NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T User Manual
NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

202-10200-01 May 2006

Technical Support Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at http://www.netgear.com/register, we can provide you with faster expert technical support and timely notices of product and software upgrades. NETGEAR, INC. Support Information Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR, for US & Canada only. For other countries, see your Support information card. E-mail: support@netgear.com Web site: http://www.netgear.com Statement of Conditions
In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice. NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.
2006 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's Connecting are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Maximum Wireless Signal Rate Derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 Specifications
Actual data 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.
Safety and Regulatory Notices

FCC Statement

Certification ID: FCC: PY306200044 IC: 4054A-06200044 The WN311T has been tested and complies with the specifications for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. 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 according to 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

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reception, which is found 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: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment or devices Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receivers 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 users authority to operate the device.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure
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.

Canadian Department of Communications Industry Canada (IC) Notice
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Cet appareil numrique de la classe B est conforme la norme NMB-003 et CNR-210 du Canada. To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing. Pour empcher que cet appareil cause du brouillage au service faisant lobjet dune licence, il doit tre utilis lintrieur et devrait tre plac loin des fentres afin de fournir un cran de blindage maximal. Si le matriel (ou son antenne dmission) est install lextrieur, il doit faire lobjet dune licence.
Europe - EU Declaration of Conformity
A printed copy of the EU Declaration of Conformity certificate for this product is provided in the WN311T product package. esky [Czech] Dansk [Danish] Deutsch [German]
NETGEAR, Inc. tmto prohlauje, e tento NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T je ve shod se zkladnmi poadavky a dalmi pslunmi
ustanovenmi smrnice 1999/5/ES. Undertegnede NETGEAR, Inc. erklrer herved, at flgende udstyr NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T overholder de vsentlige krav og vrige relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF. Hiermit erklrt NETGEAR, Inc., dass sich das Gert NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T in bereinstimmung mit den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den brigen einschlgigen Bestimmungen der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG befindet.

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Eesti [Estonian] English
Kesolevaga kinnitab NETGEAR, Inc. seadme NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T vastavust direktiivi 1999/5/E phinuetele ja nimetatud direktiivist tulenevatele teistele asjakohastele stetele. Hereby, NETGEAR, Inc., declares that this NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. Por medio de la presente NETGEAR, Inc. declara que el NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T cumple con los requisitos esenciales y cualesquiera otras disposiciones aplicables o exigibles de la Directiva 1999/5/CE. NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T 1999/5/. Par la prsente NETGEAR, Inc. dclare que l'appareil NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T est conforme aux exigences essentielles et aux autres dispositions pertinentes de la directive 1999/5/CE. Con la presente NETGEAR, Inc. dichiara che questo NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T conforme ai requisiti essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni pertinenti stabilite dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE. Ar o NETGEAR, Inc. deklar, ka NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T atbilst Direktvas 1999/5/EK btiskajm prasbm un citiem ar to saisttajiem noteikumiem. iuo NETGEAR, Inc. deklaruoja, kad is NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T atitinka esminius reikalavimus ir kitas 1999/5/EB Direktyvos nuostatas. Hierbij verklaart NETGEAR, Inc. dat het toestel NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T in overeenstemming is met de essentile eisen en de andere relevante bepalingen van richtlijn 1999/5/EG. Hawnhekk, NETGEAR, Inc., jiddikjara li dan NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T jikkonforma mal-tiijiet essenzjali u ma provvedimenti orajn relevanti li hemm fid-Dirrettiva 1999/5/EC. Alulrott, NETGEAR, Inc. nyilatkozom, hogy a NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T megfelel a vonatkoz alapvet kvetelmnyeknek s az 1999/5/EC irnyelv egyb elrsainak.

Setting up WPA2-PSK Security... 3-11 Setting up WPA-PSK Security...3-13 Advanced Settings....3-14 Networks Page....3-14 Statistics Page....3-16 About Page....3-17 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Tips....4-1 Frequently Asked Questions...4-2 XP Professional and XP Home occasional connection problems..4-3 Appendix A Technical Specifications Default Configuration Settings.... A-1 Technical Specifications.... A-2 Appendix B Related Documents

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Chapter 1 About This Manual
Audience, Scope, Conventions
This manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the Resource CD, and on the NETGEAR Web site. This manual uses the following typographical conventions:
Table 1-1. Typographical conventions
italics bold Emphasis. User input.
This manual uses the following formats to highlight special messages:
Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.
This manual is written according to these specifications:
Table 1-2. Manual Specifications
Product Version Manual Publication Date NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T May 2006
Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.
About This Manual v1.0, May 2006

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About This Manual

Chapter 2 Basic Setup

The NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T lets you connect a PC computer to wireless networks. It is designed for PC computers running Microsoft Windows. For information about product features and compatible NETGEAR products, please see the NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com. This chapter describes how to install your Wireless PCI Adapter and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network set up is covered in Chapter 3, Network Connections and Wireless Security.

Whats in the Box?

The product package should contain the following items: NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T The antenna NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T Installation Guide Resource CD, including: Driver software Smart Wizard setup software Documentation including the NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T Installation Guide, and the NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T User Manual Warranty card Support information card

The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T for basic wireless connectivity to an access point. The procedures below provide step-by-step installation instructions for Windows PCs. Use the procedure that corresponds to the version of Windows that you are using.

