2). For instructions on setting up static IP addresses on a Windows PC, refer

to the PC Networking Tutorial included on the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111 Resource CD (240-10082-01).

Follow the instructions below to configure an Ad-hoc mode profile.

1. Run the MA111 Configuration Utility.

a. Make sure the MA111 software is installed and the MA111 is connected to your PC. b. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the Wireless

Configuration Utility.

c. Click the Configuration tab. d. Select Ad-hoc for the Network Mode.

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e. Enter the SSID for the Ad-Hoc network. f. Click OK.

2. Save your Profile.

3. Configure the PC network settings.

a. Configure each PC with either a static IP address.

Note: For instructions on configuring static IP addresses, refer to the networking tutorial on your NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA1 11 Resource CD (240-10082-01).

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 4-1: 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

c. This will cause a continuous ping to be sent to the device with the 192.168.0.1 static IP

and then click OK.

address. The ping response should change to “reply.”

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Figure 4-2: 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 “Troubleshooting” on page 3-13. 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 mode.

3. Click Apply. The Status tab page appears.

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 Site Survey tab to identify the channels in use in your area.

4. Click OK.

Note: The channel number differs depending on the country. The connection speed automatically

defaults to the highest speed.

Enabling Wireless Security Features

You can strengthen the security of your wireless connection by enabling Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption of the wireless data communications. For more information on 802.11 wireless security, see “Authentication and WEP” on page B-4.

In addition to the MA111 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.

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The procedures below identify how to configure the WEP encryption settings of your NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapte r MA111.

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 MA11 1 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: ____________________________ 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.

• WPA Security Encryption WPA Passphrase: ____________________________

Use the procedures below to configure security settings in the MA111.

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How to Configure WEP Encryption Security

Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security.

1. Run the MA111 Configuration Utility.

a. Make sure the MA111 software is installed and the MA111 is connected to your PC. b. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the Wireless

Configuration Utility.

2. Specify the SSID.

a. Click the Configuration tab. b. Enter the Network Name 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 select from the drop-down list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at your location.

3. Enter the WEP settings

a. On the Configuration tab, select the Enable Encryption check box. b. 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.

c. Select Create with Passphrase and enter the passphrase. The configuration utility

automatically generates 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. The Default Key setting must match what is set in the access point and the other 802.11 wireless devices.

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4. Save your settings in a Profile.

a. Click the Profile tab and type a descriptive name in the “Profiles” field. b. Click Save. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click OK. d. Click Close to exit the configuration utility.

5. Click Apply for the changes to take effect.

How to Configure WPA Encryption Security

Follow the steps below to configure WPA Encryption Security.

1. Run the MA111 Configuration Utility.

a. Make sure the MA111 software is installed and the MA111 is connected to your PC. b. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the Wireless

Configuration Utility.

2. Specify the SSID.

a. Click the Configuration tab. b. Enter the Network Name 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 select from the drop-down list of the available wireless networks and their SSIDs at your location.

3. Enter the WPA settings.

a. On the Configuration tab, select the Enable Encryption check box. b. Select the WPA radio button. c. Enter the passphrase.

Note: The characters are case sensitive. Be sure to use the same passphrase for all the WPA wireless devices in the network.

4. Save your settings in a Profile.

a. Click the Profile tab and type a descriptive name in the “Profiles” field.

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b. Click Save. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click OK. d. Click Close to exit the configuration utility.

5. Click Apply for the changes to take effect.

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Statistics Page

The Statistics page provides real time and historical trend information on the data traffic and performance of your wireless adapter.

• Transmit/Receive Per f ormance (%): 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 Kbits and Transmit Packets: Identifies transmit kilobits per second, and transmit packets per second (Tx Packets/s), total transmitted packets, and transmit errors.

• Receive Kbits and Receive Packets: Identifies receive kilobits per second, receive packets per second (Rx Packets/s), total received packets, and received errors.

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.

• Transmit Rate: The default setting is Fully Automatic.

•Power Saving: The default setting is Off.

• 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.

• Preamble Type: A long transmit preamble may provide a more reliable connection or slightly longer range. A short transmit preamble might give slightly better performance.

• Fragmentation Threshold: This is the maximum packet size used for fragmenta tion. Packet s larger than the size programmed in this field will be fragmented. The Fragmentation Threshold value must be larger than the RTS/CTS Threshold value.

• RTS/CTS Threshold : The packet size that is used to determine whether to use the CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) mechanism or the CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance) mechanism for packet transmission. CSMA/CD is slightly more efficient.

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Appendix A

Technical Specifications

This appendix provides technical specifications for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Antennae 1 Integrated internal antenna Standards 802.11b Radio Data Rate 1, 2, 5.5, and 11 Mbps (Auto Rate Sensing) Frequency 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz (CCK and OFDM Modulation) Power SV USB line powered Emissions FCC, CE, C-tick, IC Bus interface USB 1.1 Provided drivers Microsoft Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98SE Operating Environment Operating temperature: 0 to 55 degree C Encryption 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption Warranty Limited 1-year warranty

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Appendix B

Wireless Networking Basics

This chapter provides an overview of Wireless networking.

Wireless Networking Overview

The MA111 Wireless USB Adapter conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs). On an 802.11b wireless link, data is encoded using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and is transmitted in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.4GHz. The maximum data rate for the 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 802.11b auto rate sensing rates are 1, 2, 5.5, and 11 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.

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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 W indows 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 802.11b and 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.

