Netgear orporated WG111U User Manual
User’s Manual for the
ΤΜ
NETGEAR Super AG
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WG111U
NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
202-10065-01
November 2004
202-10065-01
Technical Support
Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your
product at http://ww.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.
©2004 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's Connecting are
trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved
November 2004
.
Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer
It is hereby certified that the Model WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter has been suppressed in accordance with the
conditions set out in the BMPT- AmtsblVfg 243/19 91 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of some equipment (for example,
test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however, be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the
notes in the operating instructions.
Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment on the market and
has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.
FCC Information to User
This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas
only. Any product changes or modifications will invalidate all applicable regulatory certifications and
approvals.
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202-10065-01
FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment
should be installed and operated with minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Declaration Of Conformity
We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that
the model WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference, and
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Regulatory Compliance Information
This section includes user requirements for operating this product in accordance with National laws for usage of radio
spectrum and operation of radio devices. Failure of the end-user to comply with the applicable requirements may result
in unlawful operation and adverse action against the end-user by the applicable National regulatory authority.
NOTE: This product's firmware limits operation to only the channels allowed in a particular Region or Country.
Therefore, all options described in this user's guide may not be available in your version of the product.
FCC Requirements for Operation in the United States
Radio Frequency Interference Warnings & Instructions
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide rea sonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following methods:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
• Connect the equipment into an electrical outlet on a circuit different from that which the radio receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
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.
PY3WG111U
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iii
Export Restrictions
This product or software contains encryption code which may not be exported or transferred from the US or
Canada without an approved US Department of Commerce export license.
Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity
This device is a 2.4/5.0 GHz dual-band low power RF device
intended for home and office use in EU and EFTA member
states. In some EU / EFTA member states some restrictions
may apply. Please contact local spectrum management
authorities for further details before putting this device into
operation.
This product is certified for Switzerland and all EU countries. 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
Requirements For Operation in the European Community
Countries of Operation and Conditions of Use in the European Community
The user should run the client utility program provided with this product to check the current channel of operation and
confirm that the device is operating in conformance with the spectrum usage rules for European Community countries as
described in this section.
This device is intended to be operated in all countries of the European Community.
Operation Using 2.4 GHz Channels in France
The following radio channel usage limitations apply in France.
The radio spectrum regulator in France, Autorité de regulation des telecommunications (ART), enforces the following
rules with respect to use of 2.4GHz spectrum in various locations in France. Please check ART's web site for latest
requirements for use of the 2.4GHz band in France: http://www.art-telecom.fr/eng/index.htm. When operating in the
following metropolitan regions (départements) in France, this device may be operated under the following conditions:
Indoors using any channel in the 2.4-2.4835 GHz band (Channels 1-13)
Outdoors using channels in the 2.4-2.454 GHz band (Channels 1-7)
When operating outside of the following regions (départements) in France (see table below), this product must be
operated under the following conditions:
• Indoors using channels in the 2.4465-2.4835 GHz band (Channels 10-13).
• Outdoor operation not permitted.
Please refer to the ART web site for further details.
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Metropolitan Regions with Eased Restrictions in 2.4GHz Band
Countries of Operation & Conditions of Use in the European Community
Note: The user should use the configuration utility provided with this product to check the current channel of operation
and confirm that the device is operating in conformance with the spectrum usage rules for European Community
countries. If operation is occurring outside of the allowable channels as indicated in this guide, then the user must
cease operating the product.
This device is intended to be operated in all countries of the European Community. Requirements for indoor vs. outdoor
operation, license requirements and allowed channels of operation apply as described in this document.
• This device is restricted to indoor use when operated in the European Community using the 5.15-5.35GHz band:
Channels 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64. See table below for allowed 5GHz channels by country.
• This device may be operated indoors or outdoors in all countries of the European Community using the 2.4GHz
band: Channels 1 - 13, except where noted below.
•In Italy the end-user must apply for a license from the national spectrum authority to operate this device outdoors.
• Belgium requires notifying spectrum agency if deploying >300 meter wireless links in outdoor public areas using
2.4GHz band.
•In France outdoor operation is only permitted using the 2.4 - 2.454 GHz band: Channels 1 - 7.
• The 5GHz Turbo mode feature is not allowed for operation in any European Community country.
• This device must not be operated in ad-hoc mode using channels in the 5GHz bands in the European Community.
