NETGEAR WG602NA User Manual

User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbp s Wireless Access Point
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA Phone 1-888-NETGEAR
202-10060-01 September 2004
202-10060-01, September 2004
NETGEAR, INC.
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 www.netgear.com. If you do not have access to the W orld W ide Web, you can register your product by filling out the registration card and mailing it to NETGEAR customer service.
You will find technical support information at:
www.netgear.com/support/main.asp through the customer service area. If you want to contact
technical support by telephone, see the support information card for the correct telephone number for your country.
© 2004 by NETGEAR, Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks

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.
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice: Radio Frequency Notice

NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3
Tested to Comply with FCC Standards
FOR HOME OR OFFICE 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.
Warning! T o comply with the FCC’s
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 should not be co-located with other transmitters.
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.
202-10060-01, September 2004
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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 (54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3) 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.
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CE Declaration of Conformity

For the following equipment: 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3
0984 !
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)
EN60950 / EN300328
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Contents

Chapter 1 About This Manual
Audience, Scope, Conventions ......................................................................................1-1
How to Use this Manual ..................................................................................................1-2
How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3
Chapter 2 Introduction
About the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 ...................................................2-1
Support for Standards ..............................................................................................2-1
Key Features ............................................................................................................2-2
802.11g Standards-based Wireless Networking ......................................................2-2
Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink ...............................................2-3
Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products .........................................................2-3
System Requirements ....................................................................................................2-3
What’s In the Box? .........................................................................................................2-4
Hardware Description .....................................................................................................2-5
WG602 v3 Wireless Access Point Front Panel ...................... .................................. 2-5
WG602 v3 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel .........................................................2-6
Power Socket ....................................................................................................2-6
Reset and Restore to Factory Defaults Button ..................................................2-6
RJ-45 Ethernet Port ...........................................................................................2-6
Detachable Antenna ..........................................................................................2-6
Chapter 3 Basic Installation and Configuration
Observing Placement and Range Guidelines ..................... ................ ................ ............3-1
Default Factory Settings .................................................................................................3-2
Understanding WG602 v3 Wireless Security Options ....................................................3-3
Installing the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 ......................................... ... ..3-4
Two Ways to Log In to the WG602 v3 ............................................................................3-6
How to Log in Using the Default IP Address of the WG602 v3 .............................. ..3-7
How to Log In to the WG602 v3 Using Its Default NetBIOS Name ..........................3-9
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Using the Basic IP Settings Options .............................................................................3-10
Understanding the Basic Wireless Settings ..................................................................3-11
Understanding Wireless Security Options ....................................................................3-13
Information to Gather Before Changing Basic Wireless Settings ...........................3-14
How to Configure WEP Wireless Security ....................................................................3-15
How to Configure WPA-PSK Wireless Security ............................................................3-16
How to Restrict Wireless Access by MAC Address ...... ................................................ 3-17
Chapter 4 Management
Viewing General Information ..........................................................................................4-1
Viewing a List of Attached Devices .................................................................................4-3
Upgrading the Wireless Access Point Software .............................................................4-3
Rebooting and Resetting Factory Default Options .........................................................4-5
Restoring the WG602 v3 to the Factory Default Settings ........................................4-5
Using the Reset Button to Reboot or Restore Factory Defaults ............................. ..4-5
Changing the Administrator Password ...........................................................................4-6
Chapter 5 Advanced Configuration
Understanding Advanced Wireless Settings ..................................................................5-1
Configuring Wireless Distribution System Links .............................................................5-2
How to Configure Wireless Bridge Links ...... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..5-2
How to Configure a WG602 v3 as a Point-to-Point Bridge ......................................5-3
How to Configure Wireless Multi-Point Bridging ......................................................5-4
Chapter 6 Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ............................................... ............................................................... 6-1
No lights are lit on the access point. ........................................................................6-1
The Ethernet LAN light is not lit. ..............................................................................6-1
The Wireless LAN activity light is not lit. .................................................................6-2
I cannot configure the wireless access point from a browser. ......... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-2
I cannot access the Internet or the LAN with a wireless capable computer. ...........6-2
When I enter a URL or IP address I get a timeout error. .............. .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-3
Using the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings . .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-3
Appendix A Specifications
Specifications for the WG602 v3 ................................................................................... A-1
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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
WEP Wireless Security .................... ... ... ... .................................................... ... ... .... ... .... B-4
WEP Authentication ............................................................................ .................... B-4
WEP Open System Authentication ......................................................................... B-5
WEP Shared Key Authentication ............................................................................ B-6
Key Size and Configuration .............................................................................. B-7
How to Use WEP Parameters ................................................................................. B-8
WPA Wireless Security .................................................................................................. B-8
How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................ B-9
How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-10
What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-10
WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User
Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS .................................................. B-12
WPA Data Encryption Key Management ........................................................ B-14
Is WPA Perfect? .... ... .... ... .................................................... .................................. B-16
Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-16
Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients ............................... B-16
Changes to Wireless Access Points ............................................................... B-16
Changes to Wireless Network Adapters ......................................................... B-17
Changes to Wireless Client Programs .......................... ......................... ......... B-18
Appendix C Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics
Basic Router Concepts .................................................................................................. B-1
What is a Router? ................................................................................................... B-1
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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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-11
Category 5 Cable Quality ...................................................................................... B-12
Inside Twisted Pair Cables .................................................................................... B-13
Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching ............................ B-14
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-2
Installing or Verifying Windows Networking Components ......... ....... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . C-2
Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings ........................................C-3
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 98 and Me ..........................................C-4
Selecting the Windows Internet Access Method .......................... ........................... C-5
Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows 98 or Me ................................................ C-5
Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking .............................................C-6
Installing or Verifying 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
Numeric .........................................................................................................................D-1
A .................................................................................................................................... D-2
B .................................................................................................................................... D-2
C ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-3
D ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-3
E .................................................................................................................................... D-4
G ..................................... .............................................. ................................................. D-4
I .................................... ............. .......... ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ ........... D-4
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L ...................................... ................. ............. ................ ................ ................ ................. D-6
M ..................................... ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ................. D-6
N ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-7
P .................................................................................................................................... D-8
Q ..................................... .............................................. ................................................. D-9
R ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-9
S .................................................................................................................................... D-9
T .................................................................................................................................. D-10
U ..................................... ........................................................................... ..................D-10
W ................................................................................................................................. D-10
Index
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
Chapter 1
About This Manual
This chapter introduces the conventions and features of this document.

