NETGEAR WG511U User Manual

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

NETGEAR, Inc.

4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

Version v1.0 August 2004

August 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

August 2004

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the Model WG511U Wireless PC Card 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

August 2004

Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling.

FCC Information to User

This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas only. Any product changes or modifications will invalidate all applicable regulatory certifications and approvals

FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure

In order to comply with RF exposure limits established in the ANSI C95.1 standards, the user is advised to maintain a distance of at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the antenna of this device while it is in use.

Declaration Of Conformity

We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that the model WG511U CardBus Card Wireless Adapter complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Regulatory Compliance Information

This section includes user requirements for operating this product in accordance with National laws for usage of radio spectrum and operation of radio devices. Failure of the end-user to comply with the applicable requirements may result in unlawful operation and adverse action against the end-user by the applicable National regulatory authority.

NOTE: This product's firmware limits operation to only the channels allowed in a particular Region or Country.

Therefore, all options described in this user's guide may not be available in your version of the product.

FCC Requirements for Operation in the United States

Radio Frequency Interference Warnings & Instructions

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following methods:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• Connect the equipment into an electrical outlet on a circuit different from that which the radio receiver is connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

August 2004

NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Tested to Comply with FCC Standards

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

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

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 EFTA member states. In some EU / EFTA member states some restrictions may apply. Please contact local spectrum management authorities for further details before putting this device into operation.

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

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 product is certified for Switzerland and all countries of the European Community, except France and Spain.

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations

This device complies with Canada RSS-210. This digital apparatus (NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U) 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 and complies with Canada ICES-003.

Canada ID: 4054A-WAG511v2

August 2004

Chapter 1 About This Manual

Audience, Conventions, Publication Date ......................................................................1-1

How to Navigate this Manual ..........................................................................................1-2

How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3

Chapter 2 Introduction

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products ............................................................ 2-1

802.11a and 802.11b/g Wireless Networking ........................................................... 2-2

What’s in the Box? ..........................................................................................................2-2

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ .............................................................2-3

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

WG511U Default Wireless Configuration Settings .........................................................3-3

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

For Windows XP Users Installing a WG511U ..........................................................3-4

For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a WG511U ......................................... 3-8

WG511U Wireless Connection Indicators ....................................................................3-12

Interpreting the LED on the WG511U ....................................................................3-12

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

Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................3-14

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

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................3-15

Chapter 4 Netgear Smart Wireless Wizard

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

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

Contents 1

August 2004

Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................4-2

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile .....................................................4-3

Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode .................................................................... 4-4

How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Network ............................................................ 4-5

What’s on the Statistics Page? .................................................................................4-7

Understanding the Advanced Settings Page ...........................................................4-8

Chapter 5 Wireless Security Configuration

Understanding the Security Options ............................................................................... 5-1

Using WEP Security .......................................................................................................5-2

Basic Requirements for WEP ...................................................................................5-2

WEP Security Settings Worksheet ...........................................................................5-3

How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................5-4

Using WPA-PSK Advanced Security ..............................................................................5-5

Basic Requirements for WPA-PSK ..........................................................................5-5

WPA-PSK Security Settings Worksheet ...................................................................5-6

How to Configure WPA-PSK Advanced Security .....................................................5-6

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

802.11b/g Wireless Channels ........................................................................... B-3

802.11a Legal Power Output and Wireless Channels ...................................... B-4

Wireless Security Overview ........................................................................................... B-6

WEP Overview .............................................................................................................. B-7

WEP Authentication ................................................................................................ B-7

WEP Keys ............................................................................................................... B-9

How to Use WEP Parameters ............................................................................... B-10

802.1x Port Based Network Access Control .................................................................B-11

WPA Wireless Security ................................................................................................ B-13

2 Contents

August 2004

How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ...................................................................... B-14

How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-15

What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-15

WPA Data Encryption Key Management .............................................................. B-19

Is WPA Perfect? .................................................................................................... B-20

Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-20

Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ....................................................... C-1

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking .............................................. C-1

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-1

Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 98 and Me C-3

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method .......................................................... C-5

Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-5

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking ............................................. C-6

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-6

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 ......................................... C-7

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ..................................................... C-7

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 .................................................. C-9

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 ........................................... C-11

Glossary

List of Glossary Terms ................................................................................................... D-1

Index

Contents 3

August 2004

4 Contents

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Chapter 1

About This Manual

Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U. The WG511U provides connection for multiple personal computers to the Internet through an external broadband access device (such as a cable modem or DSL modem).

