NETGEAR Network Card MA101 User Manual

Reference Manual for  
the Model MA101  
802.11b Wireless PC  
Card  
NETGEAR, Inc.  
4401 Great America Parkway  
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA  
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Preface - About This Installation Guide  
Chapter 1 - Introduction  
What’s in the Box? ...................................................................................2  
For Windows 98/Me Users Installing a MA101 ................................17  
Setting Up a MA101 in Ad-Hoc Mode ..............................................24  
Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................26  
Troubleshooting Tips ..............................................................................27  
Chapter 3 - Protecting Your Wireless Connection  
Enabling Basic Wireless Security Features ...........................................29  
Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security  
Settings ............................................................................................30  
Setting the Wireless Network Name (SSID) ....................................31  
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Configuring WEP Encryption Security .............................................32  
Appendix A - Technical Specifications  
Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ...................................37  
Verifying TCP/IP Properties .............................................................47  
Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking .....................47  
Install or Verify Windows Networking Components .........................47  
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 .................48  
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP .............................48  
DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 ..........................51  
Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 .....................53  
Index  
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Preface  
About This Installation Guide  
Thank you for purchasing the NETGEAR® MA101 802.11b Wireless USB  
Adapter.  
Note: If you are unfamiliar with networking, routing, and wireless  
communications, refer to Appendix B, “802.11b Wireless Networking  
Basics,” to become more familiar with the terms and procedures used in  
this guide.  
This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer  
and Internet skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, and wireless  
technologies tutorial information is provided in the Appendices.  
This guide uses the following typographical conventions:  
italics  
Media titles, UNIX files, commands, URLs, and directory  
names.  
bold times roman User input  
Internet Protocol (IP)First time an abbreviated term is used.  
courier font  
Screen text, user-typed command-line entries.  
[Enter]  
Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets.  
The notation [Enter] is used for the Enter key and the  
Return key.  
[Ctrl]+C  
Two or more keys that must be pressed simultaneously are  
shown in text linked with a plus (+) sign.  
ALL CAPS  
DOS file and directory names.  
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Chapter 1  
Introduction  
This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the  
NETGEAR MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter. See “What You Will Need  
Before You Begin” on page 9 for the minimum system requirements. Also, a  
“road map” for achieving your installation objectives is provided on page 3.  
About the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter  
The MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter gives you ultimate flexibility in your  
office or home. It frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring and helps you create a  
wireless network for sharing your broadband cable or DSL Internet access among  
multiple PCs in and around your home. It is designed for computer computers  
running Microsoft® Windows®. Its auto-sensing capability allows packet transfer  
at up to 11 megabits per second (Mbps), and dynamic range shifting to slower  
speeds due to distance or electromagnetic interference limitations.  
Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products  
The MA101 USB Adapter provides the following features:  
Reliable IEEE 802.11b standard-based wireless technology.  
Supports roaming among access points if configured in Infrastructure mode.  
11 Mbps maximum data transfer speed. Wireless nodes negotiate to operate at  
the optimal data transfer rate. In a noisy environment or when the distance  
between the wireless nodes is far, the wireless nodes automatically fall back to  
operate to the lower transfer rate of one or two megabits per second.  
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Highest level security with 128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption. Lower  
level data encryption or no data encryption options simplify network setup  
and improve data transfer rates.  
The following Netgear products can be configured to communicate with the  
MA101 USB Adapter.  
WAB102 Dual Band Access Point  
MA401 802.11b Wireless PC Card  
ME102 802.11b Wireless Access Point  
MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter  
MR314 802.11b Wireless Cable/DSL Router  
MA701 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card  
What’s in the Box?  
The product package should contain the following items:  
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter with a USB cable  
Reference Manual for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless PC Card  
A Model MA101 Resource CD, including:  
— Driver and Configuration Utility Software  
— Reference Guide for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in  
Adobe Acrobat PDF file format  
— Reference Guide for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in  
browser readable HTML format  
Warranty card  
Support information card  
If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR  
dealer. Keep the carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need  
to return the product for repair.  
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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, set  
up, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition, wireless  
technology adds issues, such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to  
the picture.  
To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using wireless networks, the  
table below identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless  
network, assuring appropriate security measures are taken, browsing the Internet  
through your wireless connection, exchanging files with other computers, and  
using printers in the combined wireless and wired network.  
Table 1-1.  
A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...  
If I Want To... ? What Do I Do?  
What’s Needed?  
Connect to a  
wireless  
wireless  
network  
To set up the MA101,  
see Chapter 2,  
“Installing the MA101  
802.11b Wireless  
USB Adapter” and  
follow the  
1. Identify the  
1. A wireless network  
2. A PC within the  
operating range of the  
wireless network. For  
guidelines about the  
range of 802.11b  
network name  
(SSID) and, if  
used the  
wireless  
security  
settings.  
instructions  
provided.  
wireless networks,  
please see “Observe  
Location and Range  
Guidelines” on page 10.  
2. Set up the  
MA101  
To learn about  
wireless networking  
technology, please  
see Appendix B,  
“802.11b Wireless  
Networking Basics”  
for a general  
802.11b  
Wireless USB  
Adapter with  
the settings  
from step 1.  
introduction.  
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Table 1-1.  
A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...  
If I Want To... ? What Do I Do?  
What’s Needed?  
How Do I?  