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The radio frequency channels used are listed in Table 4-1:

Table 4-1. 802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels

Channel Center Frequency Frequency Spread

1 2412 MHz 2399.5 MHz - 2424.5 MHz 2 2417 MHz 2404.5 MHz - 2429.5 MHz 3 2422 MHz 2409.5 MHz - 2434.5 MHz 4 2427 MHz 2414.5 MHz - 2439.5 MHz 5 2432 MHz 2419.5 MHz - 2444.5 MHz 6 2437 MHz 2424.5 MHz - 2449.5 MHz 7 2442 MHz 2429.5 MHz - 2454.5 MHz 8 2447 MHz 2434.5 MHz - 2459.5 MHz 9 2452 MHz 2439.5 MHz - 2464.5 MHz 10 2457 MHz 2444.5 MHz - 2469.5 MHz 11 2462 MHz 2449.5 MHz - 2474.5 MHz 12 2467 MHz 2454.5 MHz - 2479.5 MHz 13 2472 MHz 2459.5 MHz - 2484.5 MHz

Note: The available channels s upporte d by the wireless products in various countries are dif ferent.

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.

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Authentication and WEP

The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes the wireless links vulnerable to eavesdropping and information theft. To provide a certain level of security, the IEEE 802.11 standard has defined two types of authentication methods, Open System and Shared Key. With Open System authentication, a wireless PC can join any network and receive any messages that are not encrypted. With Shared Key authentication, only those PCs that possess the correct authentication key can join the network. By default, IEEE 802.11 wireless devices operate in an Open System network.

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption is used when the wireless devices are configured to operate in Shared Key authentication mode. There are two shared key methods implemented in most commercially available products, 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.

802.11 Authentication

The 802.11 standard defines several services that govern how two 802.11 devices communicate. The following events must occur before an 802.11 Station can communicate with an Ethernet network through an access point such as the one built in to the MA111:

1. Turn on the wireless station.

2. The station listens for messages from any access points that are in range.

3. The station finds a message from an access point that has a matching SSID.

4. The station sends an authentication request to the access point.

5. The access point authenticates the station.

6. The station sends an association request to the access point.

7. The access point associates with the station.

8. The station can now communicate with the Ethernet network through the access point.

An access point must authenticate a station before the station can associate with the access point or communicate with the network. The IEEE 802.11 standard defines two types of authentication: Open System and Shared Key.

• Open System Authentication allows any device to join the network, assuming that the device SSID matches the access point SSID. Alternatively , the device can use the “Any” SSID option (case sensitive) to associate with any available Access Point within range, regardless of its SSID.

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• Shared Key Authentication requires that the station and the access point have the same WEP Key to authenticate. These two authentication procedures are described below.

Open System Authentication

The following steps occur when two devices use Open System Authentication:

1. The station sends an authentication request to the access point.

2. The access point authenticates the station.

3. The station associates with the access point and joins the network.

This process is illustrated in below.

802.11 Authentication Open System Steps

1) Authentication request sent to AP

Access Point (AP)

Client

2) AP authenticates

3) Client connects to network

INTERNET LOCAL

WLAN

ProSafeWirelessVPNSecurityFirewall

Cable/DSL

LNK

PWR TEST

ACT

Enable

12345678

100

LNK/ACT

MODEL

FVM318

Cable or

DLS modem

attempting to connect

Figure 4-3: 802.11 open system authentication

Shared Key Authentication

The following steps occur when two devices use Shared Key Authentication:

1. The station sends an authentication request to the access point.

2. The access point sends challenge text to the station.

3. The statio n uses it s co nfig ured 64-bit or 128-bit default key to encrypt the challenge text, and

sends the encrypted text to the access point.

4. The access point decrypts the encrypted text using its configured WEP Key that corresponds

to the station’s default key. The access point compares the decrypted text with the original challenge text. If the decrypted text matches the original challenge text, then the access point and the station share the same WEP Key and the access point authenticates the station.

5. The station connects to the network.

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If the decrypted text does not match the original challenge text (i.e., the access point and station do not share the same WEP Key), then the access point will refuse to authenticate the station and the station will be unable to communicate with either the 802.11 network or Ethernet network.

This process is illustrated in below.

802.11 Authentication Shared Key Steps

Access Point (AP)1) Authentication

request sent to AP

100

LNK/ACT

MODEL

FVM318

Cable or

DLS modem

Client attempting to connect

2) AP sends challenge text

3) Client encrypts challenge text and

sends it back to AP

4) AP decrypts, and if correct, authenticates client

5) Client connects to network

INTERNET LOCAL

WLAN

ProSafeWirelessVPNSecurityFirewall

Cable/DSL

LNK

PWR TEST

ACT

Enable

12345678

Figure 4-4: 802.11 shared key authentication

Overview of WEP Parameters

Before enabling WEP on an 802.11 network, you must first consider what type of encryption you require and the key size you want to use. Typically, there are three WEP Encryption options available for 802.11 products:

1. Do Not Use WEP: The 802.11 network does not encrypt data. For authentication purposes,

the network uses Open System Authentication.

2. Use WEP for Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the data portion of every

packet it sends using a configured WEP Key. The receiving 802.11b device decrypts the data using the same WEP Key. For authentication purposes, the 802.11b network uses Open System Authentication.

3. Use WEP for Authentication and Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the

data portion of every packet it sends using a configured WEP Key. The receiving 802.11 device decrypts the data using the same WEP Key. For authentication purpo ses, the 802.11 network uses Shared Key Authentication.