Audience, Conventions, Publication Date

This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic-to-intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, firewall, and networking technology tutorial information is provided in the Appendices.

This guide uses the following typographical conventions:

Table 1. Typographical conventions

italics Emphasis, books, CDs, URL names

bold User input

fixed font Screen text, file and server names, extensions, commands, IP addresses

This guide 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 f according to these specifications.:

Table 1-1. Firmware Version and Manual Publication Date

Firmware Version

Manual Publication Date August 2004

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

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

About This Manual 1-1

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

How to Navigate this Manual

The HTML version of this manual includes a variety of navigation features as well as links to PDF versions of the full manual and individual chapters.

2 3

Figure 1-1: HTML version of this manual

1. Left pane. Use the left pane to view the Contents, Index, and Search tabs.

To view the HTML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later Internet Explorer or Netcsape Navigator browser with JavaScript enabled.

2. Toolbar buttons. Use the toolbar buttons across the top to navigate, print pages, and more.

The Show in Contents button locates the current topic in the Contents tab.

Previous/Next buttons display the previous or next topic.

The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual.

The Print button prints the current 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.

3. Right pane. Use the right pane to view the contents of the manual. Also, at the top right of each page of the manual is a link to a PDF file containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.

1-2 About This Manual

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

How to Print this Manual

To print this manual you man choose one of the following several options, according to your needs.

• Printing 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.

• Printing a Chapter. Use the link at the top right of any page.

– Click “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to

print. The PDF version of the chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window.

Note: Your computer must have the free Adobe Acrobat reader installed in order to view and print PDF files. The Acrobat reader is available on the Adobe web site at

http://www.adobe.com.

– 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.

• Printing the Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser window.

– Click the PDF button on the upper right of the toolbar. The PDF version of the

chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window.

– 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.

About This Manual 1-3

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

1-4 About This Manual

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Chapter 2

Introduction

This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and a road map of typical applications for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U.

The WG511U gives you ultimate mobility in your office or while you are traveling. It frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring and helps you create a wireless network for sharing your broadband Internet access in and around your home. It is designed for notebook computers running Microsoft CardBus slot.

Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer at up to 108 Mbps for maximum throughput or dynamic range shifting to lower speeds due to distance or operating limitations in an environment with a lot of electromagnetic interference.

The WG511U provides reliable, standards-based 802.11a/b/g wireless connectivity that is protected with the strongest industry-standard WPA and WEP security. In addition, it offers the faster 54 Mbps speeds of the 802.11a and g standards and can aggregate the 802.11a and 802.11g communications to deliver double the 108 Mbps of either alone. It works with Windows 98, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems.

Windows®. It is 32-bit CardBus compatible and works in any available

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products

The WG511U Wireless PC Card provides the following features:

• 802.11a and 802.11b/g standards-based wireless networking.

• Supports roaming between access points when configured in Infrastructure mode.

• Double 108 Mbps aggregation for ultra 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 using the strong WPA-PSK standard or the older 128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption method. A lower level of data encryption or no data encryption is available to simplify your network setup or to improve data transfer rate.

Introduction 2-1

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

802.11a and 802.11b/g Wireless Networking

The WG511U Wireless PC Card provides 802.11a-, b-, and g-compliant wireless communications, providing continuous, high-speed up to 108 Mbps access to your wireless network. The WG511U provides:

• 802.11a Standards-based wireless networking at up to 54 Mbps.

• 802.11b Standards-based wireless networking at up to 11 Mbps.

• 802.11g Standards-based wireless networking at up to 54 Mbps.

• WPA-PSK pre-shared key authentication without the overhead of RADIUS servers but with all of the strong security of WPA.

• 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption security.

• WEP keys can be generated manually or by passphrase.

What’s in the Box?

The product package should contain the following items:

• NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

• Installation Guide for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

• NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U Resource CD, including: — Driver and Configuration Utility Software — User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus

WG511U — Animated Network Properties Configuration Tutorial — PC Networking Tutorial

• Warranty card

• Support information card

If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR dealer. Keep the carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need to return the product for repair.

2-2 Introduction

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

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.

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

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

Connect to a wireless network

1. A wireless network

2. A notebook 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. Identify the wireless network name (SSID) and, if used, the wireless security settings.

2. Set up the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U with the settings from step

To set up the WG511U, 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.

