NETGEAR ME103 User Manual
Reference Manual for the
ME103 802.11b ProSafe
Wireless Access Point
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
Phone 1-888-NETGEAR
August 2003
August 2003
NETGEAR, INC.
www.NETGEAR.com
Technical Support
Please register to obtain technical support. Please retain your proof of purchase and warranty
information.
To register your product, get product support or obtain product information and product
documentation, go to http://www.NETGEAR.com
Web, you may register your product by filling out the registration card and mailing it to
NETGEAR customer service.
You will find technical support information at:
http://www.NETGEAR.com/
support by telephone, see the support information card for the correct telephone number for your
country.
© 2003 by NETGEAR, Inc. All rights reserved.
through the customer service area. If you want to contact technical
Trademarks
. If you do not have access to the World Wide
NETGEAR is a registered trademark of NETGEAR, INC. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft
Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.
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.
2
August 2003
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice: Radio Frequency Notice
NETGEAR ProSafe Wireless Access Point ME103
Tested to Comply
with FCC Standards
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
FCC ID: PY3ME103
Warning!
To co mply with the FCC’s of exposure
requirements you must maintain a
distance of at least 1 cm from the
antenna of this device while it is in use.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Note: 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 desig ned to provi de reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. 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
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RF Exposure Requirements
WARNING! To ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure requirements, the antenna used for this device
must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm (8 in) from all persons and must not be
co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or radio transmitter. Installers and end-users
must follow the installation instructions provided in this user guide.
August 2003
3
Radio Frequency Interference Requirements
This device is restricted to indoor use due to its operation in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. FCC requires this
product to be used indoors in 2.4 GHz the frequency range to reduce the potential for harmful interference to
co-channel Mobile Satellite systems.
Regulatory Compliance Information
This device is restricted to indoor use due to reduce the potential for harmful interference to co-channel
Mobile Satellite and Radar Systems.
Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement
This Class B Digital apparatus (ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point) meets all the
requirements of the Canadian Interference Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numerique del la classe B respect les exigences du Regalement sur le material broilleur du
Canada.
This device comples with Class B limits of Industry of Canada. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
The device is certified to the requirements of RSS-139-1 and RSS-210 for 2.4 GHz spread spectrum devices.
The use of this device in a system operating either partially or completely outdoors may require the user to
obtain a license for the system according to the Canadian regulations. For further information, contact your
local Industry Canada office.
EN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance
This is to certify that the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point is shielded against the generation
of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Article 4a.
Conformity is declared by the application of EN 55 022 Class B (CISPR 22).
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August 2003
CE Declaration of Conformity
For the following equipment: ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
0470 !
is herewith confirmed to comply with the requirements set out in the Council Directive on the
Approximation of the Laws of the Member States relating to Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC ),
Low-voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) and the Amendment Directive (93/68/EEC), the procedures given in
European Council Directive 99/5/EC and 89/3360EEC. The equipment was passed. The test was performed
according to the following European standards:
• EN 301489-1 V1.2.1 (2000-08)
• EN 301 489-17 V1.1.1 (2000-09)
• EN 55022: 1988 Class B
• EN 61000-3-2: 2000
• EN 6100-3-3: 1995
• EN 55024: 1998 (IEC 61000-4-5:1995, IEC 61000-4-3:1995, IEC 61000-4-4;1995, IEC 61000-4-5:1995, IEC
61000-4-6:1996, IEC 61000-4-8:1993, IEC 61000-4-11:1994)
The test was carried out on February 19, 2003 at Sporton International Inc. Lab.
