NETGEAR WG311v3 manual Chapter Basic Setup, What You Will Need Before You Begin

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Chapter 2

Basic Setup

This section describes how to install your NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311 v3 and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 4, “Configuration” in this manual.

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 from outside your immediate area could access your network. It is important to take appropriate steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311 v3 provides highly effective security features which are covered in “Enabling Wireless Security Features” on page 4-8. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.

What You Will Need Before You Begin

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

Verify System Requirements

Before installing the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311 v3, please 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 WG311 v3 driver software

Basic Setup

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Contents NETGEAR, Inc Technical Support FCC Information to User Product and Publication Details Contents Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Glossary Viii Contents About the WG311 v3 Wireless PCI Adapter Key Features and Related Netgear ProductsChapter Introduction What’s in the Box? Road Map for How to Get There From Here Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’Netgear 54 Mbps Netgear 54 Mbps Wireless Network printer Any Windows networking Chapter Basic Setup What You Will Need Before You BeginVerify System Requirements WG311 v3 Default Wireless Configuration Settings Two Basic Operating ModesObserve Location and Range Guidelines Basic Installation Instructions For Windows XP Users Installing a WG311 Basic Setup Wireless Assistant Settings Tab Basic Setup For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a WG311 Found New Hardware Wizard WG311 v3 System Tray Icon Wireless Assistant Settings Tab WG311 v3 Wireless Connection Indicators Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors Basic Troubleshooting TipsAbout page shows the following information AboutBasic Setup Chapter Configuration Understanding the Configuration OptionsUsing Configuration Profiles Networks tab Networks TabConnecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode To Configure an Infrastructure Mode ProfileRun the WG311 v3 Configuration Utility Verify wireless connectivity to your network Connecting to Another PC in Ad Hoc ModeConfigure the wireless Network settings Save your settings in a ProfileSettings tab page, Ad Hoc To Configure an Ad Hoc Mode ProfileConfigure the PC network settings To Start a Computer-to-Computer Ad Hoc Network Enabling Wireless Security FeaturesConfiguration Configure the Security settings To Configure WEP Encryption SecurityConfiguration Statistics tab Statistics TabAdvanced Settings Advanced SettingsLED Appendix a Technical SpecificationsTechnical Specifications Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics Wireless Networking OverviewInfrastructure Mode Authentication and WEP Ad-Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer WorkgroupNetwork Name Extended Service Set Identification Essid Open System Authentication Authentication802.11b Authentication Open System Steps Do Not Use WEP Authentication Shared Key StepsKey Size WEP Configuration Options802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels Wireless Channels802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Configuring Windows 98SE and Me for TCP/IP NetworkingPreparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking Install or Verify Windows Networking Components Locate your Network Neighborhood icon Choose Settings, and then Control PanelPrimary Network Logon is set to Windows logon Verifying TCP/IP Properties Selecting the Internet Access MethodConfiguring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP orTCP/IP details are presented on Support tab Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows Verify that Obtain an IP addressRight click on Local Area Connection and select Properties Obtain an IP address automatically is selected Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or Preparing Your PCs for Network Access List of Glossary Terms GlossaryDSL Internet service provider Ssid Wins Glossary Numerics IndexIndex-2

WG311v3 specifications

The NETGEAR WG311v3 is a popular wireless PCI adapter designed to provide reliable Wi-Fi connectivity for desktop computers. This device enables users to connect to high-speed wireless networks, making it an ideal solution for both home and office environments.

One of the standout features of the NETGEAR WG311v3 is its compatibility with various wireless standards. It supports 802.11g, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. Additionally, it is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring a seamless connection with older wireless technology. This versatility makes the WG311v3 a suitable choice for users looking to upgrade their network without worrying about compatibility issues.

The WG311v3 incorporates advanced wireless security protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2. These security features help protect users' data and ensure a secure connection, safeguarding against potential unauthorized access. By providing multiple encryption options, the adapter allows users to select the level of security that best meets their needs, making it a reliable choice for sensitive information.

One notable characteristic of the NETGEAR WG311v3 is its easy installation process. The device comes with a user-friendly setup wizard that guides users through the installation, simplifying the transition to wireless networking. The PCI interface allows for quick installation inside the desktop computer, enabling users to be online in no time.

In terms of range and performance, the WG311v3 is designed to deliver optimal connectivity. With its external antenna, users can adjust the position for an improved signal strength, reducing dead zones within the coverage area. This feature is particularly beneficial in larger homes or office spaces where Wi-Fi signals may struggle to reach certain areas.

The NETGEAR WG311v3 is also notable for its affordability. As a cost-effective solution for adding wireless functionality to a desktop, it provides excellent value for those who need a reliable wireless connection without breaking the bank.

Overall, the NETGEAR WG311v3 wireless PCI adapter combines compatibility, security, and ease of installation to meet the demands of today's internet users. Whether for gaming, streaming, or general browsing, it delivers a dependable and efficient solution for expanding network capabilities in a desktop setting.
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