Protect my  
wireless  
To learn about  
1. Assure that the 1. A wireless network with  
wireless networking  
security, please see  
“Authentication and  
WEP Encryption” on  
page 37.  
wireless  
network has  
security  
features  
enabled.  
authentication and WEP  
encryption enabled.  
2. Wireless networking  
equipment that supports  
WEP encryption, such as  
the MA101 and all  
connection from  
snooping,  
hacking, or  
information  
theft.  
2. Configure my  
MA101 with  
the security  
settings of the  
wireless  
To use WEP security  
features, please see  
“Enabling Basic  
Wireless Security  
Features” on page  
29 and configure  
your MA101  
Netgear wireless  
networking products.  
Note: Secure  
Internet sites  
such as banks  
and online  
merchants  
where the  
address begins  
with https:\\ ...  
are using the  
SSL encryption  
security built  
into browsers  
like Internet  
network.  
3. Use Windows  
security  
accordingly.  
features.  
Explorer and  
®
Netscape . Any  
securityfeatures  
you might  
implement in a  
wireless  
network are in  
addition to those  
already in place  
on secure  
Internet sites.  
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Table 1-1.  
A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...  
If I Want To... ? What Do I Do?  
What’s Needed?  
How Do I?  
Connect to the  
1. Activate my  
MA101 in  
1. An active Internet  
connection like those  
from cable or DSL  
Internet over my  
wireless link  
and verify my  
network  
wireless  
network.  
Infrastructure Mode,  
please see “Setting  
Up the MA101 in  
Infrastructure Mode”  
on page 14, and  
locate the section for  
your version of  
service providers.  
connection.  
2. Open an  
Internet  
2. A wireless network  
connected to the cable or  
DSL Internet service  
through a cable/DSL  
router as illustrated in  
“Using the MA101 to  
Connect to a Wireless  
Network Access Point in  
Infrastructure Mode” on  
page 13.  
3. TCP/IP Internet  
networking software  
installed and configured  
on my PC according to  
the requirements of the  
Internet service provider  
4. A browser like Internet  
Explorer or Netscape  
Navigator.  
browser such  
as Internet  
Explorer or  
Netscape  
Windows.  
Please see  
Appendix C,  
Navigator.  
“Preparing Your PCs  
for Network Access”  
for assistance with  
configuring the  
TCP/IP Internet  
software on a PC.  
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Table 1-1.  
A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...  
If I Want To... ? What Do I Do?  
What’s Needed?  
How Do I?  
Exchange files  
1. Use the  
To get assistance  
Windows networking  
software, please see  
Appendix C,  
“Preparing Your PCs  
for Network Access”  
for typical  
1. The computer I am using  
to connect to the  
between my  
Windows  
wirelessly  
Network  
wireless network needs  
to be configured with the  
Windows Client and File  
and Print Sharing.  
connected  
Neighborhood  
computer and  
feature to  
other computers  
browser for  
in a combined  
computers in  
2. The computer I am using  
to connect to the  
wireless and  
the combined  
configuration  
wired network.  
scenarios or refer to  
the Help system  
included with your  
version of Windows.  
wireless and  
wireless network needs  
to be configured with the  
same Windows  
Workgroup or Domain  
settings as the other  
Windows computers in  
the combined wireless  
and wired network.  
wired network.  
2. Browse the  
hard drive of  
the target  
Windows Domain  
settings are usually  
managed by  
corporate computer  
support groups.  
computer in  
the network in  
order to locate  
the directory or 3. Any Windows networking  
files you want  
to work with.  
security access rights  
such as login user name/  
password that have been  
assigned in the Windows  
network or for sharing  
particular files must be  
provided when Windows  
prompts for such  
Windows Workgroup  
settings are  
3. Use the  
Windows  
Explorer copy  
and paste  
functions to  
exchange files  
between the  
computers.  
commonly managed  
by individuals who  
want to set up small  
networks in their  
homes, or small  
offices.  
information.  
4. If so-called Windows  
‘peer’ Workgroup  
To get assistance  
with setting up  
Windows  
networking, refer to  
the Help and  
Support information  
that comes with the  
version of the  
networking is being  
used, the drive, file  
system directory, or file  
need to be enabled for  
sharing.  
Windows operating  
systems you are  
using.  
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Table 1-1.  
A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...  
If I Want To... ? What Do I Do?  
What’s Needed?  
How Do I?  
Use printers in a  
1. Use the  
Windows Domain  
settings are usually  
managed by  
corporate computer  
support groups.  
1. The computer I am using  
to connect to the  
combined  
Windows  
wireless and  
Printers and  
wireless network needs  
to be configured with the  
Windows Client and File  
and Print Sharing.  
wired network.  
Fax features to  
locate  
available  
Windows Workgroup  
settings are  
printers in the 2. The computer I am using  
combined  
wireless and  
wired network.  
to connect to the  
wireless network needs  
to be configured with the  
same Windows  
Workgroup or Domain  
settings as the other  
Windows computers in  
the combined wireless  
and wired network.  
commonly managed  
by individuals who  
want to set up small  
networks in their  
homes, or small  
offices.  
2. Use the  
Windows Add  
a Printer  
wizard to add  
access a  
network printer  
from the PC  
you are using  
to wirelessly  
connect to the  
network.  
To get assistance  
with setting up  
Windows  
networking, refer to  
the Help and  
Support information  
that comes with the  
version of the  
Windows operating  
systems you are  
using.  
