TRENDNET TEW603PI Users Manual

108Mbps 802.11g MIMO Wireless PCI

Adapter

TEW-603PI

User Manual

1

Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of the following measures:

- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.

- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

FCC Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement:

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.

TRENDnet declares that TEW-603PI, ( FCC ID: S9ZTEW603PI ) is limited in
CH1~CH11 for 2.4 GHz by specified firmware controlled in U.S.A.

2

CE Mark Warning

This is a Class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which

case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

This transmitter must not be co-located or operation in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

3

Table of Contents

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference statement 2
CE Mark Warning 3

Getting Started with the TEW-603PI 5

Wireless LAN Networking 6

Transmission Rate (Transfer Rate) 6
Type of Wireless Networks 6
Wireless LAN Security 10

Hardware and Wireless Utility 12

About Your Super G Wireless MIMO PCI Adapter 12
Package Content 12
System Requirement 12
LED Definition 12
Product Outline 13
Overview of the Wireless Client Utility 14
Working with Profiles 15
Checking for Available Access Points 22
Disabling the Wireless Client Utility 23

Exploring the Wireless Client Utility Screens 25

The Network Screen 25
The Profile Screen 28
The SiteSurvey Screen 29
The Options Screen 31
The Version Screen 32

Configuring Wireless Security 34

Configuring Security 34

Glossary 43

Appendix 45

Maintenance 45
Troubleshooting 47

4

Getting Started with the TEW-603PI

Congratulations on purchasing the TEW-603PI! This manual provides information for setting up
and configuring the TEW-603PI. This manual is intended for both home users and professionals.
It is not required to read some of the more technical information in this manual (such as in
“Wireless LAN Networking” and “Configuring Wireless Security”) to operate and enjoy the
TEW-603PI. It is included for your reference only.

The following conventions are used in this manual:

THE NOTE SYMBOL INDICATES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE TOPIC AT

NOTE

HAND.

THE TIP SYMBOL INDICATES HELPFULL INFORMATION AND TIPS TO IMPROVE

YOUR NETWORK EXPERIENCE.

THE CAUTION SYMBOL ALERTS YOU TO SITUATIONS THAT MAY DEGRADE

YOUR NETWORKING EXPERIENCE OR COMPROMISE YOUR SECURITY.

LIKE NOTES AND TIPS, THE IMPORTANT SYMBOL INDICATES INFORMATION

THAT CAN IMPROVE NETWORKING.
LOOKED.

THIS INFORMATION SHOULD NOT BE OVER-

5

Wireless LAN Networking

This section provides background information on wireless LAN networking technology. Consult
the “Glossary

Transmission Rate (Transfer Rate)

The TEW-603PI provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options
include Fully Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 22
Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36 Mbps, 48 Mbps and 54 Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the factory
default Fully Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your TEW-603PI to
operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate. When the communication quality drops below a
certain level, the TEW-603PI automatically switches to a lower transmission (data) rate.
Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more reliable. However, when the communication
quality improves again, the TEW-603PI gradually increases the transmission (data) rate again
until it reaches the highest available transmission rate.

” for definitions of the terminology used in this section.

HE INFORMATION IN THIS SECTION IS FOR YOUR REFERENCE. CHANGING

T

NETWORK SETTINGS AND PARTICULARLY SECURITY SETTTINGS SHOULD ONLY
BE DONE BY AN AUTHORIZED ADMINISTRATOR.

Types of Wireless Networks

Wireless LAN networking works in either of the two modes: ad-hoc and infrastructure. In infra­structure mode, wireless devices communicate to a wired LAN via access points. Each access
point and its wireless devices are known as a Basic Service Set (BSS). An Extended Service Set
(ESS) is two or more BSSs in the same subnet. In ad hoc mode (also known as peer-to-peer
mode), wireless devices communicate with each other directly and do not use an access point.
This is an Independent BSS (IBSS).

To connect to a wired network within a coverage area using access points, set the TEW-603PI
operation mode to Infrastructure (BSS). To set up an independent wireless workgroup without an
access point, use Ad-hoc (IBSS) mode.