August 2003
5
6
August 2003
Contents
Chapter 1
About This Manual
Audience ................................... ................ ................ ................. ................ ................ .....1-v
Scope .............................................................................................................................1-v
Typographical Conventions ...........................................................................................1-vi
Special Message Formats ............................................................................................. 1-vi
How to Use the HTML Version of this Manual .............................................................. 1-vii
How to Print this Manual ...............................................................................................1-viii
Chapter 2
Introduction
About the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point ...........................................2-1
Key Features ..................................................................................................................2-2
802.11b Standards-based Wireless Networking ......................................................2-3
Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink ...............................................2-4
Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products .........................................................2-4
System Requirements ....................................................................................................2-5
What’s In the Box? .........................................................................................................2-5
Hardware Description .....................................................................................................2-5
ME103 Wireless Access Point Front Panel ..............................................................2-6
ME103 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel ..............................................................2-7
Left Side Primary and Right Side Secondary Detachable Antenna ...................2-7
Restore to Factory Defaults Button ....................................................................2-7
RJ-45 Ethernet Port ...........................................................................................2-7
Power Socket ....................................................................................................2-7
Chapter 3
Basic Installation and Configuration
Observing Placement and Range Guidelines ..................... ................ ................ ............3-1
Cabling Requirements ..............................................................................................3-2
Default Factory Settings ...........................................................................................3-3
Understanding ME103 Wireless Security Options .................................. ........................3-4
Installing the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point .......................................3-5
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August 2003
How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default NetBIOS Name ......................................3-8
How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default IP Address ...........................................3-10
Understanding Basic Wireless Settings .............................. .......................... ................3-11
Understanding Basic Wireless Security Options ..........................................................3-12
Information to Gather Before Changing Basic Wireless Settings ...........................3-14
How to Set Up and Test Basic Wireless Connectivity ............................................3-15
How to Restrict Wireless Access by MAC Address ...............................................3-16
How to Configure WEP ..........................................................................................3-17
Using the Basic IP Settings Options .............................................................................3-18
Chapter 4
Maintenance
Viewing General, Log, Station, and Statistical Information .............................................4-1
Statistics ................................................................. .................................................. 4-3
Activity Log ... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ....................................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... ............4-5
Viewing a List of Attached Devices .................................................................................4-6
Upgrading the Wireless Access Point Software .............................................................4-7
Configuration File Management ............... .... ..................................................................4-8
Saving and Retrieving the Configuration ..................................................................4-9
Restoring the ME103 to the Factory Default Settings .. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... ............4-9
Using the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings ...................................4-9
Changing the Administrator Password ......................... ....................................... ... 4-10
Chapter 5
Advanced Configuration
Configuring Advanced Security 802.1x Options .............................................................5-1
Basic Requirements for 802.1x ................................................................................5-1
How to Configure the 802.1x Key Exchange Option ................................................5-2
Understanding Advanced Wireless Settings ..................................................................5-8
Configuring Wireless Operating Modes ........................... ............................................. 5-10
How to Configure a ME103 as a Point-to-Point Bridge ..........................................5-10
How to Configure Multi-Point Wireless Bridging ....................................................5-11
Antenna Installation .. ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .......................................... .... ... ... ................5-13
Blank Configuration Worksheet .......................... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................5-14
Chapter 6
Troubleshooting
No lights are lit on the access point. ...................................... ......................................... 6-1
iv Contents
August 2003
The Wireless LAN activity light does not light up. ...........................................................6-2
The LAN light is not lit. ....................................................................................................6-2
I cannot access the Internet or the LAN with a wireless capable computer. .................6-2
I am using EAP-TLS security but get disconnected. ......................................................6-3
I cannot connect to the ME103 to configure it. ............. ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..................6-3
When I enter a URL or IP address I get a timeout error. ................. ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-3
Using the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings . .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-4
Appendix A
Specifications
Specifications for the ME103 ......................................................................................... A-1
Appendix B
Wireless Networking Basics
Wireless Networking Overview .............................. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................. B-1
Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................................. B-1
Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) ............................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . B-2
Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................ B-2
Authentication, WEP, and WPA ..................................................................................... B-2
802.11 Authentication .............................................................................................. B-3
Open System Authentication .............................. .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ....................... B-3
Shared Key Authentication ...................................................................................... B-4
Overview of WEP Parameters ................................................................................ B-5
Key Size .................................................................................................................. B-6
WEP Configuration Options ................... ... ... ... ... .... .......................................... ... ... . B-7
Wireless Channels ....................... .... ... ... ... ..................................................................... B-7
Understanding 802.1x Port Based Network Access Control ......................................... B-9
Appendix C
Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics
Basic Router Concepts .................................................................................................. B-1
What is a Router? ................................................................................................... B-2
IP Addresses and the Internet .. ... .... ... ... ... .... ................................................................. B-2
Netmask .................................... ................................................................ ..............B-4
Subnet Addressing .................................................................................................. B-4
Private IP Addresses ................................. ... ... ... ....................................... ... .... ... ... . B-7
Single IP Address Operation Using NAT ................................................................. B-7
IP Configuration by DHCP ........................ ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ........................... B-8
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August 2003
Domain Name Server .............................................................................................. B-9
Routing Protocols .................................................................................................... B-9
RIP ............................... .................... ................... ................... .................... ....... B-9
MAC Addresses and ARP ..... ... ... .... ... ... ......................................................... B-10
Internet Security and Firewalls .................................................................................... B-10
What is a Firewall? .................................................................................................B-11
Stateful Packet Inspection ............................... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ................................B-11
Denial of Service Attack .........................................................................................B-11
Ethernet Cabling .......................................................................................................... B-12
Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching ............................ B-12
Cable Quality ......................................................................................................... B-13
Appendix D
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 to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings ................................. 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 ...................................................... 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
vi Contents
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Chapter 1
About This Manual
Congratulations on your purchase of the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. The
ME103 provides connection for multiple personal computers to the Internet through an external
broadband access device (such as a cable modem or DSL mo dem).
Audience
This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet
skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, firewall, and VPN technologies tutorial
information is provided in the Appendices, on the Resource CD for the ME103 ProSafe Wireless
Access Point, and on the Netgear website.
Scope
This manual is written for the ME103 Access Point according to these specifications:
Table 1-1. Manual Specifications
Product Version ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Product Final Assembly Number
Firmware Version Number Version 3.0 Release 16
Manual Part Number
Manual Publication Date August 2003
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR web site at
www.netgear.com/support/main.asp. Documentation updates are available on the
NETGEAR, Inc. web site at www.netgear.com/docs.
About This Manual 1-v
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Typographical Conventions
This guide uses the following typographical conventions:
Table 1. Typographical conventions
italics Emphasis.
bold times roman User input.
[Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets. The notation [Enter]
is used for the Enter key and the Return key.
SMALL CAPS
DOS file and directory names.
Special Message Formats
This guide uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
1-vi About This Manual
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
How to Use the HTML Version of this Manual
The HTML version of this manual includes these features.
1
Figure 1-1: HTML version of this manual
1. Left pane. Use the left pane to view the Contents, Index, Search, and Favorites tabs.
To view the HT ML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later browser with
Java or JavaScript enabled. To use the Favorites feature, your browser must be set to accept
cookies. You can record a list of favorite pages in the manual for easy later retrieval.
2
3
2. Toolbar buttons. Use the toolbar buttons across the top to navigate, print pages, and more .
–The Show in Contents button locates the currently displayed topic in the Contents tab.
– Previous/Next buttons display the topic that precedes or follows the current topic.
–The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual.
–The E-mail button enables you to send feedback by e-mail to Netgear support.
–The Print button prints the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a
step-by-step procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do
not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.
–The Bookmark button bookmarks the currently displayed page in your browser.
3. Right pane. Use the right pane to view the contents of the manual. Also, each page of the
manual includes a “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right which links to a PDF file
containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.
About This Manual 1-vii
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
How to Print this Manual
To print this manual you man choose one of the following several options, according to your
needs.
• A “How To” Sequence of Steps in the HTML View. Use the Print button on the upper right
of the toolbar to print the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a step-by-step
procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do not have to worry
about specifying the correct range of pages.