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Note: Some 802.11 access points also support Use WEP for Authentication Only (Shared Key

Authentication without data encryption).

Key Size

The IEEE 802.11 standard supports two types of WEP encryption: 40-bit and 128-bit. The 64-bit WEP data encryption method, allows for a five-character (40-bit) input. Additionally,

24 factory-set bits are added to the forty-bit input to generate a 64-bit encryption key. (The 24 factory-set bits are not user-configurable). This encryption key will be used to encrypt/decrypt all data transmitted via the wireless interface. Some vendors refer to the 64-bit WEP data encryption as 40-bit WEP data encryption since the user-configurable portion of the encryption key is 40 bits wide.

The 128-bit WEP data encryption method consists of 104 user-configurable bits. Similar to the forty-bit WEP data encryption method, the remaining 24 bits are factory set and not user configurable. Some vendors allow passphrases to be entered instead of the cryptic hexadecimal characters to ease encryption key entry.

128-bit encryption is stronger than 40-bit encryption, but 128-bit encryption may not be available outside of the United States due to U.S. export regulations.

When configured for 40-bit encryption, 802.11 products typically support up to four WEP Keys. Each 40-bit WEP Key is expressed as 5 sets of two hexadecimal digits (0-9 and A-F). For example, “12 34 56 78 90” is a 40-bit WEP Key.

When configured for 128-bit encryption, 802.11b products typically support four WEP Keys but some manufacturers support only one 128-bit key . The 128-bit WEP Key is expressed as 13 sets of two hexadecimal digits (0-9 and A-F). For example, “12 34 56 78 90 AB CD EF 12 34 56 78 90” is a 128-bit WEP Key.

Note: Typically, 802.11 access points can store up to four 128-bit WEP Keys but some 802.11 client adapters can only store one. Therefore, make sure that your 802.11 access and client adapters configurations match.

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WEP Configuration Options

The WEP settings must match on all 802.11 devices that are within the same wireless network as identified by the SSID. In general, if your mobile clients will roam between access points, then all of the 802.11 access points and all of the 802.11 client adapters on the network must have the same WEP settings.

Note: Whatever keys you enter for an AP, you must also enter the same keys for the client adapter in the same order. In other words, WEP key 1 on the AP must match WEP key 1 on the client adapter, WEP key 2 on the AP must match WEP key 2 on the client adapter, etc.

Note: The AP and the client adapters can have different default WEP Keys as long as the keys are in the same order. In other words, the AP can use WEP key 2 as its default key to transmit while a client adapter can use WEP key 3 as its default key to transmit. The two devices will communicate as long as the AP’s WEP key 2 is the same as the client’s WEP key 2 and the AP’s WEP key 3 is the same as the client’s WEP key 3.

WPA Wireless Security

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a specification of standards-based, interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing and future wireless LAN systems.

The IEEE introduced the WEP as an optional security measure to secure 802.11b (W i-Fi) WLANs, but inherent weaknesses in the standard soon became obvious. In response to this situation, the Wi-Fi Alliance announced a new security architecture in October 2002 that remedies the short comings of WEP. This standard, formerly known as Safe Secure Network (SSN), is designed to work with existing 802.11 products and offers forward compatibility with 802.11i, the new wireless security architecture being defined in the IEEE.

WPA offers the following benefits:

• Enhanced data privacy

• Robust key management

• Data origin authentication

• Data integrity protection

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The Wi-Fi Alliance is now performing interoperability certification testing on Wi-Fi Protected Access products. Starting August of 2003, all new Wi-Fi certified products will have to support WPA. NETGEAR will implement WPA on client and access point products and make this available in the second half of 2003. Existing Wi-Fi certified products will have one year to add WPA support or they will loose their Wi-Fi certification.

The 802.11i standard is currently in draft form, with ratification due at the end of 2003. While the new IEEE 802.11i standard is being ratified, wireless vendors have agreed on WPA as an interoperable interim standard.

How Does WPA Compare to WEP?

WEP is a data encryption method and is not intended as a user authentication mechanism. WPA user authentication is implemented using 802.1x and the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). Support for 802.1x authentication is required in WPA. In the 802.11 standard, 802.1x authentication was optional. For details on EAP specifically, refer to IETF's RFC 2284.

With 802.1 1 WEP, all access points and client wireless adapters on a particular wireless LAN must use the same encryption key. A major problem with the 802.11 standard is that the keys are cumbersome to change. If you don't update the WEP keys often, an unauthorized person with a sniffing tool can monitor your network for less than a day and decode the encrypted messages. Products based on the 802.11 standard alone offer system administrators no effective method to update the keys.

For 802.11, WEP encryption is optional. For WPA, encryption using Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is required. TKIP replaces WEP with a new encryption algorithm that is stronger than the WEP algorithm, but that uses the calculation facilities present on existing wireless devices to perform encryption operations. TKIP provides important data encryption enhancements including a per-packet key mixing function, a message integrity check (MIC) named Michael, an extended initialization vector (IV) with sequencing rules, and a re-keying mechanism. Through these enhancements, TKIP addresses all of known WEP vulnerabilities.

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How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i?

WPA will be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i security specification currently under development. WPA is a subset of the current 802.11i draft and uses certain pieces of the 802.11i draft that are ready to bring to market today, such as 802.1x and TKIP. The main pieces of the

802.11i draft that are not included in WPA are secure IBSS (Ad-Hoc mode), secure fast handoff (for specialized 802.11 VoIP phones), as well as enhanced encryption protocols such as AES-CCMP. These features are either not yet ready for market or will require hardware upgrades to implement.