A

D-HOC (IBSS) NETWORK

6

Ad-hoc mode does not require an access point or a wired network. Two or more wireless stations
communicate directly to each other. An ad-hoc network may sometimes be referred to as an
Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS).

To set up an ad-hoc network, configure all the stations in ad-hoc mode. Use the same SSID and
channel for each station.

7

When a number of wireless stations are connected using a single access point, you have a Basic
Service Set (BSS).

8

In the ESS diagram below, communication is done through the access points, which relay data
packets to other wireless stations or devices connected to the wired network. Wireless stations
can then access resources, such as a printer, on the wired network.

9

In an ESS environment, users are able to move from one access point to another without losing
the connection. In the diagram below, when the user moves from BSS (1) to BSS (2) the
TEW-603PI automatically switches to the channel used in BSS (2).

Roaming in an ESS network diagram

Wireless LAN Security

Because wireless networks are not as secure as wired networks, its vital that security settings
are clearly understood and applied.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CONFIGURE OR CHANGE SECURITY SETTTINGS FOR A

NETWORK WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION AND WITHOUT CLEARLY UNDERSTANDING
THE SETTINGS YOU ARE APPLING.
DATA YOU SEND CAN BE SEEN BY OTHERS.

The list below shows the possible wireless security levels on your TEW-603PI starting with the
most secure. EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) is used for authentication and utilizes
dynamic WEP key exchange. EAP requires interaction with a RADIUS (Remote Authentication
Dial-In User Service) server either on the WAN or the LAN to provide authentication service for
wireless stations.

1. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)

2. IEEE802.1X EAP with RADIUS Server authentication

3. WEP Encryption

WITH POOR SECURITY SETTINGS, SENSITIVE

4. Unique ESSID

10

To check wireless LAN security settings for a connection, open the Wireless Client Utility and
select the Profile screen. Select the connection you want and click Properties. See “Modifying

Profiles”.

D

ATA E NCRYPTION WITH WEP

The WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) security protocol is an encryption method designed to try to
make wireless networks as secure as wired networks. WEP encryption scrambles all data pack­ets transmitted between the TEW-603PI and the access point or other wireless stations to keep
network communications private. Both the wireless stations and the access points must use the
same WEP key for data encryption and decryption.

There are two ways to create WEP keys in your TEW-603PI.

• Automatic WEP key generation based on a password phrase called a passphrase. The
passphrase is case sensitive. You must use the same passphrase for all WLAN adapters
with this feature in the same WLAN.

• For WLAN adapters without the passphrase feature, you can still take advantage of this
feature by writing down the four automatically generated WEP keys from the Security
Settings screen of the wireless utility and entering them manually as the WEP keys in the
other WLAN adapter(s).

The TEW-603PI allows you to configure up to four WEP keys and only one key is used as the
default transmit key at any one time.

T

HE TEW-603PI SUPPORTS UP TO FOUR 64-BIT, 128-BIT, AND 152-BIT

WEP

KEYS. THE 152-BIT WEP MUST COMPLY WITH THE WEP SETTING OF

YOUR ACCESS POINT OR ROUTER.

11

Hardware and Wireless Utility

This chapter introduces the Adapter and prepares you to use the Wireless Utility.

About Your Super G Wireless MIMO PCI Adapter

The Adapter is an IEEE 802.11b, and 802.11g compliant wireless LAN adapter. With the Adapter, you can
enjoy wireless mobility within almost any wireless networking environment.

The following lists the main features of your Card.

9 Your Adapter can communicate with other IEEE 802.11b/g compliant wireless devices.
9 Automatic rate selection.
9 Standard data transmission rates up to 54 Mbps.
9 Proprietary Atheros transmission rates of 108 Mbps
9 Offers 64-bit, 128-bit and 152-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) data encryption for network

security.

9 Supports IEEE802.1x and WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access).
9 Two built-in external antennas.
9 Driver support for Windows XP/2000.