• A Chapter. Use the “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page.
– Click “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to
print. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter you were
viewing.
– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.
– Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save
paper an printer ink by selecting this feature.
• The Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser window.
– Click PDF button. A new b rowser wi ndo w op en s sh owing the PDF v ersion o f the chapter
you were viewing.
– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.
– Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save
paper an printer ink by selecting this feature.
1-viii About This Manual
August 2003
Chapter 2
Introduction
This chapter introduces the NETGEAR ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. Minimal
prerequisites for installation are presented in “System Requirements” on page 2-5.
About the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point is the basic building block of a wireless LAN
infrastructure. It provides connectivity between Ethernet wired networks and radio-equipped
wireless notebook systems, desktop systems, print servers, and other devices.
The ME103 provides wireless connectivity to multiple wireless network devices within a fixed
range or area of coverage, interacting with a wireless network interface card (NIC) via an antenna.
T ypically, an individual in-building access point provides a maximum connectivity area with about
a 300 foot radius. The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point can support a small group
of users in a range of several hundred feet. Most access points are rated between 30-70 users
simultaneously.
The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point acts as a bridge between the wired LAN and
wireless clients. Connecting multiple ME103 Access Points via a wired Ethernet backbone can
further lengthen 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 to another and still maintain seamless connection to the network.
The auto-sensing capability of the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point allows packet
transmission at up to 11Mbps, or at reduced speeds to compensate for distance or electromagnetic
noise interference.
Introduction 2-1
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Key Features
The ME103 Access Point is easy-to-use and provides solid wireless and networking support.
Supported Standards and Conventions
The following standards and conventions are supported:
• Standards Compliant. The Wireless Access Point complies with the IEEE 802.11b (DSSS)
and IEEE 802.1x specifications for Wireless LANs.
• 802.1x Support. Support for 802.1x mode is included, providing for the industrial-strength
wireless security of 802.1x authentication and authorization.
• Radius Client Support. The Wireless Access Point can log in to your existing Radius server
(as a Radius client).
• WEP support. Support for WEP is included. Both 64-bit and 128-bit keys are supported.
• Dynamic WEP key Support. In 802.1x mode, fixed or Dynamic WEP (Wired Equivalent
Privacy) keys can be used. Dynamic key exchange can be used when deploying 802.1x
EAP-TLS.
• DHCP Client Support. DHCP provides a dynamic IP address to PCs and other devices upon
request. The ME103 can act as a client and obtain information from your DHPC server.
• NAT & WINS Support. Support for both NetBIOS broadcast and WINS (Windows Internet
Naming Service) allows the ME103 to easily fit into your existing Windows network.
• SNMP Support. Support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Management
Information Base (MIB) management.
Key Features
The NETGEAR ME103 provides solid functionality, including these feat ures:
• Multiple Operating Modes
– Wireless Access Point. Operates as a standard 802.11b or 802.11x Access Point.
– Point-to-Point Bridge. In this mode, the ME103 only communicates with another
bridge-mode wireless station. You must enter the MAC address (physical address) of the
other bridge-mode wireless station in the field provided. WEP should be used to protect
this communication.
– Point-to-Multi-Point Bridge. Select this only if this ME103 is the “Master” for a group
of bridge-mode wireless stations. The other bridge-mode wireless stations must be set to
Point-to-Point Bridge mode, using this ME103's MAC address. They then send all traffic
to this “Master”, rather than communicate directly with each other . WEP should be used to
protect this traffic.
2-2 Introduction
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
• Upgradeable Firmware. Firmware is stored in a flash memory and can be upgraded easily,
using only your Web browser, and can be upgraded remotely.
• Access Control. The Access Control MAC address filtering feature can ensure that only
trusted wireless stations can use the ME103 to gain access to your LAN.
• Simple Configuration. If the default settings are unsuitable, they are easy to change.
• Hidden Mode. The SSID is not broadcast, assuring only clients configured with the correct
SSID can connect.