3. Any Windows networking  
security access rights  
such as login user name/  
password that have been  
assigned in the Windows  
network must be  
3. From the File  
menu of an  
application  
provided when Windows  
prompts for such  
information.  
such as  
Microsoft  
Word, use the  
Print Setup  
feature to  
4. If so-called Windows  
‘peer’ networking is  
being used, the printer  
needs to be enabled for  
sharing.  
To get assistance  
with setting up  
printers in Windows,  
refer to the Help and  
Support information  
that comes with the  
version of the  
direct your  
print output to  
the printer in  
the network.  
Windows operating  
systems you are  
using.  
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Chapter 2  
Installing the  
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter  
This chapter describes how to set up your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter  
for wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).  
Note: Computers can connect over 802.11b wireless networks at a  
range of as much as 500 feet or more indoors. With this distance, and  
because walls do not always block wireless signals, others outside your  
immediate area could access your network. It is important to take  
appropriate steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The  
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter provides highly effective  
security features which are covered in “Enabling Basic Wireless  
Security Features” on page 29. Deploy the security features appropriate  
to your needs.  
What You Will Need Before You Begin  
You need to verify your computer meets the minimum system requirements and  
identify the wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will  
connect before you can configure your wireless USB adapter and connect.  
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Verify System Requirements  
Before installing the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter, please make sure  
that these minimum requirements have been met:  
You must have a Pentium® Class computer.  
An available USB port.  
A CD-ROM drive.  
5 Mbytes of free hard disk space.  
Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating  
system installation files to complete the installation of the MA101 driver  
software.  
Observe Location and Range Guidelines  
Computers can connect over 802.11b wireless networks indoors at a maximum  
range of approximately 500 feet. However, the operating distance or range of your  
wireless connection can vary significantly based on the physical location of the  
computer with the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter. For best results, avoid  
potential sources of interference, such as:  
Large metal surfaces  
Microwaves  
2.4 GHz Cordless phones  
In general, 802.11b wireless devices can communicate through walls. However,  
the 802.11b wireless network effective range will decrease if such materials as  
walls with concrete, metal, or metal mesh, are between the wireless devices.  
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Two Basic Operating Modes  
The MA101 USB Adapter, like all 802.11b adapters, can operate in the following  
two basic modes:  
Infrastructure Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices  
and computers communicate with each other by first going through an access  
point (AP).  
For example, this mode is used when computers in a house connect to an  
Access Point that is attached to a router which lets multiple computers share a  
single Cable or DSL broadband Internet connection.  
Ad-Hoc Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or  
computers communicate directly with each other, without the use of an AP.  
For example, Ad-Hoc Mode is used when two Windows computers are  
configured with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files  
directly between them.  
Both of these configuration options are available with the MA101 USB Adapter.  
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MA101 Default Wireless Configuration Settings  
If this is a new wireless network installation, use the factory default settings to set  
up the network and verify wireless connectivity. If this is an addition to an  
existing wireless network, you will need to identify the wireless configuration and  
security parameters already defined.  
On Windows XP computers, your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter does  
not use factory default settings. On computers with other versions of Windows,  
your MA101 factory default basic settings are as follows:  
Wireless Network Name (SSID): Wireless  
Note: In order for the MA101 USB Adapter to communicate with a wireless  
access point, a wireless adapter, or other 802.11b wireless devices, all devices  
must be configured with the same SSID which is also know as the wireless  
network name.  
Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure  
WEP Encryption: Off  
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Using the MA101 to Connect to a Wireless Network  
Access Point in Infrastructure Mode  
802.11b  
Wireless Access Point  
Cable/DSL Router  
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter  
Connected to a Desktop Computer  
Cable or DSL modem  
Figure 2-1: MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Infrastructure Mode  
This section provides instructions for setting up the MA101 802.11b Wireless  
USB Adapter.  
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Setting Up the MA101 in Infrastructure Mode  
Use the procedure below that corresponds to your version of Windows.  
For Windows XP Users Installing a MA101  
Connect the MA101 USB Adapter to your computer.  
a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up  
completely.  
b. Locate an available USB port on the back of your computer.  
c. Lift the antenna on the MA101.  
d. Connect the USB cable from the MA101 USB Adapter to your  
computer.  
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Install the MA101 driver  
software.  
a. After connecting the  
MA101, the Found New  
Hardware popup message  
appears, then the Wizard  
dialog displays.  
Windows XP Wireless Found New  
Hardware Popup Message  
b. Insert the Model MA101  
Resource CD into your  
CD-ROM drive.  
c. After inserting the Model  
MA101 Resource CD, the  
Found New Hardware  
Wizard appears. Click the  
Next button to proceed with  
the Wizard.  
d. The wizard will install the  
MA101 driver.  
Windows Found New Hardware Wizard  
e. After the installation  
completes, click Finish to  
close the wizard.  
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Configure your wireless  
network connection.  
a. Click on the “Allow me to  
connect to the selected  
wireless network even  
though this is not secure”  
check box.  
b. Click Connect. The  
connection status popup  
message appears.  
Note: This procedure assumes  
you are connecting to a  
wireless network which is not  
using WEP security. If your  
network includes WEP  
Windows XP Wireless Network Connection  
Configuration Utility  
settings, click the Advanced  
button and configure the  
MA101 accordingly. For help  
with these steps, click the  
Windows XP Local Area  
Connection Wireless Networks  
Properties tab page.  
Windows XP Wireless Network Connection  
Popup Message  
Verify wireless connectivity to your network.  
