RangeMax WiFi Range
Extender WPN824EXT
User Manual
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
202-10310-02
April 2008
© 2008 by NETGEAR, Inc. All rights reserved.
Technical Support and Documentation
Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. When you register 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
North American NETGEAR website: http://www.netgear.com
Setup documentation is available on the Resource CD, on the support website, and on the documentation website. When
the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT is connected to the Internet, click the KnowledgeBase or the
Documentation link under the Web Support menu to view support information.
Trademarks
NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, ProSafe, RangeMax and Auto Uplink are trademarks or registered trademarks of
NETGEAR, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT and Vista are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.Other
brand and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.
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.
Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer
It is hereby certified that the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT 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.
The 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.
Bestätigung des Herstellers/Importeurs
Es wird hiermit bestätigt, daß das RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT gemäß der im BMPT-AmtsblVfg 243/
1991 und Vfg 46/1992 aufgeführten Bestimmungen entstört ist. Das vorschriftsmäßige Betreiben einiger Geräte (z.B.
Testsender) kann jedoch gewissen Beschränkungen unterliegen. Lesen Sie dazu bitte die Anmerkungen in der
Betriebsanleitung.
Das Bundesamt für Zulassungen in der Telekommunikation wurde davon unterrichtet, daß dieses Gerät auf den Markt
gebracht wurde und es ist berechtigt, die Serie auf die Erfüllung der Vorschriften hin zu überprüfen.
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Voluntary Control Council for Interference (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.
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.
Europe – EU Declaration of Conformity
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
Europe – Declaration of Conformity in Languages of the European Community
Cesky [Czech] NETGEAR Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že tento Radiolan je ve shode se základními
požadavky a dalšími príslušnými ustanoveními smernice 1999/5/ES..
Dansk
[Danish]
Deutsch
[German]
Eesti
[Estonian]
English Hereby, NETGEAR Inc., declares that this Radiolan is in compliance with the essential
Español
[Spanish]
Undertegnede NETGEAR Inc. erklærer herved, at følgende udstyr Radiolan overholder
de væsentlige krav og øvrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF.
Hiermit erklärt NETGEAR Inc., dass sich das Gerät Radiolan in Übereinstimmung mit
den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den übrigen einschlägigen Bestimmungen der
Richtlinie 1999/5/EG befindet.
Käesolevaga kinnitab NETGEAR Inc. seadme Radiolan vastavust direktiivi 1999/5/EÜ
põhinõuetele ja nimetatud direktiivist tulenevatele teistele asjakohastele sätetele.
requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.
Por medio de la presente NETGEAR Inc. declara que el Radiolan cumple con los
requisitos esenciales y cualesquiera otras disposiciones aplicables o exigibles de la
Directiva 1999/5/CE.
Ελληνική
[Greek]
Français
[French]
ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΠΑΡΟΥΣΑ NETGEAR Inc. ΔΗΛΩΝΕΙ ΟΤΙ Radiolan ΣΥΜΜΟΡΦΩΝΕΤΑΙ
ΠΡΟΣ ΤΙΣ ΟΥΣΙΩΔΕΙΣ ΑΠΑΙΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΙΣ ΛΟΙΠΕΣ ΣΧΕΤΙΚΕΣ ΔΙΑΤΑΞΕΙΣ ΤΗΣ
ΟΔΗΓΙΑΣ 1999/5/ΕΚ.
Par la présente NETGEAR Inc. déclare que l'appareil Radiolan est conforme aux
exigences essentielles et aux autres dispositions pertinentes de la directive 1999/5/CE.
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v1.0, April 2008
Italiano [Italian] Con la presente NETGEAR Inc. dichiara che questo Radiolan è conforme ai requisiti
essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni pertinenti stabilite dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE.
Latviski
[Latvian]
Lietuvių
[Lithuanian]
Nederlands
[Dutch]
Malti [Maltese] Hawnhekk, NETGEAR Inc., jiddikjara li dan Radiolan jikkonforma mal-htigijiet
Magyar
[Hungarian]
Polski [Polish] Niniejszym NETGEAR Inc. oświadcza, że Radiolan jest zgodny z zasadniczymi
Português
[Portuguese]
Slovensko
[Slovenian]
Slovensky
[Slovak]
Suomi
[Finnish]
Ar šo NETGEAR Inc. deklarē, ka Radiolan atbilst Direktīvas 1999/5/EK būtiskajām
prasībām un citiem ar to saistītajiem noteikumiem.
Šiuo NETGEAR Inc. deklaruoja, kad šis Radiolan atitinka esminius reikalavimus ir kitas
1999/5/EB Direktyvos nuostatas.
Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR Inc. dat het toestel Radiolan in overeenstemming is met de
essentiële eisen en de andere relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG.
essenzjali u ma provvedimenti ohrajn relevanti li hemm fid-Dirrettiva 1999/5/EC.
Alulírott, NETGEAR Inc. nyilatkozom, hogy a Radiolan megfelel a vonatkozó alapvetõ
követelményeknek és az 1999/5/EC irányelv egyéb elõírásainak.
wymogami oraz pozostałymi stosownymi postanowieniami Dyrektywy 1999/5/EC.
NETGEAR Inc. declara que este Radiolan está conforme com os requisitos essenciais
e outras disposições da Directiva 1999/5/CE.
NETGEAR Inc. izjavlja, da je ta Radiolan v skladu z bistvenimi zahtevami in ostalimi
relevantnimi določili direktive 1999/5/ES.
NETGEAR Inc. týmto vyhlasuje, _e Radiolan spĺňa základné po_iadavky a všetky
príslušné ustanovenia Smernice 1999/5/ES.
NETGEAR Inc. vakuuttaa täten että Radiolan tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY
oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen.
Svenska
[Swedish]
Íslenska
[Icelandic]
Norsk
[Norwegian]
Härmed intygar NETGEAR Inc. att denna Radiolan står I överensstämmelse med de
väsentliga egenskapskrav och övriga relevanta bestämmelser som framgår av direktiv
1999/5/EG.
Hér með lýsir NETGEAR Inc. yfir því að Radiolan er í samræmi við grunnkröfur og aðrar
kröfur, sem gerðar eru í tilskipun 1999/5/EC.
NETGEAR Inc. erklærer herved at utstyret Radiolan er i samsvar med de
grunnleggende krav og øvrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF.
FCC Requirements for Operation in the United States
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 approva.ls
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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.
FCC Declaration Of Conformity
We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that
the model WPN824EXT Wireless Range Extender 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.
FCC 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 into which the radio receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT
Tested to Comply
with FCC Standards
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved by NETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate
the equipment.
