NETGEAR Network Hardware WNA3100 100ENS User Manual

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