User Manual for the NETGEAR RangeMax™ Wireless PC Card WPN511

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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February 2005

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NETGEAR WPN511 user manual Authentication and WEP, Ad Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup

WPN511 specifications

The NETGEAR WPN511 is a popular wireless network card specifically designed for laptops and other portable devices, allowing users to connect to wireless networks with ease. With its IEEE 802.11g wireless standard, the WPN511 provides a high-speed connection of up to 54 Mbps, making it suitable for tasks like streaming, file sharing, and online gaming.

One of the key features of the WPN511 is its compatibility with both 802.11g and the older 802.11b standards. This backward compatibility ensures that users can connect to nearly any wireless network, providing flexibility and convenience. The device also employs advanced wireless security features, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption, which help protect users from unauthorized access and ensure data privacy.

The WPN511 is designed with a compact form factor, making it easy to install and use in various laptop models. It uses a PC Card interface, which allows for simple plug-and-play functionality. Upon inserting the card, users can quickly access an intuitive setup wizard that guides them through the configuration process.

In terms of performance, the NETGEAR WPN511 is equipped with MIMO (Multiple In, Multiple Out) technology, which enhances signal range and reduces dead spots in wireless connectivity. This feature is particularly beneficial in larger environments where a reliable wireless connection is essential. The card is engineered to minimize interference and maintain a stable connection, which is crucial for users engaged in activities requiring consistent bandwidth.

Moreover, the WPN511 supports Quality of Service (QoS) features, which prioritize network traffic to ensure that critical applications like video conferencing and online gaming receive the bandwidth they need without lag or interruption.

Overall, the NETGEAR WPN511 is a robust wireless network card that combines compatibility, security, and performance. Whether professionals need to stay connected during travel or home users want a seamless internet experience, the WPN511 offers a solid solution to meet modern wireless networking demands. Its user-friendly installation process and reliable performance have established it as a go-to choice for many laptop users seeking efficient wireless connectivity.