What are the Key Features of WPA Security?

The following security features are included in the WPA standard:

• WPA Authentication

• WPA Encryption Key Management – Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) –Michael – AES Support

• Support for a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients

These features are discussed below. WPA addresses most of the known WEP vulnerabilities and is primarily intended for wireless

infrastructure networks as found in the enterprise. This infrastructure includes stations, access points, and authentication servers (typically RADIUS servers). The RADIUS server holds (or has access to) user credentials (e.g., user names and passwords) and authenticates wireless users before they gain access to the network.

The strength WPA comes from an integrated sequence of operations that encompass 802.1X/EAP authentication and sophisticated key management and encryption techniques. Its major operations include:

• Network security capability determination. This occurs at the 802.11 level and is communicated through WPA information elements in Beacon, Probe Response, and (Re) Association Requests. Information in these elements includes the authentication method (802.1X or Pre-shared key) and the preferred cipher suite (WEP, TKIP, or AES).

message integrity code (MIC)

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The primary information conveyed in the Beacon frames is the authentication method and the cipher suite. Possible authentication methods include 802.1X and Pre-shared key. Pre-shared key is an authentication method that uses a statically configured pass phrase on both the stations and the access point. This obviates the need for an authentication server, which in many home and small office environments will not be available nor desirable. Possible cipher suites include: WEP, TKIP, and AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). We’ll talk more TKIP and AES when addressing data privacy below.

• Authentication. EAP over 802.1X is used for authentication. Mutual authentication is gained by choosing an EAP type supporting this feature and is required by WPA. 802.1X port access control prevents full access to the network until authentication completes. 802.1X EAPOL-Key packets are used by WPA to distribute per-session keys to those stations successfully authenticated.

The supplicant in the station uses the authentication and cipher suite information contained in the information elements to decide which authentication method and cipher suite to use. For example, if the access point is using the Pre-shared key method then the supplicant need not authenticate using full-blown 802.1X. Rather, the supplicant must simply prove to the access point that it is in possession of the pre-shared key. If the supplicant detects that the service set does not contain a WPA information element then it knows it must use pre-WPA 802.1X authentication and key management in order to access the network.

• Key management. WPA features a robust key generation/management system that integrates the authentication and data privacy functions. Keys are generated after successful authentication and through a subsequent 4-way handshake between the station and Access Point (AP).

• Data Privacy (Encryption). Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is used to wrap WEP in sophisticated cryptographic and security techniques to overcome most of its weaknesses.

• Data integrity. TKIP includes a message integrity code (MIC) at the end of each plaintext message to ensure messages are not being spoofed.

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WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS

Wired Network with Optional

Wireless LAN

802.1x Port Based Network Access Control

WPA enabled wireless

client with

“supplicant”

Figure B-1: WPA Overview

WPA enabled

Access Point

pre-shared key

using

802.1x

TCP/IP

Ports Closed

Until

TCP/IP

Ports Opened

After

Authenticated

RADIUS Server

Authentication

Certificate

Authority

(eg Win

Server,

VeriSign,

etc)

IEEE 802.1x offers an effective framework for authenticating and controlling user traffic to a protected network, as well as providing a vehicle for dynamically varying data encry ption keys via EAP from a RADIUS server, for example. This framework enables using a central authentication server, which employs mutual authentication so that a rogue wireless user does not join the network.

It's important to note that 802.1x doesn't provide the actual authentication mechanisms. When using 802.1x, the EAP type, such as Transport Layer Security (EAP-TLS) or EAP Tunneled Transport Layer Security (EAP-TTLS) defines how the authentication takes place.

Note: For environments with a Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) infrastructure, WPA supports Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). For environments without a RADIUS infrastructure, WPA supports the use of a preshared key.

Together, these technologies provide a framework for strong user authentication. Windows XP implements 802.1x natively, and several Netgear switch and wireless access point

products support 802.1x.

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Client with a WPA- enabled wireless adapter and supplicant (Win XP, Funk, Meetinghouse, etc.)

For example, a WPA-enabled AP

For example, a RADIUS server

Figure B-2: 802.1x Authentication Sequence

The AP sends Beacon Frames with WPA information element to the stations in the service set. Information elements include the required authentication method (802.1x or Pre-shared key) and the preferred cipher suite (WEP, TKIP, or AES). Probe Responses (AP to station) and Association Requests (station to AP) also contain WPA information elements.

1. Initial 802.1x communications begin with an unauthenticated supplicant (i.e., client device)

attempting to connect with an authenticator (i.e., 802.11 access point). The client sends an EAP-start message. This begins a series of message exchanges to authenticate the client.

2. The access point replies with an EAP-request identity message.

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3. The client sends an EAP-response packet containing the identity to the authentication server.

The access point responds by enabling a port for passing only EAP packets from the client to an authentication server located on the wired side of the access point. The access point blocks all other traffic, such as HTTP, DHCP, and POP3 packets, until the access point can verify the client's identity using an authentication server (e.g., RADIUS).

4. The authentication server uses a specific authentication algorithm to verify the client 's identity .

This could be through the use of digital certificates or some other EAP authentication type.

5. The authentication server will either send an accept or reject message to the access point.

6. The access point sends an EAP-success packet (or reject packet) to the client.

7. If the authentication server accepts the client, then the access point will transition the client's

port to an authorized state and forward additional traffic.

