Wireless-N 300 USB
Adapter WNA3100 User
Manual
NETGEAR, Inc.
350 E. Plumeria Drive
San Jose, CA 95134 USA
202-10539-01
December 2009
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•
Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance
FCC Caution: Any change or modification to the product not expressly approved by NETGEAR could void the user’s
authority to operate the device.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure and SAR Statements
SAR Statement
The NETGEAR Wireless-N 300 USB Adapter WNA3100 has been tested for body-worn Specific Absorption Rate
(SAR) compliance. The FCC has established detailed SAR requirements and has established that these requirements
have been met whilethe Wireless-N 300 USB Adapter WNA3100 was installed in a host notebook computer.
RF Exposure Information
The radio module has been evaluated under FCC Bulletin OET 65C (01-01) and found to be compliant to the
requirements as set forth in CFR 47 Sections, 2.1093, and 15.247 (b) (4) addressing RF Exposure from radio frequency
devices. This model meets the applicable government requirements for exposure to radio frequency waves. The highest
SAR level measured for this device was 1.380 W/kg.
Canadian Department of Communications Industry Canada (IC) Notice
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B
est conforme à la norme NMB-003 et CNR-210 du Canada.
Industry Canada Statement
This device complies with RSS-210 of the Industry Canada 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.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. End users must follow the specific operating instructions for satisfying RF
exposure compliance. To maintain compliance with IC RF exposure compliance requirements,
please follow operation instruction as documented in this manual.
Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity
Visit the NETGEAR EU Declarations of Conformity website at:
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Product and Publication Details
Model Number:
WNA3100 v1
Publication Date:
Product Family:
December 2009
Wireless-N USB Adapter
Wireless-N 300 USB Adapter WNA3100
Home
Product Name:
Home or Business Product:
Language:
English
Publication Part Number:
202-10539-01
Publication Version Number: 1.0
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Contents
Conventions, Formats, and Scope .................................................................................. vii
Chapter 1
Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines ..................................................1-2
Installation with Custom Setup .......................................................................................1-2
First, Install the WNA3100 Software ........................................................................1-2
Upgrading the WNA3100 Software ..............................................................................1-11
Chapter 2
Viewing Wireless Networks in Your Area .......................................................................2-1
Creating a Profile to Connect to a Wireless Network .....................................................2-4
Managing Profiles ....................................................................................................2-6
About Wireless Security .................................................................................................2-9
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Setting Up WEP Encryption Security .....................................................................2-11
Monitoring Statistics .....................................................................................................2-13
Optimizing Wireless Performance ..................................................................................3-1
Assessing Your Network Speed Requirements .......................................................3-4
Troubleshooting Your Wireless Connection ...................................................................4-2
Factory Default Settings ................................................................................................ A-2
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About This Manual
®
The NETGEAR Wireless-N 300 USB Adapter WNA3100 User Manual describes how to install,
configure, and troubleshoot the Wireless-N 300 USB Adapter WNA3100.
Conventions, Formats, and Scope
The conventions, formats, and scope of this manual are described in the following paragraphs:
•
Typographical conventions. This manual uses the following typographical conventions::
Italic
Emphasis, books, CDs
User input, screen text
Command prompt, CLI text, code
URL links
Bold
Fixed
italic
•
Formats. This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
Tip: This format is used to highlight a procedure that will save time or resources.
•
Scope. This manual is written for the Wireless-N USB Adapter. For more information about
network, Internet, firewall, and VPN technologies, click the links to the NETGEAR website in
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR, Inc. website at
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Chapter 1
Installation with Custom Setup
This chapter explains custom installation for your Wireless-N USB Adapter. With custom setup
you can specify where the files are installed. You can also choose whether or not you want to
install the Smart Wizard.
Note: For help with express installation, see the Installation Guide for the Wireless-N 300
USB Adapter WNA3100.
What You Need Before You Begin
To install the wireless-N USB adapter, you need:
•
A PC with a Pentium 300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an available USB port.
Note: The maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. If your computer has a
USB v1.1 port, the wireless-N USB adapter is limited to that port’s maximum
speed, which is 14 Mbps.
•
•
A CD drive.
10 Mbytes of free hard disk space.
•
Windows7, Vista, Windows XP Home, or Windows XP Professional. Some versions of
Windows ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the
installation of the WNA3100 v1 driver software.
Note: Windows XP users must install SP2 or install the KB822603 hot fix (update),
which fixes the USB 2.0 host controller driver. Go to this link to install the hot
details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=
733dd867-56a0-4956-b7fe-e85b688b7f86
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Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines
For best performance, place the wireless-N USB adapter at least 4 feet (over 1 meter) away from
the wireless router or access point.
Computers can connect over wireless networks indoors at a range that varies significantly based on
the physical location of the computer with the wireless-N USB adapter. For best results, avoid
potential sources of interference, such as the following:
•
•
•
Large metal surfaces
Microwave ovens
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 decreases if such materials are
between the devices.