PY307300071
Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations
This digital apparatus (RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT) does not exceed the Class B limits for radionoise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Canada ID: 4054A-07300071
v1.0, April 2008
v
Product and Publication Details
Model Number: WPN824EXT
Publication Date: April 2008
Product Family: Wireless Range Extender
Product Name: RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT
Home or Business Product: Home
Language: English
Publication Part Number: 202-10310-02
Publication Version Number: 1.0
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Contents
About This Manual
Conventions, Formats, and Scope ....................................................................................ix
How to Use This Manual ................................................................................................... x
How to Print This Manual .................................................................................................. x
Revision History .................................................................................................................xi
Chapter 1
Introduction
Key Features ..................................................................................................................1-1
RangeMax™ Multi-In, Multi-Out (MIMO) Technology ..............................................1-1
802.11g Wireless Networking ...................................................................................1-2
Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink ...............................................1-2
Wireless Repeater Capability ...................................................................................1-3
Quality of Service (QoS) ..........................................................................................1-3
Automatic Firmware Updates ...................................................................................1-3
Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products ................................................................1-3
Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines ..........................................................1-3
Logging In .......................................................................................................................1-5
Using Automatic Firmware Update upon Login ..............................................................1-6
About the WiFi Range Extender Main Menu ..................................................................1-8
Chapter 2
Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security
Enhancing the Security of Your Network ........................................................................2-1
Wireless Settings Record ...............................................................................................2-2
Setting Up and Testing Basic Wireless Connectivity ......................................................2-3
Selecting a Wireless Security Option .............................................................................2-5
Configuring Advanced Wireless Settings .......................................................................2-7
Chapter 3
Setup and Maintenance
Basic Settings .................................................................................................................3-1
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
Wireless Settings ............................................................................................................3-3
Wireless Extender Status ...............................................................................................3-3
Attached Devices ............................................................................................................3-7
Backup Settings ..............................................................................................................3-8
Set Password .................................................................................................................3-9
Firmware Update .......................................................................................................... 3-11
Chapter 4
Advanced Settings and Features
Advanced Wireless Settings ...........................................................................................4-1
Wireless Repeating Function ..........................................................................................4-1
NTP Client ......................................................................................................................4-5
QoS Setup ......................................................................................................................4-6
Using WMM QoS for Wireless Multimedia Applications ...........................................4-7
Configuring QoS for Internet Access ........................................................................4-7
Appendix A
Technical Specifications
Default Configuration Settings ....................................................................................... A-1
Restoring the Default User Name and Password .......................................................... A-4
Appendix B
Related Documents
Index
viii Contents
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About This Manual
The NETGEAR® RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual provides
information for configuring the features of the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT
beyond initial configuration settings. Initial configuration instructions can be found in the setup
manual, the Wireless Range Extender Manual. You should have basic to intermediate computer
and Internet skills.
Conventions, Formats, and Scope
The conventions, formats, and scope of this manual are described in the following paragraphs:
• Typographical Conventions. This manual uses the following typographical conventions::
Italic Emphasis, books, CDs
Bold User input, IP addresses, GUI screen text
Fixed Command prompt, CLI text, code
italic URL links
• Formats. This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
Tip: This format is used to highlight a procedure that will save time or resources.
Warning: Ignoring this type of note might result in a malfunction or damage to the
equipment.
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
Danger: This is a safety warning. Failure to take heed of this notice might result in
personal injury or death.
• Scope. This manual is written for the WiFi Range Extender according to these specifications:
Product Version RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT
Manual Publication Date April 2008
For more information about network, Internet, firewall, and VPN technologies, see the links to the
NETGEAR website in Appendix B, “Related Documents.”
Product updates are available on the NETGEAR, Inc. website at
http://www.netgear.com/support.
How to Use This Manual
The HTML version of this manual includes the following:
• Buttons, and , for browsing forwards or backwards through the manual one page
at a time.
• A button that displays the table of contents and a button that displays an index.
Double-click a link in the table of contents or index to navigate directly to where the topic is
described in the manual.
• A button to access the full NETGEAR, Inc. online knowledge base for the product
model.
• Links to PDF versions of the full manual and individual chapters.
How to Print This Manual
To print this manual, you can choose one of the following options, according to your needs.
• Printing a page from HTML. Each page in the HTML version of the manual is dedicated to
a major topic. Select File > Print from the browser menu to print the page contents.
x About This Manual
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
• Printing from PDF. Your computer must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader installed for
you to view and print PDF files. The Acrobat Reader is available on the Adobe website at
http://www.adobe.com.
– Printing a PDF chapter. Use the PDF of This Chapter link at the top left of any page.
• Click the PDF of This Chapter link at the top left of any page in the chapter you want
to print. The PDF version of the chapter you were viewing opens in a browser
window.
• Click the print icon in the upper left of your browser window.
– Printing a PDF version of the complete manual. Use the Complete PDF Manual link
at the top left of any page.
• Click the Complete PDF Manual link at the top left of any page in the manual. The
PDF version of the complete manual opens in a browser window.
• Click the print icon in the upper left of your browser 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.
Revision History
Part Number
202-10310-02 1.0 April 2008 First publication
About This Manual xi
Ver sion
Number
Date Description
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
xii About This Manual
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Chapter 1
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR® RangeMax WiFi Range Extender
WPN824EXT. The WiFi range extender provides connection for multiple computers to the
Internet through an external broadband access device (such as a gateway/router).
Key Features
Note: For first-time installation and basic troubleshooting of your WiFi range extender,
refer to the NETGEAR RangeMax WiFi Range Extender Setup Manual.
The RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT is easy to use and provides features that are
described in the following sections:
• “RangeMax™ Multi-In, Multi-Out (MIMO) Technology”
• “802.11g Wireless Networking”
• “Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink”
• “Wireless Repeater Capability”
• “Quality of Service (QoS)”
• “Automatic Firmware Updates”
RangeMax™ Multi-In, Multi-Out (MIMO) Technology
NETGEAR’s RangeMax Multi-In, Multi-Out (MIMO) technology provides 10 times more
coverage than standard 802.11g alone by eliminating “dead spots” in the area of coverage where
you use your wireless computers. Your whole house or office suite now becomes a “hot spot”
without requiring any range extenders, repeaters, or external antennas. RangeMax maintains a
high speed throughout your home, not just when you are close to your WiFi range extender.
RangeMax is an advanced Smart MIMO (Multi-In, Multi-Out) technology that uses seven internal
antennas. RangeMax constantly surveys your home environment for physical barriers and
interference and adjusts the wireless signal to compensate for these performance blockers.
1-1
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
For example, if you carry your laptop from the family room to the bedroom, RangeMax
automatically senses the change and selects from multiple possible antenna configurations to
deliver you the fastest, clearest connection so that everyone can enjoy consistently high-speed
connections, everywhere in your house, with no drop-outs and no dead spots.
RangeMax is also 100 percent compatible with your existing 802.11b/g products (for example,
802.11b, 802.11g, Centrino, and SuperG™ wireless clients) and boosts their range and speed by up
to 50 percent.
802.11g Wireless Networking
The WiFi range extender acts as an 802.11g wireless access point, providing continuous, highspeed 108 Mbps access between your wireless and Ethernet devices. The extender provides the
folowing functions:
• 802.11g wireless networking at up to 108 Mbps.
• 802.11g wireless networking, with the ability to operate in 802.11g-only, 802.11b-only, or
802.11g and b modes, providing backwards compatibility with 802.11b devices or dedicating
the wireless network to the higher-bandwidth 802.11g devices.
• 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption security.
• WEP keys that can be generated manually or by passphrase.
• 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.
• Wireless access that can be restricted by MAC address.
• Wireless network name broadcast that can be turned off so that only devices that have the
network name (SSID) can connect.
Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink
The WiFi range extender can connect to a standard Ethernet network. The LAN interface is
autosensing and capable of full-duplex or half-duplex operation.
TM
The WiFi range extender incorporates Auto Uplink
senses whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port should have a normal connection, such as
to a computer, or an uplink connection, such as to a switch or hub. That port then configures itself
to the correct configuration. This feature also eliminates the need to worry about crossover cables,
as Auto Uplink accommodates either type of cable to make the right connection.
