User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA 202-10026-01 Version 2.
Technical Support Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at 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: www.netgear.
Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling. FCC Information to User This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas only.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111v2 Tested to Comply with FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE PY3WG111V2 Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved by NETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate the equipment.
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.
Declaration of Conformity in Languages of the European Community Finnish: Valmistaja NETGEAR, Inc. vakuuttaa täten että Radio LAN device tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen. Dutch: Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR, Inc. dat het toestel Radio LAN device in overeenstemming is met de essentiële eisen en de andere relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG. French: Par la présente NETGEAR, Inc.
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 WG111 .................................................................
How to Configure an Ad Hoc Mode Profile ..............................................................4-4 How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network .......................................4-7 Enabling Wireless Security Features ..............................................................................4-7 Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........4-8 How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ............................................................
WEP Configuration Options .................................................................................... B-6 Wireless Channels ......................................................................................................... B-7 WPA Wireless Security .................................................................................................. B-8 How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................ B-9 How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.
x Contents 202-10026-01
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Resource CD, and on the NETGEAR Web site.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 How to Use this Manual The HTML version of this manual includes these features. 2 1 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Chapter 2 Introduction This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. About the WG111 The NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 gives you ultimate mobility in your office or while you are traveling.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 What’s in the Box? The product package should contain the following items: • • • • • • • NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Resource CD, including: — Driver and Wireless Assistant Software — User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What’s Needed? Protect my 1. Assure that the 1. A wireless network with wireless wireless network authentication and WEP or connection from has security WPA encryption enabled. snooping, features enabled. 2. Wireless networking hacking, or 2. Configure my equipment that supports information WG111 with the WEP encryption, such as theft.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What’s Needed? Exchange files 1. Use the Windows 1. The PC I am using to Network connect to the wireless between a Neighborhood network needs to be wirelessly feature to browse configured with the connected PC for computers in Windows Client and File and other the combined and Print Sharing. computers in a wireless and wired 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Table 2-1. If I Want To? A Road Map for How to Get There From Here What Do I Do? What’s Needed? Use printers in 1. Use the Windows 1. The PC I am using to Printers and Fax connect to the wireless a combined features to locate network needs to be wireless and available printers configured with the wired in the combined Windows Client and File network. wireless and wired and Print Sharing. network. 2. 2.
Chapter 3 Basic Setup This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 • Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000, Me, or 98SE. Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the WG111 driver software. Observing Location and Range Guidelines Computers can connect over wireless networks indoors at a range which vary significantly based on the physical location of the computer with the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 1. The WG111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter comes with 3 pieces of velcro. Locate the one that has a prickly side and attach it to the plastic cradle on the middle of the outside rear panel. Figure 3-2: Plastic cradle 2. Insert the WG111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter in the plastic cradle. 3. Place one of the other pieces of velcro on the back of your notebook monitor near the top for better reception.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 • 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. Both of these configuration options are available with the WG111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 For Windows XP Users Installing a WG111 Install the WG111 driver and Wireless Assistant 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 WG111 into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. c. Click Install Driver and Utility. WG111 Resource CD Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Install the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. a. Locate an available USB port on your PC. Connect the USB cable to the WG111 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. Select Install the software automatically (Recommended) and click Next. Note: Click Continue Anyway if you are prompted with a Windows XP Logo testing message. c.