NETGEAR ME103 manual Wireless Networking Basics

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Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point

Initial 802.1x communications begin with an unauthenticated supplicant (i.e., client device) attempting to connect with an authenticator (i.e., 802.11 access point). The access point responds by enabling a port for passing only EAP packets from the client to an authentication server located on the wired side of the access point. The access point blocks all other traffic, such as HTTP, DHCP, and POP3 packets, until the access point can verify the client's identity using an authentication server (e.g., RADIUS). Once authenticated, the access point opens the client's port for other types of traffic.

The basic 802.1x protocol provides effective authentication and can offering dynamic key management using 802.1x as a delivery mechanism. If configured to implement dynamic key exchange, the 802.1x authentication server can return session keys to the access point along with the accept message. The access point uses the session keys to build, sign and encrypt an EAP key message that is sent to the client immediately after sending the success message. The client can then use contents of the key message to define applicable encryption keys. In typical 802.1x implementations, the client can automatically change encryption keys as often as necessary to minimize the possibility of eavesdroppers having enough time to crack the key in current use.

It's important to note that 802.1x doesn't provide the actual authentication mechanisms. When using 802.1x, you need to choose an EAP type, such as Transport Layer Security (EAP-TLS) or EAP Tunneled Transport Layer Security (EAP-TTLS), which defines how the authentication takes place.

The important part to know at this point is that the software supporting the specific EAP type resides on the authentication server and within the operating system or application software on the client devices. The access point acts as a “pass through” for 802.1x messages, which means that you can specify any EAP type without needing to upgrade an 802.1x-compliant access point. As a result, you can update the EAP authentication type as newer types become available and your requirements for security change.