Package Content

¾ Super G Wireless MIMO PCI Adapter
¾ Two external antennas
¾ Installation and Manual CD
¾ Quick Start Guide

System Requirement

z Pentium class desktop computers with at least one available PCI slot
z Microsoft Windows XP or 2K
z CD-ROM drive

LED Definition

The following table describes the LEDs on the Super G Wireless MIMO PCI Adapter

STATUS POWER LED LINK LED

POWER OFF OFF OFF
POWER ON Slow Blinking OFF
Radio on without association Two LEDs slow blinking mutually
Associated without traffic Two LEDs slow blinking together
Associated with traffic Two LEDs blinking together per traffic amount

12

LINK LED

Side view of the PCI Adapter from bracket.

Fixed Antenna

POWER LED

R-SMA Connector

Product Outline

Fixed
Antenna

R-SMA Connector

LEDs

PCI Interface
golden fingers

The Super G Wireless MIMO PCI Adapter

13

Overview of the Wireless Client Utility

The Wireless Client Utility is included on the CD that shipped with the TEW-603PI. Install the utility
as described in the Quick Start Guide before attaching the TEW-603PI to your computer.

BE SURE TO INSTALL THE WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY BEFORE YOU ATTACH

IMPORTANT

When the TEW-603PI is installed, it is configured to automatically
load when you start your computer. The utility icon displays in the
system tray at the bottom-right corner of your screen.

Double-click the TEW-603PI icon in the system tray, the following
Network screen opens:

THE TEW-603PI TO YOUR COMPUTER. ATTACHING THE TEW-603PI
BEFORE THE UTILITY IS INSTALLED COULD CAUSE THE INSTALLATION TO FAIL.

There are five screens in the utility.

• The Network Screen

• The Profile Screen

• The SiteSurvey Screen

• The Options Screen

• The Version Screen

14

The Link Information pane provides information on your current connection. This same pane is
shows at the bottom of all screens so you are always aware of your connection status. l

WHEN THE TEW-603PI IS NOT CONNECTED TO YOUR COMPUTER, MOST

NOTE

SETTINGS IN THE
BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT AVAILABLE ARE GRAYED OUT.

WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY ARE UNAVAILABLE. SETTINGS OR

Working with Profiles

A profile is a record of the configuration you use to connect to a particular access point. Without
profiles, you would have to reconfigure the TEW-603PI each time you change access points.
Using the Profile screen you can configure the TEW-603PI to access your home network and your
office network. Each configuration is saved as a profile. Then when you go from the office to your
home you just select the appropriate profile.

NOTE

C

REATING A PROFILE

Y

OU CAN CHANGE PROFILES WITHOUT REBOOTING YOUR COMPUTER. IF YOU

WINDOWS CONTROL PANEL TO CONFIGURE YOUR CONNECTIONS, YOU

USE
MUST REBOOT THE COMPUTER WHEN CHANGING ACCESS POINTS.

Refer to the following to add a profile.

1. Click Profile.

15

2. Click Add. The Wireless Client Utility Profile Wizard opens.

3. Type a descriptive name for the profile such as Home or CoffeShop.

4. Click the drop-down arrow at Network Mode and select Infrastructure or Ad-Hoc. Choose
Infrastructure when connecting to an access point or wireless router. You will need to know the
SSID of the access point.

Choose Ad-Hoc when connecting directly to another computer without using an access point.
You can type anything for the SSID as long as the same SSID is used on the computer you are
connecting to.

16

5. In the SSID pane click Browse. The utility performs a site survey and displays the results.

The SSID (Service Set IDentifier) is the name assigned to a wireless Wi-Fi network. All
devices must use this case-sensitive name, which is a text string up to 32 bytes long, in order to
communicate.

6. Select the SSID you want to connect to and click Add To Profile.

7. Click Next. The WLAN Security Configuration screen appears.

This screen reflects the security settings detected in the access point you want to connect to.
Security settings vary in complexity and you may have to consult your network administrator for
this information. See “Configuring Wireless Security

” for more information.

