NETGEAR WG311v3 manual Authentication and WEP, Ad-Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup

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Reference Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311 v3

Ad-Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup)

In an ad-hoc network, computers are brought together as needed; thus, there is no structure or fixed points to the network - each node can generally communicate with any other node. There is no Access Point involved in this configuration. This mode enables you to quickly set up a small wireless workgroup and allows workgroup members to exchange data or share printers as supported by Microsoft networking in the various Windows operating systems. Some vendors also refer to ad-hoc networking as peer-to-peer group networking.

In this configuration, network packets are directly sent and received by the intended transmitting and receiving stations. As long as the stations are within range of one another, this is the easiest and least expensive way to set up a wireless network.

Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID)

The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is one of two types of Service Set Identification (SSID). In an ad-hoc wireless network with no access points, the Basic Service Set Identification (BSSID) is used. In an infrastructure wireless network that includes an access point, the ESSID is used, but may still be referred to as SSID.

An SSID is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying the name of the wireless local area network. Some vendors refer to the SSID as network name. For the wireless devices in a network to communicate with each other, all devices must be configured with the same SSID.

Authentication and WEP

The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes the wireless links vulnerable to eavesdropping and information theft. To provide a certain level of security, the IEEE 802.11 standard has defined two types of authentication methods, Open System and Shared Key. With Open System authentication, a wireless PC can join any network and receive any messages that are not encrypted. With Shared Key authentication, only those PCs that possess the correct authentication key can join the network. By default, IEEE 802.11 wireless devices operate in an Open System network.

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption is used when the wireless devices are configured to operate in Shared Key authentication mode. There are two shared key methods implemented in most commercially available products, 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.

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Wireless Networking Basics

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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 Chapter Introduction About the WG311 v3 Wireless PCI AdapterKey Features and Related Netgear Products What’s in the Box? Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ Road Map for How to Get There From HereNetgear 54 Mbps Netgear 54 Mbps Wireless Network printer Any Windows networking Verify System Requirements Chapter Basic SetupWhat You Will Need Before You Begin Observe Location and Range Guidelines WG311 v3 Default Wireless Configuration SettingsTwo Basic Operating Modes 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 Basic Troubleshooting Tips Interpreting System Tray Icon ColorsAbout About page shows the following informationBasic Setup Using Configuration Profiles Chapter ConfigurationUnderstanding the Configuration Options Networks Tab Networks tabRun the WG311 v3 Configuration Utility Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure ModeTo Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile Connecting to Another PC in Ad Hoc Mode Configure the wireless Network settingsSave your settings in a Profile Verify wireless connectivity to your networkTo Configure an Ad Hoc Mode Profile Settings tab page, Ad HocConfigure the PC network settings Enabling Wireless Security Features To Start a Computer-to-Computer Ad Hoc NetworkConfiguration To Configure WEP Encryption Security Configure the Security settingsConfiguration Statistics Tab Statistics tabAdvanced Settings Advanced SettingsAppendix a Technical Specifications LEDTechnical Specifications Infrastructure Mode Appendix B Wireless Networking BasicsWireless Networking Overview Network Name Extended Service Set Identification Essid Authentication and WEPAd-Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup Authentication Open System Authentication802.11b Authentication Open System Steps Authentication Shared Key Steps Do Not Use WEPWEP Configuration Options Key SizeWireless Channels 802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels802.11b and g Radio Frequency Channels Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network AccessConfiguring Windows 98SE and Me for TCP/IP Networking Install or Verify Windows Networking Components Choose Settings, and then Control Panel Locate your Network Neighborhood iconPrimary Network Logon is set to Windows logon Selecting the Internet Access Method Verifying TCP/IP PropertiesConfiguring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XPTCP/IP details are presented on Support tab Right click on Local Area Connection and select Properties Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in WindowsVerify that Obtain an IP address Obtain an IP address automatically is selected Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Glossary List of Glossary TermsDSL Internet service provider Ssid Wins Glossary Index NumericsIndex-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.