Wireless Networking Basics

B-11

August 2003

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Contents August Technical Support RF Exposure Requirements Radio Frequency Interference Requirements Regulatory Compliance InformationEN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance 0470 August Contents Chapter Maintenance Appendix a Specifications Glossary Index Chapter About This Manual Manual SpecificationsAudience ScopeSpecial Message Formats Typographical ConventionsHtml version of this manual How to Use the Html Version of this ManualHow to Print this Manual Chapter Introduction About the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access PointSupported Standards and Conventions Key Features802.11b Standards-based Wireless Networking System Requirements Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto UplinkCompatible and Related Netgear Products Hardware Description What’s In the Box?ME103 front panel ME103 Wireless Access Point Front PanelME103 rear panel ME103 Wireless Access Point Rear PanelObserving Placement and Range Guidelines Chapter Basic Installation and ConfigurationCabling Requirements Feature Factory Default Settings Default Factory SettingsUnderstanding ME103 Wireless Security Options SET UP the ME103 Access Point Installing the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access PointConfigure LAN and Wireless Access Verify Wireless Connectivity Example ME103 NetBIOS name in browser address bar How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default NetBIOS NameWeb browser will then display the ME103 home How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default IP Address Basic Wireless Settings menu Understanding Basic Wireless SettingsBasic Wireless Security options Understanding Basic Wireless Security OptionsField Description Network Authentication. Circle one Open System or Shared Key How to Set Up and Test Basic Wireless Connectivity 10 Wireless Card Access List Setup How to Restrict Wireless Access by MAC AddressHow to Configure WEP 11 Basic IP Settings Menu Using the Basic IP Settings OptionsAccess Point Name NetBIOS Viewing General, Log, Station, and Statistical Information Chapter MaintenanceGeneral Information Fields Field Description Access Point InformationStatistics Field Description System Up Time Statistics FieldsActivity Log screen Activity LogInformation Station List of associated devices Viewing a List of Attached DevicesME103 Upgrade menu Upgrading the Wireless Access Point SoftwareSettings Backup menu Configuration File ManagementSaving and Retrieving the Configuration Restoring the ME103 to the Factory Default SettingsUsing the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings Set Password menu Changing the Administrator PasswordChapter Advanced Configuration Configuring Advanced Security 802.1x OptionsBasic Requirements for Key Exchange Configuration Worksheet How to Configure the 802.1x Key Exchange OptionAdvanced Configuration Request a certificate View the ME103 log and check the connection Running a Ping test from Windows Ping test results Advanced Wireless Settings screen Understanding Advanced Wireless SettingsField Description Operating Mode Advanced Wireless Settings FieldsHow to Configure a ME103 as a Point-to-Point Bridge Configuring Wireless Operating Modes10 Multi-Point bridging How to Configure MultiAdvanced Configuration Antenna Installation EAP-TLS Configuration Worksheet Blank Configuration WorksheetNo lights are lit on the access point Chapter TroubleshootingLAN light is not lit Wireless LAN activity light does not light upAm using EAP-TLS security but get disconnected Cannot connect to the ME103 to configure itWhen I enter a URL or IP address I get a timeout error Using the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings Specifications for the ME103 Appendix a SpecificationsSpecifications Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics Wireless Networking OverviewInfrastructure Mode Authentication, WEP, and WPA Ad Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer WorkgroupNetwork Name Extended Service Set Identification Essid Open System Authentication Authentication802.11b Authentication Open System Steps 802.11b Authentication Shared Key Steps Key Size WEP Configuration Options Wireless ChannelsTable B-1 802.11b Radio Frequency Channels Radio frequency channels used are listed in Table B-1Understanding 802.1x Port Based Network Access Control Wireless Networking Basics Wireless Networking Basics Wireless Networking Basics Basic Router Concepts Appendix C Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling BasicsIP Addresses and the Internet What is a Router?Class E Class E addresses are for experimental use Subnet Addressing NetmaskExample of Subnetting a Class B Address Netmask Formats Netmask Notation Translation Table for One OctetPrivate IP Addresses Single IP Address Operation Using NATSingle IP Address Operation Using NAT IP Configuration by DhcpRouting Protocols Domain Name ServerMAC Addresses and ARP Internet Security and FirewallsWhat is a Firewall? Denial of Service AttackStateful Packet Inspection Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching UTP Ethernet cable wiring, straight-throughEthernet Cabling Cable Quality Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking Appendix D Preparing Your PCs for Network AccessInstall or Verify Windows Networking Components Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP NetworkingPreparing Your PCs for Network Access Choose Settings, and then Control Panel Enabling Dhcp to Automatically Configure TCP/IP SettingsPrimary Network Logon is set to Windows logon Verifying TCP/IP Properties Selecting Windows’ Internet Access MethodConfiguring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP TCP/IP details are presented on Support tab Right click on Local Area Connection and select Properties Dhcp Configuration of TCP/IP in WindowsObtain an IP address automatically is selected Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or Preparing Your PCs for Network Access Glossary DMZ DSL Internet service provider Radius TLS Wins Glossary Numerics IndexRFC
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ME103 specifications

The NETGEAR ME103 is a versatile and reliable Wireless Access Point designed to extend the reach of your network while providing enhanced connectivity for various devices. Ideal for both home and small office environments, the ME103 is an essential component for those seeking to improve wireless performance without compromising on speed or stability.

One of the main features of the NETGEAR ME103 is its compatibility with numerous wireless standards. It supports the 802.11b and 802.11g protocols, allowing users to connect a wide range of wireless devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This compatibility ensures that the ME103 can seamlessly integrate into existing networks, making it a flexible solution for upgrading Wi-Fi coverage.

The ME103 is equipped with fast data transfer rates, reaching up to 54 Mbps in 802.11g mode. This speed is sufficient for most online activities, including streaming videos and online gaming, providing users with a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Its ability to function as both an access point and a bridge allows for increased versatility, enabling connectivity between wired and wireless devices.

In terms of security, the NETGEAR ME103 has built-in features that protect your network from unauthorized access. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the network remains secure. Additionally, it includes a built-in firewall that further safeguards against potential threats.

The device is also equipped with an easy-to-use web interface for configuration, making it simple for users to set up and manage their network settings. Its compact design allows for flexible placement options, whether mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. This adaptability is crucial for optimizing wireless coverage in larger spaces.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) support is another significant characteristic of the ME103, which simplifies installation by allowing the device to receive power through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for an additional power source.

Overall, the NETGEAR ME103 stands out due to its high compatibility, solid performance, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity efficiently.