Installation

1. First, install the WN311T software.
Insert the NETGEAR CD. If the CD main page does not appear, double click Autorun.exe on the CD. a. b. Click Install Software.The Check for Updates window will open. If you are connected to the Internet, click Check for Updates. If not, you can choose to install from the CD. When the Installation Complete message appears, click Next. On the Smart Wizard screen, click Next to proceed with the Smart Wizard setup.
2. Now, insert the wireless PCI adapter.
a. b. c. d. e. When prompted, shut down the computer. Unplug the computer, open the case, and install the WN311T into a PCI slot. Connect the antenna to the adapter and position the antenna to the up position. Close the case, plug the power cord back in, and restart your computer. You will be prompted to select the country where you are located. Select the country and click Agree.

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3. Use the Smart Wizard to set up your wireless PCI adapter.
a. Windows 2000 users skip to step b. For Windows XP users, choose to set up your wireless adapter either with the NETGEAR Smart Wizard (recommended) or the Windows configuration utility. For Windows XP: If you choose the Windows XP Zero Configuration option, then you must read the Windows XP documentation for instructions.
Click Next to accept the NETGEAR Smart Wizard. You will be prompted to let the wizard help you connect to a network (recommended). Click Next to accept.
Select the wireless network from the drop-down list, and the wizard records your choice. Note: Hidden networks do not broadcast the Network Name (SSID). These networks are included in the dropdown list, but the Network Name (SSID) is blank.

Hidden Network

The Smart Wizard will detect if the network uses security or not. Follow the Wizard steps for Security (if used) and for saving a Profile. After you have reviewed the settings, click Finish. The WN311T icon appears in the system tray and on the desktop, and the Settings page opens. The wizard initiates your wireless connection. It could take up to a minute for your wireless connection to be established.

Use the status bar to verify your wireless connectivity.
The status bar is located at the bottom of the Settings page.

connection status

Internet/router connection indicator
signal strength indicator unlocked: network does not use security
The connection status indicator connection.

and the WN311T icon

show the status of the
For details about the icons in the status bar, the WN311T LEDs, and troubleshooting tips, see the User Manual on the NETGEAR CD. The Internet/Router connection indicator shows the progress of your connection.

Connection Indicator

Connected to Internet Connected to Router ___.___.___.___ or 169.254.x.x

Description

Wireless Internet connection OK. Wireless connection to router OK but no Internet connection at router. Wireless connection to a router OK but problem with the router. See the online help or User Manual for troubleshooting tips.
For more details about connecting, see Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet on page 2-6.
Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet
The WN311T has indicators in three locations that show the status of your connection to a wireless network and to the Internet: WN311T Icon: After you install the WN311T software, the icon appears on the desktop and in the lower right of the Windows task bar. It is color coded to show the status of the connection. See The Smart Wizard Status Bar on page 2-7.

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Smart Wizard Status Bar: Clicking on the system tray icon opens the Smart Wizard. The status bar at the bottom of the page shows details about your wireless and Internet connection. WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter LEDs: The LEDs on the wireless PCI adapter show the network connection. The LEDs shoe an alternate blink when the wireless PCI adapter is looking for a network association. When there is a good connection, the LEDs blink together. If the LEDs are off, then the WN311T is not properly seated in the computer.
The Smart Wizard Status Bar
Click the WN311T icon to open the Smart Wizard so you can view the status bar. The Smart Wizard Settings page opens.

signal strength

Router/Internet connection indicator
Unlocked: Network does not use security Locked: Network uses security

Figure 2-1

Connection Status: The color shows the connection status. Signal Strength: Shows the signal strength of the wireless network. If the signal is poor, then try moving closer to the wireless access point. Lock icon: Shows if security is used on the network. Router/Internet Connection Indicator: This shows the progress of your connection. By default, this feature is on.

Figure 2-2

This connection indicator is useful in isolating a problem. For example, if you are connected to a router, but not to the Internet, then check the routers Internet connection.
Connection Indicator Connected to Internet Connected to Router ___.___.___.___ or 169.254.x.x Description Wireless Internet connection OK. Wireless connection to router OK but no Internet connection at router. Wireless connection to a router OK but problem with the router. See Chapter 4, Troubleshooting.
If you right-click in the system tray icon, you can disable the Internet notification feature by clearing check mark on this line. If you do so, then only the IP address is shown.

Figure 2-3

The WN311T Icon Colors
The WN311T icon is on the desktop and in the Windows System Tray (SysTray). The System Tray resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop.
Color Red Condition Description The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless PCI adapter is not able to link to any other no connection to any other wireless node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or wireless node. try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better. The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless link is weak. You may need to move to a better a connection with another spot, such as closer to the wireless access point. Also, look wireless node. for possible interference such as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or large metal surface. The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless PCI adapter has established good a connection with another communication with an access point and the signal quality is wireless node. strong.