Ad-hoc mode is direct communication between two client devices without an Access Point.
202-10065-01
v
• This device must be used with Access Points that have employed and activated a radar detection feature required
for European Community operation in the 5GHz bands. This device will operate under the control of the Access
Point in order to avoid operating on a channel occupied by any radar system in the area. The presence of nearby
radar operation may result in temporary interruption of operation of this device. The Access Point's radar detection
feature will automatically restart operation on a channel free of radar.
Operation Using 5 GHz Channels in the European Community
To remain in conformance with European National spectrum usage laws, the following 5GHz channel limitations apply
per the table below. The user should use the utility provided with the product software to check the current channel of
operation. If operation is occurring outside of the allowable frequencies as listed in the table, the user must cease
operating the product and consult with the local technical support staff responsible for the wireless network.
Allowed 5GHz Channels in Each European Community Country
Allowed Frequency Bands Allowed Channel Numbers Countries
5.15-5.25GHz* 36, 40, 44, 48 Austria
5.15-5.35GHz* 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64 Belgium, France, Switzerland,
Liechtenstein
5.15-5.35* & 5.470-5.725GHz 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 100,
104, 108, 112, 116, 120, 124, 128,
132, 136, 140
Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy,
Luxembourg Netherlands, Norway,
Portugal, Spain, Sweden, U.K.
* Outdoor operation is not allowed using 5.15-5.35 GHz bands (Channels 36 to 64).
Transmit Power Control (TPC) for 5GHz Operation
The end user must follow the procedures explained in this User’s Manual in order to operate this device in accordance
with European regulatory requirements for Transmit Power control.
European Regulatory requirements specify that wireless adapters must employ Transmit Power Control (TPC) to reduce
the potential for interference to other communication systems operating in the 5GHz frequency bands. The TPC feature
implemented in this Wireless LAN device must be configured by the end user when operating in any European
Community country.
The required configuration procedure for Transmit Power Control (TPC) is found in “European Regulatory
Requirements for Transmit Power Control” on page 4-9 of this User’s Manual.
Note: The TPC procedure should be repeated when relocating the wireless adapter within the current wireless network
or to a wireless network in a new location.
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Declaration of Conformity in Languages of the European Community
u
English Hereby, NETGEAR Inc. declares that this Radio LAN device is in compliance with the essential
requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.
Finnish Valmistaja NETGEAR Inc. vakuuttaa täten että Radio LAN device tyyppinen laite on direktiivin
Dutch Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR Inc. dat het toestel Radio LAN device in overeenstemming is met de
French Par la présente NETGEAR Inc. déclare que l'appareil Radio LAN device est conforme aux
Swedish Härmed intygar NETGEAR Inc. att denna Radio LAN device står I överensstämmelse med de
Danish Undertegnede NETGEAR Inc. erklærer herved, at følgende udstyr Radio LAN device overholder
German
Greek ȂǼ ȉǾȃ ȆǹȇȅȊȈǹ NETGEAR Inc. ǻǾȁȍȃǼǿ ȅȉǿ Radio LAN device ȈȊȂȂȅȇĭȍȃǼȉǹǿ ȆȇȅȈ
1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen.
essentiële eisen en de andere relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG
Bij deze NETGEAR Inc. dat deze Radio LAN device voldoet aan de essentiële eisen en aan de
overige relevante bepalingen van Richtlijn 1999/5/EC.
exigences essentielles et aux autres dispositions pertinentes de la directive 1999/5/CE
väsentliga egenskapskrav och övriga relevanta bestämmelser som framgår av direktiv 1999/5/EG.
de væsentlige krav og øvrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF
Hiermit erklärt NETGEAR Inc. dass sich dieser/diese/dieses Radio LAN device in
Übereinstimmung mit den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den anderen relevanten
Vorschriften der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG befindet". (BMWi)
Hiermit erklärt NETGEAR Inc. die Übereinstimmung des Gerätes Radio LAN device mit den
grundlegenden Anforderungen und den anderen relevanten Festlegungen der Richtlinie
1999/5/EG. (Wien)
ȉǿȈ ȅȊȈǿȍǻǼǿȈ ǹȆǹǿȉǾȈǼǿȈ Ȁǹǿ ȉǿȈ ȁȅǿȆǼȈ ȈȋǼȉǿȀǼȈ ǻǿǹȉǹȄǼǿȈ ȉǾȈ ȅǻǾīǿǹȈ 1999/5/ǼȀ
Italian Con la presente NETGEAR Inc. dichiara che questo Radio LAN device è conforme ai requisiti
essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni pertinenti stabilite dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE.
