Netgear WPN111 User Manual
User Manual for the
NETGEAR RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WPN111
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
202-10076-01
Version v1.0
February 2005
202-10076-01
Technical Support
Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your
product at http://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: http://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.
© 2005 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
February 2005
.
Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer
It is hereby certified that the Model WPN111 wireless USB adapter has been suppressed in accordance with the
conditions set out in the BMPT- AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of some equipment (for example,
test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however, be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the
notes in the operating instructions.
Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment on the market and
has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.
VCCI Statement
This equipment is in the Class B category (information equipment to be used in a residential area or an adjacent area
thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Data Processing
Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential areas. When used
near a radio or TV receiver, it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling.
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FCC Information to User
This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas
only. Any product changes or modifications will invalidate all applicable regulatory certifications and
approvals
FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment
should be installed and operated with minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Declaration Of Conformity
We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that
the model WPN111 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 rea sonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following methods:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
• Connect the equipment into an electrical outlet on a circuit different from that which the radio receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
202-10076-01
iii
NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Tested to Comply
with FCC Standards
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved byNETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate
the equipment.
PY3WG111T
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.
Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference
Regulations
This digital apparatus (NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111) does not exceed the Class B
limits for radio-noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Canada ID: 4054A-WG111T
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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 WPN111 .........................................................................................................2-1
Key Features ..................................................................................................................2-1
What’s in the Box? ..........................................................................................................2-2
A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ ........................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ........2-2
Chapter 3
Basic Setup
What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................3-1
Verifying System Requirements ...............................................................................3-1
Observing Location and Range Guidelines ..............................................................3-2
Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................3-2
WPN111 Default Wireless Configuration Settings .......................................................... 3-3
Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................3-3
For Windows XP Users Installing a WPN111 ...........................................................3-4
For Windows 2000 Users Installing a WPN111 ........................................................3-8
WPN111 Wireless Connection Indicators .....................................................................3-11
Interpreting the LED on the WPN111 ..................................................................... 3-11
Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................................3-12
Chapter 4
Configuration
Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................4-1
Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................4-1
Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................4-2
How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile ......................... ............................4-2
Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode ....................................................................4-4
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How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ......... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..4-4
How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad-Hoc) Network .......................................4-6
Enabling Wireless Security Features ........................ .................... ................... ...............4-7
Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........4-7
How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................4-8
How to Configure WPA-PSK Encryption Security ....................................................4-9
Statistics Page ........................................................................................................4-10
Advanced Settings Page ........................................................................................4-11
Chapter 5
Troubleshooting
Basic Tips .......................................................................................................................5-1
Frequently Asked Questions ..........................................................................................5-2
General Questions ................................................. ... ... ... .... ... ..................................5-2
Appendix A
Technical Specifications ......................................................................................................A1
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
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
How Does WP A 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 Perfec t? ........................................ ... ... ... .... ... ... ....................................... .. B-20
Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-20
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Appendix C
Preparing Your PCs for Network Access
Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ................................................ ... ... . C-1
Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking ................... ...........................C-1
Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-1
Enabling DHCP in Windows 98 and Me ..................................................................C-3
Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method .......................................................... C-5
Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-5
Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking ............................................. C-6
Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-6
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 ......................................... C-7
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ..................................................... C-7
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 .................................................. C-9
Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 ........................................... C-11
Glossary...............................................................................................................................G1
Index
Contents vii
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viii Contents
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Chapter 1
About This Manual
This chapter introduces the conventions and features of this document.
Audience, Scope, Conventions
This manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills.
However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the NETGEAR RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD, and on the NETGEAR Web site.
This manual uses the following typographical conventions:
Table 1-1. Typographical conventions
italics Emphasis.
bold User input.
[Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets.
Small Caps 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 1-2. Manual Specifications
Product Version NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Manual Part Number 202-10076-01
Manual Publication Date February 2005
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at
http://www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.
About This Manual 1-1
202-10076-01
User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
How to Print this Manual
To print this manual you can choose one of the following several options, according to your needs.
• 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 and 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 and printer ink by selecting this feature.