Yellow

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Removing the WN311T Software
You can remove the wireless adapter software in these two ways: Navigate the Windows Start menu to the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter program group, select the uninstall option, and follow the screen prompts. Navigate the Windows Start menu to the Control Panel Add or Remove Program item, select the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter option, and follow the screen prompts.
Upgrading the WN311T Software
Upgrades may be available at the NETGEAR Web site. To install an upgrade, follow these steps. 1. Write down the settings for any profiles that you want to save. They will not be retained. 2. Download the upgrade from the NETGEAR Web site Support page. 3. Remove the WN311T software from your laptop computer. 4. Remove the WN311T adapter from your laptop computer, and if prompted restart your laptop computer. 5. Run the installer that you downloaded (the file ends in.exe). 6. Follow the installer instructions, and if prompted, then restart your laptop computer.

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Chapter 3 Network Connections and Wireless Security
This chapter explains how to use your NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T to connect to your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and how to set up wireless security for the WN311T so that it matches the wireless security settings for your network.
Understanding the WN311T Smart Wizard
Note: These instructions explain how to use the NETGEAR WN311T Smart Wizard to change the WN311T wireless settings. If you use Windows XP, and chose the Windows XP configuration utility during installation, then you must disable it now. Open the network connections from the system tray icon, click the Properties button, click the Wireless Networks tab and then clear the Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings check box. When you have installed the WN311T software from the NETGEAR CD, the icon appears on your desktop and in the Windows system tray. The Windows system tray is located on the Windows taskbar. You can either double click this icon on the desktop, or click it in the system tray at any time, to use the Smart Wizard. This software automatically restarts when you reboot your computer. The Smart Wizard provides a complete and easy to use set of tools to: Choose the network that you want to use Configure wireless settings for your wireless PCI adapter Monitor wireless network connections Save your settings in profiles Remove or reinstall the wireless adapter software The following sections in this chapter explain how to use the Smart Wizard.
Network Connections and Wireless Security v1.0, May 2006

Finding a Network

During the WN311T software installation, the Smart Wizard lists the available networks. After installation you can use the Find a Network button on the Network tab at any time to view the available networks and select the one that you want to use. Note: Make sure that you know the security settings for the network that you want to use. For example, if WEP is used then you need to know the WEP key. If you use secure networks frequently, set up profiles for each network with the wireless network and security settings. Follow the steps below to Find a Network. 1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens. 2. On the Networks tab page, click Find a Network. 3. Select a network from the drop down list. If you select a hidden network then you must enter the SSID. Click Next. 4. Follow the steps of the wizard to specify the wireless security if used, and to create a profile. 5. Review you settings, and click Finish.

You can check the status bar in the Smart Wizard for the current connection status. Note: If you cannot connect, see Chapter 4, Troubleshooting. Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing: in Appendix B.
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 an 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. Note: Ad Hoc mode will not work using DHCP settings. Ad Hoc mode requires either static IP addresses (such as 192.168.0.1) or the IPX protocol. For instructions on setting up static IP addresses on a Windows PC, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial included on the Resource CD. Follow the instructions below to create an Ad Hoc mode profile. 1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings page opens.
2. Enter the network settings. a. Select Computer-toComputer (Ad Hoc) for the Network Type. b. Select or enter the Network Name (SSID) for the Ad Hoc network. c. In the Profile box, type the name of the profile. d. Click Apply.

Figure 3-3

3. Save your settings in a Profile.
Network Connections and Wireless Security v1.0, May 2006 -5
a. Click the Save Profile button. All the configuration settings are saved in this profile. b. Click Apply. c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard, or Cancel to return to the previous settings. 4. Configure the PC network settings. a. Configure each PC with either a static IP address or with the IPX protocol. Note: For instructions on configuring static IP addresses, refer to the networking tutorial on your Resource CD. b. Restart the PCs. 5. Verify wireless connectivity between your peer devices. Verify connectivity by using the Ping program: a. On the Windows taskbar click the Start button, and then click Run. 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.

Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Security Settings
Print this form, fill in the configuration parameters and put it in a safe place for possible future reference. For an existing wireless network, the person who set up the network will be able to provide this information. Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID) identifies the wireless local area network. Any (First available network) is the default WN311T wireless network name (SSID). You may customize it using up to 32 alphanumeric characters. Write your customized wireless network name (SSID) on the line below. Note: The SSID in the wireless access point is the SSID you configure in the wireless PCI 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): ______________________________ If WEP Authentication is Used. WEP Encryption key size. Identify one: 64-bit or 128-bit. The encryption key size must match the wireless network settings. 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. ______________________________ These characters are case sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters and click the Generate Keys button. 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: _____________________________ If WPA2-PSK or WPA-PSK Authentication is Used. Passphrase: ______________________________ These characters are case sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters. When you use WPA-PSK, the other devices in the network will not connect unless they are set to WPA-PSK as well and are configured with the correct Passphrase.
Use the procedures below to set up basic security settings in the WN311T.
Setting up WEP Encryption Security
Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security. 1. Run the WN311T Smart Wizard. a. Make sure the WN311T software is installed and the WN311T is installed in a PCI slot in your computer. b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens

Figure 3-7

2. Configure the Security settings. a. In the Profile box, 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. c. In the Security section, select WEP. 3. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use. The choices are: 64-bit WEP data encryption 128-bit WEP data encryption

About Page

The About page displays the current software version information.