Spanish Por medio de la presente NETGEAR Inc. declara que el Radio LAN device cumple con los
requisitos esenciales y cualesquiera otras disposiciones aplicables o exigibles de la Directiva
1999/5/CE
Portuguese NETGEAR Inc. declara que este Radio LAN device está conforme com os requisitos essenciais e o
disposições da Directiva 1999/5/CE.
202-10065-01
vii
Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations
This digital apparatus (WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter) does not exceed the Class B limits for radio-noise
emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Canada ID: 4054A-WG111 U
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Contents
Chapter 1
About This Manual
Audience, Scope, Conventions ......................................................................................1-1
How to Use this Manual ..................................................................................................1-2
How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3
Chapter 2
Introduction
About the WG111U .........................................................................................................2-1
Key Features ..................................................................................................................2-2
802.11a and 802.11b/g Wireless Networking ...........................................................2-2
Comparing the 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g Modes ..................................................2-3
What’s in the Box? ..........................................................................................................2-4
A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ ................. ... .... ... ... ...............................2-4
Chapter 3
Basic Setup
What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................3-1
Verifying System Requirements ...............................................................................3-1
Observing Location and Range Guidelines ..............................................................3-2
Determining Placement of the USB Adapter ............................................................3-2
Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................3-3
WG111U Default Wireless Configuration Settings ..........................................................3-4
Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................3-4
For Windows XP Users Installing a WG111U ...........................................................3-5
For Windows 2000, ME, and 98SE Users Installing a WG111U ..............................3-9
WG111U Wireless Connection Indicators .....................................................................3-12
Interpreting the LED on the WG111U ........................................................... ..........3-13
Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................................3-14
Contents ix
202-10065-01
Chapter 4
Configuration
Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................4-1
Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................4-1
Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................4-2
How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile ......................... ............................4-2
Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode ....................................................................4-4
How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ......... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..4-4
What’s on the Statistics Page? ........................................ ... ............................................4-7
Understanding the Advanced Settings Page ..................................................................4-8
European Regulatory Requirements for Transmit Power Control ............................4-9
Chapter 5
Wireless Security Configuration
Understanding the Security Options ...............................................................................5-1
Using WEP Security .......................................................................................................5-2
Basic Requirements for WEP ...................................................................................5-2
WEP Security Settings Worksheet ............................................ ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..5-3
How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................5-4
Using WPA-PSK Advanced Security ..............................................................................5-5
Basic Requirements for WPA-PSK ..........................................................................5-5
WPA-PSK Security Settings Worksheet ...................................................................5-6
How to Configure WPA-PSK Advanced Security .....................................................5-6
Chapter 6
Troubleshooting
Basic Tips .......................................................................................................................6-1
Frequently Asked Questions ..........................................................................................6-2
General Questions ....................................... ... ... ......................................................6-2
Why do I see no more than 54 Mbps on the Configuration Utility status line? ..6-2
The WG111U Smart Configuration Utility keeps asking me to save my settings 6-2
Ad Hoc mode is not working correctly ...............................................................6-2
How to know if the WG111U card has received a valid IP address ...................6-3
How to use XP’s own Wireless configuration utility ...........................................6-3
I cannot connect to the AP that I want from the Networks browser list .............6-3
New Hardware Wizard appears after installation has completed ......................6-3
How to get a PDF copy of the Manual ...............................................................6-3
x Contents
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Appendix A
Technical Specifications
Appendix B
Wireless Networking Basics
Wireless Networking Overview ........................................... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . B-1
Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................................. B-1
Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) ............................................ ... ... ... .... ... ... . B-2
Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................ B-2
Wireless Channels .......................................... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ........................... B-2
WEP Wireless Security .................... ... ... ... ....................................................... ... .... ....... B-4
WEP Authentication ..................................... ... ... .... ... .............................................. B-4
WEP Open System Authentication ......................................................................... B-5
WEP Shared Key Authentication ............................................................................ B-6
Key Size and Configuration .............................................................................. B-7
How to Use WEP Parameters ................................................................................. B-8
WPA Wireless Security .................................................................................................. B-8
How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................ B-9
How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ B-10
