NETGEAR WGE111 user manual Authentication and WEP, Ad Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PC Card WG511

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 Iii Vcci Statement Contents Chapter Web Configuration Glossary Contents Chapter About This Manual Audience, Conventions, ScopeHow to Use this Manual Html version of this manualHow to Print this Manual About This Manual About the Netgear WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter Chapter IntroductionKey Features and Related Netgear Products What’s in the Box?Introduction Status Indicators and Ports of the WGE111 LED DescriptionsReset Push Button Reset ButtonIntroduction Chapter Basic Setup Preparing to Install Your WGE111 Wireless Game AdapterPlacement and Range Guidelines System RequirementsMode Switch Position Your System Operating ModesWhat you do Personal Computer Plug-and-Go Scenario Planning the WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter Configuration Planning for TCP/IP ConfigurationDynamic IP using Dhcp Fixed IPAuthentication Scheme Selection Understanding WEP Authentication and EncryptionSubnet mask Encryption Strength Choices Using the Netgear Smart Wizard Configuration Assistant Understanding WPA-PSK Encryption SecurityPower Ethernet Select the wireless network Basic Setup Select the TCP/IP Settings Basic Setup Chapter Web Configuration Configuring the Wireless Game Adapter Using TCP/IPConnecting to the Wireless Game Adapter Viewing the Wireless Game Adapter StatusWireless Settings Status screenIP Settings Configuring the Adapter for Infrastructure Mode AccessDevice Information Infrastructure mode configuration screen Data RateUsing WEP Security Encryption Wireless SecurityAuthentication Type Network Name SsidConfiguring the Wireless Game Adapter for Ad-Hoc Mode Using WPA-PSK Security EncryptionManual Entry Mode Automatic Key Generation PassphraseAd-Hoc mode configuration screen Viewing the Wireless Networks Available Configuring the IP SettingsIP Settings configuration screen Changing the WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter Password Upgrading the FirmwareRestoring the Factory Defaults Restore Factory Defaults screenChapter Troubleshooting Go to Troubleshooting the TCP/IP Settings Using Ping onSymptom Cause Solution Basic TipsWireless router or access point, wait, and then See Using the Netgear Smart Wizard Frequently Asked Questions Cannot configure the WGE111 from a browserTroubleshooting the TCP/IP Settings Using Ping Troubleshooting the Web Configuration InterfaceRestoring the Default Configuration and Password Troubleshooting Appendix a Technical Specifications Technical Specifications Appendix B Understanding IP Addresses IP Addresses and the InternetThree Main Address Classes Netmask Subnet Addressing Example of Subnetting a Class B AddressNetmask Notation Translation Table for One Octet Private IP Addresses Address Resolution Protocol IP Configuration by DhcpUnderstanding IP Addresses Wireless Networking Overview Appendix C Wireless Networking BasicsInfrastructure Mode Ad Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup Authentication and WEPNetwork Name Extended Service Set Identification Essid Authentication Open System Authentication802.11b Authentication Open System Steps 802.11b Authentication Shared Key Steps Do Not Use WEPWEP Configuration Options Key SizeWireless Channels WPA Wireless Security Radio frequency channels used are listed in the table belowHow Does WPA Compare to WEP? What are the Key Features of WPA Security? How Does WPA Compare to Ieee 802.11i?Wireless Networking Basics Figure C-3 WPA Overview Access point replies with an EAP-request identity message WPA Data Encryption Key Management Temporal Key Integrity Protocol Tkip Is WPA Perfect? Product Support for WPAChanges to Wireless Access Points WPA two-phase authenticationChanges to Wireless Network Adapters New WPA information elementChanges to Wireless Client Programs List of Glossary Terms 1000BASE-T802.1Q 802.3Dhcp Internet service provider NIC Wins Glossary Index NumericsRFC

WGE111 specifications

The NETGEAR WGE111 is a wireless gaming adapter designed to enhance the gaming experience for console players, allowing them to connect their gaming console to a wireless network effortlessly. This device caters particularly to gamers who wish to enjoy the benefits of wireless connectivity without compromising on performance or speed.

One of the primary features of the WGE111 is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, providing data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This speed is essential for online gaming, where lag can significantly impact performance. The adapter ensures a stable and reliable connection, reducing latency and allowing gamers to immerse themselves fully in their favorite titles.

The device is compatible with a wide range of gaming consoles, including PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Nintendo Wii, making it a flexible solution for gaming setups. The WGE111 is equipped with a straightforward Ethernet port, enabling easy connectivity with consoles that lack built-in Wi-Fi capabilities.

Reliability is a notable characteristic of the WGE111, thanks in part to its advanced wireless technologies. With features like WEP and WPA/WPA2 encryption, the adapter ensures that the user’s network remains secure from unauthorized access. Additionally, the WGE111 has a strong range and can maintain a solid connection even in larger homes, providing flexibility in device placement.

Installation of the WGE111 is user-friendly, with a simple plug-and-play setup. This allows gamers to quickly connect their consoles to the router without extensive configuration or technical expertise. The device also includes LED indicators that provide real-time feedback on connection status, simplifying troubleshooting and network management.

Another advantage of the NETGEAR WGE111 is its compact and lightweight design, making it portable and easy to relocate. Whether transitioning between different rooms or even taking it to a friend's house, players can enjoy the convenience of wireless gaming without being tethered to a physical connection.

In summary, the NETGEAR WGE111 wireless gaming adapter is an excellent choice for gamers looking to enhance their online experience. With its high-speed connectivity, compatibility with multiple consoles, robust security features, and ease of setup, the WGE111 stands out as a viable option for anyone looking to enjoy wireless gaming without sacrificing performance.
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