Figure 3-12

The following information is displayed in the About page: 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 may violate local laws. Driver Version: The wireless adapter driver version. Driver Date: The wireless adapter driver release date. MAC Address: The MAC address of the adapter. The Media Access Control address is a unique 48-bit hardware address assigned to every network interface card. Some wireless networks will restrict access based on a list of known MAC addresses. If you are communicating with such a network, you would have to provide the address shown here to the network administrator before you would be 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. Smart Wireless Utility: The version and release date of the Smart Wizard.
Chapter 4 Troubleshooting
This chapter provides information about troubleshooting your NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T. After each problem description, instructions are given to help you diagnose and solve the problem. For information about connecting to wireless networks and the Internet, see Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet on page 2-6. Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to the link to Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing: in Appendix B.

Troubleshooting Tips

Symptom The LED is not lit. Cause The WN311T is installed in the PCI slot properly or the WN311T software is not loaded. Solution Remove and reinstall the WN311T. Check the Windows device manager to see if the WN311T is recognized and enabled. Reload the WN311T software, if necessary. Try to install the WN311T in a different PCI slot in your computer if one is available.
The wireless LED blinks and cannot connect to an access point. I can connect to an access point, but I cannot connect to other computers on the network or the Internet.
The WN311T is The access point may not be powered on. Or, the access point attempting to connect and the WN311T are not configured with the same wireless to an access point, but parameters. Check the SSID and WEP settings. cannot connect. This could be a physical layer problem or a network configuration problem. Check to make sure that the access point is physically connected to the Ethernet network. Make sure that the IP addresses and the Windows networking parameters are all configured correctly. Restart the cable or DSL modem, router, access point, and notebook PC. Refer to A Road Map for How to Get There From Here on page 2-3 for additional suggestions.

Troubleshooting v1.0, May 2006
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the information below to solve common problems you may encounter. Also, please refer to the knowledge base on the NETGEAR Web site at http://www.netgear.com/support/main.asp. The WN311T Smart Wizard keeps asking me to save my settings This is because you have made changes to the settings and the Smart Wizard is offering you the chance to save the changes. If you want to avoid these Profile setting prompts, simply click Apply before you close the Smart Wizard. Ad Hoc mode is not working correctly You need to click the Initiate Ad Hoc button before you click Apply. Here is how you start an Ad Hoc network: 1. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). 2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Type. 3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. 4. Accept the default settings or make your changes and click OK 5. Click Apply. Note: Be sure all computers in your Ad Hoc network are configured with static IP addresses in the same subnet. How to use the wireless configuration utility that comes with Windows XP During the WN311T software installation the wizard prompts you to choose either the NETGEAR Smart Wizard or the Windows configuration utility. Be sure the WN311T is properly installed in the PCI slot in the computer and follow these instructions to change your selection. 1. Go to Control Panel and select Network Connections. 2. Right click on the connection and select Properties. 3. Click the Wireless Networks tab. 4. Select or clear the WN311T Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings check box.

Troubleshooting

Did the WN311T card receive a valid IP address from the Wireless Router/AP? The easiest way is to click the system tray icon to open the WN311T Smart Wizard. Then check the IP address in the About page. I cannot connect to the AP that I want from the Networks browser list. The access point is available and there is good signal strength. There are a few possibilities: If the access point (AP) is WPA-PSK protected, you will need the correct WPA-PSK passphrase. Otherwise, the WN311T will still be connected to the previous access point and you will not be able to change to the WPA-PSK access point. If the access point is WEP protected (either 64 or 128 bit encryption), you will be prompted to enter the WEP encryption security information.
The WN311T is not getting an IP address You probably upgraded your WN311T software and did not reboot your system. To get an IP address assigned, you can either restart your computer or choose another access point to connect to. If there are no additional access points for you to choose from, restart your system and connect to your desired access point again.
Note: It does not usually help to shut down the Smart Wizard or disable/enable the card.
Why do I see two WN311T icons in the System Tray? If you see two WG511 icons in the System Tray at the bottom right corner of the screen, you have an older software version installed on your system and it needs to be removed. See Removing the WN311T Software on page 2-9 or Upgrading the WN311T Software on page 2-9.

Antennas Standards Radio Data Rate Detachable antenna 802.11g, 802.11b 1, 2, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 9, 11, 12, 13, 13.5, 18, 19.5, 24, 26, 27, 36, 39, 40.5, 48, 52, 54, 58.5, 65, 81,104, 108, 117, 121.5, 130, 135, 162, 216, 243, 270, and 300 Mbps 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz CCK, OFDM, BPSK, QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM Modulations Single LED -- sold indicates connected to network -- blinking indicates attempting to connect to network 3.3V bus powered FCC Part 15 Class B, CE PCI Microsoft Windows XP and Windows 2000 Operating temperature: 0 to 55 degrees C, 32 to 131 degrees F 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption, WPA2-PSK, and WPA-PSK Limited 1-year warranty