Installation with Custom Setup
Note: For help with Express installation, see the Installation Guide for the Wireless-N
300 USB Adapter WNA3100.
First, Install the WNA3100 Software
1. Insert the Resource CD in your computer’s CD drive. If the CD main screen does not display,
browse the files on the CD and double-click Autorun.exe.
2. Click Install the Software. The Software Update Check screen displays.
3. If you are connected to the Internet, click Check for Updates. If not, click Install from CD.
4. Accept the license agreement. Then select Custom and click Next on the Setup Type screen.
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Figure 1-1
5. When prompted, browse to select the destination folder for your wireless adapter software,
and then click Next.
Figure 1-2
6. Select one of the following methods to configure and manage your wireless network:
•
Smart Wizard. Manage your wireless networks with the NETGEAR WNA3100 v1
software and connect securely using Push 'N' Connect, also called WPS.
–
Automatically. Let the Smart Wizard automatically configure the settings for your
wireless-N USB adapter.
–
Manual. Specify the settings for your wireless-N USB adapter in the Settings screen.
•
Windows Utility. Connect to and manage your wireless networks using only the Windows
configuration utility.
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Then, Install Your WNA3100 v1 Adapter
You are prompted to insert your adapter:
Figure 1-3
1. Locate a USB port on your PC.
2. Insert the adapter into the USB port, or connect it with the USB cable.
Figure 1-4
Note: For best results, put the wireless adapter at least 4 feet (1 meter) away from your
router.
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3. Click Next. The WNA3100 v1 software detects the adapter. Follow the onscreen prompts to
install the driver.
4. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
How you connect to a network depends on what you selected during custom installation.
•
•
•
For automatic configuration, see the following section, “Use Smart Wizard Automatic
If you selected manual configuration, the Settings tab displays. See “Joining a Network”
To use a Windows utility, see your Windows documentation or the NETGEAR application
Use Smart Wizard Automatic Configuration to Connect to a
Wireless Network
After the driver is installed, you are prompted to connect to a wireless network.
1. One of the following screens displays:
No WPS-capable networks in your area
WPS-capable networks in your area
Figure 1-5
•
If no WPS networks are in your area, select your wireless network from the list and click
Next. If you select a secured network, you need to enter the passphrase or network key.
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•
If your router supports Push 'N' Connect (also called WPS) click Next. The following
screen displays:
Figure 1-6
Press and hold the push button on the side of the wireless-N USB adapter for 2 seconds.
The LED flashes. Click Next. Follow the prompts to push the WPS button on your router
and connect.
2. The adapter connects to the network, which can take a minute or two. Your settings are saved
in a profile, which you can name:
Figure 1-7
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3. Click Finish, and the Smart Wizard Settings screen displays.
Profile name
Status bar
Figure 1-8
You are now connected to a wireless network!
The WNA3100 v1 icon
appears in the system tray and on the desktop so you can open the
Smart Wizard to make changes or connect to a different wireless network.
Monitoring Wireless Network and the Internet Connections
The wireless-N USB adapter provides several ways to check the status of your connection to a
wireless network and to the Internet:
•
•
•
WNA3100 v1 icon. After you install the WNA3100 v1 software, the
desktop and on the right end of the Windows task bar. It is color coded to show the status of
icon appears on the
Smart Wizard status bar. Clicking
opens the Smart Wizard. The status bar at the bottom
of the screen shows details about your wireless and Internet connection. See “Smart Wizard
Adapter LED. The LED on the wireless-N USB adapter indicates the condition of your
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WNA3100 v1 Icon
The WNA3100 v1 icon is on the desktop and in the Windows system tray, on one end of the
taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop. The WNA3100 v1 icon changes colors depending on
the condition of the adapter. The following table describes the colors and conditions indicated.
Color
Condition
Description
Red
The adapter is not connected The wireless-N USB adapter cannot link to any other wireless
to a wireless network.
node, or the link is lost. Check your configuration, or try
moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better.
Yellow
Green
The adapter is connected to a The wireless link is weak. Move to a better location, such as
wireless network.
closer to the router. Also, look for possible interference such
as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or large metal surface.
The adapter is connected to a Your adapter has established good communication with an
wireless network. access point, and the signal quality is strong.
If you right-click the WNA3100 v1 icon in the system tray, you can disable Internet notification by
clearing the check mark. If you do so, then only the IP address is shown.
Figure 1-9
In Microsoft Windows 7 and Vista, there is one more option: Enable NETGEAR Smart Wizard.
Figure 1-10
If you clear the check mark for Enable NETGEAR Smart Wizard, the NETGEAR Smart Wizard is
disabled, and you must set up the wireless adapter with Vista autoconfiguration.
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Smart Wizard Status Bar
Click the
icon to open the Smart Wizard Settings tab. The status bar is located at the bottom of
the Settings tab.
