NETGEAR WG311v3 manual Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

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Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet through the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter WG311 v3.

For adding file and print sharing to your network, please consult the Windows help information included with the version of Windows installed on each computer on your network.

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking

Computers access the Internet using a protocol called TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol). Each computer on your network must have TCP/IP installed and selected as its networking protocol. If a Network Interface Card (NIC) is already installed in your PC, then TCP/ IP is probably already installed as well.

Most operating systems include the software components you need for networking with TCP/IP. Windows 95 or later includes the software components for establishing a TCP/IP network.

In your TCP/IP network, each PC and the wireless access point must be assigned a unique IP addresses. Each PC must also have certain other TCP/IP configuration information such as a subnet mask (netmask), a domain name server (DNS) address, and a default gateway address. In most cases, you should install TCP/IP so that the PC obtains its specific network configuration information automatically from a DHCP server during startup.

Configuring Windows 98SE and Me for TCP/IP Networking

As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure

TCP/IP on your PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you may need to insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.

Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

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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.