What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... B-10
WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User
Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS .................................................. B-12
WPA Data Encryption Key Management ........................................................ B-14
Is WPA Perfect? ..................................................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ............... B-16
Product Support for WPA ...................................................................................... B-16
Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients ............................... B-16
Changes to Wireless Access Points ............................................................... B-16
Changes to Wireless Network Adapters ......................................................... B-17
Changes to Wireless Client Programs .......................... ......................... ......... B-18
Appendix C
Preparing Your Network to Work with a Router
What You Need To Use a Router with a Broadband Modem .........................................C-1
Cabling and Computer Hardware ............................................................................ C-1
Computer Network Configuration Requirements ...... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . C-1
Internet Configuration Requirements ...................................................................... C-2
Where Do I Get the Internet Configuration Parameters? ........................................C-2
Record Your Internet Connection Information .........................................................C-3
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202-10065-01
Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ............ ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . C-4
Configuring Windows 95, 98, and Me for TCP/IP Networking .......................................C-5
Installing or Verifying Windows Networking Components ......... ... .... ... ... ...... .... ... ... . C-5
Installing a New Adapter ...................................................................................C-5
Installing TCP/IP ...............................................................................................C-6
Installing the Client for Microsoft Networks .......................................................C-6
Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 95B,
98, and Me ................................................ ... ... ... .... ... ... ........................................... C-6
Selecting the Windows’ Internet Access Method .................................................... C-8
Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-8
Configuring Windows NT4, 2000 or XP for IP Networking ............................................ C-9
Installing or Verifying Windows Networking Components ......... ... .... ... ... ...... .... ... ... . C-9
Configuring DHCP of TCP/IP in Windows XP, 2000, or NT4 ................................C-10
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ...................................................C-10
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 ................................................C-12
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows NT4 ..................................................C-14
Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP, 2000, and NT4 .............................. C-15
Configuring the Macintosh for TCP/IP Networking ...................................................... C-16
MacOS 8.6 or 9.x ......................................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ...................................... C-16
MacOS X ...... ... ................................................... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ..................C-16
Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Macintosh Computers ................ .... ... ... ... ... .... ... .. C-17
Verifying the Readiness of Your Internet Account ....................................................... C-17
Are Login Protocols Used? ................................................................................... C-18
What Is Your Configuration Information? ..............................................................C-18
Obtaining ISP Configuration Information for Windows Computers ....................... C-19
Obtaining ISP Configuration Information for Macintosh Computers .....................C-20
Restarting the Network ................................................................................................ C-20
Glossary
Index
xii Contents
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User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Chapter 1
About This Manual
This chapter introduces the conventions and features of this document.
Audience, Scope, Conventions
This manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills.
However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U Resource CD, and on the NETGEAR Web site.
This manual uses the following typographical conventions:
Table 1. Typographical conventions
italics Emphasis.
bold times roman User input.
SMALL CAPS
DOS file and directory names.
This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
This manual is written according to these specifications:
Table 1-1. Manual Specifications
Product Version NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Manual Part Number 202-10065-01
Manual Publication Date November 2004
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at
www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.
About This Manual 1-1
202-10065-01
User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
How to Use this Manual
The HTML version of this manual includes these features.
1
2
3
Figure 1-1: HTML version of this manual
1. Left pane. Use the left pane to view the Contents, Index, and Search tabs.
To view the HTML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later browser with
JavaScript enabled.
2. Toolbar buttons. Use the toolbar buttons across the top to navigate, print pages, and more.
The Show in Contents button locates the current topic in the Contents tab.
Previous/Next buttons display the previous or next topic.
The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual.
The Print button prints the current topic. Using this button when a step-bystep procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you
do not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.
3. Right pane. Use the right pane to view the contents of the manual. Also, each page of the
manual includes a link at the top right which links to a PDF file
containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.
1-2 About This Manual
202-10065-01
User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
How to Print this Manual
To print this manual you can choose one of the following several options, according to your needs.
• Printing a “How To” Sequence of Steps in the HTML View. Use the Print button on the
upper right of the toolbar to print the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a stepby-step procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do not have
to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.
• Printing a Chapter. Use the link at the top right of any page.
– Click “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to
print. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter you were
viewing.
– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.
– Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save
paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.