17

8. Select the Security Mode from the drop-down list and then select the appropriate settings for
the security mode.

9. Click Next.

10. Click Save to complete the wizard and save the new profile. (If you do not want to activate
the profile, uncheck the Apply this profile now checkbox.)

M

ODIFYING PROFILES

You may need to modify settings for a profile, for example, if you purchase a new router, or if your
office administrator provides you with new security settings. Refer to the following to modify a
profile.

18

1. Open the Wireless Client Utility and click Profile.

2. Select the profile you want to modify and click Properties.

19

3. Make the changes you want to the Basic Settings and click Advanced Settings.

Unless you have a thorough understanding of wireless networking, it is recommended that
you leave these settings at the defaults.

4. Click WLAN Security. (Refer to “Configuring Wireless Security
settings.)

” for more details on security

Click the drop-down arrow at Security Mode to choose from the following settings:
Disabled (No Encryption)
All data sent between the access point and the client is left unencrypted and may be viewed
by other wireless devices.
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)
Encrypts all traffic sent between the access point and the client using a shared key. When
using WEP encryption, only access points and PCs using the same WEP Key can communi­cate with each other.

20

WPA

WPA encrypts all traffic between the access point and the client using either TKIP or AES
encryption. Depending on the authentication protocol selected, each client must authenticate
using their own unique username, password, and security certificate.

WPA-PSK

WPA-PSK is a compromise between WPA and WEP. Like WEP, it uses a pre-shared key that
every user of the network must have in order to send and receive data. Like WPA, it uses either
TKIP or AES.

IT IS RECOMMEDED THAT YOU USE WPA OR WPA-PSK WHENEVER POSSIBLE.
WPA (WI-FI PROTECTED ACCESS) PROVIDES STRONGER ENCRYPTION THAN

IMPORTANT

5. Make the changes you want and click TCP/IP Config.

THE EARLIER

WEP (WIRED EQUIVALENT PRIVACY) METHOD.

Select the Use IP Changer checkbox. This allows you to bypass your existing wireless TCP/
IP settings and configure TCP/IP settings for each profile.

Use DHCP

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assign IP addresses. Check this
radio button if your router is set to DHCP.

Use static IP below

Check this radio button if you have to enter a static IP address.

21

Checking for Available Access Points

To scan for access points using the TEW-603PI, refer to the following.

1. Open the Wireless Client Utility and click SiteSurvey.

2. Available wireless networks are listed. Click Refresh anytime to update the list.

22

3. Select the network you want and click Connect. Or click Add To Profile if you want to con-
nect later.

For details about any of the listed access points, select it from the list and click Detailed Info
to see the following screen. (You can also double-click an access point to view the Detailed
Info screen.

Disabling the Wireless Client Utility

You may need to have Windows manage your wireless network settings. In that case, you should
disable the Wireless Client Utility. To disable the Wireless Client Utility refer to the following.

1. Open the Wireless Client Utility and click Options.

2. Select the Let Windows manage this wireless adapter check box and click Apply Now.

23

Exploring the Wireless Client Utility Screens

This section covers the following topics:

• The Network Screen

• The Profile Screen

• The SiteSurvey Screen

• The Options Screen

• The Version Screen

The Network Screen

The Wireless Client Utility is included on the CD that shipped with the TEW-603PI. Install the utility
as described in the Quick Start Guide before attaching the TEW-603PI to your computer.

IMPORTANT

BE SURE TO INSTALL THE WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY BEFORE YOU ATTACH

THE

TEW-603PI TO YOUR COMPUTER. ATTACHING THE TEW-603PI

BEFORE THE UTILITY IS INSTALLED COULD CAUSE THE INSTALLATION TO FAIL.

When the TEW-603PI is installed, it is configured to automatically load when you start your computer.
The utility icon displays in the system tray at the bottom-right corner of your screen.