1-2 About This Manual
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Chapter 2
Introduction
This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR
RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111.
About the WPN111
The NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN1 11 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 among multiple PCs in and
around your home. It is designed for PC computers run ning Microsoft
device and is backwards compatible with USB 1.1 ports.
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.
®
Windows®. It is a USB 2.0
The RangeMax™ WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides reliable, standards-based 802.11g
108 Mbps WLAN connectivity that is protected with industry-standard security. It works with
Windows 98, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems.
Key Features
The RangeMax™ WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides the following features:
• Reliable IEEE 802.11g and b standards-based wireless technology.
• 108 Mbps high speed data transfer. Wireless nodes negotiate to operate in the optimal data
transfer rate. In a noisy environment or when the distance between the wireless nodes is far,
the wireless nodes automatically fall back to operate at lower transfer rates.
• High level of data encryption using128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption method. A lower
level of data encryption or no data encryption is available to simplify your network setup o r to
improve data transfer rate.
Introduction 2-1
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
What’s in the Box?
The product package should contain the following items:
• NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
• Installation Guide for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
• NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 Resource CD, including:
— Driver and Configuration Utility Software
— User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN1 11
— Animated Network Properties Configuration Tutorial
— PC Networking Tutorial
• Warranty and Support information card
If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR dealer. Keep the
carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need to return the product for repair.
A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’
The introduction and adoption of any new technology can be a difficult process. Wireless
technology has removed one of the barriers to networking—running wires. It allows more people
to try networking while at the same time exposes them to the inherent complexity of networking.
General networking concepts, setup, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition,
wireless technology adds issues, such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to the
picture.
To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using wireless networks, the table below
identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless network, assuring appropriate
security measures are taken, browsing the Internet through your wireless connection, exchanging
files with other computers and using printers in the combined wireless and wired network.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?
Connect to a
wireless
network
Protect my
wireless
connection from
snooping,
hacking, or
information
theft.
Note: Secure Internet sites such as banks and online merchants use encryption security built into browsers
like Internet Explorer and Netscape. Any wireless networking security features you might impleme n t are in
addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.
1. Identify the
wireless network
name (SSID) and,
if used, the
wireless security
settings.
2. Set up the
NETGEAR
RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0
Adapter WPN111
with the settings
from step 1.
1. Assure that the
wireless network
has security
features enabled.
2. Configure my
WPN111 with the
security settings of
the wireless
network.
3. Use Windows
security features.
1. A wireless network
2. A PC within the operating
range of the wireless
network. For guidelines
about the range of
wireless networks, see
“Observing Location and
Range Guidelines” on
page 3-2.
1. A wireless network with
authentication and WEP
encryption enabled.
2. Wireless networking
equipment that supports
WEP encryption, such as
the WPN111 and all
NETGEAR wireless
networking products.
To set up the WPN111, see
Chapter 3, “Basic Setup” and
follow the instructions provided.
To learn about wireless
networking technology, see
“Wireless Networking Overview”
on page B-1 for a general
introduction.
To learn about wireless
networking security, see “WEP
Authentication” on page B-7.
To use WEP security features,
see “Enabling Wireless Security
Features” on page 4-7 and
configure your WPN111
accordingly.
Introduction 2-3
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?
Connect to the
Internet over my
wireless
network.
1. Activate my
wireless link and
verify my network
connection.
2. Open an Internet
browser such as
Internet Explorer
or Netscape
Navigator.
1. An active Internet
connection like those from
cable or DSL service
providers.
2. A wireless network
connected to the cable or
DSL Internet service
through a cable/DSL
router as illustrated in
“Connecting to an Access
Point in Infrastructure
Mode” on page 4-2.
3. TCP/IP Internet
networking software
installed and configured
on my PC according to the
requirements of the
Internet service provider.
4. A browser like Internet
Explorer or Netscape
Navigator.
To configure your WPN111 in
Infrastructure Mode, see “Basic
Installation Instructions” on
page 3-3, 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 RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WPN111 Resource CD and the
Help information provided in the
Windows system you are using.