Frequency LED

Power Emissions Bus interface Provided drivers Operating Environment Encryption Warranty
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 Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing: Wireless Communications: Preparing a Computer for Network Access: Virtual Private Networking (VPN): Glossary: Link
http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/tcpip/index.htm http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wsdhcp/index.htm http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/vpn/index.htm http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/glossary/index.htm

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Related Documents

NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T User Manual
NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
202-10200-02 February 2007
Technical Support Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product. By registering your product at http://www.netgear.com/register, we can provide you with faster expert technical support and timely notices of product and software upgrades. NETGEAR, INC. Support Information Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR, for US & Canada only. For other countries, see your Support information card. E-mail: support@netgear.com Web site: http://www.netgear.com Statement of Conditions
In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice. NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.
2007 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's Connecting are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Maximum Wireless Signal Rate Derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 Specifications
Actual data 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.
Safety and Regulatory Notices

FCC Statement

Certification ID: FCC: PY306200044 IC: 4054A-06200044 The WN311T has been tested and complies with the specifications for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. 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 according to 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

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reception, which is found 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: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment or devices Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receivers 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 users authority to operate the device.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure
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.
Canadian Department of Communications Industry Canada (IC) Notice
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Cet appareil numrique de la classe B est conforme la norme NMB-003 et CNR-210 du Canada. To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing. Pour empcher que cet appareil cause du brouillage au service faisant lobjet dune licence, il doit tre utilis lintrieur et devrait tre plac loin des fentres afin de fournir un cran de blindage maximal. Si le matriel (ou son antenne dmission) est install lextrieur, il doit faire lobjet dune licence.

Espaol [Spanish] [Greek] Franais [French] Italiano [Italian] Latviski [Latvian] Lietuvi [Lithuanian] Nederlands [Dutch] Malti [Maltese] Magyar [Hungarian]
Polski [Polish] Niniejszym NETGEAR, Inc. owiadcza, e NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T jest zgodny z zasadniczymi wymogami oraz pozostaymi stosownymi postanowieniami Dyrektywy 1999/5/EC. Portugus [Portuguese] Slovensko [Slovenian]
NETGEAR, Inc. declara que este NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T est conforme com os requisitos essenciais e outras disposies da Directiva

1999/5/CE.

NETGEAR, Inc. izjavlja, da je ta NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T v skladu z bistvenimi zahtevami in ostalimi relevantnimi doloili direktive 1999/5/

iv v2.0, February 2007

Slovensky [Slovak] Suomi [Finnish] Svenska [Swedish]
NETGEAR, Inc. tmto vyhlasuje, e NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T spa zkladn poiadavky a vetky prslun ustanovenia Smernice

1999/5/ES.

NETGEAR, Inc. vakuuttaa tten ett NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten ja sit
koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen. Hrmed intygar NETGEAR, Inc. att denna [utrustningstyp] str I verensstmmelse med de vsentliga egenskapskrav och vriga relevanta bestmmelser som framgr av direktiv 1999/5/EG.
Product and Publication Details
Model Number: Publication Date: Product Family: Product Name: Home or Business Product: Language: Publication Part Number: WN311T February 2007 Wireless PCI Adapter NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T Home English 202-10200-02

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vi v2.0, February 2007

Contents

About This Manual Conventions, Formats, and Scope... i How to Use This Manual.... ii How to Print this Manual.... ii Chapter 1 Basic Setup What You Need Before You Begin....1-2 Verify System Requirements...1-2 Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines..1-2 WN311T Default Wireless Settings...1-2 Installation.....1-3 Connecting to Wireless Networks and the Internet...1-6 Smart Wizard Status Bar...1-7 WN311T Icon Colors...1-8 Removing the WN311T Software...1-8 Upgrading the WN311T Software...1-9 Chapter 2 Network Connections and Wireless Security Disabling the Windows Zero Configuration Utility...2-1 Understanding the Smart Wizard...2-2 Viewing Wireless Networks in Your Area..2-2 Finding a Network....2-4 Profiles....2-5 Adding Profiles....2-5 Setting up a Profile to Connect to an Access Point or Router..2-6 Setting up a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Profile..2-7 Starting a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Connection..2-9 Wireless Security....2-10 Using Wireless Security Features...2-10 vii v2.0, February 2007

Links to PDF versions of the full manual and individual chapters.

How to Print this Manual

To print this manual you can choose one of the following several options, according to your needs. Printing a Page in the HTML View. Each page in the HTML version of the manual is dedicated to a major topic. Use the Print button on the browser toolbar to print the page contents. Printing a Chapter. Use the PDF of This Chapter link at the top left of any page. Click the PDF of This Chapter link at the top left of any page in the chapter you want to print. The PDF version of the chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window. Your computer must have the free Adobe Acrobat reader installed in order to view and print PDF files. The Acrobat reader is available on the Adobe Web site at http://www.adobe.com.
Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.
Printing the Full Manual. Use the Complete PDF Manual link at the top left of any page. Click the Complete PDF Manual link at the top left of any page in the manual. The PDF version of the complete manual opens in a browser window. Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.

Chapter 1 Basic Setup

The NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T lets you connect a PC computer to wireless networks. It is designed for PC computers running Microsoft Windows. For information about product features and compatible NETGEAR products, see the NETGEAR website at http://www.netgear.com. This chapter describes how to install your Wireless PCI Adapter and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network set up is covered in Chapter 2, Network Connections and Wireless Security.