Verify connectivity by accessing the Internet or network resources.  
Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on  
page 27. If you have 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 PCs for Network Access” on page 41.  
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For Windows 98/Me Users Installing a MA101  
Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your computer.  
Note: Do not connect the USB cable to your computer until after you  
complete the installation of the software as described in step 2 below  
a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up  
completely.  
b. Have the Windows 98 or Me operating system installation files  
handy. Windows 98/Me needs these files to complete the installation  
of new network adapter drivers.  
Install the MA101 software.  
a. Run the Setup.exe program  
on the Model MA101  
Resource CD.  
b. Click Next and follow the  
prompts to complete the  
installation.  
c. When the installation is  
complete, click Finish to  
close the wizard.  
Netgear MA101 Setup Utility  
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Connect the MA101 to your  
computer using the included  
USB cable.  
a. Lift the antenna on the  
MA101.  
b. Locate an available USB  
port on the back of your  
computer.  
Netgear MA101  
c. Connect the USB cable from  
your computer to the  
MA101.  
Windows 98/Me prompts  
for the location of the driver  
software.  
d. Click the CD-ROM drive  
box and click Next to  
proceed.  
e. After the installation  
completes, click Finish to  
close the wizard.  
Windows 98/Me Add Hardware Wizard  
f. Click Yes when asked if you  
want to reboot the system.  
g. You should now see the  
Windows system tray icon  
on the right in the lower  
right portion of the  
MA101 Configuration Utility SysTray Icon  
Windows task bar.  
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Configure your wireless  
adapter.  
a. The MA101 default settings  
are as follows:  
• SSID: Wireless  
• Mode (Infrastructure or  
Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure  
• WEP encryption not  
enabled.  
b. Double click on the System  
Tray icon to run the wireless  
LAN configuration utility  
you just installed to verify  
your settings.  
MA101Configuration Utility  
Note: You will not get a  
connection unless your  
settings match those of the  
wireless network. If your  
wireless network settings  
are different from the  
Netgear.  
Verify wireless connectivity to your network.  
Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on  
page 27. If you have 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 PCs for Network Access” on page 41.  
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For Windows 2000 Users Installing a MA101  
Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your computer.  
Note: Do not connect the USB cable to your computer until after you  
complete the installation of the software as described in step 2 below  
a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up  
completely.  
b. Have the Windows 2000 operating system installation files handy.  
Windows 2000 needs these files to complete the installation of new  
network adapter drivers.  
c. Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your CD-ROM  
drive.  
Note: You may need to be logged on to Windows 2000 with  
administrator rights to complete the installation of new hardware to  
your PC.  
Install the MA101 software.  
a. Run the Setup.exe program  
on the Model MA101  
Resource CD.  
b. Click Next and follow the  
prompts to complete the  
installation.  
c. When the installation is  
complete, click Finish to  
close the wizard.  
Netgear MA101 Setup Utility  
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Connect the MA101 to your  
computer using the included  
USB cable.  
a. Lift the antenna on the  
MA101.  
b. Locate an available USB  
port on the back of your  
computer.  
Netgear MA101  
c. Connect the USB cable from  
your computer to the  
MA101.  
d. The Windows Found New  
Hardware Wizard dialog  
box displays. Click Next,  
and Next again at the search  
for the best driver screen.  
e. If the Digital Signature Not  
Found warning appears,  
click Yes to continue.  
Netgear tested the MA101  
for Windows 2000  
compatibility. If asked,  
insert the Windows 2000  
CD and follow the prompts.  
Windows Found New Hardware Wizard  
f. Click Finish to close the  
wizard. Click Yes to reboot  
the system. You should now  
see the Windows system  
tray icon in the Windows  
task bar.  
MA101 Configuration Utility SysTray Icon  
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Configure your wireless  
adapter.  
a. The MA101 default settings  
are as follows:  
• SSID: Wireless  
• Mode (Infrastructure or  
Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure  
• WEP encryption not  
enabled.  
b. Double click on the System  
Tray icon to run the wireless  
LAN configuration utility  
you just installed to verify  
your settings.  
MA101 Configuration Utility  
Note: You will not get a  
connection unless your  
settings match those of the  
wireless network. If your  
wireless network settings  
are different from the  
Netgear.  
Verify wireless connectivity to your network.  
Verify connectivity by accessing the Internet or network resources.  
Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on  
page 27. If you have 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 PCs for Network Access” on page 41.  
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Using the MA101 to Connect in Ad-Hoc Mode  
802.11b Wireless PC Card  
in a Notebook Computer  
MA101 Wireless USB Adapter  
Connected to a Desktop Computer  
Figure 2-2: MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Ad-Hoc Mode  
Ad-Hoc Mode is an 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers  
communicate directly with each other, without the use of an access point. For  
example, 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. This section provides instructions for setting up the MA101  
802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Ad-Hoc mode.  
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Setting Up a MA101 in Ad-Hoc Mode  
Set up the MA101 USB Adapter for your computer.  
Follow the instructions above for setting up the MA101 with the version  
of the Windows operating system you are using.  
Configure your wireless  
adapters.  
a. Double click on the System  
Tray icon to run the wireless  
LAN configuration utility to  
make whatever configuration  
changes may be needed.  
b. Set the MA101 as follows:  
• SSID: Wireless  
• Mode (Infrastructure or  
Ad-Hoc): Ad-Hoc  
• WEP encryption: assure  
MA101 Configuration Utility  
that both computers are  
configured with the same  
WEP parameters, if  
enabled.  