• Configuration Backup. Configuration settings can be backed up to a file and restored.
• Supports Diversity. Dual removable external antennas support diversity.
• Secure and Economical Operation. Adjustable power output allows more secure or
economical operation.
• Automatic Date and Time Updates. Date and time can be automatically updated from
Internet time servers.
• Autosensing Ethernet Connection with
IEEE 802.3 Ethernet networks.
• LED Indicators. Power and wireless activity are easily identified.
Auto Uplink Interface. Connects to 10/100 Mbps
802.11b Standards-based Wireless Networking
The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point provides a bridge between Ethernet wired
LANs and 802.11b compatible wireless LAN networks. It provides connectivity between Ethernet
wired networks and radio-equipped wireless notebook systems, desktop systems, print servers, and
other devices. Additionally, the ME103 supports the following wireless features:
• Distributed coordinated function (CSMA/CA, Back off procedure, ACK procedure,
retransmission of unacknowledged frames)
• RTS/CTS handshake
• Beacon generation
• Packet fragmentation and reassembly
• Authentication Algorithms (Open System, Shared Key, 802.1x)
• Short or long preamble
• Roaming among access points on the same subnet
Introduction 2-3
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Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink
The ME103 can connect to a standard Ethernet network. The LAN interface is autosensing and
capable of full-duplex or half-duplex operation.
TM
The wireless access point incorporates Auto Uplink
automatically sense whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port should have a ‘normal’
connection such as to a PC or an ‘uplink’ connection such as to a switch or hub. That port will then
configure itself to the correct configuration. This feature also eliminates any concerns about
crossover cables, as Auto Uplink will accommodate either type of cable to make the right
connection.
technology. The Ethernet port will
Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products
For a list of compatible products from other manufacturers, see the Wireless Ethernet
Compatibility Alliance Web site (WECA, see http://www.wi-fi.net).
The following NETGEAR products work with the ME103 Access Point:
• POE101 Power Over Ethernet Adapter
• WAB501 a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card Adapter
• MA401 802.11b Wireless PC Card
• WG511 802.11g Wireless CardBus Adapter
• MA111 801.11b Wireless Bridge
• MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter
• ME102 802.11b Wireless Access Point
• MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter
• MA701 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card
System Requirements
Before installing the ME103, make sure your system meets these requirements:
• A 10/100 Mbps Local Area Network device such as a hub or switch
• The Category 5 UTP straight through Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connector included in the
package, or one like it
• A 100-240 V, 50-60 HZ AC power source
• A Web browser for configuration such as Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or above, or
Netscape Navigator 4.78 or above
2-4 Introduction
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Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
• At least one computer with the TCP/IP protocol installed
• 802.11b-compliant devices, such as the NETGEAR MA401 Wireless Adapter
What’s In the Box?
The product package should contain the following items:
• ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireles s Access Point
• Power adapter and cord (12Vdc, 800mA)
• Straight through Category 5 Ethernet cable
• ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireles s Acc ess Point Quick Installation Guide
• Resource CD for the ME103 ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point ( ) -- this manual
• Support Information card
• Warranty and Registration card
Contact your reseller or customer support in your area if there are any wrong, missing, or damaged
parts. You can refer to the Support Information Card for the telephone number of customer support
in your area. You should keep the Support Information card, along with the original pa cking
materials, and use the packing materials to repack the ME103 if you need to return it for repair. To
qualify for product updates and product warranty registrations, we encourage you to register on the
NETGEAR Web site at: http://www.NETGEAR.com.
Hardware Description
The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point front and rear hardware functions are
described below.
Introduction 2-5
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
ME103 Wireless Access Point Front Panel
The ME103 Access Point provides three status LEDs.
802.11b
ProSafe Wireless Access Point
PWR LAN
Wireless LAN
Figure 2-1: ME103 front panel
The following table explains the LED indicators:
MODEL
ME103
LED DESCRIPTION
Power
Power Indicator
No power. If this LED does not come on with the power adapter and cord correctly
Off
installed, see Chapter 4, Troubleshooting.