Double-click the TEW-603PI icon in the system tray, the following Network screen opens:

25

WIRELESS SETTING

The Wireless Setting pane settings are described below

Current Profile

Reconnect (button)

Network Mode

Security
Authentication

Shows the current profile you have selected. If you have not
added a profile, only Default shows. The settings shown in the
Network screen are for the current profile. Click the dropdown
arrow to select another profile.

Press to reconnect to the current access point.

Shows the current network mode. Infrastructure or ad-hoc
mode. (See Note below for more information.)

Shows the security status.
Shows the authentication required.(See “Configuring Wireless

Security

”)

26

AN ACCESS POINT.

IN INFRASTRUCTURE MODE, WIRELESS DEVICES COMMUNICATE TO A WIRED LAN

WIRELESS SYSTEMS WORK IN INFRASTRUCTURE MODE OR PEER-TO-PEER MODE.

VIA ACCESS POINTS.
WIRELESS DEVICES COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER DIRECTLY AND DO NOT USE

IN AD-HOC MODE (ALSO KNOWN AS PEERTO-PEER MODE),

TCP/IP S

ETTING

The TCP/IP Setting pane settings are described below.

IP Address

Subnet Mask

Gateway

DNS Server

IP Release (button)

IP Renew (button)

Shows the current network IP address.

Shows the current subnet mask status.

Shows the current gateway.

Shows the current network DNS address.

Click to release the current TCP/IP settings.

Click to renew the TCP/IP settings.

LINK INFORMATION

The Link Information pane settings are described below. The Link Information pane shows the
network status.

SSID

Shows the current SSID (Service Set IDentifier). This is the
name assigned to a wireless Wi-Fi network. All devices must
use this case-sensitive name in order to communicate.

Status

Shows the current connection status.

Link Speed

Signal Level

BSSID

Channel

Shows the speed of the current connection. Tx is the transmit
speed; Rx the receive speed.
Shows the signal strength of the current connection. (See Tip
below for more information.)
Shows the ID of the current BSS. (See Note below for more
information.)

Shows the network channel.

27

A

ALWAYS SEE THE STATUS OF YOUR CURRENT CONNECTION. MONITOR THIS

THE LINK INFORMATION PANEL IS SHOWN IN ALL SCREENS SO YOU CAN

SETTING AS YOU MOVE AROUND TO ATTAIN A SUITABLE SIGNAL.

NOTE

WIRELESS SYSTEMS WORK IN INFRASTRUCTURE MODE OR AD-HOC

-TO-PEER) MODE. IN INFRASTRUCTURE MODE, WIRELESS DEVICES

(PEER
COMMUNICATE TO A WIRED LAN
ITS WIRELESS DEVICES ARE KNOWN AS A

D-HOC MODE (ALSO KNOWN AS PEER-TO-PEER MODE), WIRELESS DEVICES

COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER DIRECTLY AND DO NOT USE AN ACCESS

THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT BSS (IBSS).

POINT.

VIA ACCESS POINTS. EACH ACCESS POINT AND

BASIC SERVICE SET (BSS). IN

The Profile Screen

A profile is a record of the configuration you use to connect to a particular access point. Without
profiles, you would have to reconfigure the TEW-603PI each time you change access points.
Using the Profile screen you can configure the TEW-603PI to access your home network and
your office network. Each configuration is saved as a profile.

28

PROFILE LIST

The Profile List pane settings are described below.

Name

Shows the name of the profile that you assigned. If only default
displays, no profiles have been added.

SSID

Shows the name (usually the equipment vendor's name)
assigned to a wireless Wi-Fi network. (The keyword “ANY”
means any available network.)

IP Address

Add (button)

Remove (button)

Properties (button)

Apply (button)
Up (button)

Down (button)

Shows the IP address.

Click to add a profile.

Click to remove the selected profile.

Click to view properties for the selected profile.

Click to apply changes after modifying settings.
Use the Up/Down buttons to move the selected profile to the

top of the list or to the bottom. When in the Network screen,
the TEW-603PI attempts to connect to the network at the top of
this

The SiteSurvey Screen

Use the SiteSurvey screen to scan for available networks in your vicinity.