• Printing the Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser
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– Click PDF button. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter
you were viewing.
– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.
– Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save
paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.
About This Manual 1-3
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User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
1-4 About This Manual
202-10065-01
User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Chapter 2
Introduction
This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR Super
AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U.
About the WG111U
The NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U gives you ultimate mobility in
your office or while you are traveling. It frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring and helps you
create a wireless network for sharing your broadband Internet access among multiple PCs in and
around your home. The WG11 1U is designed for PC computers running Microsoft
is a USB 2.0 device and is backwards compatible with USB 1.1 ports.
Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer at up to 108 Mbps for maximum throughput
or dynamic range shifting to lower speeds due to distance or operating limitations in an
environment with a lot of electromagnetic interference.
®
Windows®. It
The WG111U provides reliable, standards-based 802.11a/b/g wireless connectivity that is
protected with the strongest industry-standard WPA and WEP security. In addition, it offers the
fast 54 Mbps speeds of the 802.11a and 802.11g standards. It works with Windows 2000,
Windows XP, Windows ME, and Windows 98SE operating systems.
When used with a router that supports the NETGEAR Super AG technology such as the Super AG
Wireless Firewall Router WGU624 , the WG111U can provide:
• 802.11a standards-based wireless networking at up to 108 Mb ps
• 802.11g standards-based wireless networking at up to 108 Mbps
Note: The WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter can be operated in either 802.1 1a mode or 802.11
g mode, but not both modes at the same time. See “802.11a and 802.11b/g Wireless Networking”
on page 2-2 and “Comparing the 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g Modes” on page 2-3 for more
information.
Introduction 2-1
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User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Key Features
The WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides the following features:
• Reliable IEEE 802.11a and 802.11b/g standards-based wireless networking.
• Supports roaming between access points when configured in Infrastructure mode.
• Fast 108 Mbps speed (restrictions appl y, some countries may not allow 802.11a 108 Mbps
operation) for ultra high speed data transfer. W ireless nodes negotiate to operate in the optimal
data transfer rate. In a noisy environment or when the distance between the wireless nodes is
far, the wireless nodes automatically fall back to operate at lower transfer rates.
• High level of data encryption using the strong WPA-PSK standard or the older 128-bit Shared
Key WEP data encryption method. A lower level of data encryption or no data encryption is
available to simplify your network setup or to improve data transfer rate.
• 802.11g wireless networking, with the ability to operate in 802.11g-only, 802.11-turbo-g-only ,
or 802.11b+g modes.
• 802.11a wireless networking
• Channel bonding combines the bandwidth of two radio channels into one communications link
(54 Mbps +54 Mbps =108 Mbps) between the router and wireless station
802.11a and 802.11b/g Wireless Networking
The WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter provides 802.11a-, b-, and g-compliant wireless
communications, providing continuous, high-speed up to 108 Mbps access to your wireless
network. The WG111U provides:
• 802.11a standards-based wireless networking at up to 54 Mbps. When Super A Mode is
enabled on the access point or router, channel bonding takes two of the usable channels in the
5.0GHz 802.11a spectrum and uses them to double the speed.
• 802.11b standards-based wireless networking at up to 11 Mbps.
• 802.11g standards-based wireless networking at up to 54 Mbps. When Super G Mode is
enabled on the access point or router, channel bonding takes two of the three usable channels
in the 2.4GHz 802.11b/g spectrum and uses them to double the speed.
• WPA-PSK pre-shared key authentication without the overhead of RADIUS servers but with
all of the strong security of WPA.
• 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption security.
• WEP keys can be generated manually or by Passphrase.
2-2 Introduction
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Comparing the 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g Modes
The NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U offers a variety of wireless
modes. The table below compares some of the features of each mode.
Table 2-1. Comparis on of Wireless Modes
Features 802.11b 802.11a Super A 802.11g Super G
Performance 11 Mbps 54 Mbps 108 Mbps 54 Mbps 108 Mbps
Range In practice,
about 100 feet
indoors. Up to
1500 feet in the
open.
Compatibility 802.11b only Only with
Channel Any Any Any Any 6
Frequency 2.4 GHz 5 GHz 5 GHz 2.4 GHz 2.4 GHz
Less than “b” More than “a” Two times “b” Four times “b”
normal 802.11a
802.11a 802.11g and
802.11b
(Can use a “g”
router with a “b”
adapter.)