.
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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?
Exchange files
between a
wirelessly
connected PC
and other
computers in a
my combined
wireless and
wired network.
1. Use the Windows
Network
Neighborhood
feature to browse
for computers in
the combined
wireless and wired
network.
2. Browse the hard
drive of the target
computer in the
network in order to
locate the directory
or files you want to
work with.
3. Use the Windows
Explorer copy and
paste functions to
exchange files
between the
computers.
1. The PC I am using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.
2. The PC I am using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the same
Windows Workgroup or
Domain settings as the
other Windows computers
in the combined wireless
and wired network.
3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network or for sharing
particular files must be
provided when Windows
prompts for such
information.
4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ Workgroup
networking is being used,
the drive, file system
directory, or file need to be
enabled for sharing.
For assistance with Windows
networking software, see
“Preparing Your Computers for
TCP/IP Networking” on page C-1
for configuration scenarios or
refer to the Help system included
with your version of Windows.
Windows Domain settings are
usually managed by corporate
computer support groups.
Windows Workgroup settings
are commonly managed by
individuals who want to set up
small networks in their homes, or
small offices.
For assistance with setting up
Windows networking, refer to the
PC Networking Tutorial on the
NETGEAR RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WPN111 Resource CD and the
Help information provided in the
Windows system you are using.
Introduction 2-5
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?
Use printers in a
combined
wireless and
wired network.
1. Use the Windows
Printers and Fax
features to locate
available printers
in the combined
wireless and wired
network.
2. Use the Windows
Add a Printer
wizard to add
access to a
network printer
from the PC you
are using to
wirelessly connect
to the network.
3. From the File
menu of an
application such
as Microsoft Word,
use the Print
Setup feature to
direct your print
output to the
printer in the
network.
1. The PC I am using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.
2. The PC I am using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the same
Windows Workgroup or
Domain settings as the
other Windows computers
in the combined wireless
and wired network.
3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network must be provided
when Windows prompts
for such information.
4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ networking is being
used, the printer needs to
be enabled for sharing.
Windows Domain settings are
usually managed by corporate
computer support groups.
Windows Workgroup settings
are commonly managed by
individuals who want to set up
small networks in their homes, or
small offices.
For assistance with setting up
Windows networking, refer to the
PC Networking Tutorial on the
NETGEAR RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WPN111 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
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Chapter 3
Basic Setup
This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WPN111 and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).
Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 4, “Configuration” in this
manual.
Note: Indoors, computers can easily connect to 802.11 wireless networks at distances of
several hundred feet. Because walls do not always block wireless signals, others outside
your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps
to secure your network from unauthorized access. The NETGEAR RangeMax™
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 provides highly effective security features which
are covered in “Enabling Wireless Security Features” on page 4-7 in this manual.
Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.
What You Need Before You Begin
You need to verify your computer meets the minimum system requirements and identify the
wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can
configure your wireless USB adapter and connect.
Verifying System Requirements
Before installing the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Ada pter WPN111, please make
sure that these minimum requirements have been met:
®
• You must have a PC with a Pentium
available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port.
Note: If you do not have a USB 2.0 port on your PC, the throughput of the WPN111 will be
limited to the 14 Mbps of the USB 1.1 standard.
•A CD-ROM drive.
• 5 Mbytes of free hard disk space.
Basic Setup 3-1
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300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an
User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
• Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000. Some versions of Windows may ask for
the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the
WPN111 driver software.
Note: Windows XP users must install SP2 or install the KB822603 Hot fix which fixes the USB
2.0 Host controller driver. Go to the following link to install the Hot fix:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/
details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=733dd867-56a0-4956-b7fe-e85b688b7f86
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 RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0
Adapter WPN111. 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 RangeMax™ WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter can operate in the following two basic
modes:
•
Infrastructure Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices and computers
communicate with each other by first going through an access point (AP). For example, this
mode is used when computers in a house connect to an Access Point that is attached to a router
which lets multiple computers share a single Cable or DSL broadband Internet connection.