Security
Channel
Connection status
Data rate
Wireless
network
Signal strength
Join a Network
Figure 1-11
The following table describes how to interpret the Smart Wizard status bar.
Understanding the Status Bar
Wireless network Identifies which wireless network you have joined.
Security
Channel
Data rate
• A closed lock indicates that security is enabled.
• An open lock indicates an open network without wireless security.
The wireless channel used by the network. If many wireless networks in your area
use the same channel, they can interfere with one another.
To optimize the wireless data rate, connect to a network with a high-speed router or
access point and a high-speed Internet connection. See Chapter 3, “Wireless
Signal strength
Join a Network
More dots indicate a stronger signal. Usually, you experience higher data rate when
the signal is strongest.
Click Join a Network to start the Connection Wizard.
Connection
status
The status of your network connection.
• Connected to Internet. The wireless Internet connection is OK.
• Connected to Router. The wireless connection to the router is OK, but the router
is not connected to the Internet.
169.254.x.x or ___.___.___.___. The wireless connection to the router is OK, but
there is a problem with the router.
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Wireless-N USB Adapter LED
The LED on the wireless-N USB adapter indicates the condition of the wireless link, as described
in the following table.
Wireless-N USB Adapter
LED
Meaning
Off
• The wireless-N USB adapter is not plugged in to the USB port.
• The wireless-N USB adapter is in power save mode (default
from power up or reset).
Blinking • The wireless-N USB adapter is scanning for a network.
• The wireless-N USB adapter is sending or receiving data.
Solid
The wireless-N USB adapter is connected to a wireless network,
but it is not sending or receiving data.
Removing the WNA3100 v1 Software
To remove the wireless adapter software:
1. Use the Windows Start menu in either of these ways:
•
Select All Programs > NETGEAR WNA3100 Adapter program group > Uninstall
NETGEAR WNA3100 Software.
•
Select Control Panel > Add or Remove Program, and then select the NETGEAR
WNA3100 wireless USB 2.0 adapter.
2. The following screen displays:
Figure 1-12
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3. Select the Remove radio button and then click Next.
4. Follow the onscreen prompt to disconnect your adapter. A message displays confirming that
the software has been removed.
Upgrading the WNA3100 v1 Software
Upgrades might be available at the NETGEAR website. To install an upgrade:
1. Open the Smart Wizard and click the About tab to display the following screen:
Figure 1-13
2. Click the Software Update Check button.
If a newer version of firmware is found at the NETGEAR website, the following screen
displays:
Figure 1-14
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3. Click OK. When the file has been downloaded a message like the following displays:
Figure 1-15
4. Click Yes. Follow the installer instructions, and if prompted, restart your computer.
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Chapter 2
Network Connections and Wireless Security
This chapter explains how to use the Smart Wizard to connect to wireless networks and how to set
up wireless security on your adpater if you are joining a secured wireless network.
Note: During installation if you selected Windows Utililty instead of the Smart Wizard,
you will not be able to use these features. If you changed your mind, you can
remove the WNA3100 v1 software (see “Removing the WNA3100 v1 Software”
Wizard.
Viewing Wireless Networks in Your Area
You can use the Networks tab to view all available wireless networks in your area. You can also
scan to search for wireless networks and refresh the tab.
To view information about wireless networks:
1. Click the
icon to open the Smart Wizard.
2. Click the Networks tab to display the following screen:
You can click a column
heading to sort.
.
The status bar shows
your network connection
and Internet connection.
Figure 2-1
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Table 2-1. Network Tab
Field or Button
Description
Network Name (SSID)
The name assigned to a wireless network. As a security measure, some
wireless access points do not broadcast their SSID. In such cases, the SSID
field is blank even though the rest of the information is still displayed.
Channel
N
The channel determines which operating frequency is used.
The access point supports wireless N mode.
The access point supports WPS.
WPS
Security
Identifies whether the wireless network uses security settings such as
WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK, or WEP.
Signal
The signal strength of the communications.
MAC Address
The hardware address (MAC address) of the wireless device broadcasting this
information.
Mode
The type of wireless network—Access Point (Infrastructure) or Computer-to-
Computer (Ad Hoc)
Help button
Display online help.
Join a Network button
Connect button
Scan button
Connect to the network that you selected.
Check for wireless networks. Clicking Scan refreshes the screen.
Close the window.
Close button
Joining a Network
During the installation, the Smart Wizard lists the available networks. After installation you can
use the Join a Network button on the Network tab to view available networks and select the one
that you want.
To join a network:
1. Use the
icon to open the Smart Wizard. On the status bar, click Join a Network..
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A list of networks displays:
WPS
Push 'N' Connect
Hidden
network
Join a
Network
Figure 2-2
2. How you join the network depends on whether it uses wireless security, and whether it
supports WPS.
