NETGEAR ProSafe ME103 Reference Manual

802.11b prosafe wireless access point
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Reference Manual for the
ME103 802.11b ProSafe

Wireless Access Point

NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
Phone 1-888-NETGEAR
August 2003
August 2003

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Summary of Contents for NETGEAR ProSafe ME103

  • Page 1: Wireless Access Point

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point NETGEAR, Inc. 4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA Phone 1-888-NETGEAR August 2003 August 2003...
  • Page 2: Technical Support

    In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice. NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.
  • Page 3 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice: Radio Frequency Notice NETGEAR ProSafe Wireless Access Point ME103 Tested to Comply with FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE FCC ID: PY3ME103 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference.
  • Page 4 Industry Canada office. EN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance This is to certify that the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Article 4a.
  • Page 5: Ce Declaration Of Conformity

    CE Declaration of Conformity For the following equipment: ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point 0470 ! is herewith confirmed to comply with the requirements set out in the Council Directive on the Approximation of the Laws of the Member States relating to Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC), Low-voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) and the Amendment Directive (93/68/EEC), the procedures given in European Council Directive 99/5/EC and 89/3360EEC.
  • Page 6 August 2003...
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    How to Use the HTML Version of this Manual ... 1-vii How to Print this Manual ...1-viii Chapter 2 Introduction About the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point ...2-1 Key Features ...2-2 802.11b Standards-based Wireless Networking ...2-3 Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink ...2-4 Compatible and Related NETGEAR Products ...2-4...
  • Page 8 How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default NetBIOS Name ...3-8 How to Log In to the ME103 Using Its Default IP Address ...3-10 Understanding Basic Wireless Settings ... 3-11 Understanding Basic Wireless Security Options ...3-12 Information to Gather Before Changing Basic Wireless Settings ...3-14 How to Set Up and Test Basic Wireless Connectivity ...3-15...
  • Page 9 I cannot access the Internet or the LAN with a wireless capable computer..6-2 I am using EAP-TLS security but get disconnected..6-3 I cannot connect to the ME103 to configure it..6-3 When I enter a URL or IP address I get a timeout error..6-3 Using the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings ...6-4...
  • Page 10 Domain Name Server ... B-9 Routing Protocols ... B-9 RIP ... B-9 MAC Addresses and ARP ... B-10 Internet Security and Firewalls ... B-10 What is a Firewall? ...B-11 Stateful Packet Inspection ...B-11 Denial of Service Attack ...B-11 Ethernet Cabling ... B-12 Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching ...
  • Page 11: About This Manual

    This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, firewall, and VPN technologies tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the Resource CD for the ME103 ProSafe Wireless Access Point, and on the Netgear website.
  • Page 12: Typographical Conventions

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Typographical Conventions This guide uses the following typographical conventions: Table 1. Typographical conventions italics Emphasis. bold times roman User input. [Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets. The notation [Enter] is used for the Enter key and the Return key.
  • Page 13: How To Use The Html Version Of This Manual

    The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual. – The E-mail button enables you to send feedback by e-mail to Netgear support. – The Print button prints the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a step-by-step procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.
  • Page 14: How To Print This Manual

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point How to Print this Manual To print this manual you man choose one of the following several options, according to your needs. • A “How To” Sequence of Steps in the HTML View. Use the Print button on the upper right of the toolbar to print the currently displayed topic.
  • Page 15: Introduction

    2-5. About the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point is the basic building block of a wireless LAN infrastructure. It provides connectivity between Ethernet wired networks and radio-equipped wireless notebook systems, desktop systems, print servers, and other devices.
  • Page 16: Key Features

    • DHCP Client Support. DHCP provides a dynamic IP address to PCs and other devices upon request. The ME103 can act as a client and obtain information from your DHPC server. • NAT & WINS Support. Support for both NetBIOS broadcast and WINS (Windows Internet Naming Service) allows the ME103 to easily fit into your existing Windows network.
  • Page 17: 802.11B Standards-Based Wireless Networking

    • Access Control. The Access Control MAC address filtering feature can ensure that only trusted wireless stations can use the ME103 to gain access to your LAN. • Simple Configuration. If the default settings are unsuitable, they are easy to change.
  • Page 18: Autosensing Ethernet Connections With Auto Uplink

