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

Overview of Home and Small Office Networking Technologies

Common connection types and their speed and security considerations are:

•Broadband Internet. Your Internet connection speed is determined by your modem type, such as ADSL or cable modem, as well as the connection speed of the sites to which you connect, and general Internet traffic. ADSL and cable modem connections are asymmetrical, meaning they have a lower data rate to the Internet (upstream) than from the Internet (downstream). Keep in mind that when you connect to another site that also has an asymmetrical connection, the data rate between your sites is limited by each side’s upstream data rate. A typical residential ADSL or cable modem connection provides a downstream throughput of about 1 to 3 megabits per second (Mbps). Newer technologies such as ADSL2+ and Fiber to the Home (FTTH) will increase the connection speed to tens of Mbps.

•Wireless. Your RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 provides a wireless data throughput of up to 300 Mbps using technology called multiple input, multiple output (MIMO), in which multiple antennas transmit multiple streams of data. The use of multiple antennas also provides excellent range and coverage. With the introduction of the newer WPA and WPA2 encryption and authentication protocols, wireless security is extremely strong.

To get the best performance, use RangeMax NEXT adapters such as the WN511B for your computers. Although the RangeMax NEXT router is compatible with older 802.11b and 802.11g adapters, the use of these older wireless technologies in your network can result in lower throughput overall (typically less than 10 Mbps for 802.11b and less than 40 Mbps for 802.11g). In addition, many older wireless products do not support the latest security protocols, WPA and WPA2.

•Powerline. For connecting rooms or floors that are blocked by obstructions or are distant vertically, consider networking over your building’s AC wiring. NETGEAR’s Powerline HD family of products delivers up to 200 Mbps to any outlet, while the older-generation XE family of products delivers 14 Mbps or 85 Mbps. Data transmissions are encrypted for security, and you can configure an individual network password to prevent neighbors from connecting.

The Powerline HD family of products can coexist on the same network with older-generation XE family products or HomePlug 1.0 products, but they are not interoperable with these older products.

Fine-Tuning Your Network

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v1.0, February 2008

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NETGEAR WNDR3300 manual Overview of Home and Small Office Networking Technologies
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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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