1-2 Introduction
technology. The Ethernet port automatically
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
Wireless Repeater Capability
The WiFi range extender is configurable as a base or repeater station in order to extend range. This
allows you to use it with wireless access points (APs) to build large bridged wireless networks. For
more information, see “Wireless Repeating Function” on page 4-1.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Built-in Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and
gaming traffic. For more information, see “QoS Setup” on page 4-6.
Automatic Firmware Updates
The WiFi range extender is automatically updated with the latest router firmware during
installation and at login. For more information, see “Using Automatic Firmware Update upon
Login” on page 1-6 and “Firmware Update” on page 3-11.
Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products
NETGEAR products related to the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT are as follows:
• RangeMax Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter (WPN111)
• RangeMax Wireless PCI Adapter (WPN311)
• RangeMax Wireless PC Card (WPN511)
Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines
You should select the physical placement of your WiFi range extender to maximize the network
speed. The operating distance or range of your wireless connection can vary significantly based on
the physical placement of the WiFi range extender. The latency, data throughput performance, and
notebook power consumption of wireless adapters also vary depending on your configuration
choices.
Introduction 1-3
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance
degradation or inability to wirelessly connect to the WiFi range extender. For
complete range and performance specifications, see Appendix A, “Technical
Specifications.”
For best results, place your WiFi range extender:
• Near the center of the area in which your computers will operate.
• In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected computers have
line-of-sight access (even if through walls).
• Away from sources of interference, such as computers, microwaves, and 2.4 GHz cordless
phones.
• Away from large metal surfaces.
The time it takes to establish a wireless connection can vary depending on both your security
settings and placement. WEP connections can take slightly longer to establish. Also, WEP and
WPA-PSK \encryption can consume more battery power on a notebook computer.
When used on a metallic surface, MIMO units must be oriented vertically to ensure proper
operation:
Figure 1-1
1-4 Introduction
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
Logging In
Note: For first-time installation and basic troubleshooting of your WiFi range
extender, refer to the setup manual, the NETGEAR RangeMax WiFi Range
Extender Setup Manual.
To access the extender using its login name and password:
1. Type http://www.mywifiext.net or http://www.mywifiext.com in the address field of your
browser, and then press Enter.
A login window similar to the one shown in Figure 1-2 displays.
Figure 1-2
2. When prompted, enter admin for the extender user name and password for the extender
password, both in lowercase letters. (For security reasons, the extender has its own user name
and password.) If you later change the user name and password from the defaults, use what
you have set up.
Note: The extender user name and password are not the same as any other user name
or password you might use to log in to your Internet connection.
Introduction 1-5
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Using Automatic Firmware Update upon Login
The Checking for Firmware Updates screen appears when you log in in unless you previously
cleared the Check for Updated Firmware Upon Log-in check box. For information about checking
for new firmware through the main menu, see “Firmware Update” on page 3-11.
Figure 1-3
1. Allow the update feature to check for firmware updates more recent than the firmware
currently installed in your WiFi range extender.
If the update feature discovers a newer version of software, you are asked if you want to
upgrade to the new software.
Figure 1-4
2. To download and install a newer version, click Ye s.
1-6 Introduction
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
The update feature automatically installs the most recent firmware.
Warning: Do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or
do anything else to the extender until the extender finishes downloading!
Figure 1-5
The thank you window also displays.
Figure 1-6
If no new firmware is available, the following message appears.
Figure 1-7
Introduction 1-7
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RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT User Manual
About the WiFi Range Extender Main Menu
When you log in to the WiFi range extender, the main menu displays.
Figure 1-8
To find information about the selections on the main menu, see the following topics in this manual:
Table 1-1. WiFi Range Extender Main Menu
WiFi Range Extender Main Menu Topic in Manual
Setup Basic Settings “Basic Settings” on page 3-1
Wireless Settings Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security
Maintenance Wireless Extender Status “Wireless Extender Status” on page 3-3
Attached Devices “Attached Devices” on page 3-7
Backup Settings “Backup Settings” on page 3-8
Set Password “Set Password” on page 3-9
Firmware Update “Firmware Update” on page 3-11
1-8 Introduction
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Table 1-1. WiFi Range Extender Main Menu (continued)
WiFi Range Extender Main Menu Topic in Manual
Advanced Wireless Settings Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security
Wireless Repeating
Function
NTP Client “NTP Client” on page 4-5
QoS Setup “QoS Setup” on page 4-6
Web Support KnowledgeBase “Technical Support and Documentation” on page ii
Documentation “Technical Support and Documentation” on page ii
“Wireless Repeating Function” on page 4-1
Introduction 1-9
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1-10 Introduction
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Chapter 2
Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security
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 WiFi range extender provides highly effective security features, which
are covered in detail in this chapter.
Enhancing the Security of Your Network
Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.
Wireless Data
Security Options
Range: Up to 300 foot radius
1. Open. Easy but no security
2. MAC Access List. No data security
3. WEP. Security but vulnerable
4. WPA or WPA-PSK. Very strong security
Figure 2-1
Note: Indoors, computers can connect over 802.11b/g wireless networks at ranges of up
to 300 feet. Such distances can allow for others outside of your immediate area to
access your network.
There are several ways you can enhance the secur ity of your wireless network.
• Restrict access based on MAC address. You can restrict access to only trusted computers so
that unknown computers cannot wirelessly connect to the WPN824EXT. MAC address
filtering adds an obstacle against unwanted access to your network, but the data broadcast over
the wireless link is fully exposed.
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• 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.
• WEP. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption provides data security. WEP Shared
Key authentication and WEP data encryption block all but the most determined eavesdropper.
• WPA-PSK. Wi-Fi Protected Access–Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK) data encryption provides
strong data security. WPA-PSK blocks eavesdropping. Because this is a new standard, wireless
device driver and software availability might be limited.
Wireless Settings Record
Before customizing your wireless settings, NETGEAR recommends that you print this section and
record the following information. If you are working with an existing wireless network, the person
who set up or is responsible for the network can provide this information. Otherwise, you will
choose the settings for your wireless network. Either way, record the settings for your wireless
network in the spaces below.
• Wireless network name (SSID). ______________________________
the wireless network. You can use up to 32 alphanumeric characters. The SSID is casesensitive. The SSID in the wireless adapter card must match the SSID of the WiFi range
extender. In some configuration utilities (such as in Windows XP), the term “wireless network
name” is used instead of SSID.
• If WEP authentication is used. Circle one: Open System, Shared Key, or Auto.
Note: If you select Shared Key, the other devices in the network will not connect
unless they are set to Shared Key as well and are configured with the correct
key.
– WEP encryption key size. Choose one: 64-bit or 128-bit. Again, the encryption key size
must be the same for the wireless adapters and the WiFi range extender.
– Data encryption (WEP) keys. There are two methods for creating WEP data encryption
keys. Whichever method you use, record the key values in the spaces below.
• Passphrase method. ______________________________
sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters, and click the Generate Keys
button. Not all wireless devices support the passphrase method.
2-2 Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security
The SSID identifies
These characters are case-
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• Manual method. These values are not case-sensitive. For 64-bit WEP, enter 10 hex
digits (any combination of 0–9 or a–f). For 128-bit WEP, enter 26 hex digits.
Key 1: ___________________________________
Key 2: ___________________________________
Key 3: ___________________________________
Key 4: ___________________________________
• If WPA-PSK authentication is used.
