NETGEAR RangeMax™
NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311B User Manual
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
202-10203-01
May 2006
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.
© 2006 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
Maximum Wireless Signal Rate Derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 Specifications
.
Actual data 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.
Safety and Regulatory Notices
FCC Statement
Certification ID: FCC: PY306100041
IC: 4054A-06100041
The WN311B has been tested a nd complies with the specif ications for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Par t 15 of the
FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
These limits are designed to provide rea sonabl e pr otecti on ag ai nst harmful int erferen ce in a resi dentia l in stal lation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used according to 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
ii
v1.0, May 2006
reception, which is found by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
IEEE 802.11b or 802.11g operation of this product in the U.S.A. is firmware-limited to channels 1 through 11.
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be
installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment or devices
• Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receiver’s
• Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance
FCC Caution: Any change or modification to the product not expressly approved by Netgear could void the user’s
authority to operate the device.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure
RF Exposure Information
The radio module has been evaluated under FCC Bulletin OET 65C (01-01) and found to be compliant to the
requirements as set forth in CFR 47 Sections, 2.1093, and 15.247 (b) (4) addressing RF Exposure from radio frequency
devices. This model meets the applicable government requirements for exposure to radio frequency waves.
Canadian Department of Communications Industry Canada (IC) Notice
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B
est conforme à la norme NMB-003 et CNR-210 du Canada.
“To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from
windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to
licensing.”
“Pour empêcher que cet appareil cause du brouillage au service faisant l’objet d’une licence, il doit être utilisé à
l’intérieur et devrait être placé loin des fenêtres afin de fournir un écran de blindage maximal. Si le matériel (ou son
antenne d’émission) est installé à l’extérieur, il doit faire l’objet d’une licence.”
Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity
A printed copy of the EU Declaration of Conformity certificate for this product is provided in the WN311B product
package.
Èesky
[Czech]
Dansk
[Danish]
Deutsch
[German]
NETGEAR, Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že tento NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI
Adapter WN311B
ustanoveními smìrnice 1999/5/ES.
Undertegnede NETGEAR, Inc. erklærer herved, at følgende udstyr NETGEAR
RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
øvrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF.
Hiermit erklärt NETGEAR, Inc., dass sich das Gerät NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
Anforderungen und den übrigen einschlägigen Bestimmungen der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG
befindet.
je ve shodì se základními požadavky a dalšími pøíslušnými
overholder de væsentlige krav og
in Übereinstimmung mit den grundlegenden
v1.0, May 2006
iii
Eesti
[Estonian]
English Hereby, NETGEAR, Inc., declares that this NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
Español
[Spanish]
Ελληνική
[Greek]
Français
[French]
Italiano
[Italian]
Latviski
[Latvian]
Lietuviø
[Lithuanian]
Nederlands
[Dutch]
Malti
[Maltese]
Magyar
[Hungarian]
Polski [Polish] Niniejszym NETGEAR, Inc. oœwiadcza, ¿e NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
Português
[Portuguese]
Slovensko
[Slovenian]
Käesolevaga kinnitab NETGEAR, Inc. seadme NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
PCI Adapter WN311B
tulenevatele teistele asjakohastele sätetele.
PCI Adapter WN311B
provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.
Por medio de la presente NETGEAR, Inc. declara que el NETGEAR RangeMax™
NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
cualesquiera otras disposiciones aplicables o exigibles de la Directiva 1999/5/CE.
ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΠΑΡΟΥΣΑ NETGEAR, Inc. ΔΗΛΩΝΕΙ ΟΤΙ NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
ΑΠΑΙΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΙΣ ΛΟΙΠΕΣ ΣΧΕΤΙΚΕΣ ΔΙΑΤΑΞΕΙΣ ΤΗΣ ΟΔΗΓΙΑΣ 1999/5/ΕΚ.
Par la présente NETGEAR, Inc. déclare que l'appareil NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
dispositions pertinentes de la directive 1999/5/CE.
Con la presente NETGEAR, Inc. dichiara che questo NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
pertinenti stabilite dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE.
Ar šo NETGEAR, Inc. deklarç, ka NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311B
noteikumiem.
Šiuo NETGEAR, Inc. deklaruoja, kad šis NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI
atbilst Direktîvas 1999/5/EK bûtiskajâm prasîbâm un citiem ar to saistîtajiem
Adapter WN311B
Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR, Inc. dat het toestel NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
PCI Adapter WN311B
relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG.
Hawnhekk, NETGEAR, Inc., jiddikjara li dan NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
PCI Adapter WN311B
li hemm fid-Dirrettiva 1999/5/EC.
Alulírott, NETGEAR, Inc. nyilatkozom, hogy a NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless
PCI Adapter WN311B
irányelv egyéb elõírásainak.