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Configure your WG111. a. Click the icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the WG111 SMART WIZARD Wireless Assistant. Click here to open the Wireless Assistant. WG111 system tray icon The utility opens to the Settings tab page. Click Help for instructions on using the SMART WIZARD Wireless Assistant. b. c. Change the Network Name SSID to match your network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your wireless network. b. Check the color of the WG111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection. Check the WG111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good connection; off means the WG111 is not plugged in. d.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 For Windows 2000 & 98SE/Me Users Installing a WG111 Install the WG111 driver and Wireless Assistant software. Note: Windows 2000 may require you to be logged on with administrator rights. a. Power on your PC, let the operating system boot up completely, and log in as needed. b. Insert the Resource CD for the WG111 into your CD-ROM drive. The CD main page shown at the right will load. c. Click Install Driver and Utility.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Install the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. a. Locate an available USB port on your PC. Connect the USB cable to the WG111 and insert the other end of the cable into the USB slot on your PC. After a short delay, the Found New Hardware Wizard displays. Note: Click Yes if you are prompted with a Windows 2000 Digital Signature Not Found message. b. Click Finish when done, and if prompted restart your computer. a.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Configure your WG111 and save the Profile. a. Click the WG111 icon on the Windows desktop or in the system tray to open the WG111 Wireless Assistant. Click here to open the Wireless Assistant. WG111 system tray icon The utility opens to the Settings tab page. Click Help for instructions on using the SMART WIZARD Wireless Assistant. b.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Verify wireless connectivity to your network. a. Verify that the status monitor information at the bottom of the utility matches your wireless network. b. Check the color of the WG111 icon in the Windows system tray: green or yellow indicates a working connection; red indicates no connection. Check the WG111 LED: blinking means attempting to connect; solid indicates a good connection; off means the WG111 is not plugged in. d.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 WG111 Wireless Connection Indicators The NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 provides the following three indicators which give you feedback on the status of your wireless connection: • • The status LED on the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 indicates the condition of wireless link.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors The System Tray (SysTray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop. Color Condition Description Red The WG111 has no connection to any wireless node. The WG111 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.
Chapter 4 Configuration This chapter describes how to configure your NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 for wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and use the data security encryption features. Note: The instructions in this section refer to the NETGEAR WG111 Wireless Assistant. For Windows XP users to use the NETGEAR Wireless Assistant, the Windows XP Wireless Networks configuration utility must be deselected.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 For example, if you use your notebook PC to connect to a wireless network in an office and a wireless network in your home, you can create a profile for each wireless network. Then, you can easily load the profile that has all the configuration settings you need to join the network you are using at the time. There are two types of wireless network connections you can configure: • Infrastructure Mode — uses the 802.11 infrastructure mode.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Figure 4-1: Settings page, Infrastructure configuration 2. Configure the wireless network settings. a. In the Network Type section, be sure that Access Point (Infrastructure) is selected. b. Enter the SSID. This is also called the Wireless Network Name. Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Note: If you cannot connect, see Chapter 4, “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 “Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking” on page C-1. Connecting to Another PC in Ad Hoc Mode The peer-to-peer setting of the WG111 uses Ad Hoc mode. Ad Hoc mode is an 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Figure 4-2: Settings page, Ad Hoc configuration 2. Configure the wireless network settings. a. Select Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) for the Network Type. b. Enter the SSID for the Ad Hoc network. Click Apply. c. 3. Save your settings in a Profile. Type a descriptive name in the “Profiles” field. b. Click Save Profile. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. c. Click Apply. d.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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. Figure 4-3: Windows Run program dialog box 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. c. This will cause a continuous ping to be sent to the device with the 192.168.0.