– Passphrase. ______________________________
Enter a word or group of printable characters. When you use WPA-PSK, the other devices
in the network will not connect unless they are set to WPA-PSK as well and are configured
with the correct passphrase.
Use the procedures described in this chapter to configure the WiFi range extender. Store this
information in a safe place.
These characters are case-sensitive.
Setting Up and Testing Basic Wireless Connectivity
Note: If you use a wireless computer to configure WPA settings, you will be disconnected
when you click Apply. Reconfigure your wireless adapter to match the new settings
or access the WiFi range extender from a wired computer to make any further
changes.
Follow these instructions to set up and test basic wireless connectivity. Once you have established
basic wireless connectivity, you can enable security settings appropriate to your needs.
1. Log in to the WiFi range extender (see “Logging In” on page 1-5).
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2. Select Wireless Settings in the main menu of the WiFi range extender. The Wireless Settings
screen displays.
Figure 2-2
3. Choose a suitable descriptive name for the wireless network name (SSID). In the Wireless
Network Name (SSID) field, enter a value of up to 32 alphanumeric characters. The default
SSID is NETGEAR_EXT.
Note: The SSID is case-sensitive; NETGEAR is not the same as nETgear. Also, the
SSID of any wireless access adapters must match the SSID you configure in
the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT. If they do not match, you
will not get a wireless connection to the WPN824EXT.
4. Set the country/region. Select the region in which the wireless interface will operate. It might
not be legal to operate the WiFi range extender in a country or region other than the one shown
here. See online help for more details. To change the country/region, select from the dropdown list. The region selection feature might not be available in the localized version of the
firmware that you have.
5. Set the channel/frequency. This field determines which operating frequency is used. It should
not be necessary to change the wireless channel unless you notice interference problems with
another nearby wireless network. For more information about the wireless channel
frequencies, click the link to the online document “Wireless Networking Basics” in
Appendix B.
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6. Set the operating mode. Select the wireless operating mode you want. The default is Auto 108
Mbps. You can change this to b only, g only, or 802.11b/g mixed.
7. For initial configuration and test, leave the security setting as set when you installed the WiFi
range extender. Once your computers have basic wireless connectivity, you can configure the
advanced wireless security functions, as described in “Configuring Advanced Wireless
Settings” on page 2-7.
8. Click Apply to save your changes.
Note: If you are configuring the WPN824EXT from a wireless computer and you
change the WPN824EXT’s SSID, channel, or security settings, you will lose
your wireless connection when you click on Apply. You must then change the
wireless settings of your computer to match the WPN824EXT’s new settings.
9. Configure and test your computers for wireless connectivity.
Program the wireless adapter of your computers to have the same SSID and channel that you
configured in the WPN824EXT. Check that they have a wireless link and are able to obtain an
IP address by DHCP from the WPN824EXT.
Selecting a Wireless Security Option
To select a wireless security option:
1. Log in to the WiFi range extender (see “Logging In” on page 1-5).
2. Select Wireless Settings in the main menu.
3. Select a security type. If the information is required, Passphrase, Authentication Type,
Encryption Strength, or Security Encryption (WEP) Key fields appear after you select a
security type, as described in Table 2-1 on page 2-6.
Note: For more information on wireless security, click the link to the online
document “Wireless Networking Basics” in Appendix B, or the WiFi range
extender help screens.
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Table 2-1. Wireless Security Options
Security Type Description
None No wireless security. Recommended only for troubleshooting wireless
connectivity.
WEP. WEP (Wired
Equivalent Privacy)
WPA-PSK (TKIP). Wi-Fi
Protected Access with PreShared Key, use WPA-PSK
standard encryption with
TKIP encryption type.
WPA2-PSK (AES). Wi-Fi
Protected Access version 2
with Pre-Shared Key, use
WPA2-PSK standard
encryption with the AES
encryption type.
WPA-PSK (TKIP) + WPA2PSK (AES). Mixed mode.
.WEP offers the following options:
• Open System
With Open Network authentication and 64 or 128 bit WEP data
encryption, the WPN824EXT does perform data encryption but does
not perform any authentication. Anyone can join the network. This
setting provides very little practical wireless security.
• Shared Key
With Shared Key authentication, a wireless device must know the
WEP key in order to join the network. Select the encryption strength
(64 or 128 bit data encryption). Manually enter the key values, or enter
a word or group of printable characters in the Passphrase field.
Manually entered keys are not case-sensitive, but passphrase
characters are case-sensitive.
Note: Not all wireless adapter configuration utilities support
passphrase key generation.
• Automatic
The WiFi range extender automatically detects whether Open System
or Shared Key is used.
WPA–Pre-Shared Key does perform authentication. WPA-PSK uses TKIP
(Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) data encryption, and WPA2-PSK uses
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) data encryption. Both methods
dynamically change the encryption keys making them nearly impossible
to circumvent.
Enter a word or group of printable characters in the Password Phrase
field. These characters are case-sensitive.
Note: Not all wireless adapter configuration utilities support WPA-PSK
and WPA2-PSK. Furthermore, client software is required on the client.
Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows XP Service Pack 1 with WPA
patch do include the client software that supports WPA. However, the
wireless adapter hardware and driver must also support WPA.
Allows clients using either WPA-PSK (TKIP) or WPA2-PSK (AES) (this
provides the most reliable security, and is easiest to implement, but it
might not be compatible with older adapters).
4. Click Apply, or click Cancel to return to the original settings.
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Configuring Advanced Wireless Settings
To configure the advanced wireless settings of your WiFi range extender:
1. Select Wireless Settings under Advanced on the main menu. The Advanced Wireless Settings
screen displays.
Figure 2-3
2. Enable or fill in the following fields, as appropriate:
• Enable Wireless Extender Radio. If selected, attached wireless clients will be able to
access the Internet. If not selected, attached wireless clients will not be able to access the
Internet. The Wireless status light on the front of the wireless extender will also display
the current status of the WiFi range extender (on, off) to let you know if it is disabled or
enabled.
• Enable SSID Broadcast. If selected, the WiFi range extender’s SSID will broadcast its
name (SSID) to all attached wireless clients. Attached wireless clients that have no SSID
(or a null value) can then adopt the correct SSID for connections to the extender. If you
disable broadcast of the SSID, only devices that have the correct SSID can connect.
Disabling SSID broadcast nullifies the wireless network discovery feature of some
products such as Windows XP.
• CTS/RTS Threshold (1–2347). This setting is reserved for wireless testing and advanced
configuration only. For best performance, leave this at the default setting (2347).
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• Fragmentation Length (256–2346). The maximum packet size used for fragmentation.
Packets larger than the size entered in this field will be fragmented. The Fragment
Threshold value must be larger than the RTS Threshold value. For best performance, leave
this at the default setting (2346).
• Disable Advanced 108Mbps Features. If this checkbox is selected, the WiFi range
extender will not perform data compression, packet bursting, and large frame support. For
the best performance, leave this at the default setting.
• Enable eXtended Range(XR) Feature. This technology, eXtended Range(XR), requires
no additional configuration and provides significantly longer range over 802.11 by
maintaining connectivity when signals encounter barriers. For the best performance, leave
this check box selected, the default setting.
• Wireless Card Access List. By default, any wireless computer that is configured with the
correct SSID will be allowed access to your wireless network. For increased security, you
can restrict access to the wireless network to allow only specific computers based on their
MAC addresses. The Wireless Card Access Setup screen displays a list of wireless
computers that are allowed to connect to the WiFi range extender based on their MAC
addresses. These wireless computers must also have the correct SSID and WEP settings
configured on the Wireless Settings screen to access the wireless network.