PCI Adapter WN311B
stosownymi postanowieniami Dyrektywy 1999/5/EC.
vastavust direktiivi 1999/5/EÜ põhinõuetele ja nimetatud direktiivist
is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant
cumple con los requisitos esenciales y
ΣΥΜΜΟΡΦΩΝΕΤΑΙ ΠΡΟΣ ΤΙΣ ΟΥΣΙΩΔΕΙΣ
est conforme aux exigences essentielles et aux autres
è conforme ai requisiti essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni
atitinka esminius reikalavimus ir kitas 1999/5/EB Direktyvos nuostatas.
in overeenstemming is met de essentiële eisen en de andere
jikkonforma mal-tiijiet essenzjali u ma provvedimenti orajn relevanti
megfelel a vonatkozó alapvetõ követelményeknek és az 1999/5/EC
jest zgodny z zasadniczymi wymogami oraz pozosta³ymi
NETGEAR, Inc. declara que este NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311B
1999/5/CE.
está conforme com os requisitos essenciais e outras disposições da Directiva
NETGEAR, Inc. izjavlja, da je ta NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311B
ES.
v skladu z bistvenimi zahtevami in ostalimi relevantnimi doloèili direktive 1999/5/
iv
v1.0, May 2006
Slovensky
[Slovak]
Suomi
[Finnish]
Svenska
[Swedish]
NETGEAR, Inc. týmto vyhlasuje, že NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI
Adapter WN311B
1999/5/ES.
spåòa základné požiadavky a všetky príslušné ustanovenia Smernice
NETGEAR, Inc. vakuuttaa täten että NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI
Adapter WN311B
koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen.
Härmed intygar NETGEAR, Inc. att denna [utrustningstyp] står I överensstämmelse med
de väsentliga egenskapskrav och övriga relevanta bestämmelser som framgår av direktiv
1999/5/EG.
tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä
Product and Publication Details
Model Number: WN311B
Publication Date: May 2006
Product Family: Wireless PCI Adapter
Product Name: NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
Home or Business Product: Home
Language: English
Publication Part Number: 202-10203-01
v1.0, May 2006
v
vi
v1.0, May 2006
Contents
About This Manual
Conventions, Formats, and Scope ................................................................................... ix
How to Print This Manual .................................................................................................. x
Chapter 1
Basic Setup
What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................4-2
Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines ..................................................4-2
Infrastructure and Ad Hoc Modes ...................................................................................4-2
WN311B Default Wireless Settings ................................................................................4-3
Installation ................................................................................................................4-4
Use the status bar to verify your wireless connectivity. ............................................4-7
Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet ........................................................4-7
The Smart Wizard Status Bar ...................................................................................4-8
The WN311B Icon Colors .........................................................................................4-9
Removing the WN311B Software .................................................................................4-10
Upgrading the WN311B Software .................................................................................4-10
Chapter 2
Network Connections and Wireless Security
Understanding the WN311B Smart Wizard ....................................................................5-1
Finding a Network ...........................................................................................................5-2
Profiles ............................................................................................................................5-3
Adding Profiles .........................................................................................................5-3
Setting up a Profile to Connect to an Access Point or Router ........................................5-3
Setting up a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Profile ....................................................5-5
Starting a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Connection ...........................5-7
Wireless Security ............................................................................................................5-8
Using Wireless Security Features ..................................................................................5-8
Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Security Settings ..................................................5-9
Setting up WEP Encryption Security ............................................................................5-10
v1.0, May 2006
vii
Setting up WPA2-PSK Security .................................................................................... 5-11
Setting up WPA-PSK Security ......................................................................................5-13
Advanced Settings .................................................................................................5-14
Networks Page .............................................................................................................5-14
Statistics Page ..............................................................................................................5-16
About Page ...................................................................................................................5-17
Chapter 3
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Tips ......................................................................................................6-1
Frequently Asked Questions ..........................................................................................6-2
XP Professional and XP Home occasional connection problems ..................................6-3
Appendix A
Default Settings and Technical Specifications
Default Settings ............................................................................................................. A-1
Technical Specifications ................................................................................................. A-2
Appendix B
Related Documents...............................................................................................................B1
viii
v1.0, May 2006
About This Manual
TheNETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wir eless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual describes how to
®
install, configure, and troubleshoot the NETGEAR
information in this manual is intended for readers with intermediate computer and Internet skills.
Conventions, Formats, and Scope
The conventions, formats, and scope of this manual are described in the following sections.
• Typographical conventions. This manual uses the following typographical conventions.
Italics Emphasis, books, CDs, URL names
Bold User input
Monospace
• Formats. This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages.
Screen text, file and server names, extensions, commands, IP addresses
WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter. The
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 may result in a malfunction or damage to the
equipment.
Danger: This is a safety warning. Failure to take heed of this notice may result in
personal injury or death.
v1.0, May 2006
ix
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
• Scope. This manual is written for the WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter according to these
specifications.
Product version NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
Manual publication date May 2006
Product updates are available on the NETGEAR website at
http://kbserver.netgear.com/products/WN311B.asp.
How to Print This Manual
To print this manual, you can choose one of the following options, according to your needs. Your
computer must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in order to view and print PDF files.
The Acrobat Reader is available on the Adobe website at http://www.adobe.com.
• Printing a 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 right of any page in the chapter you want to
print. The PDF version of the chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window.
– 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 toner by selecting this feature.