802.11g and
802.11b
Note: The access point or router that you are connecting to using the WG111U must have the
NETGEAR Super A or Super G mode enabled in order to achieve the higher speeds listed in the
table above.
Introduction 2-3
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What’s in the Box?
The product package should contain the following items:
• NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
• Installation Guide for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
• NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U Resource CD, including:
— Driver and Configuration Utility Software
— This User’s Manual
— Animated Network Properties Configuration Tutorial
— PC Networking Tutorial
• Warranty information 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.
A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’
The introduction and adoption of any new technology can be a difficult process. Wireless
technology has removed one of the barriers to networking—running wires. It allows more people
to try networking while at the same time exposes them to the inherent complexity of networking.
General networking concepts, setup, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition,
wireless technology adds issues, such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to the
picture.
To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using wireless networks, the table below
identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless network, assuring appropriate
security measures are taken, browsing the Internet through your wireless connection, exchanging
files with other computers and using printers in the combined wireless and wired network.
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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What’s Needed? What Do I Do? How Do I?
Connect to a
wireless
network
Protect the
wireless
connection from
snooping,
hacking, or
information
theft.
Note: Secure Internet sites such as banks and online merchants use encryption security built into browsers
like Internet Explorer and Netscape. Any wireless networking security features you might impleme n t are in
addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.
1. A wireless network
2. A PC within the operating
range of the wireless
network. For guidelines
about the range of
wireless networks, see
“Observing Location and
Range Guidelines” on
page 3-2.
1. A wireless network with
authentication and WEP
encryption enabled.
2. Wireless networking
equipment that supports
WEP encryption, such as
the WG111U and all
NETGEAR wireless
networking products.
1. Identify the
wireless network
name (SSID) and,
if used, the
wireless security
settings.
2. Set up the
WG1 11U Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter
with the settings
from step 1.
1. Assure that the
wireless network
has security
features enabled.
2. Configure your
WG111U with the
security settings of
the wireless
network.
3. Use Windows
security features.
To set up the WG111U, see
Chapter 3, “Basic Setup” and
follow the instructions provided.
To learn about wireless
networking technology, see
“Wireless Networking Overview”
on page B-1 for a general
introduction.
To learn about wireless security,
see “Wireless Networking
Overview” on page B-1.
To understand WEP security
features, see “WEP Wireless
Security” on page B-4.
To understand WPA security
features, see “WPA Wireless
Security” on page B-8.
Introduction 2-5
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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What’s Needed? What Do I Do? How Do I?
Connect to the
Internet over the
wireless
network.
1. An active Internet
connection like those from
cable or DSL service
providers.
2. A wireless network
connected to the cable or
DSL Internet service
through a cable/DSL
router as illustrated in
“Connecting to an Access
Point in Infrastructure
Mode” on page 4-2.
3. T CP /IP Internet
networking software
installed and configured
on your PC according to
the requirements of the
Internet service provider.
4. A browser like Internet
Explorer or Netscape
Navigator.
1. Activate your
wireless link and
verify your network
connection.
2. Open an Internet
browser such as
Internet Explorer
or Netscape
Navigator.
To configure your WG111U in
Infrastructure Mode, see “Basic
Installation Instructions” on
page 3-4, and locate the section
for your version of Windows.
For assistance with configuring
the TCP/IP Internet software on
a PC, see “Preparing Your
Computers for TCP/IP
Networking” on page C-4 or refer
to the PC Networking Tutorial on
the NETGEAR Super AG
Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WG111U Resource CD and the
Help information provided in the
Windows system you are using.
.
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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What’s Needed? What Do I Do? How Do I?
Exchange files
between a
wirelessly
connected PC
and other
computers in a
combined
wireless and
wired network.
1. The PC you are using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.
2. The PC you are using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the same
Windows Workgroup or
Domain settings as the
other Windows computers
in the combined wireless
and wired network.
3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network or for sharing
particular files must be
provided when Windows
prompts for such
information.
4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ Workgroup
networking is being used,
the drive, file system
directory, or file need to be
enabled for sharing.
1. Use the Windows
Network
Neighborhood
feature to browse
for computers in
the combined
wireless and wired
network.
2. Browse the hard
drive of the target
computer in the
network in order to
locate the directory
or files you want to
work with.