Note: To connect computer- to-computer  
(Ad-Hoc) but both computer-to-  
computer and access point  
(infrastructure) networks are within  
range of your computer, then select  
Computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc)  
networks only.  
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Verify wireless connectivity between the computers.  
Verify connectivity by accessing resources on either computer.  
Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on  
page 27. If you have 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 PCs for Network Access” on page 41.  
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Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors  
The SysTray (System Tray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft  
Windows desktop. The wireless LAN configuration utility installation for the  
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter adds a configuration and status reporting  
utility icon in the SysTray.  
Color  
Condition  
Description  
Red  
The wireless USB adapter  
has no connection to any  
other wireless node.  
The wireless USB adapter is not able to  
link to any access point or the link  
between the wireless USB adapter and the  
access point is lost. Check your  
configuration or try moving to a location  
where the wireless signal quality is better.  
Yellow  
The wireless USB adapter  
has a connection with  
another wireless node.  
The link condition between the Wireless  
USB Adapter and the associated access  
point is weak. Try moving to another  
location where the wireless signal quality  
is better, such as closer to the wireless  
access point. Also, look for any possible  
sources of interference such as a 2.4 GHz  
cordless phone or a large metal surface.  
Green  
The wireless USB adapter  
has a connection with  
another wireless node.  
The Wireless USB Adapter has  
established good communication with an  
access point and the signal quality is  
strong.  
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Troubleshooting Tips  
If you have problems getting wirelessly connected to your network, try the tips  
below.  
Symptom  
Cause  
Solution  
The LED on the The wireless USB  
• Remove and reinsert the wireless USB  
adapter USB cable.  
wireless USB  
adapter is off  
adapter cable is not  
inserted into the  
USB port properly  
or the proper  
• Check the device manager in Windows  
to see if the wireless USB adapter is  
properly recognized in the Windows  
operating system. Reload the driver if  
necessary.  
MA101 USB  
Adapter software is  
not loaded.  
• Try to install the MA101 on a different  
USB port on your system if one is  
available.  
I am connected  
to a wireless  
network  
through an  
access point,  
but I cannot see problem.  
the other  
computers on  
the Ethernet  
This could be a  
physical layer  
problem or a  
network  
• Check to make sure that the access point  
is connected to the Ethernet network.  
• Make sure that the IP addresses and the  
Windows networking parameters are all  
configured correctly. Please refer to  
“Preparing Your PCs for Network  
Access” on page 41.  
configuration  
side of the  
network.  
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Chapter 3  
Protecting Your Wireless Connection  
The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes wireless links  
vulnerable to information theft. This chapter describes how to use the basic  
security features of the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter to protect your  
connection.  
Enabling Basic Wireless Security Features  
There are several ways you can strengthen the security of your wireless  
connection.  
Enable Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption of the wireless data  
communications. For information on WEP, please see “Authentication and  
WEP Encryption” on page 37.  
Change the factory default SSID setting of the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB  
Adapter.  
In addition to the MA101 wireless security features, you should also configure  
appropriate LAN network security features such as requiring a user name and  
password to access the shared resources in your network.  
At a minimum, configure your wireless network to use an SSID other than the  
default setting.The procedures below identify how to change the SSID and WEP  
encryption settings of your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter.  
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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  
future reference. For an existing wireless network, fill in the configuration  
parameters. The person who set up or is responsible for the network will be able to  
provide this information.  
Wireless Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID)  
identifies the wireless local area network. Wireless is the default MA101  
SSID. However, you may customize it by using up to 32 alphanumeric  
characters. Netgear recommends that you write your customized SSID on the  
line below.  
Note: The SSID in the wireless Access Point is the SSID you configure in the  
wireless USB adapter. For the access point and wireless nodes to  
communicate with each other, all must be configured with the same SSID.  
Wireless network name (SSID): ______________________________  
WEP Security Encryption key: The default WEP encryption key number is 1,  
and the default key size is 64 bits.  
Note: The key number as well as the authentication method used by both the  
Wireless Access Point and wireless nodes must be the same. If they are  
different, you will not be able to connect.  
WEP Encryption Key Size, circle one: 64 or 128 bits  
WEP Hexadecimal Numbers: ______________________________  
The WEP Hexadecimal Numbers must be manually entered. Also, the  
wireless network access point should be configured to authenticate in Shared  
Key mode. That is, both the access point and the wireless device such as the  
MA101 have been set up with the same authentication scheme and the same  
key(s).  
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Setting the Wireless Network Name (SSID)  
The MA101 USB Adapter allows you to restrict access to your wireless  
communications based on the SSID and WEP keywords. These settings must  
match the settings of the wireless Access Point. Follow the steps below to perform  
this procedure.  
1. Run the Configuration Utility and select the Configuration tab page.  
Figure 3-1: Changing the SSID  
2. To change the SSID, enter a new SSID.  
Note: The characters are case sensitive.  
3. Click Apply or OK for the changes to take effect.  
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Configuring WEP Encryption Security  
The MA101 USB Adapter allows you to restrict access to your wireless network  
based on WEP keywords. Following the steps below to perform this procedure.  
1. Run the Configuration Utility and select the Security tab page.  
Figure 3-2: Configuring WEP Encryption  
2. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use. The characters are case  
sensitive. Use the same values when configuring other wireless devices that  
will communicate with this wireless USB adapter.  