•
Open network. This network does not use any wireless security. You might join an open
network at a coffee shop or public area. Select the network and click Connect.
•
Secured network. To join a secured wireless network, select it and click Connect. If the
network is hidden, you must type its network name (SSID). You are prompted to enter the
passphrase or key.
•
Secured network with WPS. The network uses wireless security and supports WPS. You
can use the Push 'N' Connect button on your adapter to join this network without entering
its wireless security settings. See the following section, “Using Push 'N' Connect to Join a
Network.”
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Using Push 'N' Connect to Join a Network
If there is a WPS network in your area, you can use Push 'N' Connect to join it and automatically
configure the wireless security settings for your adapter.
Note: To use Push 'N' Connect you need to know the location of the wireless router, and
you must have access to the router so that you can push its WPS button.
To join a network:
1. On the Networks tab, select the network and click Connect.
If the router supports Push 'N' Connect (also called WPS), the following screen displays:
Figure 2-3
2. Press and hold the push button on the side of the wireless-N USB adapter for 2 seconds. The
LED flashes.
3. Follow the wizard steps to push the router’s WPS button within 2 minutes, and connect to the
wireless network.
Creating a Profile to Connect to a Wireless Network
You can create and save a profile from the Settings tab.
To set up a profile:
1. Click the
icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab displays:
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Figure 2-4
2. Enter the network settings.
a. In the Profile field, type a name for the profile.
b. In the Network Name (SSID) field, select a network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly the SSID used by the wireless network.
c. In the Network Type section, make sure that Access Point (Infrastructure) is selected.
This setting lets you connect to a wireless network. For help with Ad Hoc mode, see
3. Click Save Profile.
All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
4. To use the profile, click Apply.
5. Make sure you can connet to the network.
Use a browser to connect to the Internet, or check for file and printer access on your network.
You can check the status bar in the Smart Wizard for the current connection status. If you
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Managing Profiles
If you use your computer to connect to different wireless networks, you can create a profile for
each wireless network. Then you can easily load the profile that has all the settings that you need
to join the network you are using at the time. You manage your profiles in the Settings tab:
Select a profile name
Save
Delete
Set priority
Figure 2-5
There are two special profile names: Default and Profile.
•
Default. The profile named Default automatically scans for any wireless network. You cannot
change this profile name.
•
Profile. If you do not enter a name in the Profile Name field, the name Profile is used to save
your settings. If you do this more than once, you are asked if you want to replace the previous
settings stored in Profile.
Priority Button
You can use the Priority button to specify which wireless network you prefer to connect to first.
•
•
You can click the Move Up and Move Down buttons to adjust the order.
The adapter uses the priority order when it automatically attempts to connect to a wireless
network.
•
The profile for the network that you are currently connected to is automatically saved as the
first-priority profile.
Setting Up a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Profile
The Computer-to-Computer setting uses Ad Hoc mode. Ad Hoc mode is an 802.11 networking
framework in which devices or computers communicate directly with each other, without the use
of a router or access point. For example, this mode is used when two Windows computers are
configured with file and print sharing enabled, and you want to exchange files directly between
them.
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Note: Ad Hoc mode does not work using DHCP settings. Ad Hoc mode requires either
static IP addresses (such as 192.168.0.1) or the IPX protocol. For help setting up
static IP addresses, see the PC Networking Tutorial on the Resource CD.
To create an Ad Hoc mode profile:
1. Click the
icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab displays:
Figure 2-6
2. Enter the network settings.
a. Select Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) for the network type.
b. Select or enter the network name (SSID) for the Ad Hoc network.
c. In the Profile field, type the name of the profile.
d. Click Apply.
3. Save your settings in a profile.
a. Click Save Profile, and all the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply, then click Close to exit the Smart Wizard, or click Cancel to return to the
previous settings.
4. Configure the computer network settings.
a. Configure each computer with either a static IP address or with the IPX protocol.
b. Restart the computers.
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5. Verify wireless connectivity between your peer devices with the ping program:
a. On the Windows taskbar, select Start > Run.
Figure 2-7
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. A continuous ping is sent to the device with the 192.168.0.1 static IP address. The ping
response should change to Reply.
Figure 2-8
At this point the connection is established.
Starting a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Connection
1. On the Settings tab of the Smart Wizard, select or type the network name (SSID).
2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) network type.
Note: for Windows Vista computers, you must have administrator rights. Otherwise,
this option is not available for selection.
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3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. The Ad Hoc Setting screen displays:
Figure 2-9
4. In the Start Ad Hoc drop-down list, select the wireless standard (802.11g or 802.11b) for your
Ad Hoc computer-to-computer network.
5. In the Channel drop-down list, Automatic should work. If you notice interference problems
with another nearby wireless device, select a channel that is not being used by other nearby
wireless networks. Use the Networks tab to view the channels in use in your area.