3. Use the Windows
Explorer copy and
paste functions to
exchange files
between the
computers.
For assistance with Windows
networking software, see
“Preparing Your Computers for
TCP/IP Networking” on page C-4
for configuration scenarios or
refer to the Help system included
with your version of Windows.
Windows Domain settings are
usually managed by corporate
computer support groups.
Windows Workgroup settings
are commonly managed by
individuals who want to set up
small networks in their homes, or
small offices.
For assistance with setting up
Windows networking, refer to the
PC Networking Tutorial on the
NETGEAR Super AG Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Resource CD and the Help
information provided in the
Windows system you are using.
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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here
If I Want To? What’s Needed? What Do I Do? How Do I?
Use printers in a
combined
wireless and
wired network.
1. The PC you are using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.
2. The PC you are using to
connect to the wireless
network needs to be
configured with the same
Windows Workgroup or
Domain settings as the
other Windows computers
in the combined wireless
and wired network.
3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network must be provided
when Windows prompts
for such information.
4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ networking is being
used, the printer needs to
be enabled for sharing.
1. Use the Windows
Printers and Fax
features to locate
available printers
in the combined
wireless and wired
network.
2. Use the Windows
Add a Printer
wizard to add
access to a
network printer
from the PC you
are using to
wirelessly connect
to the network.
3. From the File
menu of an
application such
as Microsoft Word,
use the Print
Setup feature to
direct your print
output to the
printer in the
network.
Windows Domain settings are
usually managed by corporate
computer support groups.
Windows Workgroup settings
are commonly managed by
individuals who want to set up
small networks in their homes, or
small offices.
For assistance with setting up
Windows networking, refer to the
PC Networking Tutorial on the
NETGEAR Super AG Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
Resource CD and the Help
information provided in the
Windows system you are using.
For assistance with setting up
printers in Windows, refer to the
Help and Support information
that comes with the version of
the Windows operating systems
you are using.
2-8 Introduction
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Chapter 3
Basic Setup
This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WG111U and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).
Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 4, “Configuration” in this manual.
Note: Indoors, computers can easily connect to 802.11 wireless networks at distances of
several hundred feet. Because walls do not always block wireless signals, others outside
your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps
to secure your network from unauthorized access. The NETGEAR Super AG Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U provides highly effective security features which are
covered in “Understanding the Security Options” on page 5-1 in this manual. Deploy
the security features appropriate to your needs.
What You Need Before You Begin
You need to verify your computer meets the minimum system requirements and identify the
wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can
configure your wireless USB adapter and connect.
Verifying System Requirements
Before installing the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless US B 2.0 Adapter WG11 1U, please make sure
that these minimum requirements have been met:
• You must have a PC with a Pentium
available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port.
Note: If you do not have a USB 2.0 port on your PC, the throughput of the WG111U will be
limited to the 12 Mbps of the USB 1.1 standard.
•A CD drive.
• 5 MB of free hard disk space.
Basic Setup 3-1
®
300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an
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User’s Manual for the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U
• Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, Windows 2000, Windows ME, or Windows
98SE. Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system
installation files to complete the installation of the WG111U driver software.
Note: Some Windows XP systems may experience high CPU usage when using the WG111U. If
this occurs, you should install W indows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) or in stall the KB822603 Hot fix,
which fixes the USB 2.0 Host controller driver issue.
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=733dd86756a0-4956-b7fe-e85b688b7f86
Observing Location and Range Guidelines
Computers can connect over wireless networks indoors at a range which varies significantly based
on the physical location of the computer with the NETGEAR Super AG W ireless USB 2.0 Adapter
WG111U. 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.
Determining Placement of the USB Adapter
You can attach the WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter directly to a USB port on your computer,
or use the USB cable to extend the range and obtain better wireless reception.
Figure 3-1: Personal computer with WG111U attached to the monitor
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Follow these instructions to use the USB cable, plastic cradle, and fasteners provided in the
package for better USB Adapter placement on a notebook computer:
1. The WG11 1U W ireless USB 2.0 Adapter comes with three black fasteners. Locate the one that
has a prickly side and attach it to the plastic cradle on the middle of the outside rear.
Figure 3-2: Attach fastener to back of plastic cradle
2.
Insert the WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter in the plastic cradle.
3. Place one of the other black fasteners on the back of your notebook monitor near the top for
better reception.