Introduction 2-3

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

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

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

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 implement are in addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.

Connect to the Internet over my wireless network.

1. A wireless network with authentication and encryption enabled.

2. Wireless networking equipment that supports encryption, such as the WG511U and all NETGEAR wireless networking products.

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

2. A wireless network connected to an Internet service through a router as illustrated in “Connecting

to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode” on page 4-2.

3. TCP/IP Internet networking software installed and configured on my notebook PC according to the requirements of the Internet service provider.

4. A browser like Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.

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

2. Configure my WG511U with the security settings of the wireless network.

3. Use Windows security features.

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

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

To learn about wireless networking security, see

“Wireless Networking Overview” on page B-1.

To understand WEP security features, see “WEP Overview”

on page B-7.”

To understand WPA security features, see “WPA Wireless

Security” on page B-13.”

To configure your WG511U 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 Double 108

Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U Resource CD

and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using. .

2-4 Introduction

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

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

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

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

1. The notebook computer I am using to connect to the wireless network needs to be configured with the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing.

2. The notebook computer 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.

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.

For assistance with Windows networking software, see

Appendix , “Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking” 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 Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U Resource CD

and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using.

Introduction 2-5

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

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

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

Use printers in a combined wireless and wired network.

1. The notebook computer 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.

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 notebook 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.

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 Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U Resource CD

and the Help information provided in the Windows system you are using.

For assistance with setting up printers in Windows, refer to the Help and Support information that comes with the version of the Windows operating systems you are using.

2-6 Introduction

August 2004

Chapter 3

Basic Setup

This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 4, “Netgear Smart

Wireless Wizard” 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 Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U provides highly effective security features which are covered in “Wireless Security Configuration” on page 5-1 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 PC card and connect.

Verifying System Requirements

Before installing the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:

• You must have a notebook PC with a Pentium an available CardBus slot.

Note: The WG511U requires a CardBus slot. If you are not sure about what type of slot your computer has, consult the documentation or manufacturer’s web site for your computer.

•A CD-ROM drive.

• 5 Mbytes of free hard disk space.

Basic Setup 3-1

300 MHz or higher compatible processor with

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

• Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000, Me, 98SE or 98

• Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the WG511U driver software.

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 Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U. 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 WG511U Wireless PC Card 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 WG511U Wireless PC Card. Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered below. Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in

Chapter 4, “Netgear Smart Wireless Wizard” of this manual.

3-2 Basic Setup

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

WG511U 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 WG511U factory default basic settings are:

• Wireless Network Name (SSID): NETGEAR_11g

Note: In order for the WG511U Wireless PC Card 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 WPA-PSK encryption: Enabled

• Default WPA-PSK passphrase: NETGEAR-ULTRA-G

The section below provides instructions for setting up the WG511U 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

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Basic Installation Instructions

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

For Windows XP Users Installing a WG511U

Install the WG511U driver and configuration utility software.

a. Power on your notebook, let the

operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed.

b. Insert the Resource CD for the WG511U

into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load.

c. Click Install Driver and Utility.

d. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps,

WG511U Resource CD

and click Finish when done to restart your computer.

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

InstallShield Wizard

3-4 Basic Setup

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Insert the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U.

a. Locate an available CardBus slot on the

side of your notebook. Hold the PC Card with the NETGEAR logo facing up and insert it into the CardBus slot.

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

Follow the prompts to complete the wizard.

b. Next you will be prompted to enable the

NETGEAR Smart Wireless Settings Utility configuration utility.

Click Ye s 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

You will also be prompted to choose the country you are located in. Select your location from the list.

c. Click Finish to complete the installation.

You will see the WG511U system tray icon on the lower right portion of the Windows task bar.

Found New Hardware Wizard

Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message.

Enable NETGEAR Utility Configuration

WG511U System Tray Icon

Basic Setup 3-5

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Configure your WG511U.

a. Click the icon on the Windows

desktop or in the system tray to open the WG511U Smart Wireless Settings

Click here to open the configuration utility.

Utility.

The utility opens to the Settings tab

WG511U system tray icon

page.

b. For the Network Name (SSID), use the

default of

SSID for

NETGEAR_11g or type an

your network.

Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the drop-down list or the Networks tab to view the available wireless networks, and choose the one you want.

c. Click Apply to activate the connection.

The status monitor icons at the bottom of the utility will turn yellow indicating the connection is established, and will also report the speed, signal quality, and if the security requirements are met.