• Printing the full 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 the window.
Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can
save paper and printer toner by selecting this feature.
x
v1.0, May 2006
Chapter 1
Basic Setup
The NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B lets you connect a PC
computer to wireless networks. It is designed for PC computers running Microsoft Windows. For
information about product features and compatible NETGEAR products, please see the
NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com.
This chapter describes how to install your Wireless PCI Adapter and set up basic wireless
connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network set up is
covered in Chapter 2, “Network Connections and Wireless Security” .
What’s in the Box?
The product package should contain the following items:
• NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B
•The antenna
• NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T Installation Guide
• Resource CD, including:
– Driver software
– Smart Wizard setup software
– Documentation including the NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311T Installation Guide, and the NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI
Adapter WN311B User Manual
• Warranty card
• Support information card
If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR dealer. Keep the
carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need to return the product for repair.
Basic Setup 1-1
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
What You Need Before You Begin
You need to verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements and get the
wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can
configure your wireless PCI adapter and connect.
Verify System Requirements
Before installing the NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B, please
make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:
®
• Pentium
•CD drive
• 20 Mbytes of free hard disk space
• Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation
files to complete the installation of the WN311B driver software
Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines
III class computer with an available PCI slot
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™ NEXT Wireless PCI
Adapter WN311B. 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.
Infrastructure and Ad Hoc Modes
The WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter, like all 802.11b/g adapters, can operate in the following two
modes:
1-2 Basic Setup
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
• Access Point (Infrastructure): 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 AP that is attached to a
router which lets multiple computers share a single Cable or DSL broadband Internet
connection.
• Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc): An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or
computers communicate directly with each other, without the use of an access point. 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.
The instructions in this chapter are for an Access Point (Infrastructure) installation. Wireless
security, advanced settings, and Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) instructions are covered in
Chapter 2, “Network Connections and Wireless Security” of this manual.
WN311B Default Wireless 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 network and wireless security settings that are already defined.
Your NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B factory default basic
settings are:
• Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (First available network)
Note: In order for the WN311B W ireless PCI Adapter to communicate with a
wireless access point or wireless adapter, all devices must be set up to use the
same wireless network name (SSID).
• Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-hoc): Infrastructure
• Data security WEP, WPA2-PSK, or WPA-PSK encryption: Disabled
The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B 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 that you are using.
Basic Setup 1-3
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Installation
1. First, install the WN311B software.
Insert the NETGEAR CD. If the CD main
page does not appear, double click
Autorun.exe on the CD.
a. Click Install Software.The Check for
Updates window opens.
b. If you are connected to the Internet,
click Check for Updates. If not, you can
choose to install from the CD.
c. When the Installation Complete
message appears, click Next.
d. On the Smart Wizard screen, click Next
to proceed with the Smart Wizard setup.
Figure 1-1
e. When prompted, select the country where you are located, and then click Agree.
2. Now, insert the wireless PCI adapter.
a. When prompted, shut down the
computer.
b. Unplug the computer, open the case,
and install the WN311B into a PCI slot.
c. Connect the antenna to the adapter and
position the antenna to the up position.
d. Close the case, plug the power cord
back in, and restart your computer.
Figure 1-2
1-4 Basic Setup
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
3. Use the Smart Wizard to set up your wireless PCI adapter.
a. Windows 2000 users skip to step c. For
Windows XP users, choose to set up
your wireless adapter either with the
NETGEAR Smart Wizard
(recommended) or the Windows
configuration utility.
If you choose the Windows XP Zero
Configuration option, then you must
read the Windows XP documentation
for instructions.
Figure 1-3
b. Click Next to accept the NETGEAR Smart Wizard.
You will be prompted to let the wizard
help you connect to a network
(recommended).
c. Click Next to accept.
Figure 1-4
Basic Setup 1-5
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
d. Select the wireless network from the
drop-down list, and the wizard records
your choice.
Note: Hidden networks do not broadcast
the Network Name (SSID). These
Hidden Network
networks are included in the drop-down
list, but the Network Name (SSID) is
blank.
Figure 1-5
e. The Smart Wizard detects if the network uses security or not. Follow the Wizard steps for
Security (if used) and for saving a Profile.
f. After you have reviewed the settings, click Finish.
The WN311B icon appears in the system tray and on the desktop, and the Settings
page opens. The wizard initiates your wireless connection. It could take up to a minute for
your wireless connection to be established.
1-6 Basic Setup
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Use the status bar to verify your wireless connectivity.
The status bar is located at the bottom of the Settings page.
connection
status
Internet/router unlocked: network
connection indicator does not use security
signal strength
indicator
• The connection status indicator and the WN311B icon show the status of the
connection.
• For details about the icons in the status bar, the WN311B LEDs, and troubleshooting tips, see the
User Manual on the NETGEAR CD.
• The Internet/Router connection indicator shows the progress of your connection.
Connection Indicator Description
Connected to Internet Wireless Internet connection OK.
Connected to Router Wireless connection to router OK
but no Internet connection at router.
___.___.___.___ or
169.254..x.x
Wireless connection to a router OK
but problem with the router. See the
online help or User Manual for
troubleshooting tips.