The important part to know at this point is that the software supporting the specific EAP type resides on the authentication server and within the operating system or application “supplicant” software on the client devices. The access point acts as a “pass through” for 802.1x messages, which means that you can specify any EAP type without needing to upgrade an 802.1x-compliant access point. As a result, you can update the EAP authentication type to such devices as token cards (Smart Cards), Kerberos, one-time passwords, certificates, and public key authentication or as newer types become available and your requirements for security change.

WPA Data Encryption Key Management

With 802.1x, the rekeying of unicast encryption keys is optional. Additionally, 802.11 and 802.1x provide no mechanism to change the global encryption key used for multicast and broadcast traffic. With WPA, rekeying of both unicast and global encryption keys is required.

For the unicast encryption key, the Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) changes the key for every frame, and the change is synchronized between the wireless client and the wireless access point (AP). For the global encryption key, WPA includes a facility (the Information Element) for the wireless AP to advertise the changed key to the connected wireless clients.

If configured to implement dynamic key exchange, the 802.1x authentication server can return session keys to the access point along with the accept message. The access point uses the session keys to build, sign and encrypt an EAP key message that is sent to the client immediately after sending the success message. The client can then use contents of the key message to define applicable encryption keys. In typical 802.1x implementations, the client can automatically change encryption keys as often as necessary to minimize the possibility of eavesdroppers having enough time to crack the key in current use.

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Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP)

WPA uses TKIP to provide important data encryption enhancements including a per-packet key mixing function, a message integrity check (MIC) named Michael, an extended initialization vector (IV) with sequencing rules, and a re-keying mechanism. TKIP also provides for the following:

• The verification of the security configuration after the encryption keys are determined.

• The synchronized changing of the unicast encryption key for each frame.

• The determination of a unique starting unicast encryption key for each preshared key authentication.

Michael

With 802.11 and WEP, data integrity is provided by a 32-bit integrity check value (ICV) that is appended to the 802.11 payload and encrypted with WEP. Although the ICV is encrypted, you can use cryptanalysis to change bits in the encrypted payload and update the encrypted ICV without being detected by the receiver.

With WPA, a method known as Michael specifies a new algorithm that calculates an 8-byte message integrity code (MIC) using the calculation facilities available on existing wireless devices. The MIC is placed between the data portion of the IEEE 802.1 1 frame and the 4-byte ICV. The MIC field is encrypted together with the frame data and the ICV.

Michael also provides replay protection. A new frame counter in the IEEE 802.11 frame is used to prevent replay attacks.

AES Support

One of the encryption methods supported by WPA beside TKIP is the advanced encryption standard (AES), although AES support will not be required initially for W i-Fi certification. This is viewed as the optimal choice for security conscience organizations, but the problem with AES is that it requires a fundamental redesign of the NIC’s hardware in both the station and the access point. TKIP was a pragmatic compromise that allows organizations to deploy better security while AES capable equipment is being designed, manufactured, and incrementally deployed.

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Is WPA Perfect?

WPA is not without its vulnerabilities. Specifically, it is susceptible to denial of service (DoS) attacks. If the access point receives two data packets that fail the Message Integrity Code (MIC) check within 60 seconds of each other then the network is under an active attack, and as a result, the access point employs counter measures, which includes disassociating each station using the access point. This prevents an attacker from gleaning information about the encryption key and alerts administrators, but it also causes users to lose network connectivity for 60 seconds. More than anything else, this may just prove that no single security tactic is completely invulnerable. WPA is a definite step forward in WLAN security over WEP and has to be thought of as a single part of an end-to-end network security strategy.

Product Support for WPA

Starting in August, 2003, NETGEAR, Inc. wireless W i-Fi certified products will support the WPA standard. NETGEAR, Inc. wireless products that had their Wi-Fi certification approved before August, 2003 will have one year to add WPA so as to maintain their Wi-Fi certification.

WPA requires software changes to the following:

• Wireless access points

• Wireless network adapters

• Wireless client programs

Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients

To support the gradual transition of WEP-based wireless networks to WPA, a wireless AP can support both WEP and WPA clients at the same time. During the association, the wireless AP determines which clients use WEP and which clients use WPA. The disadvantage to supporting a mixture of WEP and WPA clients is that the global encryption key is not dynamic. This is because WEP-based clients cannot support it. All other benefits to the WPA clients, such as integrity, are maintained.

However, a mixed mode supporting WPA and non-WPA clients would offer network security that is no better than that obtained with a non-WPA network, and thus this mode of operation is discouraged.

Changes to Wireless Access Points

Wireless access points must have their firmware updated to support the following:

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• The new WPA information element To advertise their support of WPA, wireless APs send the beacon frame with a new 802.11 WPA information element that contains the wireless AP's security configuration (encryption algorithms and wireless security configuration information).

• The WPA two-phase authentication Open system, then 802.1x (EAP with RADIUS or preshared key).

• TKIP

• Michael

• AES (optional)

T o upgrade your wireless access points to support WPA, obtain a WPA firmware update from your wireless AP vendor and upload it to your wireless AP.

Changes to Wireless Network Adapters

Wireless network adapters must have their firmware updated to support the following:

• The new WPA information element Wireless clients must be able to process the WPA information element and respond with a specific security configuration.

• The WPA two-phase authentication Open system, then 802.1x (EAP or preshared key).

• TKIP

• Michael

• AES (optional)

To upgrade your wireless network adapters to support WPA, obtain a WPA update from your wireless network adapter vendor and update the wireless network adapte r driver.