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink The ME103 can connect to a standard Ethernet network. The LAN interface is autosensing and capable of full-duplex or half-duplex operation. The wireless access point incorporates Auto Uplink automatically sense whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port should have a ‘normal’...
  • Page 19: What's In The Box

    You should keep the Support Information card, along with the original packing materials, and use the packing materials to repack the ME103 if you need to return it for repair. To qualify for product updates and product warranty registrations, we encourage you to register on the NETGEAR Web site at: http://www.NETGEAR.com.
  • Page 20: Me103 Wireless Access Point Front Panel

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point ME103 Wireless Access Point Front Panel The ME103 Access Point provides three status LEDs. ProSafe Wireless Access Point 802.11b Figure 2-1: ME103 front panel The following table explains the LED indicators:...
  • Page 21: Me103 Wireless Access Point Rear Panel

    Figure 2-2: ME103 rear panel Left Side Primary and Right Side Secondary Detachable Antenna The ME103 provides two detachable antenna. The one on the left is the primary, and the one on the right is the secondary. See “Antenna Installation” on page 5-13 positioning the antenna to best take advantage of diversity and range capabilities of the ME103.
  • Page 22: Basic Installation And Configuration

    Basic Installation and Configuration This chapter describes how to set up your ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point for wireless connectivity to your LAN. This basic configuration will enable computers with 802.11b or 802.11g wireless adapters to do such things as connect to the Internet, or access printers and files on your LAN.
  • Page 23: Cabling Requirements

    PC. Cabling Requirements The ME103 Access Point connects to your LAN via twisted-pair Category 5 Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors. Note: The power adapter and cord shipped with the ME103 limits the distance from an AC outlet.
  • Page 24: Default Factory Settings

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Default Factory Settings When you first receive your ME103, the default factory settings will be set as shown below. You can restore these defaults with the Factory Default Restore switch on the rear panel — see Wireless Access Point Rear Panel”...
  • Page 25: Understanding Me103 Wireless Security Options

    Restrict Access Based on MAC address. You can restrict access to only trusted PCs so that unknown PCs cannot wirelessly connect to the ME103. MAC address filtering adds an obstacle against unwanted access to your network, but the data broadcast over the wireless link is fully exposed.
  • Page 26: Installing The Me103 802.11B Prosafe Wireless Access Point

    ME103 A ET UP THE Tip: Before mounting the ME103 in a high location, first set up and test the ME103 to verify wireless network connectivity. Prepare a PC with an Ethernet adapter. If this PC is already part of your network, record its TCP/IP configuration settings.
  • Page 27 Tip: If you plan to locate the ME103 in a location where it is difficult to connect the electrical power supply, consider using the NETGEAR, Inc. POE101 Power Over Ethernet Adapter which provides power to the ME103 through the Ethernet cable.
  • Page 28 Connect an Ethernet cable from your ME103 Access Point to a LAN port (B) on your router, switch, or hub. Note: By default, ME103 is set to be a DHCP client. If your network uses static IP addresses, you will need to change this setting.
  • Page 29: How To Log In To The Me103 Using Its Default Netbios Name

    “NETGEAR123456”, where 123456 is the last 6 digits of the access point’s MAC address. Note: If the computer you are using to connect to the ME103 is on a different subnet, you will not be able to connect via its NetBIOS name unless there is a WINS server on you LAN.
  • Page 30 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Enter the default user name of admin and the default password of password. Figure 3-6: Login result: ME103 home page The Web browser will then display the ME103 home page.
  • Page 31: How To Log In To The Me103 Using Its Default Ip Address

    192.168.0.224 is the default IP address of your access point. However, the ME103 is also set, by default, to be a DHCP client. So, if the ME103 has not yet been installed, and there is no DHCP server on the network, you can log in to the ME103 using its default IP address.
  • Page 32: Understanding Basic Wireless Settings

    The Basic Wireless Settings menu options are discussed below: • Country Domain. This field identifies the region where the ME103 can be used. It may not be legal to operate the wireless features of the wireless access point in a region other than one of those identified in this field.
  • Page 33: Understanding Basic Wireless Security Options

    Any device you want to participate in a particular wireless network will need to use the SSID. The ME103 default SSID is: NETGEAR. – A group of Wireless Stations and a single access point, all using the same ID (SSID), form a Basic Service Set (BSS). –...
  • Page 34 Network You can select the following network authentication options: Authentication • Open: the ME103 does not perform any authentication. However, if the 802.1x option is configured, authentication of connections can be performed by a RADIUS server. • Shared: this is for shared key authentication. The SSID and data are encrypted.
  • Page 35: Information To Gather Before Changing Basic Wireless Settings