What Is in the Box

The product package should contain the following items: NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T The antenna NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T Install Guide Resource CD, including: Driver software Smart Wizard setup software NETGEAR RangeMax NEXT Wireless PCI Adapter WN311T User Manual (this document) 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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What You Need Before You Begin
You must verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements and get the wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can configure your wireless PCI adapter and connect.
Verify System Requirements
Before installing the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter, make sure that these minimum requirements have been met: Pentium III class computer with an available PCI slot CD drive 20 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 WN311T driver software
Observe Wireless Location and Range Guidelines
Computers can connect over wireless networks indoors at a range which vary significantly based on the physical location of the computer with the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter. For best results, avoid potential sources of interference, such as: Large metal surfaces Microwaves 2.4 GHz Cordless phones In general, wireless devices can communicate through walls. However, if the walls are constructed with concrete, or have metal, or metal mesh, the effective range will decrease if such materials are between the devices.
WN311T Default Wireless 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 network and wireless security settings that are already defined.

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Basic Setup
Your WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter factory default basic settings are: Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (First available network) Note: In order for the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter to communicate with a wireless access point or wireless adapter, all devices must be set up to use the same wireless network name (SSID). Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-hoc): Infrastructure Data security WEP, WPA2-PSK, or WPA-PSK encryption: Disabled

Installation

The instructions in this chapter explain how to install the WN311T to connect to a network with an access point or router. Wireless security, advanced settings, and Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) instructions are covered in Chapter 2, Network Connections and Wireless Security. To install the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter: 1. First, install the WN311T software. Insert the NETGEAR CD. If the CD main page does not appear, double click Autorun.exe on the CD. a. Click Install the Software.The Check for Updates window opens.

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Smart Wizard Status Bar
The status bar is located at the bottom of the Settings page.
Security Wireless network Channel Throughput Signal strength

Find a Network

Connection status
Figure 1-2 Understanding the Status Bar
Wireless network Security Channel Throughput Signal strength Find a Network Connection status Identifies which wireless network you have joined. Locked: security enabled. Unlocked: security not enabled. The wireless channel used by the network. If many wireless networks in your area use the same channel they can interfere with one another. Wireless throughput measured in Mega bits per second. More dots indicates a stronger signal. Usually, you will experience higher throughput when the signal is strongest. Click Find a Network to open the Connection Wizard. Identifies the status of your network connection. Connected to Internet: Wireless Internet connection is OK. Connected to Router: 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. See Chapter 4, Troubleshooting.
Note: To optimize throughput, connect to a network with a high-speed router or access point, and a high-speed Internet connection. For more information about optimizing wireless performance, and network bandwidth, see Optimizing Wireless Performance on page 3-1 and Optimizing Your Network Bandwidth on page 3-2.
If you right-click in the system tray icon, you can disable the Internet notification feature by clearing check mark on this line. If you do so, then only the IP address is shown.

WN311T Icon Colors

The WN311T icon is on the desktop and in the Windows System Tray. The System Tray is located at one end of the task bar in the Microsoft Windows desktop.
Color Red Condition Description The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless PCI adapter cannot link to any other wireless no connection to any other node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or try moving wireless node. to a location where the wireless signal quality is better. The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless link is weak. You may need to move to a better a connection with another spot, such as closer to the wireless access point. Also, look wireless node. for possible interference such as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or large metal surface. The wireless PCI adapter has The wireless PCI adapter has established good a connection with another communication with an access point and the signal quality is wireless node. strong.

Yellow

Removing the WN311T Software
You can remove the wireless adapter software in these two ways: Navigate the Windows Start menu to the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter program group, select the uninstall option, and follow the screen prompts. Navigate the Windows Start menu to the Control Panel Add or Remove Program item, select the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter option, and follow the screen prompts.

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Upgrading the WN311T Software
Upgrades may be available at the NETGEAR website. To install an upgrade, follow these steps. 1. Write down the settings for any profiles that you want to save. They will not be retained. 2. Download the upgrade from the NETGEAR website Support page. 3. Remove the WN311T software from your computer. 4. Remove the WN311T adapter from your computer, and restart your computer. 5. Run the installer that you downloaded (the file ends in.exe). 6. Follow the installer instructions, and then restart your computer.

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Chapter 2 Network Connections and Wireless Security
This chapter explains how to use your WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter to connect to your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and how to set up wireless security for the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter so that it matches the wireless security settings for your network. If you chose the Windows XP or Windows Vista Zero Configuration utility during installation, and now you want to use the Smart Wizard, then you need to disable the Windows utility. If you are working with the Vista configuration utility, see the online document: http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/winzerocfg/index.htm
Disabling the Windows Zero Configuration Utility
To disable the Windows Zero Configuration utility: 1. Attach the wireless adapter to a USB port for your computer. 2. Go to Windows Start menu and select Network Connections. 3. On the Network connections page, select the Wireless Network Connection and right-click to choose the Properties option.