Power is on.
On
Blink Indicates self test, loading software, or system fault (if continues).
Note: This LED may blink for a minute before going on steady.
LAN Ethernet LAN Link Activity Indicator
Off
Indicates no Ethernet link detected.
Green On
100 Mbps Fast Ethernet link detected, no activity.
Green Blink Indicates data traffic on the 100Mbps Ethernet LAN.
Amber 0n 10 Mbps Ethernet link detected, no activity.
Amber Blink Indicates data traffic on the 10Mbps Ethernet LAN.
Wireless LAN Wireless LAN Link Activity Indicator
Off
Indicates no Ethernet link detected.
Green On
Wireless link enabled, no activity.
Green Blink Wireless link activity.
2-6 Introduction
August 2003
Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
ME103 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel
ETHERNET
RESET
5-12V D
C
Figure 2-2: ME103 rear panel
Left Side Primary and Right Side Secondary Detachable Antenna
The ME103 provides two detachable antenna. The one on the left is the primary, and the one on
the right is the secondary. See “Understanding Advanced Wireless Settings” on page 5-8 and
“Antenna Installation” on page 5-13 for important information about configuring and
positioning the antenna to best take advantage of diversity and range capabilities of the ME103.
Restore to Factory Defaults Button
The restore to default button located between the Ethernet RJ-45 connector and the power
socket restores the ME103 to the factory default settings.
RJ-45 Ethernet Port
Use the ME103 Ethernet RJ-45 port to connect to an Ethernet LAN through a device such as a
hub, switch, or router.
Power Socket
This socket connects to the ME103 power adapter.
Introduction 2-7
August 2003
Chapter 3
Basic Installation and Configuration
This chapter describes how to set up your ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wi reless Access Point for
wireless connectivity to your LAN. This basic configuration will enable computers with 802.11b
or 802.11g wireless adapters to do such things as connect to the Internet, or access printers and
files on your LAN.
Note: Indoors, computers can connect over 802.11b wireless networks at ranges
of several hundred feet or more. This distance can allow for others outside your area
to access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps to secure your network
from unauthorized access. The ME103 Access Point provides highly effective security
features which are covered in detail in Chapter 3, “Configuring Your Wireless Network.
Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.
You need to prepare these three things before you can establish a connection through your wireless
access point:
• A location for the ME103 that conforms to the Observing Placement and Range Guidelines
below.
• The wireless access point connected to your LAN through a device such as a hub, switch,
router, or Cable/DSL gateway.
• One or more computers with properly configured 802.11b or 802.11g wireless adapters.
Observing Placement and Range Guidelines
The operating distance or range of your wireless connection can vary significantly bas ed on the
physical placement of the wireless access point. The latency, data throughput performance, and
notebook power consumption of wireless adapters also vary depending on your configuration
choices.
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Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance
degradation or inability to wirelessly connect to the ME103. For complete performance
specifications, see Appendix A, “Specifications”.
For best results, place your wireless access point:
• Near the center of the area in which your PCs will operate.
• In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected PCs have
line-of-sight access (even if through walls).
• Away from sources of interference, such as PCs, microwaves, and 2.4 GHz cordless phones.
• Away from large metal surfaces.
• If using multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different
radio frequency
Channels to reduce interference. The recommended Channel spacing between adjacent access
points is 5 Channels (for example, use Channels 1 and 6, or 6 and 11).
The time it takes to establish a wireless connection can vary depending on both your security
settings and placement. WEP connections can take slightly longer to establish. Also, WEP
encryption can consume more battery power on a notebook PC.
Cabling Requirements
The ME103 Access Point connects to your LAN via twisted-pair Category 5 Ethernet cable with
RJ-45 connectors.
Note: The power adapter and cord shipped with the ME103 limits the distance from an
AC outlet. To overcome this, consider using NETGEAR’s POE101 Power Over
Ethernet Adapter with a Cat 5 Ethernet cable like the one included with your ME103.