6. Click OK.
Note: The channel number differs depending on the country. The connection speed
automatically defaults to the highest speed.
About Wireless Security
Many networks use wireless security to encrypt wireless data communications. To connect to a
network with wireless security, you must set up the wireless-N USB adapter with exactly the same
kind of wireless security settings. If you use the Smart Wizard to set up security, you can take
advantage of Push 'N' Connect (WPS) to set up WPA-PSK [TKIP] security. Otherwise, you can
manually set one of the following types of wireless security used for home networks:
•
•
For more information about wireless security, click the link to “Wireless Networking Basics” in
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Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Security Settings
If you do not use WPS, then you need to know the security settings to join a secured wireless
network. You can save the settings in a profile. You can also print this page, fill in the wireless
network settings, and put it in a safe place for future reference.
•
•
Network Name (SSID) ______________________________
If WPA2-PSK or WPA-PSK authentication is used:
Passphrase: ______________________________ These characters are case-sensitive.
If WEP authentication is used:
•
–
–
WEP encryption key size. Circle one: 64-bit or 128-bit.
Data encryption (WEP) keys. There are two methods for creating WEP data encryption
keys. Whichever method you use, record the key values in the spaces below.
•
Passphrase method: ______________________________ This is case-sensitive. Not
all wireless devices support the passphrase method.
•
Manual method. These values are not case-sensitive. For 64-bit WEP, enter 10 hex
digits (any combination of 0–9 or a–f). For 128-bit WEP, enter 26 hex digits.
Key 1: _____________________________ Key 2: _____________________________
Key 3: _____________________________ Key 4: _____________________________
Setting Up WPA-PSK [TKIP] or WPA2-PSK [AES] Security
To configure WPA-PSK (TKIP) or WPA2-PSK (AES) security:
1. Run the WNA3100 v1 Smart Wizard.
a. Make sure that the wireless-N USB adapter is fully inserted in a USB port in your
computer.
b. Use the
icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab displays.
2. Configure the security settings.
a. In the Profile field, select the profile, or type in a profile name.
b. In the Network Name (SSID) field, select the network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
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c. In the Security section, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] or WPA2-PSK [AES], and enter the
passphrase.
Figure 2-10
For more about WPA2-PSK, click the link to “Wireless Networking Basics” in
3. Save your settings in a profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply, and then click Close to exit the Smart Wizard.
Setting Up WEP Encryption Security
To configure WEP encryption security:
1. Run the WNA3100 v1 Smart Wizard.
a. Make sure that the wireless-N USB adapter is connected to the USB port in your
computer.
b. Use the
icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab displays.
2. Configure the security settings.
a. In the Profile field, select the profile, or type in a profile name.
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b. In the Network Name (SSID) field, select the network, or enter the SSID.
Note: You will not get a wireless network connection unless the network SSID
matches exactly what is configured in the access point.
c. In the Security section, select WEP.
Figure 2-11
3. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use.
•
•
64-bit WEP data encryption
128-bit WEP data encryption
Note: Larger encryption keys require more processing and might slow the
communications response times.
4. Select Create with Passphrase, and enter the passphrase. The Smart Wizard generates the
WEP keys.
Note: The characters are case-sensitive. Be sure to use the same passphrase for all the
wireless devices in the network.
If the passphrase method is not available in the other devices, you must manually enter the
keys to match exactly what is in the access point and other wireless devices.
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5. Save your settings in a profile.
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile.
b. Click Apply.
c. Click Close to exit the configuration utility.
Monitoring Statistics
The Statistics tab provides real time and historical trend information about the data traffic and
performance of your wireless adapter.
3
1
4
2
Figure 2-12
Table 2-2. Statistics Descriptions
Label
Description
A real-time graph identifies the total, receive, and transmit
utilization as a percentage of the total possible.
1. Transmit/Receive Performance (%)
Radio buttons let you select whether to display the transmit
performance, the receive performance, or both in the same
graph.
2. Transmit, Receive, and Total (TxRx)
3. Transmit Statistics
Identifies transmit megabits per second (Mbps), transmit
packets per second (Tx Packets/s), total transmitted packets,
and transmit errors.
Identifies receive megabits per second (Mbps), receive packets
per second (Rx Packets/s), total received packets, and
reception errors.
4. Receive Statistics
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About Your Smart Wizard
The About tab displays the current version information.
Figure 2-13
Table 2-3. About Tab Settings
About Tab Field
Description
Device
Regional
Domain
This is the region setting for the wireless adapter. The approved
channels for the region are automatically scanned. Governments
regulate the channels used for wireless transmission. Operating the
wireless adapter in a different region might violate local laws.
Driver version
Driver Date
The wireless adapter driver version.
The wireless adapter driver release date.