For more details about connecting, see “Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet” on
page 4-7.
Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet
The WN311B has indicators in three locations that show the status of your connection to a wireless
network and to the Internet:
• WN311B Icon: After you install the WN311B software, the icon appears on the desktop
and in the lower right of the Windows task bar. It is color coded to show the status of the
connection. See “The Smart Wizard Status Bar” on page 4-8.
Basic Setup 1-7
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
• Smart Wizard Status Bar: Clicking on the system tray icon opens the Smart Wizard. The
status bar at the bottom of the page shows details about your wireless and Internet connection.
• WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter LEDs: The LEDs on the wireless PCI adapter show the
network connection. The LEDs shoe an alternate blink when the wireless PCI adapter is
looking for a network association. When there is a good connection, the LEDs blink together.
If the LEDs are off, then the WN311B is not properly seated in the computer.
The Smart Wizard Status Bar
Click the WN311B icon to open the Smart Wizard so you can view the status bar. The Smart
Wizard Settings page opens.
signal strength
connection
status
Figure 1-6
Router/Internet
connection indicator
Unlocked: Network does not use security
Locked: Network uses security
Connection Status: The color shows the connection status.
Signal Strength: Shows the signal strength of the wireless network. If the signal is poor, then try
moving closer to the wireless access point.
Lock icon: Shows if security is used on the network.
Router/Internet Connection Indicator: This shows the progress of your connection. By default,
this feature is on.
Figure 1-7
1-8 Basic Setup
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
This connection indicator is useful in isolating a problem. For example, if you are connected to a
router, but not to the Internet, then check the router’s Internet connection.
Connection Indicator Description
Connected to Internet Wireless Internet connection OK.
Connected to Router Wireless connection to router OK but no Internet
connection at router.
___.___.___.___ or
169.254..x.x
Wireless connection to a router OK but problem with
the router. See Chapter 3, “Troubleshooting” .
If you right-click in the system tray icon, you can disable the Internet notification feature by
clearing check mark on this line. If you do so, then only the IP address is shown.
Figure 1-8
The WN311B Icon Colors
The WN311B icon is on the desktop and in th e W indows System T ray (SysT ray). The System T ray
resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop.
Color Condition Description
Red The wireless PCI adapter has
no connection to any other
wireless node.
Yellow The wireless PCI adapter has
a connection with another
wireless node.
Green The wireless PCI adapter has
a connection with another
wireless node.
The wireless PCI adapter is not able to link to any other
wireless node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or
try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is
better.
The wireless link is weak. You may need to move to a better
spot, such as closer to the wireless access point. Also, look
for possible interference such as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or
large metal surface.
The wireless PCI adapter has established good
communication with an access point and the signal quality is
strong.
Basic Setup 1-9
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Removing the WN311B Software
You can remove the wireless adapter software in these two ways:
• Navigate the Windows Start menu to the WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter program group,
select the uninstall option, and follow the screen prompts.
• Navigate the Windows Start menu to the Control Panel Add or Remove Program item, select
the WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter option, and follow the screen prompts.
Upgrading the WN311B Software
Upgrades may be available at the NETGEAR Web site. To install an upgrade, follow these steps.
1. Write down the settings for any profiles that you want to save. They will not be retained.
2. Download the upgrade from the NETGEAR Web site Support page.
3. Remove the WN311B software from your laptop co mp uter.
4. Remove the WN311B adapter from your laptop computer, and if prompted restart your laptop
computer.
5. Run the installer that you downloaded (the file ends in .exe).
6. Follow the installer instructions, and if prompted, then restart your laptop computer.
1-10 Basic Setup
v1.0, May 2006
Chapter 2
Network Connections and Wireless Security
This chapter explains how to use your NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter
WN311B to connect to your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and how to set up wireless
security for the WN311B so that it matches the wireless security settings for your network.
Understanding the WN311B Smart Wizard
Note: These instructions explain how to use the NETGEAR WN311B Smart Wizard to
change the WN311B wireless settings. If you use Windows XP, and chose the Windows
XP configuration utility during installation, then you must disable it now. Open the
network connections from the system tray icon, click the Properties button, click the
Wireless Networks tab and then clear the “Use W indows to configure my wireless
network settings” check box.
When you have installed the WN311B software from the NETGEAR CD, the icon appears
on your desktop and in the Windows system tray. The Windows system tray is located on the
Windows taskbar . You can either double click this icon on the desktop, or click it in the system tray
at any time, to use the Smart Wizard. This software automatically restarts when you reboot your
computer.
The Smart Wizard provides a complete and easy to use set of tools to:
• Choose the network that you want to use
• Configure wireless settings for your wireless PCI adapter
• Monitor wireless network connections
• Save your settings in profiles
• Remove or reinstall the wireless adapter software
The following sections in this chapter explain how to use the Smart Wizard.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-1
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Finding a Network
During the WN311B software installation, the Smart Wizard lists the available networks. After
installation you can use the Find a Network button on the Network tab at any time to view the
available networks and select the one that you want to use.
