NETGEAR GA311 Chapter Basic Setup, What You Need Before You Begin, Verifying System Requirements

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Chapter 2

Basic Setup

This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Adapter GA311 and set up basic connectivity on your Local Area Network (LAN) using the setup.exe utility.

What You Need Before You Begin

You need to verify your computer meets the minimum system requirements and identify the network configuration settings of the LAN where you will connect before you can configure your gigabit Ethernet adapter and connect.

Verifying System Requirements

Before installing the NETGEAR 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Adapter GA311, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:

A computer with a Pentium® 300 MHz or higher compatible processor

One open 32-bit or 64-bit PCI slot

A CD-ROM drive

64 MB of memory

Windows Vista, Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, 2000, Me, 98SE (2nd edition), Windows NT 4.0 (with Service Pack 5 or above), Windows 2000 Professional, Windows 2000 Server, or Windows 2000 Advanced Server

Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating system installation files to complete the installation of the GA311 driver software.

To download the latest Service Pack for Windows NT 4.0, go to the following Microsoft Web page and search for the latest service pack:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/search.asp

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v1.0, February 2007

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Contents NETGEAR, Inc Technical Support Contents Appendix C Related Documents Index Conventions, Formats and Scope About This ManualHow to Print this Manual How to Use This ManualRevision History Viii Chapter Introduction Key Features and Related Netgear Products What’s in the Box? Hardware Description What You Need Before You Begin Chapter Basic SetupVerifying System Requirements Selecting the Network Cable Preparing to Install Your GA311 Gigabit Ethernet AdapterInstallation Order Basic Installation InstructionsFor Windows Vista Users First, install the GA311 Gigabit Ethernet AdapterTHEN, Install the GA311 Software V1.0, February For Windows XP, 2000, Me, and 98SE Users Next, install the GA311 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter For Windows NT 4.0 Users Installing a GA311 Network Settings Accept the Default Speed & Duplex V1.0, February Updating the Driver Software in Windows NT Moving the GA311 to a Different Slot in Windows NTDetermining the GA311 Connection Status Viewing the Physical Connection IndicatorsGA311 Port LED Activity Installing the GA311 Smart Wizard UtilityV1.0, February V1.0, February V1.0, February Understanding the Configuration Options Chapter Configuration and TroubleshootingConfiguring Optional Adapter Properties V1.0, February Checking the Port LEDs Basic Troubleshooting TipsUsing a Troubleshooting Checklist PCI Bios Parameters Ieee 802.1Q Vlan Appendix a Technical SpecificationsV1.0, February Appendix B Manual Driver Installation For Windows Vista and XP Users Installing a GA311 V1.0, February For Windows 2000 & 98SE/Me Users Installing a GA311 Found New Hardware Wizard V1.0, February For Windows NT 4.0 Users Installing a GA311 Network Settings Accept the Default Speed & Duplex V1.0, February Document Link Appendix C Related DocumentsReference Manual for the ProSafe VPN Firewall 200 FVX538 Numerics IndexIndex-2

GA311 specifications

The NETGEAR GA311 is a high-performance Gigabit Ethernet adapter designed to enhance the network capabilities of desktop computers, servers, or workstations. This device is particularly useful for users who want to upgrade their existing network interface or extend their connectivity options with reliable Gigabit speeds.

One of the most notable features of the GA311 is its ability to achieve data transfer rates of up to 1,000 Mbps, which significantly improves network performance compared to standard Fast Ethernet connections. The adapter operates using the PCI Express (PCIe) interface, allowing for quick and efficient data exchange between the network and the computer's motherboard.

The GA311 supports a variety of beneficial technologies, notably Wake-on-LAN (WoL) and jumbo frames. Wake-on-LAN enables remote systems to be awakened over the network, which is particularly useful for IT management and remote access setups. The support for jumbo frames allows for larger packet sizes than typical Ethernet frames, which can lead to enhanced throughput and reduced CPU utilization during data transfers, especially in high-bandwidth environments.

In terms of compatibility, the NETGEAR GA311 is designed to work seamlessly with various operating systems, including Windows and Linux. This broad compatibility ensures users can integrate this adapter with a wide range of hardware configurations without worrying about driver issues.

The GA311 embodies a robust yet compact design, making it an ideal choice for system builders or users looking for an unobtrusive upgrade for their setups. The adapter also features a standard RJ-45 connector, ensuring compatibility with the majority of networking equipment, including routers, switches, and modems.

Additionally, NETGEAR is known for its customer support and warranty policies. The GA311 typically comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving users peace of mind regarding the longevity and reliability of their investment.

In conclusion, the NETGEAR GA311 stands out as a dependable and efficient Gigabit Ethernet adapter, boasting impressive speeds, advanced technologies, and wide compatibility. Whether for gaming, video streaming, or heavy file transfers, the GA311 is designed to meet the demands of modern networking seamlessly.