29

AVAILABLE NETWORKS

The Available Networks pane settings are described below.

SSID

Mode

Strength

Ch

Security

Refresh (button)

Detailed Info (button)

Connect (button)

Add To Profile (button)

Shows the name (usually the equipment vendor's name)
assigned to a wireless Wi-Fi network.

Shows the signal type (802.11b/g).

Shows the signal strength.

Shows the network channel.

Shows the security status.

Click to refresh the list of currently available networks.

Click to view properties for the selected network. (See
Detailed Info. Screen below.)
Click to connect to the selected network. (The network is not
added to the profile list.)

Click to add the network to the profile list.

30

DETAILED INFO. SCREEN

For details about any of the listed access points, select it from the list and click Detailed Info to
see the following screen. (You can also double-click an access point to view the Detailed Info
screen.

The Options Screen

By default, the Wireless Client Utility configures your wireless settings. Use this screen to disable
the Wireless Client Utility.

31

OPTIONS

The Options pane settings are described below.

Let Windows manage
this wireless adapter
(tick box)

When you check the Let Windows manage this wireless
adapter checkbox, Windows Zero Configuration manages
your wireless settings. The Wireless Client Utility still
shows the link status of the adapter.

Apply Now (button)

Click to execute the changes.

The Version Screen

This screen displays the software and hardware information of the adapter. You cannot make
changes to this screen.

32

Reference the Versi on screen if you need to contact technical support.
See “Maintenance

”.

33

Configuring Wireless Security

This chapter covers the configuration of security options in the 802.11 Wireless Client Utility.

Configuring Security

When you create a profile you need to configure the security settings with the information provided
by the administrator. You modify security settings by selecting the profile and clicking Properties.

C ONFIGURING WEP

Refer to the following to modify WEP settings.

34

1. In the Properties window, click WLAN Security.

2. Click the drop-down arrow at Security Mode and choose WEP.

3. Click the Use Static WEP checkbox.

35

4. Click Configure. The WEP Configuration screen appears.

WEP Method

Select the encryption to match your access point: 64,
128, or 152-bit. The encryption level must match the
encryption level used by your access point.

Authentication

Options are Auto, Open System, and Shared. For most
installations choose Auto.

Make Key using Pass­Phrase

A WEP Key is automatically generated as you type in
any Passphrase of your choice. Use this feature when
you have used a Passphrase to generate your WEP key
on your access point.

Manual Input (ASCII)

Generate your own WEP Key (4 keys maximum) using
ASCII characters.

Manual Input (HEX)

Generate your own WEP Key using hexadecimal
characters.

Default Key

Four keys are used for decryption; you have to choose a
default key from them for encryption. Make sure access
point uses same WEP key.

CONFIGURING WPA

Refer to the following to configure WPA.

36

1. Click the drop-down arrow at Security Mode and choose WPA .

2. Click the drop-down arrow at Encryption Method and choose TKIP or AES.

To configure 802.1X (authentication protocol) for WPA, see “Configuring 802.1X ”.

ONFIGURING WPA-PSK

C

Refer to the following to configure WPA-PSK.

37

1. Click the drop-down arrow at Security Mode and choose WPA-PSK.

2. Click the drop-down arrow at Encryption Method and choose TKIP or AES. (Most access
points use TKIP for WPA-PSK.)

3. At PSK Passphrase enter the same pass phrase used to configure the WPA-PSK on your

access point.

C

ONFIGURING 802.1X

You need to know if your access point supports 802.1X and then apply the configuration here.

1. Choose the EAP method under Authentication protocol.

2. Options for User Information depend on the EAP method chosen.

C

ONFIGURING 802.1X – PEAP

Refer to the following to configure PEAP.