For Windows wireless clients, you must obtain an updated network adapter driver that supports WP A. For wireless network adapter drivers that are compatible with W indows XP (Service Pack 1) and Windows Server 2003, the updated network adapter driver must be able to pass the adapter's WPA capabilities and security configuration to the Wireless Zero Configuration service.

Microsoft has worked with many wireless vendors to embed the WPA firmware update in the wireless adapter driver. So, to update you W indows wireless client, all you have to do is obtain the new WPA-compatible driver and install the driver. The firmware is automatically updated when the wireless network adapter driver is loaded in Windows.

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Changes to Wireless Client Programs

Wireless client programs must be updated to permit the configuration of WPA authentication (and preshared key) and the new WPA encryption algorithms (TKIP and the optional AES component).

To obtain the Microsoft WPA client program, visit the following Microsoft Web site.

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Appendix C

Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet through the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111.

For adding file and print sharing to your network, please consult the Windows help information included with the version of Windows installed on each computer on your network.

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking

Computers access the Internet using a protocol called TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol). Each computer on your network must have TCP/IP installed and selected as its networking protocol. If a Network Interface Card (NIC) is already installed in your PC, then TCP/ IP is probably already installed as well.

Most operating systems include the software components you need for networking with TCP/IP. Windows 95 or later includes the software components for establishing a TCP/IP network.

In your TCP/IP network, each PC and the wireless access point must be assigned a unique IP addresses. Each PC must also have certain other TCP/IP configuration information such as a subnet mask (netmask), a domain name server (DNS) address, and a default gateway address. In most cases, you should install TCP/IP so that the PC obtains its specific network configuration information automatically from a DHCP server during startup.

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking

As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure TCP/IP on your PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you may need to insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:

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1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Network icon.

The Network window opens, which displays a list of installed components:

You must have an Ethernet adapter or an MA111 , the TCP/IP protocol, and the Client for Microsoft Networks.

Note: It is not necessary to remove any other network components shown in the

Network window in order to install the adapter, TCP/IP, or Client for Microsoft Networks.

If you need to add TCP/IP:

a. Click the Add button. b. Select Protocol, and then click Add. c. Select Microsoft. d. Select TCP/IP, and then click OK.

If you need to add the Client for Microsoft Networks:

a. Click the Add button. b. Select Client, and th en click Add. c. Select Microsoft. d. Select Client for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.

If you need to add File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks:

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a. Click the Add button. b. Select Client, and th en click Add. c. Select Microsoft. d. Select File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.

3. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Enabling DHCP in Windows 98 and Me

After the TCP/IP protocol components are installed, each PC must be assigned specific information about itself and resources that are available on its network. The simplest way to configure this information is to allow the PC to obtain the information from a DHCP server in the network.

You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP.

The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of these versions of Windows.

Locate your Network Neighborhood icon.

• If the Network Neighborhood icon is on the Windows desktop, position your mouse pointer over it and right-click your mouse button.

• If the icon is not on the desktop,

• Click Start on the task bar located at the bottom left of the window.

• Choose Settings, and then Control Panel.

• Locate the Network Neighborhood icon and click on it. This will open

the Network panel as shown below.

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Verify the following settings as shown:

• Client for Microsoft Network exists

• Ethernet adapter is present

• TCP/IP is present

• Primary Network Logon is set to Windows logon

Click on the Properties button. The following TCP/IP Properties window will display.

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By default, the IP Address tab is open on this window.

• Verify the following:

Obtain an IP address automatically is selected. If not selected, click in the radio button to the left of it to select it. This setting is required to enable the DHCP server to automatically assign an IP address.

• Click OK to continue. Restart the PC.

Repeat these steps for each PC with this version of Windows on your network.

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Internet Options icon.

3. Select “I want to set up my Internet connection manually” or “I want to connect through a

Local Area Network” and click Next.

4. Select “I want to connect through a Local Area Network” and click Next.

5. Uncheck all boxes in the LAN Internet Configuration screen and click Next.

6. Proceed to the end of the Wizard.

Verifying TCP/IP Properties

After your PC is configured and has rebooted, you can check the TCP/IP configuration using the utility winipcfg.exe:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run.

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2. Type winipcfg, and then click OK.

The IP Configuration window opens, which lists (among other things), your IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.

3. From the drop-down box, select your Ethernet adapter.

The window is updated to show your settings, which should match the values below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR recommends for connecting through a router or gateway:

• The IP address is between 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254

• The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0

• The default gateway is 192.168.0.1

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking

As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure TCP/IP on each networked PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you may need to insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Network and Dialup Connections icon.

3. If an Ethernet adapter is present in your PC, you should see an entry for Local Area

Connection. Double-click that entry.

4. Select Properties.

5. Verify that ‘Client for Microsoft Networks’ and ‘Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)’ are present. If

not, select Install and add them.

6. Select ‘Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)’, click Proper ties, and verify that “Obtain an IP address

automatically is selected.

7. Click OK and close all Network and Dialup Connections windows.

8. Then, restart your PC.

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DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000

You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP.

The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of these versions of Windows.

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP

Locate your Network Neighborhood icon.

• Select Control Panel from the Windows XP Start Menu.

• Select the Network Connections icon on the Control Panel. This will take you to the next

step.

Now the Network Connection window displays.

The Connections List that shows all the network connections set up on the PC, located to the right of the window.

• Right-click on the Connection with the wireless icon and choose Status.