This adapter sends DC power through an Ethernet cable to enable you to power an
access point in a remote location up to 328 feet away.
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Default Factory Settings
When you first receive your ME103, the default factory settings will be set as shown below. You
can restore these defaults with the Factory Default Restore switch on the rear panel — see “ME103
Wireless Access Point Rear Panel” on page 2-7.
FEATURE FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS
User Name (case sensitive) admin
Password (case sensitive) password
Operating Mode Access Point
Access Point Name NETGEARxxxxxx where xxxxxx are the last six digits of the
wireless access point's MAC address
DHCP DHCP client
IP Configuration
(if DHCP server is unavailable)
Network Name (SSID) NETGEAR
Broadcast Network Name (SSID Enabled
802.11b
Radio Frequency Channel
WEP Disabled
Restricting connectivity based
on MAC Access Control List
WEP Disabled
802.1x Disabled
SNMP Disabled
IP Address: 192.168.0.224
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Gateway: 0.0.0.0
Primary DNS Server: blank
Secondary DNS Server: blank
11
Disabled
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Understanding ME103 Wireless Security Options
Unlike wired network data, your wireless data transmissions can be received well beyond your
walls by anyone with a compatible adapter. For this reason, use the security features of your
wireless equipment. The ME103 Access Point provides highly effective security features which
are covered in detail in this chapter. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.
Wireless Data
ME103
Security Options
Range: Up to 500 Feet
802.11b
ProSafeWireless AccessPoint
PWR LAN
WirelessLAN
Figure 3-1: ME103 wireless data security options
There are several ways you can enhance the security of your wireless network:
• Restrict Access Based on MAC address. You can restrict access to only trusted PCs so that
unknown PCs cannot wirelessly connect to the ME103. MAC address filtering adds an
obstacle against unwanted access to your network, but the data broadcast over the wireless link
is fully exposed.
• Turn Off the Broadcast of the Wireless Network Name (SSID). If you disable broadcast of
the SSID, only devices that have the correct SSID can connect. This nullifies the wireless
network ‘discovery’ feature of some products such as Windows XP, but the data is still fully
exposed to a determined snoop using specialized test equipment like wireless sniffers.
• Use WEP. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption provides data security. WEP
Shared Key authentication and WEP data encryption will block all but the most determined
eavesdropper.
• Implement 802.1x. IEEE 802.1x provides very strong security. Although it can use the same
data encryption scheme as WEP, it enables stronger authentication as well as the ability to
dynamically vary the encryption keys.
MODEL
ME103
1) Open System: Easy but no security
2) MAC Access List: No data security
3) WEP: Security but some vulnerabilities
4) 802.1x: Secure
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Installing the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
Before installing the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point, you should make sure that
your Ethernet network is up and working. You will be connecting the access point to the Ethernet
network so that computers with 802.11b or 802.11g wireless adapters will be able to communicate
with computers on the Ethernet network. In order for this to work correctly, verify that you have
met all of the system requirements, shown on page 2-5.
1SET UP THE ME103 ACCESS POINT
1SET UP THE ME103 ACCESS POINT
Tip: Before mounting the ME103 in a high location, first set up and test the ME103 to verify
wireless network connectivity.
a. Prepare a PC with an Ethernet adapter. If this PC is already part of your network, record its
TCP/IP configuration settings.
b. Configure the PC with a static IP address of 192.168.0.210 and 255.255.255.0 for the
Subnet Mask.
c. Connect an Ethernet cable from the ME103 to the PC (A).
A
ETHERNET
RESET
ME103 802.11b ProSafe
Wireless Access Point
Figure 3-2: Connecting the ME103 to a PC
d.
Turn on your computer, connect the power adapter to the ME103 and verify the following:
– The PWR power light goes on.
– The LAN light of the wireless access point is lit when connected to a powered on PC.