40/64-bit WEP data encryption  
128-bit WEP data encryption  
Note: A larger encryption key requires more processing to encode/decode  
the messages. Larger encryption key lengths may slow the  
communications process response times.  
3. Click Apply then OK for the changes to take effect.  
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Appendix A  
Technical Specifications  
This appendix provides technical specifications for the MA101 USB Adapter.  
Antenna  
1 Integrated antenna and 1 external non-removable  
antenna  
Radio Data Rate  
Frequency  
1, 2, 5.5, 11 Mbps (Auto Rate Sensing)  
2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum  
(DSSS)  
Maximum Range  
Outdoor Environment  
Indoor Environment  
1Mbps–1650 ft (503 m) 1Mbps–500 ft (152 m)  
2Mbps–1320 ft (402 m) 2Mbps–400 ft (122 m)  
5.5Mbps–1155 ft (352 m) 5.5Mbps–270 ft (82 m)  
11Mbps–835 ft (255 m) 11Mbps–175 ft (53 m)  
Emissions  
FCC, CE, C-TICK  
Bus interface  
Provided drivers  
Dimensions  
USB 1.1  
Microsoft Windows XP, 98, Me, 2000  
L: 4.2 in (107 mm)  
W: 3.4 in (87 mm)  
H: 0.95 in (24 mm)  
Weight  
2.2 oz (67 g)  
Status LED  
Operating Environment  
Encryption  
Wireless Link, Device Status  
Operating temperature: 32-131 degrees F (0-55 degrees C)  
40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption  
Limited 3-year warranty  
Warranty  
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Appendix B  
802.11b Wireless Networking Basics  
This chapter provides an overview of IP networks, routing, and wireless  
networking.  
Related Publications  
As you read this document, you may be directed to various RFC documents for  
further information. An RFC is a Request For Comment (RFC) published by the  
Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), an open organization that defines the  
architecture and operation of the Internet. The RFC documents outline and define  
the standard protocols and procedures for the Internet. The documents are listed  
on the World Wide Web at www.ietf.org and are mirrored and indexed at many  
other sites worldwide.  
Wireless Networking  
The MA101 USB Adapter conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics  
Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs). On an 802.11b  
wireless link, data is encoded using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS)  
technology and is transmitted in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.4 GHz. The  
maximum data rate for the wireless link is 11 Mbps, but it will automatically back  
down from 11 Mbps to 5.5, 2, and 1 Mbps when the radio signal is weak or when  
interference is detected.  
The 802.11b standard is also called Wireless Ethernet or Wi-Fi by the Wireless  
standard group promoting interoperability among 802.11b devices.  
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Wireless Network Configuration  
The 802.11b standard offers two methods for configuring a wireless network —  
ad hoc and infrastructure.  
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 point in the network — each node can generally communicate  
with any other node. There is no access point involved in this configuration. This  
mode enables you to quickly set up a small wireless workgroup and allows  
workgroup members to exchange data or share printers as supported by Microsoft  
Networking in the various Windows operating systems. Some vendors also refer  
to ad hoc networking as peer-to-peer group networking.  
In this configuration, network packets are directly sent and received by the  
intended transmitting and receiving stations. As long as the stations are within  
range of one another, this is the easiest and least expensive way to set up a  
wireless network.  
Infrastructure Mode  
With a wireless Access Point, you can operate the wireless LAN in the  
infrastructure mode. This mode provides wireless connectivity to multiple  
wireless network devices within a fixed range or area of coverage, interacting  
with wireless nodes via an antenna.  
In the infrastructure mode, the wireless access point converts airwave data into  
wired Ethernet data, acting as a bridge between the wired LAN and wireless  
clients. Connecting multiple access points via a wired Ethernet backbone can  
further extend the wireless network coverage. As a mobile computing device  
moves out of the range of one access point, it moves into the range of another. As  
a result, wireless clients can freely roam from one access point domain to another  
and still maintain seamless network connection.  
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Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID)  
The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is one of two types of Service  
Set Identification (SSID). In an ad-hoc wireless network with no access points, the  
Basic Service Set Identification (BSSID) is used. In an infrastructure wireless  
network which includes an access point, the ESSID is used, but may still be  
referred to as SSID.  
An SSID is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying the  
wireless local area network. Some vendors refer to the SSID as network name. For  
the wireless devices in a network to communicate with each other, all devices  
must be configured with the same SSID.  
Authentication and WEP Encryption  
The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes the wireless links  
vulnerable to eavesdropping and information theft. To provide certain level of  
security, the IEEE 802.11 standard defines two types of authentication methods:  
Open System — Open System authentication is a null algorithm which  
requires an system identifier but does not encrypt the wireless data. With  
Open System authentication, a wireless PC can join any network merely by  
providing the SSID and receive any messages that are not encrypted.  
Shared Key — Shared Key authentication is an algorithm where both the  
transmitting node and the receiving node share an authentication key to  
perform a checksum on the original message. With Shared Key  
authentication, only those PCs that possess the correct authentication key can  
join the network.  
By default, IEEE 802.11 wireless devices operate in open system network mode.  
That is, they do not encrypt the data being transmitted over the wireless network.  
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Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)  
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption is utilized when the wireless  
nodes or access points are configured to operate in Shared Key authentication  
mode. There are two shared key methods implemented in most commercially  
available products, 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.  
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. Some vendors refer to the 64-bit WEP data encryption as 40-bit WEP  
data encryption since the user-configurable portion of the encryption key is 40 bits  
wide.  