    Passphrase method. ______________________________ These characters are case sensitive. Enter a word or group of printable characters. When you enter the Passphrase and click the Generate Key button on the ME103, the keys will be generated. – Manual method. These values are not case sensitive. For 64-bit WEP, enter 10 hex digits (any combination of 0-9 or a-f).
  • Page 36: How To Set Up And Test Basic Wireless Connectivity

    Follow the instructions below to set up and test basic wireless connectivity. Once you have established basic wireless connectivity, you can enable security settings appropriate to your needs. Log in to the ME103 using the MDI/MDIX name printed on the bottom of the unit or at its default address of http://192.168.0.224...
  • Page 37: How To Restrict Wireless Access By Mac Address

    How to Restrict Wireless Access by MAC Address To restrict access based on MAC addresses, follow these steps: Log in to the ME103 using the MDI/MDIX name printed on the bottom of the unit or at its default address of http://192.168.0.224...
  • Page 38: How To Configure Wep

    Now, only devices on this list will be allowed to wirelessly connect to the ME103. How to Configure WEP To configure WEP data encryption, follow these steps: Log in to the ME103 using the NetBIOS name printed on the bottom of the unit or at its default address of http://192.168.0.224 configured Use the default user name of admin and default password of password, or whatever LAN address and password you have set up.
  • Page 39: Using The Basic Ip Settings Options

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point • Automatic - enter a word or group of printable characters in the Passphrase box and click the Generate button. The four key boxes will be automatically populated with key values.
  • Page 40 The wireless access point is shipped preconfigured to use a private IP address on the LAN side, and to act as a DHCP client. If the wireless access point does not find a DHCP server on the Ethernet LAN, it defaults to this IP configuration: –...
  • Page 41: Maintenance

    Chapter 4 Maintenance This chapter describes how to use the management features of your ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. These features can be found by clicking on the Maintenance heading in the Main Menu of the browser interface. Viewing General, Log, Station, and Statistical Information The General information screen provides a summary of the current ME103 configuration settings.
  • Page 42 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Table 4-1. General Information Fields Field Description Access Point Information Access Point Name The default name may be changed if desired. Note: In 802.1x mode, this name is used as the client Login name for the RADIUS server.
  • Page 43: Statistics

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Statistics The Information - Statistics screen provides various LAN and WLAN statistics. Figure 4-2: Wireless Access Point Status screen Maintenance August 2003...
  • Page 44 Table 4-1. Statistics Fields Field Description System Up Time The length of time the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point has been connected to your network since it was last restarted. Wired Ethernet Received/Transmitted Packets The number of packets sent since the ME103 was last restarted.
  • Page 45: Activity Log

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Activity Log Use the Activity Log to view step-by-step login exchanges or other information about the wireless communications sessions on the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. Figure 4-3: Activity Log screen...
  • Page 46: Viewing A List Of Attached Devices

    Viewing a List of Attached Devices The Station List menu contains a table of all IP devices associated with the wireless access point in the wireless network defined by the Wireless Network Name (SSID). From the main menu of the browser interface, under the Information heading, click the Station List link to view the list, shown below.
  • Page 47: Upgrading The Wireless Access Point Software

    The firmware upgrade must be performed via a workstation connected to the ME103 via the Ethernet LAN interface. The software of the ME103 Access Point is stored in FLASH memory, and can be upgraded as new software is released by NETGEAR. Upgrade files can be downloaded from Netgear's Web site.
  • Page 48: Configuration File Management

    In some cases, you may need to reconfigure the wireless access point after upgrading. Configuration File Management The ME103 Access Point settings are stored in the wireless access point in a configuration file. This file can be saved (backed up) to a user’s PC, retrieved (restored) from the user’s PC, or cleared to factory default settings.
  • Page 49: Saving And Retrieving The Configuration

    Hold the Reset Button down while you Power On the ME103. Continue holding the Reset Button until the LEDs blink twice. Release the Reset Button. The factory default configuration has now been restored, and the ME103 is ready for use. Maintenance 2-7). The reset button has two functions:...
  • Page 50: Changing The Administrator Password