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2CONFIGURE LAN AND WIRELESS ACCESS
a. Configure the ME103 Ethernet port for LAN access.
– Connect to the ME103 by opening your browser and entering http://192.168.0.224 in
the address field.
– When prompted, enter admin for the user name and password for the password, both
in lower case letters.
– Click the IP Settings link and configure the IP Settings for your network.
b. Configure the wireless interface for wireless access. See the online help or the
Understanding Basic Wireless Settings topic of the Reference Manual for full instructions.
Note: You must set the Regulatory Domain. It may not be legal to operate the wireless
access point in a region other than one of those identified in this field.
Now that you have finished the setup steps, you are ready to deploy the ME103 in your
network. If needed, you can now reconfigure the PC you used in step 1 back to its original
TCP/IP settings.
3DEPLOY THE ME103 ACCESS POINT
a. Disconnect the ME103 and position it where you will deploy it. The best location is
elevated, such as wall mounted or on the top of a cubicle, at the center of your wireless
coverage area, and within line of sight of all the mobile devices.
Tip: If you plan to locate the ME103 in a location where it is difficult to connect the
electrical power supply , consider using the NETGEAR, Inc. POE101 Power Over Ethernet
Adapter which provides power to the ME103 through the Ethernet cable.
b. Lift the antenna on either side so that they are vertical.
Note: Consult the antenna positioning and wireless mode configuration information in the
Advanced Configuration chapter of the Reference Manual.
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ME103 802.11b
ProSafe Wireless
Access Point
ETHERNET
RESET
5-12VDC
B
LOCAL
10/100M
876543221INTERNET
Router, Switch, or Hub
Figure 3-3: Connecting the Ethernet cable to a router, hub, or switch
c.
Connect an Ethernet cable from your ME103 Access Point to a LAN port (B) on your
router, switch, or hub.
Note: By default, ME103 is set to be a DHCP client. If your network uses static IP
addresses, you will need to change this setting.
12VDCO.5A
Broadband modem
d. Connect the power adapter to the wireless access point and plug the power adapter in to a
power outlet. The PWR, LAN, and Wireless LAN lights and should light up.
e. Connect the power adapter to the wireless access point and plug the power adapter in to a
power outlet. The PWR, LAN, and Wireless LAN lights and should light up.
4VERIFY WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY
Using a computer with an 802.11b or 802.11g wireless adapter with the correct wireless
settings needed to connect to the ME103 (SSID, WEP, MAC ACL, 802.1x, etc.), verify
connectivity by using a browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer to browse the Internet,
or check for file and printer access on your network.
Note: If you are unable to connect, see Chapter 6, “Troubleshooting.”
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How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default NetBIOS Name
The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point can be configured remotely from Microsoft
Internet Explorer browser version 5.0 or above, or Netscape Navigator web browser version 4.78
or above. You can connect to the ME103 by using its default NetBIOS name or its default IP
address. The instructions for connecting using the default NetBIOS name are below. The
instructions for connecting using the default IP address follow this section.
1. Determine the NetBIOS name of your access point.
To find the NetBIOS name, refer to the labels on the bottom of your access point. The access
point NetBIOS name is on the label on the bottom of the unit and looks like
“NETGEAR123456”, where 123456 is the last 6 digits of the access point’s MAC address.
Note: If the computer you are using to connect to the ME103 is on a different subnet, you will
not be able to connect via its NetBIOS name unless there is a WINS server on you LAN.
2. Open a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
3. Log in to the ME103 using the NetBIOS name you found on the bottom of the unit.
In this example, you see NETGEAR123456 in the browser address or location box. There is
no space between “NETGEAR” and the 6 digits of the access point name.You do not need to
include “www” or “http://.”
Figure 3-4: Example ME103 NetBIOS name in browser address bar
4.
A login window like the one shown below opens:
Figure 3-5: Login window
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Enter the default user name of admin and the default password of password.
Figure 3-6: Login result: ME103 home page
The Web browser will then display the ME103 home page.
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