NETGEAR Complete Guide to WNDA3100 Setup and Configuration

Chapter 1

Basic Setup

This chapter describes how to install your RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N USB Adapter WNDA3100 and set up basic wireless connectivity on your wireless local area network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network set up is covered in “Network Connections and Wireless Security” in Chapter 2.

Note: Indoors, computers can easily connect to 802.11 wireless networks at distances of several hundred feet. Because walls do not always block wireless signals, others

outside your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The wireless USB adapter provides highly effective security features, which are covered in “Using Wireless Security Features” in Chapter 2. Use the security features appropriate to your needs.

What You Need Before You Begin

You need to verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements and identify the wireless network settings of the WLAN where you will connect before you can set up your wireless USB adapter and connect.

Verify System Requirements

Before installing the NETGEAR RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N USB Adapter WNDA3100, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:

•You must have a PC with a Pentium 300 MHz or higher compatible processor with an available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port.

Note: The maximum speed of a USB v2.0 port is 480 Mbps. If your computer has a USB v1.1 port, the WNDA3100 is limited to that port’s maximum speed,

which is 14 Mbps.

•A CD drive.

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v1.0, December 2007