Note: If you are using the USB Adapter with a desktop PC, you can place the last fastener on
the side of your desktop PC monitor nearest your wireless access point.
4. Join the black fasteners to attach the USB Adapter in the plastic cradle to the notebook or
desktop monitor.
See the installation instructions for your operating system before attaching the USB cable to the
USB Adapter and your computer.
Two Basic Operating Modes
The WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter can operate in the following two modes:
•
Infrastructure Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices and computers
communicate with each other by first going through an access point (AP). For example, this
mode is used when computers in a house connect to an Access Point that is attached to a router
that lets multiple computers share a single cable or DSL broadband Internet connection.
Ad-Hoc Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers
•
communicate directly with each other, without the use of an AP. For example, Ad-Hoc Mode
is used when two Windows computers are configured with file and print sharing enabled and
you want to exchange files directly between them.
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Both of these configuration options are available with the WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter.
Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered below.
Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in
Chapter 4, “Configuration” of this manual.
WG111U Default Wireless Configuration Settings
If this is a new wireless network installation, use the factory default settings to set up the network
and verify wireless connectivity. If this is an addition to an existing wireless network, you will
need to identify the wireless configuration and security parameters already defined.
Your NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG11 1U factory default basic sett ings are:
• Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): NETGEAR_11g
Note: In order for the WG111U Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter to communicate with a wireless
access point or wireless adapter, all devices must be configured with the same wireless
network name (SSID).
• Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-hoc): Infrastructure
• Data security WPA-PSK: Enabled, Passphrase: NETGEAR-ULTRA-G
The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless USB 2.0
Adapter WG111U for basic wireless connectivity to an access point. The procedures below
provide step-by-step installation instructions for Windows PCs.
Basic Installation Instructions
Use the procedure below that corresponds to the version of Windows you are using:
• “For Windows XP Users Installing a WG111U” on page 3-5
• “For Windows 2000, ME, and 98SE Users Installing a WG111U” on page 3-9
3-4 Basic Setup
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For Windows XP Users Installing a WG111U
Install the WG111U driver and
configuration utility software.
a. Power on your PC, let the operating
system boot up completely , and log in as
needed.
b. Insert the Resource CD for the WG11 1U
into your CD drive. The CD main page
shown at the right will load.
c. Click Install Driver and Utility.
Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps.
You will be prompted to choose the
country you are located in. Select your
location from the list.
d. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer.
WG1 11U Resource CD
Note: If this screen fails to load automatically,
browse to the CD and double-click on
autorun.exe.
InstallShield Wizard
Note: If a Windows XP Certification warning
appears, click Continue Anyway to proceed.
Basic Setup 3-5
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Install the NETGEAR Super AG Wireless
USB 2.0 Adapter WG111U.
a. Locate an available USB port on your
PC. Connect the USB cable to the
WG111U and insert the other end of the
cable into the USB slot on your PC.
b. After a short delay, the Found New
Hardware Wizard displays. The first
time that you install the WG111U on a
computer, the wizard will install the
bootloader device. Follow the
installation prompts.
Note: Click Continue Anyway if you
are prompted with a Windows XP Logo
testing message.
c. After the bootloader device is installed,
the Found New Hardware Wizard
displays again and installs the WG11 1U.
Follow the installation prompts.
Note: If the USB port in your computer is not a USB
v2.0 type port but rather a USB v1.1 type port, you
will see a “HI_SPEED USB Device Plugged into
non-HI-SPEED USB Hub” message. The WG111U
will work but the USB v1.1 port maximum speed is
12 Mbps whereas the maximum speed of a USB
v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. So, when the WG1 11U is
connected to a USB v1.1 port, the communications
speed will be limited to the maximum of the USB
v1.1 port.
Add New Hardware Wizard
d. Next you will be prompted to enable the
NETGEAR Smart Wireless Settings
Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted
with a Windows XP Logo testing message.
Utility configuration utility.
Click Yes to accept this option.
If you choose No, you must read the
Windows XP documentation for an
explanation of how to use the Windows
XP wireless network configuration
Enable NETGEAR Utility Configuration
utility
e. Click Finish when done, and if
prompted restart your computer. You
will see the WG111U system tray icon
on the lower right portion of the
Windows task bar.
3-6 Basic Setup
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WG111U System Tray Icon
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