Note: Make sure that you know the security settings for the network that you want to use.
For example, if WEP is used then you need to know the WEP key. If you use secure
networks frequently, set up profiles for each network with th e wireless network and
security settings.
Follow the steps below to Find a Network.
1. Use the icon to open the
Smart Wizard.
The Settings tab page opens.
2. On the Networks tab page,
click Find a Network.
3. Select a network from the drop
down list. If you select a hidden
network then you must enter
the SSID. Click Next.
4. Follow the steps of the wizard
to specify the wireless security
if used, and to create a profile.
5. Review you settings, and click
Hidden Network
Finish.
Figure 2-1
The Smart Wizard initiates your wireless connection. You can use the Status Bar to verify your
network connection. For more information, see “The Smart Wizard Status Bar” on page 4-8.
2-2 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Profiles
The WN311B Smart W izard uses profiles to store all the settings for a particular wireless network.
There are two special profile names: Default and Profile.
Default: The Profile named Default automatically scans for any available network. You cannot
change this profile name.
Profile: If you do not enter a name in the Profile Name box, then the name Profile is used to save
your settings. If you do this more than once then you will be asked if you want to replace the
previous settings stored in Profile.
Adding Profiles
You can store multiple profiles and recall the one which matches the network you want to join.
If you use your computer to connect to different wireless networks, you can create a profile for
each wireless network. Then, you can easily load the profile that has all the settings that you need
to join the network you are using at the time.
There are two types of wireless network profiles that you can set up:
• Access Point (Infrastructure) — connect to an access point or router with the 802.11
infrastructure mode.
• Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) — connect directly to another computer with the 802.11
ad hoc mode.
For more information on 802.11 wireless network modes, see the wireless reference document at:
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm.
Setting up a Profile to Connect to an Access Point or Router
Follow these instructions to set up the WN311B Wireless PCI Adapter to connect to a wireless
access point or router.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-3
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings page opens.
Figure 2-2
2. Enter the network settings.
a. In the Network Type section, be sure that Access Point (Infrastructure) is selected.
b. In the Profile box, type the name of the profile.
c. In the Network Name (SSID) field select a network or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly the SSID used by the access point.
3. Save your settings in a Profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button.
All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the wizard, or Cancel to return to the previous settings.
4. Verify wireless connectivity to your network .
Verify connectivity by using a browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer to connect to the
Internet, or check for file and printer access on your network.
2-4 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
You can check the status bar in the Smart Wizard for the current connection status.
Note: If you cannot connect, see Chapter 3, “Troubleshooting. Also, for problems
with accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing
software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please
refer to “Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing:” in Appendix B.
Setting up a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Profile
The Computer-to-Computer setting uses Ad Hoc mode. Ad Hoc mode is an 802.11 networking
framework in which devices or computers communicate directly with each other, without the use
of an access point. For example, this mode is used when two Windows computers are configured
with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files directly between them.
Note: Ad Hoc mode will not work using DHCP settings. Ad Hoc mode requires either
static IP addresses (such as
up static IP addresses on a Windows PC, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial included on
the Resource CD.
192.168.0.1) or the IPX protocol. For instructions on setting
Follow the instructions below to create an Ad Hoc mode profile.
1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings page opens.
2. Enter the network settings.
a. Select Computer-to-
Computer (Ad Hoc) for
the Network Type.
b. Select or enter the
Network Name (SSID)
for the Ad Hoc network.
c. In the Profile box, type
the name of the profile.
d. Click Apply.
3. Save your settings in a Profile.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-5
need screen shot of settings page
in ad hoc mode with security disabled
Figure 2-3
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
a. Click the Save Profile button.
All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard, or Cancel to return to the previous settings.
4. Configure the PC network settings.
a. Configure each PC with either a static IP address or with the IPX protocol.
Note: For instructions on configuring static IP addresses, refer to the networking
tutorial on your Resource CD.
b. Restart the PCs.
5. Verify wireless connectivity between your peer devices.
Verify connectivity by using the Ping program:
a. On the Windows taskbar click the Start
button, and then click Run.
b. Assuming the target PC is configured
with 192.168.0.1 as its IP address, type
ping -t 192.168.0.1 and then click
OK.
Figure 2-4
c. This will cause a continuous ping to be sent to the device with the 192.168.0.1 static IP
address. The ping response should change to “reply.”
Figure 2-5
2-6 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
At this point the connection is established.
Note: If you cannot connect, see “Removing the WN311B Software ” in Chap te r 4.
Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing software might not be installed and configured properly on your
computers. Please see the link to “Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing:” in
Appendix B.
Starting a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Connection
1. On the Settings tab page of the Smart Wizard, select or type the Network Name (SSID).
2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) network type.
3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. The Ad Hoc Setting dialog box opens:
Figure 2-6
4. In the Start Ad Hoc field, choose the wireless standard (802.1 1a, 802.1 1b, or 802.11g) for your
Ad Hoc computer-to-computer network.
5. In the Channel field, Automatic should work. If you notice interference problems with another
nearby wireless device, select a channel that is not being used by any other wireless networks
near your wireless adapter. Use the Networks tab page to identify the channels in use in your
area.