The 128-bit WEP data encryption method consists of 104 user-configurable bits.  
Similar to the forty-bit WEP data encryption method, the remaining 24 bits are  
factory set and not user configurable. Some vendors allow passphrases to be  
entered instead of the cryptic hexadecimal characters to ease encryption key entry.  
Wireless Channel Selection  
IEEE 802.11 wireless nodes communicate with each other using radio frequency  
signals in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band between 2.4 GHz and  
2.5 GHz. Neighboring channels are 5 MHz apart. However, due to spread  
spectrum effect of the signals, a node sending signals using a particular channel  
will utilize frequency spectrum12.5 MHz above and below the center channel  
frequency. As a result, two separate wireless networks using neighboring channels  
(for example, channel 1 and channel 2) in the same general vicinity will interfere  
with each other. Applying two channels that allow the maximum channel  
separation will decrease the amount of channel cross-talk, and provide a  
noticeable performance increase over networks with minimal channel separation.  
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The radio frequency channels used are listed in Table 3-1:  
Table 3-1.  
802.11 Radio Frequency Channels  
Channel  
Center Frequency  
Frequency Spread  
1
2412 MHz  
2417 MHz  
2422 MHz  
2427 MHz  
2432 MHz  
2437 MHz  
2442 MHz  
2447 MHz  
2452 MHz  
2457 MHz  
2462 MHz  
2467 MHz  
2472 MHz  
2399.5 MHz - 2424.5 MHz  
2404.5 MHz - 2429.5 MHz  
2409.5 MHz - 2434.5 MHz  
2414.5 MHz - 2439.5 MHz  
2419.5 MHz - 2444.5 MHz  
2424.5 MHz - 2449.5 MHz  
2429.5 MHz - 2454.5 MHz  
2434.5 MHz - 2459.5 MHz  
2439.5 MHz - 2464.5 MHz  
2444.5 MHz - 2469.5 MHz  
2449.5 MHz - 2474.5 MHz  
2454.5 MHz - 2479.5 MHz  
2459.5 MHz - 2484.5 MHz  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
Note: The available channels supported by the wireless products in various  
countries are different.  
The preferred channel separation between the channels in neighboring wireless  
networks is 25 MHz (5 channels). This means that you can apply up to three  
different channels within your wireless network. There are only 11 usable wireless  
channels in the United States. It is recommended that you start using channel 1  
and grow to use channel 6, and 11 when necessary, as these three channels do not  
overlap.  
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Appendix C  
Preparing Your PCs for Network Access  
This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet  
through the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter.  
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.  
Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking  
Computers access the Internet using a protocol called TCP/IP (Transmission  
Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). Each computer on your network must have  
TCP/IP installed and selected as its networking protocol. If a Network Interface  
Card (NIC) is already installed in your PC, then TCP/IP is probably already  
installed as well.  
Most operating systems include the software components you need for  
networking with TCP/IP. Windows 95 or later includes the software components  
for establishing a TCP/IP network.  
In your TCP/IP network, each PC and the wireless access point must be assigned a  
unique IP addresses. Each PC must also have certain other TCP/IP configuration  
information such as a subnet mask (netmask), a domain name server (DNS)  
address, and a default gateway address. In most cases, you should install TCP/IP  
so that the PC obtains its specific network configuration information  
automatically from a DHCP server during startup.  
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Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP  
Networking  
As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure  
TCP/IP on your PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you may need to  
insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.  
Install or Verify Windows Networking Components  
To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:  
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:  
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You must have an Ethernet adapter or an MA101, the TCP/IP protocol, and  
the Client for Microsoft Networks.  
Note: It is not necessary to remove any other network components  
shown in the Network window in order to install the adapter, TCP/IP, or  
Client for Microsoft Networks.  
If you need to add TCP/IP:  
a. Click the Add button.  
b. Select Protocol, and then click Add.  
c. Select Microsoft.  
d. Select TCP/IP, and then click OK.  
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If you need to add the Client for Microsoft Networks:  
a. Click the Add button.  
b. Select Client, and then click Add.  
c. Select Microsoft.  
d. Select Client for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.  
If you need to add File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks:  
a. Click the Add button.  
b. Select Client, and then click Add.  
c. Select Microsoft.  
d. Select File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.  
3. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.  
Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP  
Settings 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.  
The simplest way to configure this information is to allow the PC to obtain the  
information from a DHCP server in the network.  
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.  
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Locate your Network Neighborhood icon.  
If the Network Neighborhood icon is on the Windows desktop,  
position your mouse pointer over it and right-click your mouse  
button.  
If the icon is not on the desktop,  
Click Start on the task bar located at the bottom left of the  
window.  
Choose Settings, and then Control Panel.  
Locate the Network Neighborhood icon and click on it. This  
will open the Network panel as shown below.  
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.  
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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.  
Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method  
1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then  
click Control Panel.  
2. Double-click the Internet Options icon.  
3. Select “I want to set up my Internet connection manually” or “I want to  
connect through a Local Area Network” and click Next.  
4. Select “I want to connect through a Local Area Network” and click Next.  
5. Uncheck all boxes in the LAN Internet Configuration screen and click Next.  
6. Proceed to the end of the Wizard.  
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Verifying TCP/IP Properties  
After your PC is configured and has rebooted, you can check the TCP/IP  
configuration using the utility winipcfg.exe:  
1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run.  