Ad-Hoc Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers
•
communicate directly with each other, without the use of an AP. For example, Ad-Hoc Mode
is used when two Windows computers are configured with file and print sharing enabled and
you want to exchange files directly between them.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Both of these configuration options are available with the RangeMax™ WPN111 Wireless USB
2.0 Adapter. Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered
below. Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in
Chapter 4, “Configuration” of this manual.
WPN111 Default Wireless Configuration Settings
If this is a new wireless network installation, use the factory default settings to set up the network
and verify wireless connectivity. If this is an addition to an existing wireless network, you will
need to identify the wireless configuration and security parameters already defined.
Your NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 factory default basic settings
are:
• Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (First available network)
Note: In order for the RangeMax™ WPN111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter to communicate with
a wireless access point or wireless adapter, all devices must be configured with the same
wireless network name (SSID).
• Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-hoc): Infrastructure
• Data security WEP encryption: Disabled
The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB
2.0 Adapter WPN111 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 Installation Instructions
Use the procedure below that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using.
Basic Setup 3-3
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For Windows XP Users Installing a WPN111
Install the WPN111 driver and configuration
utility software.
a. Power on your PC, let the operating
system boot up completely , and log in as
needed.
b. Insert the Resource CD for the WPN111
into your CD drive. The CD main page
shown at the right will load.
c. Click Install Driver and Utility.
Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps.
You will be prompted to choose the
country you are located in. Select your
location from the list.
d. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer.
WPN111 Resource CD
Note: If this screen fails to load
automatically, browse to the CD and
double-click on autorun.exe.
InstallShield Wizard
Note: If a Windows XP Certification
warning appears, click Continue Anyway to
proceed.
3-4 Basic Setup
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Install the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111.
a. Locate an available USB port on your
PC. Connect the USB cable to the
WPN111 and insert the other end of the
cable into the USB slot on your PC.
b. After a short delay, the Found New
Hardware Wizard displays. The first
time that you install the WPN111 on a
computer, the wizard will install the
bootloader device. Follow the
installation prompts.
Note: Click Continue Anyway if you
are prompted with a Windows XP Logo
testing message.
c. After the bootloader device is installed,
the Found New Hardware Wizard will
display again and install the WPN111.
Follow the installation prompts.
d. Next you will be prompted to enable the
NETGEAR Smart Wireless Settings
Utility configuration utility.
Found New Hardware Wizard
Note: If the USB port in your computer is not a
USB v2.0 type port but rather a USB v1.1 type
port, you will see a “HI_SPEED USB Device
Plugged into non-I-SPEED USB Hub” message.
The WPN111 will work but the USB v1.1 port
maximum speed is 14 Mbps whereas the
maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps.
So, when the WPN111 is connected to a USB
v1.1 port, the communications speed will be
limited to the maximum of the USB v1.1 port.
Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are
prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing
message.
Click Yes to accept this option.
If you choose No, you must read the
Windows XP documentation for an
explanation of how to use the Windows
XP wireless network configuration
Enable NETGEAR Utility Configuration
utility
e. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer. You
will see the WPN11 1 system tray icon on
the lower right portion of the Windows
WPN111 System Tray Icon
task bar.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Configure your WPN111.
a. Click the icon on the Windows
desktop or in the system tray to open the
WPN111 Smart Wizard Wireless
Settings Utility.
Click here to open the configuration utility.
WPN111 system tray icon
The utility opens to the Settings tab
page.
Click Help for instructions on using the
Smart Wizard Wireless Utility.
b. Change the Network Name SSID to
match 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.
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 Wizard Wireless Utility Settings page
Tip: Click Help to view the context-sensitive help
information.
Note: The NETGEAR default settings are
Infrastructure mode, with Any (first available
network that replies) for the wireless network
name SSID, and WEP disabled. If your WLAN
settings are different from the NETGEAR default
settings, you will not connect. Set up your
WPN111 accordingly.