3. Click Apply to save your settings.
To turn access control on:
1. Click Setup Access List. The Wireless Card Access List screen displays.
Figure 2-4
2. Select the Turn Access Control On check box to restrict wireless computers by their MAC
addresses.
3. Click Apply to save your settings.
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4. Use the Add, Edit, and Delete buttons to add wireless computers to the list. The Wireless
Card Entry screen displays.
Figure 2-5
.
Note: If Turn Access Control On is enabled and the Access Control List is blank, then
no wireless computers can connect to your wireless network.
Do one of the following:
• If a wireless computer appears in the Available Wireless Cards list, you can capture its
MAC address and add it to your list.
• You can manually enter the information for the PC.
Note: Refer to the online help for more information.
5. Click Add to save changes and return to the Wireless Settings screen.
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Chapter 3
Setup and Maintenance
This chapter describes the features you can configure or view under Setup and Maintenance in the
main menu of your WiFi range extender.
Basic Settings
Warning: The WiFi range extender is already configured with the optimum settings.
Incorrect settings might unexpectedly disable the WiFi range extender.
Select Basic Settings under Setup in the main menu. The Basic Settings screen displays.
Figure 3-1
• Internet IP Address. The WiFi range extender is shipped preconfigured to automatically
request an IP address through a DHCP server from your service provider. For more help, see
“Preparing Your Network” in Appendix B, “Related Documents.”
• To configure the Internet IP address, do one of the following:
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– To allow your ISP to assign an IP address for the WiFi range extender, select Get
Dynamically From ISP Gateway.
– To enter a permanent, fixed (static) IP address for the WiFi range extender, select Use
Static IP Address, and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.
• Domain Name Server (DNS) Address. If you know that your ISP does not automatically
transmit DNS addresses to the WiFi range extender during login, you should contact your ISP
to get DNS server addresses.
To configure the Domain Name Server (DNS) address, do one of the following:
– To allow your WiFi range extender to get ISP to assign an IP address for the WiFi range
extender, select Get Automatically From ISP Gateway.
– Select Use These DNS Servers, and enter the IP address of your ISP’s primary DNS
server. If a secondary DNS server address is available, enter it also.
• Tes t. To test for a successful Internet connection, click Test.
If you do not connect:
– Review the settings and make sure that you have selected the correct options and
typed everything correctly.
– Check that your ISP is working correctly.
– Contact your ISP to verify the configuration information.
– Review troubleshooting in the setup manual, the NETGEAR RangeMax WiFi Range
Extender Setup Manual, available on the Resource CD.
– Contact NETGEAR Technical Support.
To save your settings, click Apply, or click Cancel to return to the original settings.
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Wireless Settings
Note: The Wireless Settings options are described in the context of configuring wireless
security. See Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security” .
Wireless Extender Status
The Wireless Extender Status screen provides status and usage information. Select Wireless
Extender Status under Maintenance in the main menu. The Wireless Extender Status screen
displays.
Figure 3-2
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This screen shows the following settings:
Table 3-1. Wireless Range Extender Status Fields
Field Description
Firmware Version This is the version of the current software the extender is using. This will
change if you upgrade your extender.
Hardware Version This is the version of the physical device.
IP Settings
MAC Address The Media Access Control address, the physical address, being used by
IP Address The IP address being used by the Internet port of the extender. The
IP Subnet Mask The IP subnet mask being used by the Internet (WAN) port of the
Default Gateway The assigned default gateway address (the local network address) that
Domain Name Server The Domain Name Server addresses being used by the extender. A
DHCP Client If disabled, the extender is configured to use a fixed IP address.
Wireless Settings
Wireless Network Name
(SSID)
Country/Region The geographic region where the extender being used. It might be illegal
Channel Identifies the channel of the wireless port being used. Click the link to the
Operation Mode Indicates the extender communication mode: 802.11g and 802.11b,
Security Options This is the security type you configured.
These are the current settings that you configured in the Basic Settings
screen.
the Internet (WAN) port of the extender.
default IP address of the extender is 192.168.1.250. If no address is
shown, or is 0.0.0.0, the extender cannot connect to the Internet.
extender. For an explanation of subnet masks and subnet addressing,
click the link to the online document “TCP/IP Networking Basics” in
Appendix B.
the extender is connected to. If it is assigned dynamically, and no Internet
connection exists, this is blank or 0.0.0.0.
Domain Name Server translates human language URLs, such as http://
www.netgear.com, into IP addresses.
If enabled, the extender is configured to obtain an IP address
dynamically.
These are the current settings that you configured in the Wireless
Settings screen.
The wireless network name (SSID) being used by the wireless port of the
extender. The default is NETGEAR_EXT.
to use the wireless features of the extender in some parts of the world.
online document “Wireless Networking Basics” in Appendix B for the
frequencies used on each channel.
802.11g only, 802.11b only, 108 Mbps only, or Auto 108 Mbps.
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Table 3-1. Wireless Range Extender Status Fields (continued)
Field Description
Wireless AP Indicates whether the wireless interface is enabled. If not enabled, the
Wireless status light on the front panel is off.
Broadcast Name Indicates if the extender is broadcasting its SSID.
Click Show Statistics to display performance statistics such as the number of packets sent and
number of packets received for each port. The Statistics screen displays.
Figure 3-3
This screen shows the following settings:
Table 3-2. Wireless Range Extender Statistics Fields
Field Description
System Up Time The amount of time since the extender was last restarted.
Port The statistics for the Internet and local ports. For each port, the screen
displays the following information:
Status The link status of the port.
TxPkts The number of packets transmitted on this port since reset or manual clear.
RxPkts The number of packets received on this port since reset or manual clear.
Collisions The number of collisions on this port since reset or manual clear.
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Table 3-2. Wireless Range Extender Statistics Fields (continued)
Field Description
Tx B/s The current transmission (outbound) bandwidth used on the Internet and
local ports.
Rx B/s The current reception (inbound) bandwidth used on the Internet and local
ports.
Up Time The amount of time since the extender was last restarted.
Poll Interval Specifies the intervals at which the statistics are updated in this window.
(Click Stop to freeze the display.)
Set Interval Enter a time, and then click Set Interval to set the polling frequency.
Stop Click Stop to freeze the polling information.
Click Connection Status to display status. The Connection Status screen displays.
Figure 3-4
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This screen shows the following settings:
Table 3-3. Wireless Range Extender Connection Status Fields
Field Description
IP Address The Internet IP address assigned to the extender.
Subnet Mask The Internet Subnet Mask assigned to the extender.
Default Gateway The Internet default gateway the extender communicates with.
DHCP Server The IP address of the DHCP server that provided the IP configuration
addresses.
DNS Server The IP address of the DNS server that provided the network name to IP
address translation.
Lease Obtained When the DHCP lease was obtained.
Lease Expires When the DHCP lease expires.
Renew Click Renew to renew the DHCP lease.
Attached Devices
The Attached Devices screen contains a table of all IP devices that the WiFi range extender has
discovered on the local network. Select Attached Devices under Maintenance in the main menu.
The Attached Devices screen screen displays.
Figure 3-5
For each device, the table shows the IP address, Ethernet MAC address, and device name (if
available). To force the WiFi range extender to look for attached devices and update the table, click
Refresh.
