NETGEAR RangeMax™ Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 Reference Manual

How Your Computer Communicates with a Remote Computer through Your Router

When a computer on your network needs to access a computer on the Internet, your computer sends your router a message containing source and destination address and process information. Before forwarding your message to the remote computer, your router must modify the source information and must create and track the communication session so that replies can be routed back to your computer.

Here is an example of normal outbound traffic and the resulting inbound responses:

1.You open Internet Explorer, beginning a browser session on your computer. Invisible to you, your operating system assigns a service number (port number) to every communication process running on your computer. In this example, let’s say Windows assigns port number 5678 to this browser session.

2.You ask your browser to get a Web page from the Web server at www.example.com. Your computer composes a Web page request message with the following address and port information:

•The source address is your computer’s IP address.

•The source port number is 5678, the browser session.

•The destination address is the IP address of www.example.com, which your computer finds by asking a DNS server.

•The destination port number is 80, the standard port number for a Web server process. Your computer then sends this request message to your router.

3.Your router creates an entry in its internal session table describing this communication session between your computer and the Web server at www.example.com. Before sending the Web page request message to www.example.com, your router stores the original information and then modifies the source information in the request message, performing Network Address Translation (NAT):

•The source address is replaced with your router’s public IP address.

This is necessary because your computer uses a private IP address that is not globally unique and cannot be used on the Internet.

•The source port number is changed to a number chosen by the router, such as 33333. This is necessary because two computers could independently be using the same session number.

Your router then sends this request message through the Internet to the Web server at www.example.com.

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Fine-Tuning Your Network

v1.0, February 2008

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NETGEAR WNDR3300 manual V1.0, February
Page 69 Page 71

WNDR3300 specifications

The NETGEAR WNDR3300 is a versatile and powerful wireless router designed to deliver reliable network performance for homes and small offices. Launched as part of NETGEAR's popular RangeMax series, the WNDR3300 encompasses several advanced technologies to ensure robust connectivity and seamless internet access for multiple devices.

One of the standout features of the WNDR3300 is its dual-band capability. Supporting both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, the router enables users to connect multiple devices without interference. The 2.4 GHz band offers broader coverage and is ideal for basic web browsing and email, while the 5 GHz band is designed for high-bandwidth activities such as video streaming and online gaming. This dual-band operation helps to alleviate congestion, improve performance, and enhance the overall user experience.

With its 802.11n wireless technology, the WNDR3300 boasts impressive speeds of up to 300 Mbps. The router utilizes MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, which employs multiple antennas for both transmitting and receiving signals, resulting in improved range and coverage. This technology is particularly beneficial in larger homes where traditional single-antenna routers might struggle to provide strong signals in distant rooms.

Another significant aspect of the WNDR3300 is its built-in firewall and security features. The router offers WPA/WPA2 encryption, which protects users from unauthorized access and secures personal data while browsing. Additionally, the router includes parental control features, enabling users to manage their family's internet usage effectively. These controls allow for the restriction of specific websites, scheduling of internet access times, and monitoring of online activity.

The WNDR3300 also includes several Ethernet ports, allowing for wired connections to desktops, gaming consoles, and other devices. With four LAN ports, users can easily connect multiple devices for stable and high-speed internet access. Moreover, the router supports dynamic DNS and VLAN support, making it a suitable option for advanced users looking to customize their network setup.

Installing and configuring the WNDR3300 is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly web interface. NETGEAR also provides a WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button, allowing users to connect devices securely with just a push of a button, simplifying the connection process.

In conclusion, the NETGEAR WNDR3300 is an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and fast wireless networking solution. With its dual-band capabilities, advanced security features, and user-friendly setup, it effectively meets the demands of modern internet usage, making it a valuable addition to any home or small office network.
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