MAC Address
The MAC (Media Access Control) address of the adapter. This is a
unique 48-bit hardware address assigned to every network interface
card. Some wireless networks restrict access based on a list of known
MAC addresses. If you are communicating with such a network, you
must provide the address shown here to the network administrator
before you are allowed to connect. Restricting access by MAC address
adds an obstacle against unwanted access to your network. However,
unless you use data encryption security, the data broadcast over the
wireless link is fully exposed.
IP Address
The IP address assigned to this adapter.
The version of the Smart Wizard.
Smart Wireless Version
Utility
Date
The release date of the Smart Wizard.
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Table 2-3. About Tab Settings (continued)
About Tab Field
Description
Get Info button Click this button to display information about your wireless adapter.
Support
Check button
Click this button to check the NETGEAR website to see if an upgrade is
available.
Auto Check
check box
Automatically check the NETGEAR website every 30 days to see if an
upgrade is available.
Advanced Settings
The default advanced settings usually work fine. Except for the power saving setting, changing the
settings incorrectly could cause your wireless connection to fail. Change them only if you have a
specific reason to do so. To go to advanced settings, click the Advanced Settings button on the
Settings tab.
Note: For Windows Vista computers, you must have administrator rights to access the
Advance Settings screen.
Figure 2-14
•
2.4GHz Preamble. An Auto setting might give slightly better performance. A Long setting
might provide a more reliable connection or slightly longer range.
•
Transmit Rate. Lowering the rate reduces the chance of interference with other nearby access
points but also reduces the range of your adapter.
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•
•
Wireless Mode. Depending on your wireless adapter, you can choose some of the available
802.11 wireless protocols.
Fragmentation Threshold. This is the maximum packet size used for fragmentation. Packets
larger than the size programmed in this field are fragmented. The FragmentationThreshold
value must be larger than the RTS Threshold value.
•
RTS/CTS Threshold. The packet size that is used to determine whether it should use the
CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) mechanism or the
CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance) mechanism for packet
transmission. CSMA/CD is slightly more efficient.
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Chapter 3 Wireless Network Performance
This chapter explains how to use your wireless-N USB adapter to connect to your wireless local
area network (WLAN) and how to maximize the performance of your wireless-N USB adapter
within your network. Included are scenarios for setting up your network in a mixed-use
environment and the trade-off of using different types of technology—wireless, wired, Powerline,
and so on.
Optimizing Wireless Performance
The speed and range of your wireless connection can vary significantly based on the location of
the wireless router. You should choose a location for your router that maximizes the network
speed.
The following list describes how to optimize wireless router performance.
•
Identify critical wireless links.
If your network has several wireless devices, decide which wireless devices need the highest
data rate, and locate the router near them. Many wireless products have automatic data-rate
fallback, which allows increased distances without loss of connectivity. This also means that
devices that are farther away might be slower. Therefore, the most critical links in your
network are those where the traffic is high and the distances are great. Optimize those first.
•
Choose placement carefully. For best results, place your router:
–
–
Near the center of the area in which your computers will operate.
In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected computers
have line-of-sight access (even if through walls).
•
•
Avoid obstacles to wireless signals.
–
Keep wireless devices at least 2 feet from large metal fixtures such as file cabinets,
refrigerators, pipes, metal ceilings, reinforced concrete, and metal partitions.
–
Keep the devices away from large amounts of water such as fish tanks and water coolers.
Reduce interference.
Avoid windows unless communicating between buildings.
Place wireless devices away from various electromagnetic noise sources, especially those in
the 2400–2500 MHz frequency band. Common noise-creating sources are:
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–
–
–
Computers and fax machines (no closer than 1 foot)
Copying machines, elevators, and cell phones (no closer than 6 feet)
Microwave ovens (no closer than 10 feet)
•
Choose your settings.
–
Use a scanning utility to determine what other wireless networks are operating nearby, and
choose an unused channel.
–
Turn off SSID Broadcast, and change the default SSID. Other nearby devices might
automatically try to connect to your network several times a second, which can cause
significant performance reduction.
Optimizing Your Network Bandwidth
The speed of network connections depends on the type of equipment that you use. Try to use high-
speed technologies for network connections with the heaviest traffic to avoid lower-speed
connection speeds.
In this network, the two computers with gigabit Ethernet adapters have a gigabit connection
through the router to the storage server. With a high-speed router this connection allows for
extremely fast backups or quick access to large files on the server. The computer connected
through a pair of Powerline HD adapters is limited to the 200 Mbps speed of the Powerline HD
connection. Although any of the links in this example would be sufficient for high-traffic
applications such as streaming HD video, the use of older devices such as 10 Mbps Ethernet or
802.11b wireless would create a significant bottleneck.
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Figure 3-1
In planning your network, think about which tasks will have the heaviest traffic flow between
them. Examples are:
•
•
A media center in one room streaming high-definition video from a server in another room
A storage device that is used for backing up your computers
Small Office and Home Office (SOHO) Networking Technologies
Common connection types and their speed and security considerations are:
•
Broadband Internet
Your Internet connection speed is determined by your modem type, such as ADSL or cable
modem, the connection speed of the sites to which you connect, and general Internet traffic.