Note: If the WiFi range extender is restarted, the table data is lost until the extender
rediscovers the devices.
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Backup Settings
The configuration settings of the RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT are stored within
the extender in a configuration file. The Backup Settings screen allows you to back up (save) this
file to your computer, restore it, or reset it to the factory default settings.
Select Backup Settings under Maintenance in the main menu. The Backup Settings screen
displays.
Figure 3-6
The following options are available:
• Restore, Backup. The Restore and Backup options in the Backup Settings screen allow you to
save and retrieve a file containing your router’s configuration settings, by doing one of the
following:
– To save your settings, click Backup. Your browser extracts the configuration file from the
router and prompts you for a location on your PC to store the file. You can give the file a
meaningful name at this time, such as pacbell.cfg.
– To restore your settings from a saved configuration file, enter the full path to the file on
your PC, or click Browse to browse to the file. When you have located it, click Restore to
send the file to the extender. The extender then reboots automatically.
Warning: Do not interrupt the reboot process.
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• Erase. Sometimes you might want to restore the extender to original default settings. You can
do so by using the Erase function, which restores all factory settings. After an erase, the
extender’s user name is admin, the password is password, the LAN IP address is
192.168.1.250, and the extender's DHCP server is enabled.
To erase the configuration, click the Erase button.
Note: To restore the factory default configuration settings when you do not know the
login password or IP address, you must use the restore factory settings button
on the rear panel of the extender. See “Restoring the Default User Name and
Password” on page A-4
Set Password
The Set Password screen allows you to change the default password for the WiFi range extender,
password, to a more secure password. (For more information about logging in and the default
settings, see “Logging In” on page 1-5 and “Restoring the Default User Name and Password” on
page A-4.)
Select Set Password under Maintenance in the main menu. The Set Password screen displays.
Figure 3-7
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:
Tips:
• An ideal, very secure password should contain no dictionary words from any
language, and should be a mixture of letters (both upper- and lower-case),
numbers, and symbols. Your password can be up to 30 characters.
• Before changing the router password, use the router backup utility (see
“Backup Settings” on page 3-8) to save your configuration settings. If, after
changing the password, you forget the new password you assigned, you have
to reset the router back to the factory defaults to be able to log in using the
default password of password. This means you have to restore all the router
configuration settings. If you ever have to reset the router back to the factory
defaults, you can restore your settings from the backup.
To change the password, first enter the current password, then enter the new password twice. Click
Apply.
Firmware Update
The Firmware Update screen allows you to manage firmware updates after you have installed your
WiFi range extender. Select Firmware Update under Maintenance in the main menu. The
Firmware Update screen displays.
Figure 3-8
The following options are available:
• Check for New Version from the Internet. The WiFi range extender checks the NETGEAR
database for a newer firmware image file and compares it to your currently installed version.
To force the extender to check for a newer version, click Check.
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– If a new version is found, you are asked about upgrading. Click Yes to update your
firmware.
Warning: Do not turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or do anything
else to the extender while the update is in progress, as indicated by
the messages that display.
– If no new firmware version is available, the message No New Firmware Version
Available displays.
• Check for New Version Upon Login. If this option is selected (the default), the extender
checks the NETGEAR database for a newer firmware image file every time you log in. To
disable this feature, clear the check box.
• Locate and select the Update file from your hard disk. Use this field, and the Browse and
Update buttons, to manually check for new firmware.
To manually check and upload new firmware, use the following steps.
Note: You cannot perform the following steps from a computer connected to the
extender through a wireless link. You must use a computer connected to the
extender through an Ethernet cable, and your Web browser must support HTTP
uploads, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later, or Netscape
Navigator 4.78 or later.
a. Log in to the WiFi range extender.
b. Select Wireless Extender Status under Management in the main menu. When the
Wireless Extender Status screen displays, note the version number of your extender
firmware.
c. Go to http://www.NETGEAR.com/support, and select Downloads from the menu bar.
d. From the Product Selection drop-down list, select WPN824EXT. The Product Support
page for your extender displays.
e. Under Downloads, check the most recent firmware version offered against the firmware
version shown on your Wireless Extender Status screen.
f. If the version on the NETGEAR website is more recent, click the version number. Then,
click Right-click and Save to Download, and save the file to a location on your hard disk.
g. Log in again to the WiFi range extender, then select Firmware Update under
Maintenance in the main menu.
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h. Click Browse and locate the unzipped firmware image that you downloaded to your PC
(the file ends in .img or .chk).
i. Once you have selected the file, click Upload to send the software to the extender. The
upload process takes several minutes. When the software upload process is complete, the
extender restarts.
Warning: Do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the
computer, or do anything else to the extender until the extender
finishes restarting! When the Test light stops blinking, wait a few
seconds more before using the extender.
j. After the extender has restarted, select Wireless Extender Status under Management in
the main menu. Check the firmware version to verify that your extender now has the new
software installed.
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Chapter 4
Advanced Settings and Features
This chapter describes the features you can configure or view under Advanced in the main menu of
your WiFi range extender.
Advanced Wireless Settings
Note: The Advanced Wireless Settings options are described in the context of configuring
wireless security. See Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security.”
Wireless Repeating Function
The WiFi range extender can be used with wireless access points (APs) to build large bridged
wireless networks, using the Wireless Repeating Function screen.
Warning: If you use the Wireless Repeating function, be aware that this limits your
options for wireless security to none or WEP. For more information about
wireless security, see Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate Wireless
Security.”
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Select Wireless Repeating Function under Advanced in the main menu. The Wireless Repeating
Function screen displays.
Figure 4-1
The RangeMax WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT supports two modes of the Wireless
Repeating function:
• Both “Enable Wireless Repeating Function” and “Wireless Repeater” are selected. In
Wireless Repeater mode, the WiFi range extender sends all traffic from its local wireless or
wired computers to a remote AP. To configure this mode, you must know the MAC address of
the remote parent AP.
• Both “Enable Wireless Repeating Function” and “Wireless Base Station” are selected. In
Wireless Base Station mode, the WiFi range extender acts as the parent AP, bridging traffic to
and from the child repeater APs, as well as handling wireless and wired local computers. To
configure this mode, you must know the MAC addresses of the child repeater APs.
In either of these modes, you can configure whether the extender (or AP) will communicate with
local wireless computers by selecting or clearing the Disable Wireless Client Association check
box:
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• “Disable Wireless Client Association” not selected. In addition to performing wireless
repeating with remote APs, the extender will act as an AP to connect local wireless computers.
• “Disable Wireless Client Association” selected. The extender will communicate wirelessly
only with other APs whose MAC addresses are listed in this screen. The extender will not
accept local wireless connections. (Communication with wire-connected LAN devices is not
disabled.)
The following figure shows a wireless repeating scenario with the WiFi range extender in Wireless
Base Station mode, and with all APs supporting local wireless clients:
Wireless PC
associated with AP1
Internet
AP1
Modem
Wireless Range Extender WPN824EXT
in Wireless Base Station mode
PCs
AP in Repeater mode
AP in Repeater mode
AP3
Wireless PC
AP2
Associated with AP2
Wireless PC
associated with AP 3
Figure 4-2
In the scenario shown, the following conditions must be met for all access points including the
WiFi range extender:
• All AP devices must use the same SSID, wireless channel, authentication mode (if any), and
encryption mode (see information about WEP in Chapter 2, “Implementing Appropriate
Wireless Security”).
• All APs must be on the same LAN IP subnet. That is, all the AP LAN IP addresses are in the
same network.