6. Click OK.
Note: The channel number differs depending on the country. The connection speed
automatically defaults to the highest speed.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-7
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Wireless Security
Many networks use wireless security to encrypt wireless data communications. If you try to
connect to a network with wireless security the Smart Wizard detects it. Before you can use that
network you must set up the WN311B with exactly the same kind of wireless security settings. The
WN311B supports the following types of wireless security:
• Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 Pre-Shared Key (WPA2-PSK)
• Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK)
• Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)
For more information about wireless security, see the wireless reference document at:
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm
In addition to the wireless security features, networks should use LAN network security features
such as requiring a user name and password to access the shared resources in the network.
The procedures below explain how to configure the wireless encryption settings of your
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B.
Using Wireless Security Features
You can strengthen the security of your wireless connection by enabling Wired Equivalent Privacy
(WEP) encryption of the wireless data communications. Or, you can use WPA-PSK (Wi-Fi
Protected Access Pre-Shared Key) encryption. For more information about wireless security, see
the Web link to “Wireless Communications:” in Appendix B.
In addition to the WN311B wireless security features, you should also configure appropriate LAN
network security features such as requiring a user name and password to access the shared
resources in your network.
The procedures below show how to set up the WEP encryption settings of your NETGEAR
RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B.
2-8 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Security Settings
Print this form, fill in the configuration parameters and put it in a safe place for possible future
reference. For an existing wireless network, the person who set up the network will be able to
provide this information.
• Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID) identifies the wireless local
area network. Any
(SSID). You may customize it using up to 32 alphanumeric characters. Write your customized
wireless network name (SSID) on the line below.
Note: The SSID in the wireless access point is the SSID you configure in the wireless
PCI adapter. For the access point and wireless nodes to communicate with each other,
all must be configured with the same SSID.
Wireless network name (SSID): ______________________________
• If WEP Authentication is Used.
– WEP Encryption key size. Identify one: 64-bit or 128-bit. The encryption key size must
match the wireless network settings.
(First available network) is the default WN311B wireless network name
– 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. ___________________________ ___
These characters are case
sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters and click the Generate Keys
button. Not all wireless devices support the passphrase method.
• 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 3: _____________________________
Key 2: _____________________________
Key 4: _____________________________
• If WPA2-PSK or WPA-PSK Authentication is Used.
– Passphrase: ___________________________ ___
These characters are case sensitive.
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 WP A-PSK as well and are configured
with the correct Passphrase.
Use the procedures below to set up basic security settings in the WN311B.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-9
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Setting up WEP Encryption Security
Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security.
1. Run the WN311B Smart Wizard.
a. Make sure the WN311B software is installed and the WN311B is installed in a PCI slot in
your computer.
b. Use the icon to
open the Smart Wizard.
The Settings tab page
opens
Figure 2-7
2. Configure the Security settings.
a. In the Profile box, select the profile or type in a profile name.
b. In the Network Name (SSID) field select the network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
c. In the Security section, select WEP.
3. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use.
The choices are:
• 64-bit WEP data encryption
• 128-bit WEP data encryption
2-10 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Note: Larger encryption keys require more processing and may slow the
communications response times.
4. Select Create with Passphrase and enter the passphrase. The configuration utility will
automatically generate the WEP keys.
Note: The characters are case sensitive. Be sure to use the same passphrase for all the
wireless devices in the network.
If the passphrase method is not available in the other devices, you must manually enter the
keys to match exactly what is in the access point and other 802.11b/g wireless devices.
5. Save your settings in a Profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the configuration utility.
Setting up WPA2-PSK Security
Follow the steps below to configure WPA2-PSK Security.
1. Run the WN311B Smart Wizard.
a. Make sure the WN311B software is installed and the WN311B is properly installed in the
PCI slot in your computer.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-11
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens.
Figure 2-8
2. Configure the Security settings.
a. In the Profile box, select the profile or type in a profile name.
b. In the Network Name (SSID) field select the network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
c. In the Security section, select WPA2-PSK [AES], and enter the passphrase.
The passphrase can be a word or group of printable characters. For more information
about WPA2-PSK security, see the Web link to “Wireless Communications:” in
Appendix B.
3. Save your settings in a Profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard.
2-12 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Setting up WPA-PSK Security
Follow the steps below to configure WPA-PSK Security.
1. Run the WN311B Smart Wizard.
a. Make sure the WN311B software is installed and the WN311B is properly installed in a
PCI slot in your computer.
b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens.
Figure 2-9
2. Configure the Security settings.
a. In the Profile box, select the profile or type in a profile name.
b. In the Network Name (SSID) field select the network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
c. In the Security section, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] and enter the passphrase.
The passphrase can be a word or group of printable characters. For more information on
WPA security, see the Web link to “Wireless Communications:” in Appendix B.
3. Save your settings in a Profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-13
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard.
Advanced Settings
The Advanced Settings should normally work in their default settings. On the Settings tab click the
Advanced Settings button to display the dialog box and make any adjustments.