Figure 2-1

4. Click the Wireless Networks tab. Then clear the Use Windows to configure my wireless settings check box.

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Understanding the Smart Wizard
These instructions explain how to use the NETGEAR WN311T Smart Wizard to change the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter wireless settings. When you have installed the software from the Resource CD, the icon appears on your desktop and in the Windows System Tray. The Windows System Tray is located on the Windows task bar. You can either double-click this icon on the desktop, or click it in the System Tray at any time, to use the Smart Wizard. This software automatically restarts when you reboot your computer. The Smart Wizard provides a complete and easy to use set of tools to: View details about wireless networks in your area. Choose the network that you want to use. Configure wireless settings for your wireless PCI adapter Save your wireless network settings in profiles. Remove or reinstall the wireless adapter software. The following sections in this chapter explain how to use the Smart Wizard.

Profiles

The WN311T Smart Wizard uses profiles to store all the settings for a particular wireless network. There are two special profile names: Default and Profile. Default: The Profile named Default automatically scans for any available network. You cannot change this profile name. Profile: If you do not enter a name in the Profile Name box, then the name Profile is used to save your settings. If you do this more than once then you will be asked if you want to replace the previous settings stored in Profile.

Adding Profiles

You can store multiple profiles and recall the one which matches the network you want to join. 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. There are two types of wireless network profiles that you can set up: Access Point (Infrastructure) connect to an access point or router with the 802.11 infrastructure mode. Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) connect directly to another computer with the 802.11 ad hoc mode.
For more information on 802.11 wireless network modes, see the wireless reference document at: http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm.
Setting up a Profile to Connect to an Access Point or Router
Follow these instructions to set up the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter to connect to a wireless access point or router. 1. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings page opens.

Figure 2-3

2. Enter the network settings. a. In the Network Type section, be sure that Access Point (Infrastructure) is selected. b. In the Profiles box, type the name of the profile. c. 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 access point. 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. c. Click Close to exit the wizard, or Cancel to return to the previous settings.
4. Verify wireless connectivity to your network. Verify connectivity by using a browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer 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. Note: If you cannot connect, see Chapter 4, Troubleshooting. For problems with accessing network resources, the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. See the link to Internet Networking and TCP/IP Addressing: in Appendix B.

Starting a Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Connection
1. On the Settings tab page of the Smart Wizard, select or type the Network Name (SSID). 2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) network type. 3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. The Ad Hoc Setting dialog box opens:
4. In the Start Ad Hoc field, choose the wireless standard (802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g) for your Ad Hoc computer-to-computer network.
5. In the Channel field, Automatic should work. If you notice interference problems with another nearby wireless device, select a channel that is not being used by any other wireless networks near your wireless adapter. Use the Networks tab page to identify 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.

Wireless Security

Many networks use wireless security to encrypt wireless data communications. If you try to connect to a network with wireless security the Smart Wizard detects it. Before you can use that network you must set up the WN311T with exactly the same kind of wireless security settings. The WN311T supports the following types of wireless security: Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 Pre-Shared Key (WPA2-PSK) Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK) Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) For more information about wireless security, see the wireless reference document at: http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm In addition to the wireless security features, networks should use LAN network security features such as requiring a user name and password to access the shared resources in the network.
Using Wireless Security Features
You can strengthen the security of your wireless connection by enabling Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption of the wireless data communications. Or, you can use WPA-PSK (Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key) encryption. For more information about wireless security, see the Web link to Wireless Communications: in Appendix B. In addition to the WN311T 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.

Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Security Settings
Print this form, fill in the configuration parameters and put it in a safe place for possible future reference. For an existing wireless network, the person who set up the network will be able to provide this information. Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID) identifies the wireless local area network. Any (First available network) is the default WN311T wireless network name (SSID). You may customize it using up to 32 alphanumeric characters. Write your customized wireless network name (SSID) on the line below. Note: The SSID in the wireless access point is the SSID you configure in the wireless PCI 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): ______________________________ If WEP Authentication is Used. WEP Encryption key size. Identify one: 64-bit or 128-bit. The encryption key size must match the wireless network settings. 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. ______________________________ These characters are case sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters and click the Generate Keys button. 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: _____________________________ If WPA2-PSK or WPA-PSK Authentication is Used. Passphrase: ______________________________ These characters are case sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters. When you use WPA-PSK, the other devices in the network will not connect unless they are set to WPA-PSK as well and are configured with the correct Passphrase.
Many networks use wireless security to encrypt wireless data communications. If you try to connect to a network with wireless security the Smart Wizard detects it. Before you can use that network you must set up the WN311T with exactly the same kind of wireless security settings. The WN311T supports the following types of wireless security: Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 Pre-Shared Key (WPA2-PSK) Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK) Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) For more information about wireless security, see the wireless reference document at: http://documentation.netgear.com/reference/enu/wireless/index.htm In addition to the wireless security features, networks should use LAN network security features such as requiring a user name and password to access the shared resources in the network. The procedures below explain how to configure the wireless encryption settings of your WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter.