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 How to Start a Computer-to-Computer (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. The Ad Hoc Setting dialog box will appear. Figure 4-5: Initiate Ad Hoc 4. Choose the speed and channel for your Ad Hoc computer-to-computer network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The procedures below identify how to configure the WEP encryption settings of your NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 How to Configure WEP Encryption Security Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security. 1. Run the WG111 Wireless Assistant. a. Make sure the WG111 software is installed and the WG111 is connected to your PC. b. Open the Wireless Assistant by clicking on the WG111 icon system tray. c. Click the Settings tab and view the Security section, as shown below. in the Windows Figure 4-6: WEP Encryption Security 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 5. The default key setting must match what is set in the access point and the other 802.11 wireless devices. 6. Click Apply for the changes to take effect. How to Configure WPA-PSK Encryption Security Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is wireless security with far greater protection than WEP. WPA-PSK (pre-shared key) uses encryption of a shared key as the starting point.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Networks Page The Networks Page scans and displays all available wireless networks in your area. Figure 4-8: Networks page The following information is displayed for each network scanned: • Wireless Network Name (SSID): Wireless Network Name (SSID) is the name assigned to a wireless network. This is the same as the SSID or ESSID configuration parameter.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 • Mode: Identifies the type of wireless network — Access Point (Infrastructure) or Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc). Statistics Page The Statistics page provides real time and historical trend information on the data traffic and performance of your wireless adapter. Figure 4-9: Statistics Page • Transmit/Receive Performance (%): A real time graph identifying the transmit, receive, or total utilization as a percentage the total possible.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 About Page The About page displays the current software version information: Figure 4-10: About page The following information is displayed in the About page: • Regional Domain: This is the region setting for the wireless adapter. The approved channels for this region are automatically scanned. Governments regulate the channels used for wireless transmission. Operating the wireless adapter in a different region may violate local laws.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 • IP Address: The IP address assigned to this adapter. • SMART WIZARD Wireless Assistant: The version and release date of this utility. Advanced Settings Page The Advanced settings should not require adjustment. Except for the power saving setting, changing any of the settings incorrectly on this page could cause your wireless connection to fail.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The Advanced Settings screen is shown below: Figure 4-12: Advanced Settings The following options are available: • • • • • Power Saving: Choices are Off, Maximum, or Dynamic. Preamble: A long transmit preamble may provide a more reliable connection or slightly longer range. A short transmit preamble might give slightly better performance. Choices are Long, Short, or Auto.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. After each problem description, instructions are given to help you diagnose and solve the problem. If you have problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 I can connect to an access point, but I cannot connect to other computers on the network or the Internet. This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem. 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.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 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 click OK 5. Click Apply.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 How to get a PDF copy of the Manual In the Manual HTML page, there is a PDF button image at the top right hand corner of the web page. Click the PDF icon to bring up a PDF file of the entire manual. You can also Print, Email, or Bookmark pages using the corresponding icons next to the PDF icon.
Appendix A Technical Specifications This appendix provides technical specifications for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. Antennae 1 Integrated internal antenna Standards 802.11g, 802.11b Radio Data Rate 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 54 Mbps (Auto Rate Sensing) Frequency 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz (CCK and OFDM Modulation) Power 5V Bus powered Emissions FCC, CE Bus interface USB 2.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics This chapter provides an overview of Wireless networking. Wireless Networking Overview The WG111 Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs) and a product update will bring the WG111 into conformance to the 802.11g standard when it is ratified. On an 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) In an ad hoc network, computers are brought together as needed; thus, there is no structure or fixed points to the network - each node can generally communicate with any other node. There is no Access Point involved in this configuration.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 802.11 Authentication The 802.11 standard defines several services that govern how two 802.11 devices communicate. The following events must occur before an 802.11 Station can communicate with an Ethernet network through an access point such as the one built in to the WG111: 1. Turn on the wireless station. 