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Now you should be at the Local Area Network Connection Status window. This box displays the connection status, duration, speed, and activity statistics.

Administrator logon access rights are needed to use this window.

• Click the Properties button to view details about the connection.

The TCP/IP details are presented on the Support tab page.

• Select Internet Protocol, and click Properties to view the configuration information.

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Verify that Obtain an IP address

automatically radio button is selected and that the Obtain DNS server address automatically radio button is selected.

• Click the OK button.

This completes the DHCP configuration in Windows XP.

Repeat these steps for each PC with this version of Windows on your network.

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000

After you install a network card, TCP/IP for Windows 2000 is configured and set to DHCP without your having to configure it. However, if there are problems, following the steps below to configure TCP/IP with DHCP for Windows 2000.

Click on the My Network Places icon on the Windows desktop. This will bring up a window called Network and Dial-up Connections.

• Right click on Local Area Connection and select Properties.

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The Local Area Connection Properties dialog box appears. Verify that you have the correct Ethernet card selected in the Connect using: box and that the following two items are displayed and selected in the box of “Components checked are used by this connection:”

• Client for Microsoft Networks and

• Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)

Click OK.

With Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) selected, click on Properties to open the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialogue box. Verify that

• Obtain an IP address

automatically is selected.

• Obtain DNS server address

automatically is selected.

Click OK to return to Local Area Connection Properties. Click OK again to complete the configuration process.

Restart the PC. Repeat these steps for each PC with this version of Windows on your network.

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Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000

To check your PC’s TCP/IP configuration:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run.

The Run window opens.

2. Type cmd and then click OK.

A command window opens

3. Type ipconfig /all

Your IP Configuration information will be listed, and should match the values below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR recommends for connecting through a router or gateway:

• The IP address is between 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254

• The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0

• The default gateway is 192.168.0.1

4. Type exit

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Glossary

Use the list below to find definitions for technical terms used in this manual.

10BASE-T

IEEE 802.3 specification for 10 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring.

100BASE-Tx

IEEE 802.3 specification for 100 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring.

802.11b

IEEE specification for wireless networking at 11 Mbps using direct-sequence s pread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and operating in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.5GHz.

802.11g

An IEEE specification for wireless networking at 54 Mbps using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and operating in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.5GHz. 802.11g is backwards compatible with 802.11b.

ADSL

Short for asymmetric digital subscriber line, a technology that allows data to be sent over existing copper telephone lines at data rates of from 1.5 to 9 Mbps when receiving data (known as the downstream rate) and from 16 to 640 Kbps when sending data (known as the upstream rate). ADSL requires a special ADSL modem. ADSL is growing in popularity as more areas around the world gain access.

DHCP

An Ethernet protocol specifying how a centralized DHCP server can assign network configuration information to multiple DHCP clients. The assigned information includes IP addresses, DNS addresses, and gateway (router) addresses.

DNS

Short for Domain Name System (or Service), an Inte rnet service that translates domain names into IP addresses. Because domain names are alphabetic, they're easier to remember. The Internet however, is really based on IP addresses. Every time you use a domain name, therefore, a DNS service must translate the name into the corresponding IP address. For example, the domain name www.example.com might translate to

198.105.232.4. The DNS system is, in fact, its own network. If one DNS server doesn't know how to translate a particular domain name, it asks another one, and so on, until the correct IP address is returned.

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Domain Name

A descriptive name for an address or group of addresses on the Internet. Domain names are of the form of a registered entity name plus one of a number of predefined top level suffixes such as .com, .edu, .uk, etc. For example, in the address mail.NETGEAR.com, mail is a server name and NETGEAR.com is the domain.

DSL

Short for digital subscriber line, but is commonly used in reference to the asymmetric version of this technology (ADSL) that allows data to be sent over existing copper telephone lines at data rates of from 1.5 to 9 Mbps when receiving data (known as the downstream rate) and from 16 to 640 Kbps when sending data (known as the upstream rate). ADSL requires a special ADSL modem. ADSL is growing in popularity as more areas around the world gain access.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

DHCP. An Ethernet protocol specifying how a centralized DHCP server can assign network configuration information to multiple DHCP clients. The assigned information includes IP addresses, DNS addresses, and gateway (router) addresses.

ESSID

The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying the wireless local area network.

Gateway

A local device, usually a router, that connects hosts on a local networ k to ot h er net w or k s .

IETF

Internet Engineering Task Force. Working groups of the IETF propose standard protocols and procedures for the Internet, which are published as RFCs (Request for Comment) at

www.ietf.org.

An open international community of network designers, operators, vendors, and researchers concerned with the evolution of the Internet architecture and the smooth operation of the Internet.

Internet Protocol is the main internetworking protocol used in the Internet. Used in conjunction with the Transfer Control Protocol (TCP) to form TCP/IP.

IP Address

A four-byte number uniquely defining each host on the Internet, usually written in dotted-decimal notation with periods separating the bytes (for example, 134.177.244.57). Ranges of addresses are assigned by Internic, an organization formed for this purpose.

IPX

Short for Internetwork Packet Exchange, a networking protocol used by the Novell NetWare operating systems.

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Like UDP/IP, IPX is a datagram protocol used for connectionless communications. Higher-level protocols, such as SPX and NCP, are used for additional error recovery services.

ISP

Internet service provider.

Internet Protocol

The main internetworking protocol used in the Internet. Used in conjunction with the Transfer Control Protocol (TCP) to form TCP/IP.