Use the procedures below to set up basic security settings in the WN311T.
Setting up WEP Encryption Security
Follow the steps below to configure WEP Encryption Security. 1. Run the WN311T Smart Wizard. a. Make sure the WN311T software is installed and the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter is installed in a PCI slot in your computer. b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens:

Figure 2-8

2. Configure the Security settings. a. In the Profile box, 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 SSID entered exactly matches the SSID used by the access point. c. In the Security section, select WEP.
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 may slow the communications response times. 4. Select Create with Passphrase and enter the passphrase. The Smart Wizard automatically 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 802.11b/g wireless devices. 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.
Setting up WPA2-PSK Security
Follow the steps below to configure WPA2-PSK Security. 1. Run the WN311T Smart Wizard. a. Make sure the WN311T software is installed and the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter is properly installed in the PCI slot in your computer. b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens.

Figure 2-6

2. Configure the Security settings. a. In the Profile box, 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 SSID entered exactly matches the SSID used by the access point. c. In the Security section, select WPA2-PSK [AES], and enter the passphrase. The passphrase can be a word or group of printable characters. For more information about wireless security, see the online document: http://documentation.netgear.com/ reference/enu/wireless/index.htm.

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. c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard.
Setting up WPA-PSK Security
Follow the steps below to configure WPA-PSK Security. 1. Run the WN311T Smart Wizard. a. Make sure the WN311T software is installed and the WN311T is properly installed in a PCI slot in your computer. b. Use the icon to open the Smart Wizard. The Settings tab page opens.
2. Configure the Security settings. a. In the Profile box, 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. c. In the Security section, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] and enter the passphrase. The passphrase can be a word or group of printable characters. For more information about wireless security, see the online document: http://documentation.netgear.com/ reference/enu/wireless/index.htm. 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. c. Click Close to exit the Smart Wizard.

Advanced Settings

The Advanced Settings normally work in their default settings. To view Advanced Settings, click the Advanced Settings button on the Settings tab. Changing these settings is only recommended for advanced users who have a specific reason to adjust them.

Statistics Page

The Statistics page provides real-time and historical trend information on the data traffic and performance of your wireless adapter.
Transmit/Receive Performance (%): A real time graph identifying the total, receive, and transmit utilization as a percentage the total possible. Transmit, Receive, and Total (TxRx): Radio buttons let you select whether to display the transmit performance, the receive performance, or both in the same graph. Transmit Statistics: Identifies transmit megabits per second (Mbps), transmit packets per second (Tx Packets/s), total transmitted packets, and transmit errors. Receive Statistics: Identifies receive megabits per second (Mbps), receive packets per second (Rx Packets/s), total received packets, and reception errors.

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Wireless Network Performance
Computers and fax machines (no closer than one 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 may 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 highspeed technologies for network connections with the heaviest traffic to avoid lower-speed bottlenecks in the path. The following figure shows a home network that includes many different connection speeds.
Figure 3-9 3-2 v2.0, February 2007 Wireless Network Performance
In the network shown in Figure 3-9, the two PCs with gigabit (1000 Mbps) 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 PC 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 hightraffic 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. 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
Overview of Home and Small Office 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, as well as 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 someone else who also has an asymmetrical connection, the data rate between your sites is limited by each sides upstream data rate. A typical residential ADSL or cablemodem connection provides a downstream throughput of about one to three megabits per second (Mbps). Newer technologies such as ADSL2+ and Fiber to the Home (FTTH) will increase the connection speed to tens of Mbps. 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 the introduction of the newer WPA and WPA2 encryption and authentication protocols, wireless security is extremely strong.

I can connect to the access point, but not the other computers on the network or to the Internet.

Viewing the IP address.

No IP address is assigned to the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter.

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Troubleshooting
Ad Hoc Mode Is Not Working Correctly
You need to click the Initiate Ad Hoc button before you click Apply. Here is how you start an Ad Hoc network: 1. Fill in the Network Name (SSID). 2. Select the Computer-to-Computer (Ad Hoc) Network Type. 3. Click Initiate Ad Hoc. 4. Accept the default settings or make your changes and click OK. 5. Click Apply. Note: Be sure all computers in your Ad Hoc network are configured with static IP addresses in the same subnet.
Windows XP Occasional Connection Problems
Windows XP users who apply Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485 from the Windows XP Update Service may not be able to connect to the Internet, may have dropped wireless connections, or both when using the WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter. You can delete this Hotfix from the Add or Remove Program utility in the Control Panel. To delete Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485: 1. Click Start, point to Control Panel, and then double click Add/Remove Programs. 2. Click Windows XP Hotfix (SP2) Q815485, and then click Remove. You may receive an error message that states that some program on the computer may 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 the link below: http://microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=009D8425-CE2B-47A4-ABEC274845DC9E91&displaylang=en

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Appendix A Technical Specifications
Default Configuration Settings
The following table lists the default settings of your WN311T Wireless PCI Adapter.
Feature Smart Wizard Wireless Wireless Communication Wireless Network Name (SSID) Security Network Type Transmission Speed Country/Region Operating Mode Data Rate
Description Enabled Enabled Any (first available network) Disabled Infrastructure Auto* United States (varies by region) g and b, up to 130 Mbps, g only up to 300 Mbps up to 300 Mbps
*. Maximum wireless signal rate (IEEE Standard 802.11n draft specification). 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.