ADSL and cable modem connections are asymmetrical, meaning they have a lower data rate to
the Internet (upstream) than from the Internet (downstream). Keep in mind that when you
connect to another site that also has an asymmetrical connection, the data rate between your
sites is limited by each side’s upstream data rate. A typical residential ADSL or cable modem
connection provides a downstream data rate of about 1 to 3 megabits per second (Mbps).
Newer technologies such as ADSL2+ and Fiber to the Home (FTTH) l increase the connection
speed to tens of Mbps.
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•
Wireless
A high-speed wireless router can provide a wireless data throughput of up to 300 Mbps using
technology called multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), in which multiple antennas
transmit multiple streams of data. The use of multiple antennas also provides excellent range
and coverage. With WPA and WPA2 encryption and authentication protocols, wireless
security is extremely strong.
To get the best performance, use newer adapters such as RangeMax adapters for your
computers. A high-speed router might be compatible with older 802.11b and 802.11g adapters,
but the use of these older wireless technologies in your network can result in lower throughput
overall (typically less than 10 Mbps for 802.11b and less than 40 Mbps for 802.11g). In
addition, many older wireless products do not support the latest security protocols, WPA and
WPA2.
•
Powerline
For connecting rooms or floors that are blocked by obstructions or are distant vertically,
consider networking over your building’s AC wiring. NETGEAR’s Powerline HD family of
products delivers up to 200 Mbps to any outlet, while the older-generation XE family of
products delivers 14 Mbps or 85 Mbps. Data transmissions are encrypted for security, and you
can configure an individual network password to prevent neighbors from connecting.
When you add new Powerline products, you can continue to use older models, but they might
not be able to share the same Powerline network.
•
Wired Ethernet
As Gigabit Ethernet ports become common on newer computers, wired Ethernet remains a
good choice for speed, economy, and security. Gigabit Ethernet can extend up to 100 meters
with twisted-pair wiring of CAT-5e or better. A wired connection is not susceptible to
interference, and eavesdropping would require a physical connection to your network.
Note: Actual data throughput varies. Network conditions and environmental factors,
including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and
network overhead, can lower actual data throughput rate.
Assessing Your Network Speed Requirements
Because your Internet connection is likely to operate at a much lower speed than your local
network, faster local networking technologies might not improve your Internet experience.
However, many emerging home applications require high data rates. For example:
•
Streaming HD video requires 10 to 30 Mbps per stream. Because latency and packet loss can
disrupt your video, plan to provide at least twice the capacity you need.
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•
•
Streaming MP3 audio requires less than 1 Mbps per stream and does not strain most modern
networks. Like video, however, streaming audio is also sensitive to latency and packet loss, so
a congested network or a noisy link can cause problems.
Backing up computers over the network has become popular due to the availability of
various networking technologies.
Table 3-1. Theoretical Transfer Time for 1 Gigabyte
Network Connection
Theoretical Raw Transfer Time
Gigabit wired Ethernet
RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N
Powerline HD
8 seconds
26 seconds
40 seconds
100 Mbps wired Ethernet
802.11g wireless
80 seconds
150 seconds
700 seconds
800 seconds
2700 seconds
144,000 seconds (40 hours)
802.11b wireless
10 Mbps wired Ethernet
Cable modem (3 Mbps)
Analog modem (56 kbps)
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Chapter 4 Troubleshooting
This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your wireless-N USB adapter.
Troubleshooting Tips
Use the following information to resolve common situations you might encounter. Also, refer to
the knowledge base on the NETGEAR website at http://www.netgear.com/support.
1. Push 'N' Connect timed out when I tried to connect to a router.
Make sure that your router supports WPS. If there is more than one WPS network in your area,
2. Why does the Smart Wizard keep asking me to save my settings?
If you change the settings, the Smart Wizard offers you the chance to save the changes. To
avoid this prompt, simply click Apply before you close the Smart Wizard.
3. I cannot connect to a wireless network. The router is available, and there is good signal
strength.
Try the following:
•
•
•
Check to see if you are still connected to the previous network. Use the Networks tab to
select the network that you want.
If the network uses Push 'N' Connect, make sure you select the right network, and go to the
correct router when you are prompted to push its WPS button.
If you are typing a passphrase or key, or the SSID for a hidden network, it must match the
wireless network settings exactly.
4. My connection seems slow.
The USB port that you use and the network that you connect to affect your connection speed.
Check the status bar to see if the data rate is 54 Mpbs or 14 Mbps. The wireless-N USB
adapter can operate at faster speeds.
•
At 54 Mbps you are probably connecting to a standard 802.11g network. See Chapter 3,
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•
If you do not have a USB 2.0 port on your computer, the throughput is limited to the 14
Mbps of the USB 1.1 standard.