• All LAN devices (wired and wireless PCs in Figure 4-2) must be configured to operate in the
same LAN network address range as the APs.
Advanced Settings and Features 4-3
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• If you are using DHCP, the Get Dynamically From ISP Gateway radio button in the Internet
IP Address section of the Basic Settings screen should be selected for all AP devices in the IP
Address Source portion.
To set up the repeater configuration shown in Figure 4-2:
1. Configure the operating mode of AP1 (the WiFi range extender in Figure 4-2) as a wireless
base station with the MAC addresses of AP2 and AP3 in the first two Repeater MAC
Address fields.
2. Configure the operating mode of AP2 and AP3 as wireless repeater with the MAC address of
AP1, the WiFi range extender, in the Base Station MAC Address field.
3. Configure AP2 and AP3 to have a static IP address in their Repeater IP Address fields.
4. Verify connectivity across the LANs.
A computer on any wireless or wired LAN segment of the WiFi range extender should be able
to connect to the Internet or share files and printers with any other wireless or wired PC or
server connected to any of the other APs.
In the scenario shown, a WiFi range extender can also be used as one of the “child” APs.
Configure the WiFi range extender’s Wireless Repeating Function settings as described for AP2 or
AP3.
Note: If a WiFi range extender is used as a wireless repeater AP as shown in Figure 4-2
on page 4-3, you might need to change other configuration settings. In particular,
you should disable the DHCP server function on the wireless repeater APs.
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NTP Client
The WiFi range extender uses the Network Time Protocol (NTP) to obtain the current time and
date from one of several Network Time Servers on the Internet, using the NTP Client screen.
Select NTP Client under Advanced in the main menu. The NTP Client screen displays.
Figure 4-3
To localize the time for your log entries, you must specify your time zone:
• Enable NTP client. The NTP client is enabled by default. If you do not want the WiFi range
extender to obtain the current time and date from an NTP server on the Internet, clear the
Enable NTP client check box and click Apply.
• Time Zone. Select your local time zone. This setting is used for the blocking schedule and for
time-stamping log entries.
• Automatically Adjust for Daylight Savings Time. Select this check box if your region
supports daylight savings time. The WiFi range extender automatically adjusts the time at the
start and end of the daylight savings time period.
Advanced Settings and Features 4-5
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QoS Setup
QoS is an advanced feature that you can use to prioritize some types of traffic ahead of others. The
WiFi range extender can provide QoS prioritization over the wireless link and on the Internet
connection. To configure QoS, use the QoS Setup screen. Select QoS Setup under Advanced in
the main menu. The QoS Setup screen displays:
Figure 4-4
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Using WMM QoS for Wireless Multimedia Applications
The WiFi range extender supports Wi-Fi Multimedia Quality of Service (WMM QoS) to prioritize
wireless voice and video traffic over the wireless link. WMM QoS is a feature that provides
prioritization of wireless data packets from different applications based on four access categories:
voice, video, best effort, and background. For an application to receive the benefits of WMM QoS,
WMM must be enabled for both the WiFi range extender and the client running the application.
Legacy applications that do not support WMM, and applications that do not require QoS, are
assigned to the best-effort category, which receives a lower priority than voice and video.
WMM QoS is enabled by default. You can disable it in the QoS Setup screen, shown in Figure 4-4
on page 4-6, by clearing the Enable WMM checkbox and clicking Apply.
Configuring QoS for Internet Access
You can give prioritized Internet access to:
• Traffic for specific applications
• Traffic for specific online games
• Traffic on individual Ethernet LAN ports of the router
• Traffic from a specific device by MAC address.
To specify prioritization of traffic, you must create a policy for the type of traffic and add the
policy to the QoS Policy table in the QoS Setup screen. For convenience, the QoS Policy table lists
many common applications and online games that can benefit from QoS handling.
QoS for Applications and Online Gaming
To create a QoS policy for applications and online games:
1. Select QoS Setup under Advanced in the main menu. The QoS Setup screen displays, shown
in Figure 4-4 on page 4-6.
Advanced Settings and Features 4-7
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2. Click Add Priority Rule. The QoS Priority Rules screen displays.
Figure 4-5
3. In the Priority Category list, select either Applications or Online Gaming. In either case, a
list of predefined applications or games appears in the Applications drop-down list.
4. From the Applications drop-down list, you can select an existing item, or you can scroll to the
bottom of the list and select Add a New Application or Add a New Game.
a. If you chose to add a new entry, the screen expands as shown:
Figure 4-6
b. In the QoS Policy for field, enter a descriptive name for the new application or game.
c. Select the packet type, either TCP or UDP or both (TCP/UDP), and specify the port
number or range of port numbers used by the application or game.
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5. From the Priority drop-down list, select the priority that this traffic should receive relative to
other applications and traffic when accessing the Internet. The options are Low, Normal,
High, and Highest.
6. Click Apply to save this rule to the QoS Policy list and return to the QoS Setup screen.
7. In the QoS Setup screen, select the Turn Internet Access QoS On check box.
8. Click Apply.
QoS for a Router LAN Port
To create a QoS policy for a device connected to one of the router’s LAN ports:
1. Open the QoS Setup screen, shown in Figure 4-4 on page 4-6.
2. Click Add Priority Rule.
3. From the Priority Category list, select Ethernet LAN Port. The QoS Priority Rules screen
changes:
Figure 4-7
4. From the LAN port list, select the LAN port that will have a QoS policy.
5. From the Priority drop-down list, select the priority that this port’s traffic should receive
relative to other applications and traffic when accessing the Internet. The options are Low,
Normal, High, and Highest.
6. Click Apply to save this rule to the QoS Policy list and return to the QoS Setup screen.
7. In the QoS Setup screen, select the Turn Internet Access QoS On check box.
8. Click Apply.
Advanced Settings and Features 4-9
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QoS for a MAC Address
To create a QoS policy for traffic from a specific MAC address:
1. Open the QoS Setup screen, shown in Figure 4-4 on page 4-6.
2. Click Add Priority Rule.
3. From the Priority Category list, select MAC Address. The QoS Priority Rules screen
changes:
Figure 4-8
4. If the device to be prioritized appears in the MAC Device List, select it. The information from
the MAC Device List will be used to populate the policy name, MAC Address, and Device
Name fields. If the device does not appear in the MAC Device List, click Refresh. If it still
does not appear, you must complete these fields manually.
5. From the Priority drop-down list, select the priority that this device’s traffic should receive
relative to other applications and traffic when accessing the Internet. The options are Low,
Normal, High, and Highest.
6. Click Apply to save this rule to the QoS Policy list and return to the QoS Setup screen.
7. In the QoS Setup screen, select the Turn Internet Access QoS On check box.
8. Click Apply.
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Editing or Deleting an Existing QoS Policy
To edit or delete an existing QoS policy:
1. Open the QoS Setup screen, shown in Figure 4-4 on page 4-6.
2. Select the radio button next to the QoS policy to be edited or deleted.
3. Do either of the following:
• Click Delete to remove the QoS policy.
• Click Edit to edit the QoS policy. Follow the instructions in the preceding sections to
change the policy settings.
4. Click Apply in the QoS Setup screen to save your changes.
Advanced Settings and Features 4-11
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4-12 Advanced Settings and Features
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Appendix A
Technical Specifications
Default Configuration Settings
This appendix provides factory default settings and technical specifications for the RangeMax
WiFi Range Extender WPN824EXT.