Audience, Scope, Conventions

This manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the Resource CD for the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 (230-10106-01), and on the NETGEAR Web site.
This manual uses the following typographical conventions:
Table 1. Typographical conventions
italics Emphasis.
bold User input. [Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets.
SMALL CAPS
DOS file and directory names.
This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
This manual is written according to these specifications:
Table 1-1. Manual Specifications
Product Version 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 Manual Part Number 202-10060-01 Manual Publication Date September 2004
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at
http://kbserver.netgear.com/products/WG602v3.asp.
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How to Use this Manual

The HTML version of this manual includes these features.
1
2 3
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 HTML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later 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.
The 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, each page of the
manual includes a link at the top right which links to a PDF file containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps 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.
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. 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.
Printing the Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser
window. – Click PDF button. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter
you were viewing.
Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. – Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save
paper an printer ink by selecting this feature.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
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Chapter 2
Introduction
This chapter introduces the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3. Minimal prerequisites for installation are presented in “System Requirements” on page 2-3.

About the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3

The 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 is the basic building block of a wireless LAN infrastructure. It provides connectivity between wired Ethernet networks and radio-equipped wireless notebook systems, desktop systems, print servers, and other devices.
The WG602 v3 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. Typically, an in-doors access point provides a maximum connectivity area with about a 300 foot radius. The 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 can support a small group of users in a range of several hundred feet. Most access points are rated for up to 32 users simultaneously.
The auto-sensing capability of the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 allows packet transmission at up to 54 Mbps, or at reduced speeds to compensate for distance or electromagnetic noise interference.

Support for Standards

The following standards and conventions are supported:
Standards Compliant. The WG602 v3 Access Point complies with the IEEE 802.11g
(DSSS).
WEP support. Support for WEP is included. Both 64-bit and 128-bit keys are supported.
WPA-PSK support. Support for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) data encryption which
provides strong data encryption and authentication based on a pre-shared key.
Dynamic WEP key Support. Fixed or Dynamic WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) keys can
be used.
DHCP Client Support. DHCP provides a dynamic IP address to PCs and other devices upon
request. The WG602 v3 can act as a client and obtain information from your DHCP server.
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NetBIOS & WINS Support. Support for both NetBIOS broadcast and WINS (Windows
Internet Naming Service) allows the WG602 v3 to easily fit into your existing Windows network.