2. The station listens for messages from any access points that are in range. 3.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 802.11 Authentication Open System Steps Access Point (AP) 1) Authentication request sent to AP 2) AP authenticates IN TER N ET Cable/DSL ProSafeWirelessVPN Security Firewall PWR W LA N ACT FVM318 100 Enable LNK/ACT 1 Client attempting to connect MODEL LO CA L LNK TEST 2 3 4 5 6 7 3) Client connects to network 8 Cable or DLS modem Figure 4-1: 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Key Size The IEEE 802.11 standard supports two types of WEP encryption: 40-bit and 128-bit. The 64-bit WEP data encryption method, allows for a five-character (40-bit) input. Additionally, 24 factory-set bits are added to the forty-bit input to generate a 64-bit encryption key. (The 24 factory-set bits are not user-configurable). This encryption key will be used to encrypt/decrypt all data transmitted via the wireless interface.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Note: Whatever keys you enter for an AP, you must also enter the same keys for the client adapter in the same order. In other words, WEP key 1 on the AP must match WEP key 1 on the client adapter, WEP key 2 on the AP must match WEP key 2 on the client adapter, etc. Note: The AP and the client adapters can have different default WEP Keys as long as the keys are in the same order.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The radio frequency channels used are listed in Table 4-1: Table 4-1. 802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels Channel Center Frequency Frequency Spread 1 2412 MHz 2399.5 MHz - 2424.5 MHz 2 2417 MHz 2404.5 MHz - 2429.5 MHz 3 2422 MHz 2409.5 MHz - 2434.5 MHz 4 2427 MHz 2414.5 MHz - 2439.5 MHz 5 2432 MHz 2419.5 MHz - 2444.5 MHz 6 2437 MHz 2424.5 MHz - 2449.5 MHz 7 2442 MHz 2429.5 MHz - 2454.5 MHz 8 2447 MHz 2434.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The IEEE introduced the WEP as an optional security measure to secure 802.11b (Wi-Fi) WLANs, but inherent weaknesses in the standard soon became obvious. In response to this situation, the Wi-Fi Alliance announced a new security architecture in October 2002 that remedies the shortcomings of WEP. This standard, formerly known as Safe Secure Network (SSN), is designed to work with existing 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 For 802.11, WEP encryption is optional. For WPA, encryption using Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is required. TKIP replaces WEP with a new encryption algorithm that is stronger than the WEP algorithm, but that uses the calculation facilities present on existing wireless devices to perform encryption operations.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The strength of WPA comes from an integrated sequence of operations that encompass 802.1X/ EAP authentication and sophisticated key management and encryption techniques. Its major operations include: • Network security capability determination. This occurs at the 802.11 level and is communicated through WPA information elements in Beacon, Probe Response, and (Re) Association Requests.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS Wireless LAN WPA enabled wireless client with “supplicant” WPA enabled Access Point using pre-shared key or 802.1x Wired Network with Optional 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Client with a WPAenabled wireless adapter and supplicant (Win XP, Funk, Meetinghouse) For example, a WPA-enabled AP For example, a RADIUS server Figure B-2: 802.1x Authentication Sequence The AP sends Beacon Frames with WPA information element to the stations in the service set. Information elements include the required authentication method (802.1x or Pre-shared key) and the preferred cipher suite (WEP, TKIP, or AES).
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 3. The client sends an EAP-response packet containing the identity to the authentication server. The access point responds by enabling a port for passing only EAP packets from the client to an authentication server located on the wired side of the access point.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) WPA uses TKIP to provide important data encryption enhancements including a per-packet key mixing function, a message integrity check (MIC) named Michael, an extended initialization vector (IV) with sequencing rules, and a re-keying mechanism. TKIP also provides for the following: • • • The verification of the security configuration after the encryption keys are determined.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Is WPA Perfect? WPA is not without its vulnerabilities. Specifically, it is susceptible to denial of service (DoS) attacks. If the access point receives two data packets that fail the message integrity code (MIC) within 60 seconds of each other, then the network is under an active attack, and as a result, the access point employs counter measures, which include disassociating each station using the access point.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Changes to Wireless Access Points Wireless access points must have their firmware updated to support the following: • • • • • The new WPA information element To advertise their support of WPA, wireless APs send the beacon frame with a new 802.11 WPA information element that contains the wireless AP's security configuration (encryption algorithms and wireless security configuration information).
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Microsoft has worked with many wireless vendors to embed the WPA firmware update in the wireless adapter driver. So, to update your Microsoft Windows wireless client, all you have to do is obtain the new WPA-compatible driver and install the driver. The firmware is automatically updated when the wireless network adapter driver is loaded in Windows.
Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet through the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111. For adding file and print sharing to your network, please consult the Windows help information included with the version of Windows installed on each computer on your network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2. Double-click the Network icon. The Network window opens, which displays a list of installed components: You must have an Ethernet adapter or an WG111, the TCP/IP protocol, and the Client for Microsoft Networks.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 a. b. c. d. 3. Click the Add button. Select Client, and then click Add. Select Microsoft. Select File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect. Enabling DHCP in Windows 98 and Me After the TCP/IP protocol components are installed, each PC must be assigned specific information about itself and resources that are available on its network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Verify the following settings as shown: • Client for Microsoft Network exists • Ethernet adapter is present • TCP/IP is present • Primary Network Logon is set to Windows logon Click on the Properties button. The following TCP/IP Properties window will display.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 By default, the IP Address tab is open on this window. • Verify the following: Obtain an IP address automatically is selected. If not selected, click in the radio button to the left of it to select it. This setting is required to enable the DHCP server to automatically assign an IP address. • Click OK to continue. Restart the PC. Repeat these steps for each PC with this version of Windows on your network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 2. Type winipcfg, and then click OK. The IP Configuration window opens, which lists (among other things), your IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. 3. From the drop-down box, select your Ethernet adapter. The window is updated to show your settings, which should match the values below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR recommends for connecting through a router or gateway: • The IP address is between 192.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP. The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of these versions of Windows. DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP Locate your Network Neighborhood icon. • Select Control Panel from the Windows XP Start Menu.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Now you should be at the Local Area Network Connection Status window. This box displays the connection status, duration, speed, and activity statistics. Administrator logon access rights are needed to use this window. • Click the Properties button to view details about the connection. The TCP/IP details are presented on the Support tab page. • Select Internet Protocol, and click Properties to view the configuration information.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Verify that Obtain an IP address automatically radio button is selected and that the Obtain DNS server address automatically radio button is selected. • Click the OK button. This completes the DHCP configuration in Windows XP. Repeat these steps for each PC with this version of Windows on your network.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 The Local Area Connection Properties dialog box appears. Verify that you have the correct Ethernet card selected in the Connect using: box and that the following two items are displayed and selected in the box of “Components checked are used by this connection:” • • Client for Microsoft Networks and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Click OK.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 To check your PC’s TCP/IP configuration: 1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run. The Run window opens. 2. Type cmd and then click OK. A command window opens 3.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.
Glossary Use the list below to find definitions for technical terms used in this manual. 10BASE-T IEEE 802.3 specification for 10 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring. 100BASE-Tx IEEE 802.3 specification for 100 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring. 802.11b IEEE specification for wireless networking at 11 Mbps using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and operating in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.5GHz. 802.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Domain Name A descriptive name for an address or group of addresses on the Internet. Domain names are of the form of a registered entity name plus one of a number of predefined top level suffixes such as .com, .edu, .uk, etc. For example, in the address mail.NETGEAR.com, mail is a server name and NETGEAR.com is the domain.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 Like UDP/IP, IPX is a datagram protocol used for connectionless communications. Higher-level protocols, such as SPX and NCP, are used for additional error recovery services. ISP Internet service provider. Internet Protocol The main internetworking protocol used in the Internet. Used in conjunction with the Transfer Control Protocol (TCP) to form TCP/IP.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 router A device that forwards data between networks. An IP router forwards data based on IP source and destination addresses. Routing Information Protocol RIP. A protocol in which routers periodically exchange information with one another so that they can determine minimum distance paths between sources and destinations. router A device that forwards data between networks.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 WAN A long distance link used to extend or connect remotely located local area networks. The Internet is a large WAN. WEB Proxy Server A Web proxy server is a specialized HTTP server that allows clients access to the Internet from behind a firewall. The proxy server listens for requests from clients within the firewall and forwards these requests to remote Internet servers outside the firewall.
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111 WPA Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is data encryption protocol for 802.11 wireless networks. With WPA-PSK (pre-shared key), all wireless nodes and access points on the network are configured with a Shared Key for data encryption.
Index Numerics 802.11b B-1 802.
WPA-PSK Encryption Security 4-10 2 Index
