Belkin F6D301 user manual Introduction, Wireless Router or Access Point Placement

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Introduction

Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for Optimal Performance

Your wireless connection will be stronger the closer your computer is to your router (or access point). Typical indoor operating range for wireless devices is between 100 and 200 feet.

In the same way, your wireless connection and performance will degrade somewhat as the distance between your router (or access point) and connected devices increases. This may or may not be noticeable to you. As you move farther from your router (or access point), connection speed may decrease. Factors that can weaken signals simply by getting in the way of your network’s radio waves are metal appliances or obstructions, and walls.

If you have concerns about your network’s performance that might be related to range or obstruction factors, try moving the computer to a position between five and 10 feet from the router (or access point) in order to see if distance is the problem. If difficulties persist even at close range, please contact Belkin Technical Support.

Note: While some of the items listed below can affect network performance, they will not prohibit your wireless network from functioning; if you are concerned that your network is not operating at its maximum effectiveness, this checklist may help.

1.Wireless Router or Access Point Placement

Place your router (or access point), the central connection point of your network, as close as possible to the center of your wireless network devices. To achieve the best wireless network coverage for your “wireless clients” (i.e., computers enabled by Belkin Wireless Notebook Network Cards, Wireless Desktop Network Cards, and Wireless USB Adapters):

Ensure that your router’s (or access point’s) networking antennas are parallel to each other, and are positioned vertically (toward the ceiling). If your router (or access point) itself is positioned vertically, point the antennas as much as possible in an upward direction.

In multistory homes, place the router (or access point) on a floor that is as close to the center of the home as possible. This may mean placing the router (or access point) on an upper floor.

Try not to place the router (or access point) near cordless 2.4GHz and 5GHz phones.

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Contents Wireless A+G Table of Contents Advantages of a Wireless Network IntroductionWireless Router or Access Point Placement IntroductionAvoid Obstacles and Interference Choose the Quietest Channel for your Wireless NetworkCordless Phones Secure Connections, VPNs, and AOL Europe AustraliaNew Zealand SingaporeProduct Features OverviewProduct Specifications Applications and AdvantagesFrequently changing environments Temporary LANs for special projects or peak timePackage Contents System RequirementsInstalling and Setting Up the Card Installing and Setting Up the Card Insert Insert the Card into your ComputerYour setup is now complete How to Access the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Signal StrengthMonitoring the Status of your Network Connection Connect to NetworkChannel EncryptionLink Speed MoreSignal Finding Available Networks in your AreaNetwork Name SecurityType BandMac Address ConnectSetting up Wireless Network Profiles Transfer Rate Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Securing your Wi-Fi Network Wired Equivalent Privacy WEPEncryption Methods Bit WEPEncryption Keys Wi-Fi Protected Access WPAC3 03 0F AF 0F 4B B2 C3 D4 4B C3 D4 E7 = 128-bit key Network key= Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility WEP Setup Bit WEP EncryptionC3 03 0F AF 0F 4B B2 C3 D4 4B C3 D4 E7 = 128-bit WEP key WPA-PSK no server WPA with server Settings Configuring your Belkin Wireless Card to use Security Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Connecting to a Wireless Network using WPA-PSK no server Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Connecting to a Wireless Network using WPA-Radius Server or Using the Belkin Wireless Network Utility Problem SolutionName of your wireless network appears in Available Networks Troubleshooting Link LED is solid but cannot connect to the Internet Signal strength is poor Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Wireless Comparison Chart SpeedTechnical Support FCC Statement Federal Communications Commission NoticeCanada-Industry Canada IC ModificationsEurope-European Union Notice Certification ID W002987 Belkin Corporation Limited Lifetime Product Warranty Belkin Corporation Belkin Tech SupportBelkin B.V. Boeing Avenue