Networks Page
The Networks Page scans and displays all available wireless networks in your area.
1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens.
2. Click the Networks tab.
2-14 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
The following buttons are at the bottom of
the Networks tab:
• Help: Display online help.
• Find a Network: Use the wizard to
help you connect to a network. See
“Finding a Network” on page 5-2.
• Connect: Connect to the network that
you selected.
• Scan: Check for wireless networks.
• Close: Close the window of the Wizard.
Figure 2-10
The screen also shows the following information for each network scanned:
• Network Name (SSID): The name assigned to a wireless network. This is the same as the
SSID or ESSID configuration parameter. Note that as a security measure, some wireless
access points do not broadcast their SSID. In such cases, the SSID field will be blank even
though the rest of the information will still be displayed.
• Channel: The channel determines which operating frequency will be used.
• Security: Identifies whether the wireless network uses WEP or WPA-PSK security settings.
• Signal: Identifies the signal strength of the communications.
• MAC Address: Identifies the hardware address (MAC Address) of the wireless device
broadcasting this information.
• Mode: Identifies the type of wireless network — Access Point (Infrastructure) or Computerto-Computer (Ad Hoc).
Note: You can click the Scan button to scan for networks and refresh the page.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-15
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Statistics Page
The Statistics page provides real time and historical trend information on the data traffic and
performance of your wireless adapter.
Figure 2-11
• Transmit/Receive Per formance (%): A real time graph identifying the total, receive, and
transmit utilization as a percentage the total possible.
• Transmit, Receive, and Total (TxRx): Radio buttons let you select whether to display the
transmit performance, the receive performance, or both in the same graph.
• Transmit Statistics: Identifies transmit megabits per second (Mbps), transmit packets per
second (Tx Packets/s), total transmitted packets, and transmit errors.
• Receive S tat istics: Identifies receive megabits per second (Mbps), receive packets per second
(Rx Packets/s), total received packets, and reception errors.
2-16 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
About Page
The About page displays the current software version information.
Figure 2-12
The following information is displayed in the About page:
• Regional Domain: This is the region setting for the wireless adapter. The approved channels
for the region are automatically scanned. Governments regulate the channels used for wireless
transmission. Operating the wireless adapter in a different region may violate local laws.
• Driver Version: The wireless adapter driver version.
• Driver Date: The wireless adapter driver release date.
• MAC Address: The MAC address of the adapter. The Media Access Control address is a
unique 48-bit hardware address assigned to every network interface card. Some wireless
networks will restrict access based on a list of known MAC addresses. If you are
communicating with such a network, you would have to provide the address shown here to the
network administrator before you would be allowed to connect. Restricting access by MAC
address adds an obstacle against unwanted access to your network. However, unless you use
data encryption security, the data broadcast over the wireless link is fully exposed.
• IP Address: The IP address assigned to this adapter.
• Smart Wireless Utility: The version and release date of the Smart Wizard.
Network Connections and Wireless Security 2-17
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
2-18 Network Connections and Wireless Security
v1.0, May 2006
Chapter 3
Troubleshooting
This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN31 1B. After each problem description, instructions are given to help you
diagnose and solve the problem. For information about connecting to wireless networks and the
Internet, see “Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet” on page 4-7.
Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed
and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to the link to “Internet Networking and
TCP/IP Addressing:” in Appendix B.
Troubleshooting Tips
Symptom Cause Solution
The LED is not lit. The WN311B is
installed in the PCI
slot properly or the
WN311B software is
not loaded.
The wireless LED
blinks and cannot
connect to an
access point.
I can connect to an
access point, but I
cannot connect to
other computers on
the network or the
Internet.
The WN311B is
attempting to connect
to an access point, but
cannot connect.
This could be a
physical layer problem
or a network
configuration problem.
Remove and reinstall the WN311B.
Check the Windows device manager to see if the WN311B is
recognized and enabled. Reload the WN311B software, if
necessary.
Try to install the WN311B in a different PCI slot in your
computer if one is available.
The access point may not be powered on. Or, the access point
and the WN311B are not configured with the same wireless
parameters. Check the SSID and WEP settings.
Check to make sure that the access point is physically
connected to the Ethernet network.
Make sure that the IP addresses and the Windows networking
parameters are all configured correctly.
Restart the cable or DSL modem, router, access point, and
notebook PC.
Troubleshooting 3-1
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the information below to solve common problems you may encounter. Also, please refer to the
knowledge base on the NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.
The WN311B Smart Wizard keeps asking me to save my settings
This is because you have made changes to the settings and the Smart Wizard is offering you the
chance to save the changes. If you want to avoid these Profile setting prompts, simply click Apply
before you close the Smart Wizard.
Ad Hoc mode is not working correctly
You need to click the Initiate Ad Hoc button before you click Apply. Here is how you start an Ad
Hoc network:
1. Fill in the Network Name (SSID).
2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Type.
3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc.
4. Accept the default settings or make your changes and c lick OK
5. Click Apply.
Note: Be sure all computers in your Ad Hoc network are configured with static IP
addresses in the same subnet.