Key Features

The WG602 v3 provides solid functionality, including these features:
Wireless Access Point. Operates as a standard 802.11g access point.
Wireless Bridging. Operates as a point-to-point or multi-point wireless bridge.
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 WG602 v3 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.
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

802.11g Standards-based Wireless Networking

The 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 provides a bridge between Ethernet wired LANs and 802.11g 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 WG602 v3 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, WPA-PSK)
Short or long preamble
Roaming among access points on the same subnet
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink

The WG602 v3 can connect to a standard Ethernet network. The LAN interface is autosensing and capable of full-duplex or half-duplex operation. The wireless access point incorporates Auto Uplink 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.
TM
technology. The Ethernet port will automatically sense whether the Ethernet cable

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 WG602 v3 Access Point:
WAB501 a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card Adapter
MA401 802.11b Wireless PC Card
WG511 802.11g Wireless CardBus Adapter
MA111 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter
MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter
MA701 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card
WAG511 802.11a/g Wireless CardBus Adapter
MA701 802.11b Compact Flash Wireless Adapter
WGE101 802.11g Wireless Bridge
WG311 802.11g Wireless PCI Adapter
WAG311 802.11a/g Wireless PCI Adapter

System Requirements

Before installing the WG602 v3, make sure your network meets these requirements:
A hub, switch, or Cable/DSL router with an available 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port
A 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
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At least one Pentium class computer (or equivalent) with the TCP/IP protocol installed
Other 802.11b or 802.11g-compliant devices

What’s In the Box?

The product package should contain the following items:
54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3
Power adapter and cord (12Vdc, 1.2A)
Straight through Category 5 Ethernet cable—10 feet (3.04 m)
Printed 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 Quick Installation Guide
Resource CD for the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 (230-10106-01) User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point (202-10060-01)—this
manual – Windows TCP/IP and Networking Tutorials – Animated Install Assistant – Soft copy of the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 Quick Installation Guide
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 packing materials, and use the packing materials to repack the WG602 v3 if you need to return it for repair . T o qualify for product updates and product warranty registrations, we encourage you to register on the NETGEAR Web site at: http://www.netgear.com.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

Hardware Description

The 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 front and rear hardware functions are described below.

WG602 v3 Wireless Access Point Front Panel

The WG602 v3 Access Point provides three status LEDs.
Power
Ethernet Wireless
Figure 2-1: WG602 v3 front panel
The following table explains the LED indicators:
LED DESCRIPTION Power
Ethernet Ethernet LAN Link Activity Indicator
Green On
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 Wireless LAN Link Activity Indicator
Green On
Green Blink Wireless link activity.
Power Indicator No power. If this LED does not come on with the power adapter and cord correctly
Off
installed, see Chapter 6, “Troubleshooting.” Power is on.
On
Off
Indicates no Ethernet link detected. 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet link detected, no activity.
Off
Indicates no wireless link detected. Wireless link enabled, no activity.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

WG602 v3 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel

Power Socket
Figure 2-2: WG602 v3 rear panel
Reset & Restore Button
RJ-45 Ethernet Port
Detachable Antenna
Power Socket
This socket connects to the WG602 v3 power adapter.
Reset and Restore to Factory Defaults Button
The reset and restore to defaults button located between the Ethernet RJ-45 connector and the power socket resets the WG602 v3 when pushed once or restores to the factory default settings when pushed and held for 10 seconds.
RJ-45 Ethernet Port
Use the WG602 v3 Ethernet RJ-45 port to connect to an Ethernet LAN through a device such as a hub, switch, or router.
Detachable Antenna
The WG602 v3 provides a detachable antenna. Be sure the antenna is securely fastened.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
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Chapter 3
Basic Installation and Configuration
This chapter describes how to set up your 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 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.
You need to prepare these three things before you can establish a connection through your wireless access point:
A location for the WG602 v3 that conforms to the guidelines below.
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

Note: Indoors, computers can connect over 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 WG602 v3 Access Point provides highly effective security features which are covered in detail in this chapter. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.
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.
Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance
degradation or inability to wirelessly connect to the WG602 v3.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
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.