38

1. At WPA security mode, click Configure button next to Authentication Protocol.

2. Select Inner PEAP protocol.

3. Click Save to finish and return to the previous screen.

4. Type in a unique User ID and Password under User Information.

5. If your network uses a user server certificate click Configure Certificate (see Note below).
The following window appears:

Use user certificate

Check this box if your network requires user certification and
then select the certificate from the drop-down menu.

39

Validate server certificate

Check this box if your network requires server certification and
then select the certificate authority from the drop-down menu.

Server name:

Type in the name of the server that is used for 802.1X
authentication.

Server name should
match exactly

6. Click OK to apply the settings.

Check this box if the server name should exactly match the
name in the certificate.

.

Server Certificates require a wired connection to the network so you
can obtain the certificate(s) from the certificate authority. Your network
administrator can provide on certificate management.

40

CONFIGURING 802.1X – EAP-TLS

1. At Security Mode select WPA from the drop-down menu.

2. At Authentication Protocol select TLS from the drop-down menu.

3. TLS requires both server and user certification. Click Configure Certificate (see Note
below). The following window appears:

41

Use user certificate

Check this box if your network requires user certification and
then select the certificate from the drop-down menu.

Validate server certificate

Check this box if your network requires server certification and
then select the certificate authority from the drop-down menu.

Server name:

Type in the name of the server that is used for 802.1X
authentication.

Server name should match
exactly

4. Click OK to apply the settings.

Check this box if the server name should exactly match the name
in the certificate.

Server Certificates require a wired connection to the network so you
Can obtain the certificate(s) from the certificate authority. Your network

administrator can provide on certificate management.

.

42

Glossary

For unfamiliar terms used below, look for entries elsewhere in the glossary.

AD-HOC (IBSS)

Ad-hoc mode does not require an AP or a wired network. A network that transmits wireless
from computer to computer without the use of a base station (access point).

Two or more wireless stations communicate directly to each other. An ad-hoc network may
sometimes be referred to as an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS).

CHANNEL

A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.

EAP AUTHENTICATION

EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) is an authentication protocol that runs on top of the
IEEE802.1X transport mechanism in order to support multiple types of user authentication. By
using EAP to interact with an EAP-compatible RADIUS server, an access point helps a wireless
station and a RADIUS server perform authentication.

ENCRYPTION

The reversible transformation of data from the original to a difficult-to-interpret format. Encryp­tion is a mechanism for protecting confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data. It uses an
encryption algorithm and one or more encryption keys.

FRAGMENTATION THRESHOLD

This is the maximum data fragment size that can be sent before the packet is fragmented into
smaller packets.

IEEE 802.1X

The IEEE 802.1X standard outlines enhanced security methods for both the authentication of
wireless stations and encryption key management. Authentication can be done using an external
RADIUS server.

INFRASTRUCTURE (BSS)

When a number of wireless stations are connected using a single AP, you have a Basic Ser­vice Set (BSS).

ROAMING

In an infrastructure network, wireless stations are able to switch from one BSS to another as
they move between the coverage areas. During this period, the wireless stations maintain
uninterrupted connection to the network. This is roaming. As the wireless station moves from
place to place, it is responsible for choosing the most appropriate AP depending on the signal
strength, network utilization among other factors.

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SSID

The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a wire­less network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.

TEMPORAL KEY INTEGRITY PROTOCOL (TKIP)

Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) uses 128-bit keys that are dynamically generated and
distributed by the authentication server.

USER A UTHENTICATION

WPA applies IEEE 802.1X and Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) to authenticate wire­less clients using an external RADIUS database. If you do not have an external RADIUS server,
use WPA-PSK (WPA -Pre-Shared Key) that only requires a single (identical) password entered
into each access point, wireless gateway and wireless client. As long as the passwords match,
clients will be granted access to a WLAN.

WEP

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption scrambles all data packets transmitted between
the TEW-603PI and the AP or other wireless stations to keep network communications private.
Both the wireless stations and the access points must use the same WEP key for data
encryption and decryption.

WPA

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a subset of the IEEE 802.11 i security specification draft.
Key differences between WPA and WEP are user authentication and improved data encryption.