LAN

A communications network serving users within a limited area, such as one floor of a building.

local area network

LAN. A communications network serving users within a limited area, such as one floor of a building. A LAN typically connects multiple personal computers and shared network devices such as storage and printers. Although many technologies exist to implement a LAN, Ethernet is the most common for connecting personal computers.

MAC address

The Media Access Control address is a unique 48-bit hardware address assigned to every network interface card. Usually written in the form 01:23:45:67:89:ab.

Mbps

Megabits per second.

NetBIOS

The Network Basic Input Output System is an application programming interface (API) for sharing services and information on local-area networks (LANs). Provides for communication between stations of a network where each station is given a name. These names are alphanumeric names, up to 16 characters in length.

Network Address Translation

NAT. A technique by which several hosts share a single IP address for access to the Internet.

NIC

Network Interface Card. An adapter in a computer which provides connectivity to a network.

packet

A block of information sent over a network. A packet typically contains a source and destination network address, some protocol and length information, a block of data, and a checksum.

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router

A device that forwards data between networks. An IP router forwards data based on IP source and destination addresses.

Routing Information Protocol

RIP. A protocol in which routers periodically exchange information with one another so that they can determine minimum distance paths between sources and destinations.

router

A device that forwards data between networks. An IP router forwards data based on IP source and destination addresses.

SSID

A Service Set Identification is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying a wireless local area network. For the wireless devices in a network to communicate with each other, all devices must be configured with the same SSID. This is typically the configuration parameter for a wireless adapter. It corresponds to the ESSID in the wireless Access Point and to the wireless network name.

Subnet Mask

See also Wireless Network Name and ESSID.

A mask used to determine what subnet an IP address belongs to. Subnetting enables a network administrator to further divide an IP address into two or more subnets.

TCP/IP

The main internetworking protocols used in the Internet. The Internet Protocol (IP) used in conjunction with the Transfer Control Protocol (TCP) form TCP/IP.

WAN

A long distance link used to extend or connect remotely located local area networks. The Internet is a large WAN.

WEB Proxy Server

A Web proxy server is a specialized HTTP server that allows clients access to the Internet from behind a firewall. The proxy server listens for requests from clients within the firewall and forwards these requests to remote Internet servers outside the firewall. The proxy server reads responses from the external servers and then sends them to internal client clients.

WEP

Wired Equivalent Privacy is a data encryption protocol for 802.11b wireless networks. All wireless nodes and access points on the network are configured with a 64-bit or 128-bit Shared Key for data encryption.

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wide area network

WAN. A long distance link used to extend or connect remotely located local area networks. The Internet is a large WAN.

Wi-Fi

A trade name for the 802.11b wireless networking standard, given by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA, see http://www.wi-fi.net), an industry standards group promoting interoperability among

802.11b devices.

Windows Internet Naming Service

WINS. Windows Internet Naming Service is a server process for resolving Windows-based computer names to IP addresses. If a remote network contains a WINS server, your Windows PCs can gather information from that WINS server about its local hosts. This allows your PCs to browse that remote network using the Windows Network Neighborhood feature.

WINS

WINS. Windows Internet Naming Service is a server process for resolving Windows-based computer names to IP addresses.

Wireless Network Name (SSID)

Wireless Network Name (SSID) is the name assigned to a wireless network. This is the same as the SSID or ESSID configuration parameter.

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Index

Numerics

802.11b 1

ad-hoc mode 2

BSSID 2

ESSID 2

features 1

infrastructure mode 2 IP networking

for Windows

1, 6

WEP 3, 5, 4 Wi-Fi

Windows, configuring for IP routing winipcfg utility 5 Wired Equivalent Privacy. See WEP Wireless Ethernet wireless network name 3

1, 6

LEDs

description

Open System authentication 4

Shared Key authentication 4 SSID

3, 2

TCP/IP properties

verifying for Windows

Index 1

NETGEAR MA111 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

User Manual for the NETGEAR 11 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter MA111

Technical Support

Statement of Conditions

FCC Information to User

Regulatory Compliance Information

Export Restrictions

Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity

Requirements For Operation in the European Community

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations

Contents

Audience, Scope, Conventions

About the MA111

Key Features

What’s in the Box?

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’

What You Need Before You Begin

Verifying System Requirements

Observing Location and Range Guidelines

Two Basic Operating Modes

MA111 Default Wireless Configuration Settings

Basic Installation Instructions

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA111

For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a MA111

MA111 Wireless Connection Indicators

Interpreting the LED on the MA111

Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors

Troubleshooting

Basic Tips

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the Configuration Options

Using Configuration Profiles

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile

How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile

How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network

Enabling Wireless Security Features

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings

How to Configure WEP Encryption Security

How to Configure WPA Encryption Security

Statistics Page

Advanced Settings Page

Wireless Networking Overview

Infrastructure Mode

Ad-Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup)

Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID)

Wireless Channels

Authentication and WEP

802.11 Authentication

Open System Authentication

Shared Key Authentication

Overview of WEP Parameters

Key Size

WEP Configuration Options

WPA Wireless Security

How Does WPA Compare to WEP?

How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i?

What are the Key Features of WPA Security?

WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS

WPA Data Encryption Key Management

Is WPA Perfect?

Product Support for WPA

Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients

Changes to Wireless Access Points

Changes to Wireless Network Adapters

Changes to Wireless Client Programs

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

Enabling DHCP in Windows 98 and Me

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method

Verifying TCP/IP Properties

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000