Default Factory Settings

When you first receive your WG602 v3, the default factory settings will be set as shown below. To restore these defaults, see “WG602 v3 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel” on page 2-6.
FEATURE FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS
User Name (case sensitive) admin
Password (case sensitive) password
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
Wireless Mode (Access Point or Bridge) Access Point
Wireless Network Name (SSID) NETGEAR
Broadcast Network Name Enabled
802.11g/b
Radio Frequency Channel
WEP/WPA Disabled
Authentication Type Auto
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IP Address: 192.168.0.227 Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 Gateway: 0.0.0.0
11
User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

Understanding WG602 v3 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 WG602 v3 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
Security Options
Range: Up to 300 Foot Radius
WG602 v3
2) MAC Access List: No data security
3) WEP: Secure but some vulnerabilities
4) WPA: Very strong security
Figure 3-1: WG602 v3 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 WG602 v3. 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 an eavesdropper but because the keys are static, a determined snoop can learn the keys in less than a day of eavesdropping.
Use WPA-PSK. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) data encryption provides data security. WPA-PSK will block eavesdropping. Because this is a new standard, wireless device driver and software availability may be limited. However, WPA is not available in bridge mode.
1) Open System: Easy but no security
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

Installing the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3

Follow the instructions below to set up and test basic wireless connectivity. Once you have established basic wireless connectivity, you can enable security settings and configure the advanced wireless functions.
Before installing the 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3, 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 2-3.
1SET UP THE WG602 V3 ACCESS POINT
Tip: Before mounting the WG602 v3 in a high location, first set up and test the WG602 v3 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 WG602 v3 to the PC (A).
A
ETHERNET
WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
Figure 3-2: Set up the WG602 v3
Turn on your computer, connect the power adapter to the WG602 v3 and verify the
d.
following:
The 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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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
2CONFIGURE LAN AND WIRELESS ACCESS
The WG602 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 on your computer.
1. The WG602 v3 is set by default to be a DHCP client. So, if the WG602 v3 has not yet been
installed, and there is no DHCP server on the network, you can log in to the WG602 v3 using its default IP address. 192.168.0.227 is the default IP address of your access point.
Note: This procedure which uses a static IP configuration. If WG602 v3 has already been installed or it is connected to a network where there as a DHCP server as commonly found in home routers, you can the NetBIOS login described in “How to Log In to the WG602 v3
Using Its Default NetBIOS Name” on page 3-9.
2. Open a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
3. Connect to the WG602 v3 by entering its default address of http://192.168.0.227 into your
browser.
e. A login window like the one shown below opens:
Figure 3-3: Login window
When prompted, enter admin for the user name and password for the password, both
in lower case letters.
Click IP Settings and configure the IP Settings according to your network setup.
f. Configure the wireless interface for wireless access. See the online help or the
“Understanding the Basic Wireless Settings” on page 3-11 for full instructions.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point
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 WG602 v3 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 WG602 V3 ACCESS POINT
a. Disconnect the WG602 v3 and position it where you will deploy it. The best location is
elevated at the center of your wireless coverage area.
b. Lift the antenna side so that it is vertical. c. Connect an Ethernet cable from your WG602 v3 Access Point to a LAN port on your
router, switch, or hub. Note: By default, WG602 v3 is set to be a DHCP client. If your network uses static IP
addresses, you will need to change this setting.
d. Connect the power adapter to the wireless access point and plug the power adapter in to a
power outlet. The power, LAN, and wireless 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 WG602 v3 (SSID, MAC ACL, WEP, WPA, 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. If you cannot connect, see
“Troubleshooting” on page 6-1.

Two Ways to Log In to the WG602 v3

The 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point WG602 v3 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 log in to the WG602 v3 in these two ways:
Using the Default IP Address of the WG602 v3 is the most reliable.
Using the NetBIOS name of the WG602 v3 is not as reliable as using the IP Address.
The procedures for these two ways of logging in to the WG602 v3 are presented here.
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User’s Guide for the WG602 v3 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point

How to Log in Using the Default IP Address of the WG602 v3

1. 192.168.0.227 is the default IP address of your access point. However, the WG602 v3 is also
set, by default, to be a DHCP client. So, if the WG602 v3 has not yet been installed, and there is no DHCP server on the network, you can log in to the WG602 v3 using its default IP address. Otherwise, you should use either the NetBIOS login described in “How to Log In to
the WG602 v3 Using Its Default NetBIOS Name” on page 3-9 or the procedure described in “Set up the WG602 v3 Access Point” on page 3-4” which uses a static IP configuration.
Note: The computer you are using to connect to the WG602 v3 should be configured with an IP address that starts with 192.168.0.x and a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0.
2. Open a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
3. Connect to the WG602 v3 by entering its default address of http://192.168.0.227 into your
browser.
4. A login window like the one shown below opens:
Figure 3-4: Login window
Log in use the default user name of admin and default password of password. Once you have entered your access point name, your Web browser should automatically find
the WG602 v3 Access Point and display the home page, as shown in “Login result: WG602 v3
home page” on page 3-8.
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