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Appendix

This section provides maintenance and troubleshooting procedures. The following topics are
discussed:

• See “Maintenance”

• See “Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Installing a newer version of the Wireless Client Utility may improve the performance of the
TEW-603PI. Before installing the new version, you must uninstall the old one.

CHECKING THE WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY VERSION

To check the current Wireless Client Utility, open the utility on the Version screen. In the S/W
Information pane, note the Utility Version number.

”

IMPORTANT

If you need to contact technical support, you will need to provide the S/W
Information. Be sure to check the screen in the utility that is installed on
your computer and not the screen shown in this manual.

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UNINSTALLING THE WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY

Refer to the following to uninstall (remove) the Wireless Client Utility from your computer.

1. Click Start -> All Programs (Windows 2000 Programs) -> 802.11 Wireless Network

Adapter -> Uninstall.

2. When prompted, click Yes to remove the driver and utility software.

3. Click Finish to complete the uninstallation.

4. Reboot your computer if prompted.

U

PGRADING THE WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY

Contact your dealer or technical support for details on downloading the current Wireless Client
Utility. Refer to the following to upgrade the Wireless Client Utility.

1. Double-click the Setup.exe file that you downloaded. The installation wizard screen opens.

2. Click Next to continue.

3. Click Next in the Choose Destination Location screen.

4. Click Install to begin the installation.

5. Click Finish to exit the wizard and complete the installation.

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Troubleshooting

PROBLEMS STARTING THE 802.11 WIRELESS CLIENT UTILITY PROGRAM

PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION

Windows does not
auto-detect the
TEW-603PI.

PROBLEMS WITH THE LINK STATUS

PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION

The link quality and/or
signal strength is poor all
the time from the status
bar.

Make sure the TEW-603PI is properly inserted into the PCI slot and then restart
your computer.

Perform a hardware scan by clicking Start, Settings, Control Panel and then
double-click Add/Remove Hardware. (Steps may vary depending on Windows
version).
Follow the on-screen instructions to search for the TEW-603PI (Wireless 802.11
USB Network Adapter) and install the driver.

Check for possible hardware conflicts. In Windows, click Start, Settings, Control
Panel, System, Hardware and then click Device Manager. Verify the status of the
TEW-603PI (Wireless 802.11 USB Network Adapter) under Network Adapter.
(Steps may vary depending on the Windows version).

Install the TEW-603PI in another computer. If the error persists, there may be a
hardware problem. In this case, please contact your local dealer for support.

Search and connect to another AP with a better link quality using the Site
Survey screen.

Change the channel used by your AP.

Move your computer closer to the AP or the peer computer(s) within the
transmission range.

There may be too much radio interference (for example microwave or
another AP using the same channel) around your wireless network.

Relocate or reduce the radio interference.

PROBLEMS WITH SECURITY SETTINGS

“Disconnected” (meaning
authentication failure)
Shown in the Status Bar

LED PWR and LINK are
on but cannot receive or
sending data and connect
to network

Make sure your AP/Router has the same setting as your client adapter and
follow AP/Router’s security settings.

Make sure your AP/Router has the same setting as your client adapter and
follow AP/Router’s security settings.

Problems Communicating With Other Computers

PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION

The TEW-603PI
computer cannot
communicate with the other
computer.

Make sure you are connected to the network.

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Infrastructure

Make sure that the AP and the associated computers are turned on and
working properly.

Make sure the TEW-603PI computer and the associated AP use the same
SSID.

Change the AP and the associated wireless clients to use another radio
channel if interference is high.
Make sure that the computer and the AP share the same security option
and key. Verify the settings in the Profile Security Settings screen.

Ad-Hoc (IBSS)

Verify that the peer computer(s) is turned on.

Make sure the TEW-603PI computer and the peer computer(s) are using
the same SSID and channel.

Make sure that the computer and the peer computer(s) share the same
security option and key.
Change the wireless clients to use another radio channel if interference is
high.

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