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 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254  
The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0  
The default gateway is 192.168.0.1  
Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP  
Networking  
As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure  
TCP/IP on each networked PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you  
may need to insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.  
Install or Verify Windows Networking Components  
To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:  
1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then  
click Control Panel.  
2. Double-click the Network and Dialup Connections icon.  
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3. If an Ethernet adapter is present in your PC, you should see an entry for Local  
Area Connection. Double-click that entry.  
4. Select Properties.  
5. Verify that Client for Microsoft Networks and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) are  
present. If not, select Install and add them.  
6. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), click Properties, and verify that Obtain an  
IP address automatically is selected.  
7. Click OK and close all Network and Dialup Connections windows.  
8. Then, restart your PC.  
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.  
• Select the Network Connections icon on the Control Panel. This will take  
you to the next step.  
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Now the Network  
Connection window  
displays.  
The Connections List that  
shows all the network  
connections set up on the  
PC, located to the right of  
the window.  
• Right-click on the  
Connection with the  
wireless icon and choose  
Status.  
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.  
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The TCP/IP details are  
presented on the Support tab  
page.  
• Select Internet Protocol,  
and click Properties to view  
the configuration  
information.  
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.  
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DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000  
After you install a network card, TCP/IP for Windows 2000 is configured and set  
to DHCP without your having to configure it. However, if there are problems,  
following the steps below to configure TCP/IP with DHCP for Windows 2000.  
Click on the My Network Places icon on the Windows desktop. This will  
bring up a window called Network and Dial-up Connections.  
• Right click on Local Area Connection and select Properties.  
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.  
51  
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With Internet Protocol (TCP/  
IP) selected, click on  
Properties to open the  
Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)  
Properties dialogue box.  
Verify that  
Obtain an IP address  
automatically is  
selected.  
Obtain DNS server  
address automatically  
is selected.  
Click OK to return to Local  
Area Connection Properties.  
Click OK again to complete  
the configuration process for  
Windows 2000.  
Restart the PC. Repeat these  
steps for each PC with this  
version of Windows on your  
network.  
52  
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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 cmdand then click OK.  
A command window opens  
3. Type ipconfig /all  
Your IP Configuration information will be listed, and 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 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254  
The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0  
The default gateway is 192.168.0.1  
4. Type exit  
53  
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Numerics  
2.5 GHz Cordless phones 2-10  
802.11b B-37  
A
Access Point 2-27  
Ad Hoc 2-12  
Ad-Hoc Mode 2-11  
ad-hoc mode B-38, B-39  
B
BSSID B-39  
C
Channel B-40  
Connect in Ad-Hoc Mode 2-23  
D
Default Wireless Configuration Settings 2-12  
E
ESSID B-39  
F
features 1-1  
G
Green 2-26  
I
I cannot see the other computers on the Ethernet side of the network. 2-27  
1
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IETF B-37  
Infrastructure 2-12  
Infrastructure Mode 2-11  
infrastructure mode B-38, B-39  
IP networking  
for Windows C-44, C-49  
L
Large metal surfaces 2-10  
LED on the PC Card is off 2-27  
Location and Range Guidelines 2-10  
M
Microwaves 2-10  
Modes 2-11  
O
Open System authentication B-39  
P
publications, related B-37  
R
range 2-10  
Red 2-26  
S
Shared Key authentication B-39  
sources of interference 2-10  
SSID 1-3, 2-12, B-39  
System Requirements 2-10  
System Tray Icon Colors 2-26  
2
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T
TCP/IP properties  
verifying for Windows C-49  
Troubleshooting Tips 2-27  
W
walls 2-10  
WEP 1-4, 3-29, B-40  
Wi-Fi B-37  
Windows 2000 2-20  
Windows 98/ME 2-17  
Windows XP Users 2-14  
winipcfg utility C-49  
Wired Equivalent Privacy. See WEP  
Wireless 2-12  
Wireless Ethernet B-37  
wireless network name 1-3  
Y
Yellow 2-26  
3
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Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer  
It is hereby certified that the Model MA401 Wireless PC Card has been suppressed in accordance  
with the conditions set out in the BMPT- AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of  
some equipment (for example, test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however,  
be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the notes in the operating instructions.  
Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment  
on the market and has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.  
VCCI Statement  
This equipment is in the Class B category (information equipment to be used in a residential area or  
an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for  
Interference by Data Processing 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.  
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice:  
Radio Frequency Notice  
Warning!  
NETGEAR MA101 Wireless USB Adapter  
To comply with the FCC’s rf exposure requirements you  
Tested to Comply  
with FCC Standards  
must maintain a distance of at least 1 cm from the anten-  
na of this device while it is in use. This device should not  
be co-located with other transmitters.  
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE  
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions:  
1.  
2.  
This device may not cause harmful interference.  
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
‹Note: 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 or more of the  
following measures: (1) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna, (2) Increase the separation  
between the equipment and receiver, (3) Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different  
from that to which the receiver is connected, (4) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV  
technician for help.  
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiation Exposure Statement  
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled  
environment. In order to avoid the possibility of exceeding the FCC radio frequency exposure  
limits, human proximity to the antenna shall not be less than 20 cm (8 inches) during normal  
operation.  
Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations  
This digital apparatus (Model MA401 Wireless PC Card) does not exceed the Class B limits for  
radio-noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the  
Canadian Department of Communications.  
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R
NETGEAR, Inc.  
4500 Great America Parkway  
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA  
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