How to use the wireless configuration utility that comes with Windows XP
During the WN311B software installation the wizard prompts you to choose either th e NETGEAR
Smart Wizard or the Windows configuration utility. Be sure the WN311B is properly installed in
the PCI slot in the computer and follow these instructions to change your selection.
1. Go to Control Panel and select Network Connections.
2. Right click on the connection and select Properties.
3. Click the Wireless Networks tab.
4. Select or clear the WN311B “Use W indows to configure my wireless network settings” check
box.
3-2 Troubleshooting
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Did the WN311B card receive a valid IP address from the Wireless Router/AP?
The easiest way is to click the system tray icon to open the WN311B Smart Wizard. Then check
the IP address in the About page.
I cannot connect to the AP that I want from the Networks browser list.
The access point is available and there is good signal strength. There are a few possibilities:
• If the access point (AP) is WPA-PSK protected, you will need the correct WPA-PSK
passphrase. Otherwise, the WN311B will still be connected to the previous access point and
you will not be able to change to the WPA-PSK access point.
• If the access point is WEP protected (either 64 or 128 bit encryption), you will be prompted to
enter the WEP encryption security information.
The WN311B is not getting an IP address
You probably upgraded your WN311B software and did not reboot your system.
T o get an IP address assigned, you can either restart your computer or choose another access point
to connect to. If there are no additional access points for you to choose from, restart your system
and connect to your desired access point again.
Note: It does not usually help to shut down the Smart Wizard or disable/enable the card.
Why do I see two WN311B icons in the System Tray?
If you see two WG511 icons in the System Tray at the bottom right corner of the screen, you have
an older software version installed on your system and it needs to be removed. See “Removing the
WN311B Software” on page 4-10 or “Upgrading the WN311B Software” on page 4-10.
XP Professional and XP Home occasional connection problems
Some WN311B XP users will experience inability to connect to the Internet, dropped wireless
connections, or both after applying the W indows HotFix #Q815485 from the W ind ows XP Update
Service.
Troubleshooting 3-3
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
You can delete the Q815485 from the Add or Remove Program utility in the Control Panel. (The
Official name is Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485).
Follow this removal procedure:
1. Click Start, point to Control Panel, and then double-click Add/Remove Programs.
2. Click Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485, and then click Remove.
3. You may receive an error message that states that some program on the computer may not
work correctly if the update is removed.
4. You can ignore this error message, and then click Yes to remove the update.
5. Restart your computer and rerun the Smart Display Setup Wizard.
This should solve your connection issue.
You can restore this hotfix by following the link below:
URL: http://microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=009D8425-CE2B-47A4-ABEC-
274845DC9E91&displaylang=en
3-4 Troubleshooting
v1.0, May 2006
Appendix A
Default Settings and Technical Specifications
Default Settings
The following table lists the default settings of your Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter.
Feature Description
Smart Wizard Enabled
Wireless
Wireless Communication Enabled
Wireless Network Name (SSID) Any (first available network)
Security Disabled
Network Type Infrastructure
Transmission Speed Auto
Country/Region United States (varies by region)
Operating Mode g and b, up to 270 Mbps, g only up to 270 Mbps
Data Rate
*. Maximum wireless signal rate (IEEE Standard 802.11n draft specification). 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.
*
up to 300 Mbps
Default Settings and Technical Specifications A-1
v1.0, May 2006
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Technical Specifications
This table below describes technical specifications for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT
Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B.
Antennas Detachable antenna
Standards 802.11g, 802.11b
Radio Data Rate 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 9, 11, 12, 13, 13.5, 18, 19.5, 24, 26, 27, 36, 39, 40.5,
48, 52, 54, 58.5, 65, 81,104, 108, 117, 121.5, 130, 135, 162, 216,
243, 270, and 300 Mbps
Frequency 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz CCK, BPSK, QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM Modulations
LED Single LED
• Solid indicates connected to network.
• Blinking indicates attempting to connect to network.
Power 3.3V bus powered
Emissions FCC Part 15 Class B, CE
Bus interface PCI
Provided drivers Microsoft Windows XP and Windows 2000
Operating Environment Operating temperature: 0 to 45 degrees C, 32 to 113 degrees F
Encryption 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption, WPA2-PSK,
and WPA-PSK
Warranty Limited 1-year warranty
A-2 Default Settings and Technical Specifications
v1.0, May 2006
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
Internet Networking and
TCP/IP Addressing:
Wireless Communications:
Preparing a Computer for
Network Access:
Virtual Private Networking
(VPN):
Glossary:
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
v1.0, May 2006
Appendix B-1
NETGEAR RangeMax™ NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311B User Manual
Industry Canada Statement
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1) this device may not cause interference and
2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device
This device has been designed to operate with an antenna having a maximum gain of 1dBi.
Antenna having a higher gain is strictly prohibited per regulations of Industry Canada. The
required antenna
impedance is 50 ohms.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be
so chosen that the EIRP is not more than required for successful communication.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
IC Radiation Exposure Statement:
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm
between the radiator & your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
Appendix B-2 Related Documents
v1.0, May 2006
Loading...