You can also enter a profile name and click Save Profile to store the current settings.

Tip: Create profiles called work and home. Then, activate whichever one you

need for your current location.

Smart Wireless Utility Settings page

Tip: Click Help to view the context-sensitive help information.

Note: The NETGEAR default settings are Infrastructure mode, with NETGEAR_11g for

the wireless network name SSID, and WPA-PSK enabled with the passphrase of NETGEAR-ULTRA-G. If your WLAN settings are different from these you will not connect. Set up your WG511U accordingly.

Note: This procedure assumes you are connecting to a wireless network which is using WPA security. If your network does not include security settings, configure the WG511U accordingly. For help with these steps, click the Help button in the WG511U Configuration Utility to view context- sensitive help information, or see

Chapter 5, “Wireless Security Configuration” .

3-6 Basic Setup

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

a. Verify that your Connection and Status Monitor information matches your wireless

network.

b. Check the two LEDs on the WG511U:

Table 3-1: LED Descriptions

LED 1 (below the word NETGEAR on the left)

Slow blink OFF Power save mode (default from power up or reset)

Alternate blink

Slow blink Slow blink Associated or joined with network; no activity

Fast blink Fast blink Associated or joined with network; blink rate increases

LED 2 (below the word NETGEAR on the right)

Alternate blink

Meaning

Looking for network association Power LED goes ON; Network LED is OFF; then Power LED goes OFF and Network LED goes ON

with activity on the network over the air or locally on the

c. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you are unable to connect, see troubleshooting tips in the Basic Installation section of the Reference Manual on the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U Resource CD.

Basic Setup 3-7

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a WG511U

Install the WG511U driver and configuration utility software.

Note: Windows 2000 may require you to be

logged on with administrator rights.

a. Power on your notebook, let the

operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed.

b. Insert the Resource CD for the WG511U

into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load.

c. Click Install Driver and Utility.

d. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps,

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

WG511U Resource CD

InstallShield Wizard

3-8 Basic Setup

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Insert the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U.

a. Locate an available CardBus slot on the

side of your notebook. Hold the PC Card with the NETFGEAR logo facing up and insert it into the CardBus slot.

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

b. Follow the Found New Hardware

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

c. Next, you will be prompted to choose the

Found New Hardware Wizard

Note: If Windows warns about a Digital Signature Not Found, click Ye s to continue.

country where you are located. Select your location from the list.

You should see the WG511U system tray icon on the right in the lower right portion of the Windows task bar and on

WG511U System Tray Icon

the Windows desktop.

Basic Setup 3-9

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Configure your WG511U and save the Profile.

a. Click the icon on the Windows

desktop or in the system tray to open the WG511U Smart Wireless Settings Utility.

The utility opens to the Settings tab page.

b. For the Network Name (SSID), use the

default of

SSID for

NETGEAR_11g or type an

your network.

Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the drop-down list or the Networks tab to view the available wireless networks, and choose the one you want.

c. Click Apply to activate the connection.

d. You can also enter a profile name and

click Save Profile to store the current settings.

Tip: If you use your desktop PC to connect to a wireless network at work and at home, create profiles called work and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for wherever you are located.

Click here to open the configuration utility.

WG511U system tray icon

WG511U Configuration Utility

Note: The NETGEAR default settings are Infrastructure mode, with NETGEAR_11g for

the wireless network name SSID, and WPA-PSK enabled with the passphrase of NETGEAR-ULTRA-G. If your WLAN settings are different from these you will not connect. Set up your WG511U accordingly.

Chapter 5, “Wireless Security Configuration” .

3-10 Basic Setup

August 2004

User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Double 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card 32-bit CardBus WG511U

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

a. Verify that your Connection and Status Monitor information matches your wireless

network.

b. Check the two LEDs on the WG511U:

Table 3-2: LED Descriptions

LED 1 (below the word NETGEAR on the left)

Slow blink OFF Power save mode (default from power up or reset)

Alternate blink

Slow blink Slow blink Associated or joined with network; no activity

Fast blink Fast blink Associated or joined with network; blink rate increases

LED 2 (below the word NETGEAR on the right)

Alternate blink

Meaning

Looking for network association Power LED goes ON; Network LED is OFF; then Power LED goes OFF and Network LED goes ON

with activity on the network over the air or locally on the

c. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.

Basic Setup 3-11

August 2004

+ 66 hidden pages