Note: This procedure assumes you are
connecting to a wireless network which is not
using WEP security. If your network includes WEP
settings, click the Settings tab page and configure
the WPN111 accordingly. For help with these
steps, click the Help button in the WPN111
Configuration Utility to view context- sensitive
help information, or see “Enabling Wireless
Security Features” on page 4-7.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Verify wireless connectivity to your network.
a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your
wireless network.
b. Check the color of the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow
indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection.
c. Check the WPN111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good
connection; off means the WPN111 is not plugged in.
d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.
Note: If you are unable to connect, see Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting” .
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
For Windows 2000 Users Installing a WPN111
Install the WPN111 driver and configuration
utility software.
Note: Windows 2000 may require you to be
logged on with administrator rights.
a. Power on your PC, let the operating
system boot up completely , and log in as
needed.
b. Insert the Resource CD for the WPN111
into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main
page shown at the right will load.
c. Click Install Driver and Utility.
Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps.
You will be prompted to choose the
country you are located in. Select your
location from the list.
WPN111 Resource CD
Note: If this screen fails to load automatically,
browse to the CD and double-click on
autorun.exe.
d. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer.
InstallShield Wizard
Note: If a Windows 2000 Digital Signature
warning appears, click Yes to proceed.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Install the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111.
a. Locate an available USB port on your
PC. Connect the USB cable to the
WPN111 and insert the other end of the
cable into the USB slot on your PC.
b. After a short delay, the Found New
Hardware Wizard displays. The first
time that you install the WPN111 on a
computer, the wizard will install the
bootloader device. Follow the
installation prompts.
Note: Click Yes if you are prompted
with a Digital Signature Not Found
message.
c. After the bootloader device is installed,
the Found New Hardware Wizard will
display again and install the WPN111.
Follow the installation prompts.
Found New Hardware Wizard
Note: If your computer does not have a USB v2.0
port but rather a USB v1.1 type port, the WPN111
will be limited to the maximum speed of the USB
v1.1 port. USB v1.1 port maximum speed is 14
Mbps whereas the maximum speed of a USB v2.0
port is 480 Mbps.
Note: Click Yes if you are prompted
with a Digital Signature Not Found
WPN111 System Tray Icon
message.
d. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer.
a. You will see the WPN111 system tray
icon on the lower right portion of the
Windows task bar.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Configure your WPN111 and save the Profile.
a. Click on the WPN11 1 icon on the
Windows desktop or in the system tray
to open the WPN111 configuration
utility.
Click here to open the configuration utility.
WPN111 system tray icon
The utility opens to the Settings tab
page.
Click Help for instructions on using the
Smart Wizard Wireless Utility.
b. For the Network Name (SSID), use the
default of
or type an SSID for
Any (First available network)
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.
WPN111 Configuration Utility
Note: The NETGEAR default settings are
Infrastructure mode, with Any (first available
network that replies) for the wireless network
name SSID, and WEP disabled. If your WLAN
settings are different from the NETGEAR default
settings, you will not connect. Set up your
WPN111 accordingly.
Note: This procedure assumes you are
connecting to a wireless network which is not
using WEP security. If your network includes WEP
settings, click the Security tab page and configure
the WPN111 accordingly. For help with these
steps, click the Help button in the WPN111
Configuration Utility to view context- sensitive
help information, or see “Enabling Wireless
Security Features” on page 4-7.
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User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
Verify wireless connectivity to your network.
a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your
wireless network.
b. Check the color of the WPN111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow
indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection.
c. Check the WPN111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good
connection; off means the WPN111 is not plugged in.
d. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.
Note: If you are unable to connect, see Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting” .
WPN111 Wireless Connection Indicators
The NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111 provides the following three
indicators which give you feedback on the status of your wireless connection:
• The status LED on the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WPN111
indicates the condition of wireless link.
• The color of the SysTray icon is on the System Tray portion of the taskbar in the Microsoft
Windows desktop indicates the status of the connection.
Interpreting the LED on the WPN111
Table 3-1. LED Descriptions
Status LED
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LED Meaning
OFF • The WPN111 in not plugged in to the PC.
• Power save mode (default from power up
or reset).
Blink Looking for network association.
On Associated or joined with network.
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