5. I connected wirelessly to a network, but I cannot access the Internet.
First, check to make sure that the router’s Internet connection is working. If the router’s
6. I can connect to the wireless network, but not to the other computers on the network or to the
Internet.
This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem.
•
•
Check to make sure that the router is physically connected to the Ethernet network.
Make sure that the IP addresses and the Windows networking are configured correctly.
•
Restart the modem, router, and computer.
7. How can I view the IP address for the wireless-N USB adapter?
Click the icon to open the Smart Wizard. Then select the About tab.
Troubleshooting Your Wireless Connection
You can use the status bar and the LED to get more information about your wireless connection.
Click the
tab.
icon to open the Smart Wizard. The status bar is located at the bottom of the Settings
Connection status
Wireless
network
Figure 4-1
Connection Status Shows 169.254.x.x
Microsoft Windows and Macintosh operating systems generate and assign an IP address if the
computer cannot reach a DHCP server. If your IP address is in this range (169.254.x.x), make sure
that there is a built-in DHCP server in your router.
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To fix this problem you can:
•
Click
to open the Smart Wizard. At the bottom of the Settings tab, click Apply. The Smart
Wizard tries again to connect to the router and get an IP address.
Use the Repair function in Windows to try to get IP address.
Reboot your computer.
•
•
If your computer still does not get an IP address, check the router’s DHCP settings. For more help,
see the documentation that came with your router.
Connection Status Shows ---.---.-.-
This can occur if you upgraded your WNA3100 v1 software and did not reboot your system.
Either restart your computer, or connect to a different wireless network.
Troubleshooting with the LED
Problem
Action
The LED is not lit.
The wireless-N USB adapter is not connected to the USB port correctly,
or the WNA3100 v1 software is not installed.
• Remove and reinsert the wireless-N USB adapter.
• Check the Windows device manager to see if the adapter is
recognized and enabled. Re-install the WNA3100 v1 software, if
necessary.
• Insert the wireless-N USB adapter in a different USB slot on your
computer if one is available.
The LED blinks, but the wireless-N The wireless-N USB adapter is trying to connect, but is unsuccessful.
USB adapter is not connected to a • The router might not be powered on.
wireless network.
• The router and the wireless-N USB adapter are not configured with
the same wireless settings. Check the SSID and wireless security
settings.
Occasional Windows XP Connection Problems
Windows XP users who apply Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485 from the Windows XP Update
Service might not be able to connect to the Internet, might have dropped wireless connections, or
both when using the wireless-N USB adapter. You can delete this Hotfix from the Add or Remove
Programs utility in the Control Panel.
To delete Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485:
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1. Select Start > Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.
2. Select Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485, and then click Remove.
•
You might receive an error message that states that some programs on the computer might
not work correctly if the update is removed.
•
You can ignore this error message, and then click Yes to remove the update.
3. Restart your computer, and rerun the Smart Display Setup Wizard.
This should solve your connection issue. You can restore this hotfix by following this link:
Ad Hoc Mode Is Not Working Correctly
You must click the Initiate Ad Hoc button on the Settings Tab before you click Apply.
Note: Be sure that all computers in your Ad Hoc network are configured with static IP
addresses in the same subnet.
To start an Ad Hoc network:
1. Fill in the Network Name (SSID) field.
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.
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Appendix A Technical Specifications and Factory
Default Settings
Technical Specifications
Antenna
1 integrated internal wireless antenna
802.11n, 802.11g, or 802.11b
Standards
Radio data rate
1, 2, 5.5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54, 108, 140, 246, and 300 Mbps
(Auto Rate Sensing)
Frequency
2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz CCK and OFDM Modulation
5V Bus powered
Power
Emissions
FCC, CE
Bus interface
Provided drivers
Operating environment
Encryption
USB 2.0
Microsoft Windows 7, Vista, and Windows XP
Operating temperature: 0 to 45 C
WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK, and 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP
data encryption
Warranty
Limited 1-year warranty
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Factory Default Settings
Feature
Description
Enabled
Smart Wizard
Wireless Communication
Wireless Network Name (SSID)
Security
Enabled
Any (will connect to first wireless network that responds)
Disabled
Network Type
Transmission Speed
Country/Region
Operating Mode
Data Rate
Infrastructure
Autoa
United States (varies by region)
802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b
Up to 300 Mbps
a. Maximum wireless signal rate (IEEE Standard 802.11). Actual throughput will vary. Network
conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and
construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.
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Appendix B Related Documents
This appendix provides links to reference documents you can use to gain a more complete
understanding of the technologies used in your NETGEAR product.
Document
Link
Using Microsoft Vista and
Windows XP to Manage
Wireless Network Connections
TCP/IP Networking
Wireless Networking Basics
Preparing Your Network
Virtual Private Networking
Basics
Glossary
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