MA521 Wireless
Adapter
SysTray icon

e.Double-click NETGEAR

MA521 802.11b Wireless PC Card. On the General folder tab, the Device Status window should indicate that the device is working properly, as shown here. The installation of the MA521 Wireless PC Card driver is now complete.

4 Configuring the MA521 Wireless PC Card

Now that the MA521 802.11b Wireless PC Card has been installed, you can use the NETGEAR MA521 Wireless Configuration Utility to view and customize configuration settings and features.

a.To display the NETGEAR MA521 Wireless Configuration Utility, open the NETGEAR MA521 Adapter programs group or double-click the

MA521 icon that appears in the Windows System

Tray, as shown here:

Configuration Note for Windows XP Users

After installing the MA521 Wireless PC Card on the Windows XP, it will display a Disable Windows XP Configuration Manager message, similar to the one shown here:

*M-10078-01*

M - 1 0 0 7 8 - 0 1

March 2003

Click Yes to disable the Windows XP configuration utility and use the NETGEAR MA521 Wireless Configuration Utility, or click No to use the Windows XP configuration utility to control the MA521 802.11b Wireless PC Card.

b.After choosing item 2, the Configuration section, you should see this screen :

c.Select one of the two options on the Network Mode:

Infrastructure (Access Point) or 802.11 Ad-Hoc (Computer-to-Computer). Infrastructure mode will allow you to connect to an Access Point and your existing network, while 802.11b Ad-Hoc will allow you to

connect to other stations when you want to set up a network without an Access Point.

d.In the Network SSID section, using a pull down menu button to select a Network SSID (which is your network name) for connecting to an Access Point or station that is listed.

e.For 802.11 Ad-Hoc (Computer-to-Computer) mode, please select a Channel that you want to use.

f.Enter a correct Security setting that matches your Access Point.

5 Configuring the MA521 for Security

Important Note: The WEP keys must be set up exactly the same on all wireless devices in order to communicate with each other.

To prevent unauthorized wireless stations from accessing data transmitted over the network, the Security section of the Configuration Utility offers secure data encryption, known as WEP, to better protect your data transmissions.

To activate the WEP Encryption, make sure the Enable Encryption (WEP Key) box displays a checkmark (as shown above).

WEP Encryption options will be displayed. You may make changes, as detailed here:

a.Select one of the two options: Create with Passphrase or Manual Entry. A Passphrase makes it easier to enable WEP because it automatically

generates the WEP hexadecimal numbers for the key. If the wireless network Access Point uses a Passphrase, you can also use that here. Otherwise, you will have to manually enter the hexadecimal numbers.

b.Create with Passphrase option: pull down the Key Length options and select the 64-bit or 128-bit, then type in your Passphrase.

c.Manual Entry option:

1.Pull down the Key Length options and select the 64-bitor 128-bit, encryption method.

2.In the Encryption Keys fields, specify the WEP keys: For 64-bit encryption:

Hexadecimal: 10 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”,“a-f ” and “0-9” (e.g. 11AA22BB33)

For 128-bit encryption:

Hexadecimal: 26 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f ” and “0-9” (e.g. 00112233445566778899AABBCC).

d.When you are done, click the Apply button and click OK for the changes to take effect.

Note: For additional configuration information, please refer to the User’s Guide on the GearBox CD for Wireless PC Card.

Technical Support

PLEASE REFER TO THE SUPPORT INFORMATION CARD THAT SHIPPED WITH YOUR PRODUCT.

By registering your product at www.NETGEAR.com/register, we can provide you with faster expert technical support and timely notices of product and software upgrades.

NETGEAR, INC.

Support Information

Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR (For US & Canada only) - 24 x 7 phone support See Support information card for other countries.

E-mail: support@NETGEAR.com (24 x 7 online support) www.NETGEAR.com

©2003 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the Netgear logo, The Gear Guy, Everybody's connecting, and Auto Uplink are trademarks or registered trademarks of Netgear, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.

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NETGEAR MA521 802.11B Configuring the MA521 Wireless PC Card, Configuring the MA521 for Security, Manual Entry option

MA521 802.11B specifications

The NETGEAR MA521 802.11B is a wireless network adapter designed to provide seamless internet connectivity and facilitate network access in various environments. Recognized for its reliable performance, this adapter employs the 802.11b wireless standard, which allows for wireless data transfer rates of up to 11 Mbps. This makes it suitable for basic browsing, email, and other light web applications, especially in home and small office settings.

One of the standout features of the NETGEAR MA521 is its ease of installation. The adapter is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible even for individuals who may not be tech-savvy. Simply plug the device into a compatible USB port, and users can quickly set up their wireless connection without the need for complicated configurations. The included installation CD guides users through the setup process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

This wireless adapter integrates advanced technologies to enhance connectivity and user experience. The MA521 supports a wide range of operating systems, including various versions of Windows and Linux, ensuring compatibility with different platforms. Additionally, it features a robust driver that optimizes performance and ensures reliable communication with wireless routers and access points.

The NETGEAR MA521 also offers solid security features to protect users' data while accessing the internet. It supports industry-standard encryption protocols such as WEP, WPA, and WPA2, which are essential for safeguarding sensitive information from potential security threats. This commitment to security allows users to feel confident while browsing or handling personal data online.

In terms of size and design, the MA521 is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for mobile users and those who prefer a minimalistic setup. It can easily fit into a laptop bag or be stored away when not in use.

Overall, the NETGEAR MA521 802.11B wireless adapter combines simplicity with essential features, making it a reliable choice for users seeking a straightforward solution for wireless connectivity. Its ease of use, compatibility, and security options ensure that even novice users can enjoy the benefits of a wireless network without complications.