Table A-1. WiFi Range Extender Default Configuration Settings
Feature Default Setting
Smart Wizard
Extender Login
Extender Login URL http://www. mywifiext.net or
Login Name (case-sensitive) printed on
product label
Login Password (case-sensitive) printed
on product label
Internet Connection
MAC Address Use default hardware address
Local Network
Extender LAN IP address printed on
product label (also known as modemrouter IP address)
Extender Subnet 255.255.255.0
DHCP Server Enabled
Time Zone (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time
Time Zone Adjusted for Daylight Saving
Time
Enabled
http://www.mywifiext.com
admin
password
192.168.1.250
Enabled
Technical Specifications A-1
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Table A-1. WiFi Range Extender Default Configuration Settings (continued)
Feature Default Setting
Wireless
Wireless Communication Enabled
SSID Name NETGEAR_EXT
Security Disabled
Broadcast SSID Enabled
Transmission Speed Auto
Country/Region United States in the U.S., otherwise varies by region
RF Channel Auto
Operating Mode 802.11 g/b
Data Rate Best
Output Power Full
Network Protocol and Standards Compatibility
Data and Routing Protocols TCP/IP, DHCP
a
Power Adapter
North America 120V, 60 Hz, input
United Kingdom, Australia 240V, 50 Hz, input
Europe 230V, 50 Hz, input
Japan 100V, 50/60 Hz, input
All regions (output) 12 V DC @ 1A output, 22W maximum
Physical Specifications
Dimensions 28 x 175 x 119 mm (1.1 x 6.89 x 4.68 in.)
Weight 0.3 kg (0.66 lb)
Environmental Specifications
Operating temperature 0° to 40° C (32º to 104º F)
Operating humidity 90% maximum relative humidity, noncondensing
A-2 Technical Specifications
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Table A-1. WiFi Range Extender Default Configuration Settings (continued)
Feature Default Setting
Electromagnetic Emissions
Meets requirements of FCC Part 15 Class B
VCCI Class B
EN 55 022 (CISPR 22), Class B
C-Tick N10947
Interface Specifications
LAN 10BASE-T or 100BASE-Tx, RJ-45
Internet 10BASE-T or 100BASE-Tx, RJ-45
Wireless Maximum wireless signal rate complies with the IEEE
802.11 standard. Actual throughput will vary. Network
conditions and environmental factors, including volume of
network traffic, building materials and construction, and
network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.
Radio Data Rates 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54, and 108 Mbps
Auto Rate Sensing
Frequency 2.4–2.5 Ghz
Data Encoding 802.11b: Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)
802.11g: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing
(OFDM)
Maximum Computers Per Wireless
Network
Operating Frequency Ranges 2.412–2.462 GHz (US)
802.11 Security 40 bit (also called 64 bit) and 128 bit WEP, WPA-PSK and
a. Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual throughput will vary. Network con-
ditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.
Limited by the amount of wireless network traffic generated
by each node. Typically 30–70 nodes.
2.457–2.462 GHz (Spain)
2.412–2.484 GHz (Japan)
2.457–2.472 GHz (France)
2.412–2.472 GHz (Europe ETSI)
WPA2-PSK.
Technical Specifications A-3
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Restoring the Default User Name and Password
You can restore the factory default configuration settings to reset the extender’s user name to
admin, the password to password, and the IP address to 192.168.1.250. This procedure erases
your current configuration, including your wireless security settings, and restores the factory
defaults. When you log in after resetting, the Smart Wizard configuration assistant prompts you to
configure these settings.
To restore the factory default configuration settings:
1. Use a sharp object such as a pen or a paper clip to press and hold the restore factory settings
button, located on the rear panel of the extender, for about 20 seconds.
2. Release the restore factory settings button, and wait for the extender to reboot.
The factory default settings are restored so that you can access the extender from your Web
browser using the factory defaults.
A-4 Technical Specifications
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Appendix B
Related Documents
This appendix provides links to reference documents you can use to gain a more complete
understanding of the technologies used in your NETGEAR product.
Document Link
Windows XP and Vista Wireless
Configuration Utilities
TCP/IP Networking Basics
Wireless Networking Basics
Preparing Your Network
Virtual Private Networking
Basics
Glossary
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/winzerocfg/index.htm
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/tcpip/index.htm
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wsdhcp/index.htm
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/vpn/index.htm
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/glossary/index.htm
Related Documents B-1
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B-2 Related Documents
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Index
Numerics
802.11g wireless networking 1-2
A
attached devices 3-7
Auto Uplink 1-2
B
backup settings 3-8
C
client, NTP 4-5
compatible NETGEAR Products 1-3
configuration, erasing 3-9, A-4
connection status 3-6
connectivity status 2-3
D
daylight savings time 4-5
defaults, restoring factory 3-9
Domain Name Server (DNS) address 3-2
fragmentation length 2-8
I
Internet access
enabling 2-7
Quality of Service (QoS) 4-7
IP address 3-2
L
LAN port priority rules 4-9
logging in 1-5
M
MAC address 4-10
MAC address, restricting wireless access by 2-7
main menu 1-8
MIMO technology 1-1
N
Network Time Protocol (NTP) 4-5
NTP client 4-5
E
enabling Internet access 2-7
eXtended Range(XR) feature 2-8
F
factory settings, restoring 3-9, A-4
features 1-1
firmware update 1-3, 1-6, 3-11
P
passphrase 1-2, 2-3, 2-6
password 3-9, A-4
performance, placement, and range guidelines 1-3
port forwarding 4-6, 4-8, 4-9, 4-10
product and publication details -vi
Q
Quality of Service (QoS) 1-3
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applications, online gaming 4-7
editing, deleting a QoS policy 4-11
Internet access 4-7
LAN port priority rules 4-9
MAC address 4-10
router LAN port 4-9
setup 4-6
wireless multimedia applications 4-7
R
RangeMax™ Multi-In, Multi-Out (MIMO) Technology
1-1
reference documents B-1
restricting wireless access by MAC address 2-7
router LAN port 4-9
S
security
options 2-1, 2-5
restricting wireless access by MAC address 2-7
WEP data encryption 2-2, 2-6
WPA2-PSK (AES) Wi-Fi Protected Access version 2
with Pre-Shared Key 2-6
WPA-PSK (TKIP) + WPA2-PSK (AES) Mixed Mode
2-6
WPA-PSK Wi-Fi Protected Access, Pre-Shared Key
2-2, 2-6
settings
advanced 2-7, 4-1
backup 3-8
basic 3-1, 3-3
default A-1
password 3-9, A-4
restoring factory defaults 3-9
restoring factory settings A-4
time zone 4-5
SSID 2-2, 2-4, 2-5, 2-7
statistics 3-5
status 3-3
Support -ii
T
testing wireless connectivity 2-3
time zone 4-5
time-stamping 4-5
U
updating firmware 1-3, 1-6, 3-11
W
WEP data encryption 2-2, 2-6
wireless
card access list 2-8
multimedia applications 4-7
operating mode 2-5
repeater capability 1-3, 4-1
security 2-1
WPA2-PSK (AES) Wi-Fi Protected Access version 2
with Pre-Shared Key 2-6
WPA-PSK (TKIP) + WPA2-PSK (AES) Mixed Mode 2-
6
WPA-PSK Password Phrase 2-6
WPA-PSK Wi-Fi Protected Access, Pre-Shared Key 2-2,
2-6
Index-2
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