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Changing the Administrator Password The default password is password. Change this password to a more secure password. You cannot change the administrator login name. From the main menu of the browser interface, under the Management heading, click Change Password to bring up the menu shown below.
  • Page 51: Advanced Configuration

    This chapter describes how to configure the advanced features of your ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. These features can be found under the Advanced heading in the main menu. Configuring Advanced Security 802.1x Options For an overview of 802.1x, see page B-9.
  • Page 52: How To Configure The 802.1X Key Exchange Option

    To configure your ME103, print and fill out the blank worksheet found at the end of this section and record your network configuration. A blank worksheet is provided below.
  • Page 53 Click Apply. Note: The idle timeout on the ME103 is 10 minutes. If there is no traffic for 10 minutes, the 802.1x supplicant (wireless client) will be automatically disconnected. 3. Configure the PCs on network to use the 802.1x and WEP settings you just applied to the ME103.
  • Page 54 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Figure 5-1: Request a certificate Note: The procedure for obtaining certificates differs between a CA like Verisign and a CA such as a Windows 2000 certificate server. Organizations operate Windows 2000 certificate servers to provide certificates for its members.
  • Page 55 4. View the ME103 log and check the connection To check the connection, you can initiate a request from a wireless device to the network. Use the ME103 Activity Log to monitor the initiation of the 802.1x wireless session. Advanced Configuration...
  • Page 56 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Figure 5-5: Information Activity Log for starting a 802.1x wireless connection The simplest method is to ping the LAN IP address of another computer on the Ethernet LAN. From a wireless PC, on the Windows taskbar click the Start button, then click Run.
  • Page 57 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Figure 5-7: Ping test results At this point the connection is established and your wireless connection is working. Advanced Configuration August 2003...
  • Page 58: Understanding Advanced Wireless Settings

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Understanding Advanced Wireless Settings The default advanced wireless settings usually work well. These settings should not be changed unless you are sure it is necessary. Figure 5-8: Advanced Wireless Settings screen...
  • Page 59 You can select the following options: • Primary (R) • Secondary (L) • Diversity - note that ME103 diversity is provided in receive mode only, not in transmit mode. The PRIMARY RF port provides transmit and receive. The SECONDARY provides receive mode only.
  • Page 60: Configuring Wireless Operating Modes

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Configuring Wireless Operating Modes The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point lets you build large bridged wireless networks. Examples of wireless bridged configurations are: • Client Access Point to Access Point.
  • Page 61: How To Configure Multi-Point Wireless Bridging

    Address of AP2. – Because it is in the central location, configure ME103 (AP2) on LAN Segment 2 in Point-to-Multi-Point Bridge mode. No MAC address is required because it will respond to Point-to-Point APs which are configured communicating to it.
  • Page 62 PCs or servers connected to any of the three LAN segments. • Wireless stations will not be able to connect to the ME103 Access Points in the illustration above. If you require warless stations to access any lan segment, you can additional ME103 Access Points configured in Wireless Access Point mode to any LAN segment.
  • Page 63: Antenna Installation

    Another solution is to relocate the antenna(e) with an RF cable to an optimal spot such as a ceiling, high on a wall, etc. One typical application is to locate the ME103 is in a secure location like a data center.
  • Page 64: Blank Configuration Worksheet

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Note that ME103 diversity is provided only in receive mode, not in transmit mode. The Primary RF port provides transmit and receive. The Secondary RF port provides receive mode only.
  • Page 65: Troubleshooting

    If it is plugged directly into the wall, verify that it is not a switched outlet. • Make sure you are using the correct NETGEAR power adapter supplied with your access point. Troubleshooting Troubleshooting 4-10.
  • Page 66: The Wireless Lan Activity Light Does Not Light Up

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The Wireless LAN activity light does not light up. The access point’s antennae are not working. • If the Wireless LAN activity light stays off, disconnect the adapter from its power source and then plug it in again.
  • Page 67: I Am Using Eap-Tls Security But Get Disconnected

    LAN port LED is green to verify that the Ethernet connection is OK. • If you are using the NetBIOS name of the ME103 to connect, ensure that your PC and the ME103 are on the same network segment or that there is a WINS server on your network.
  • Page 68: Using The Reset Button To Restore Factory Default Settings

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point • If the PCs are configured correctly, but still not working, ensure that the ME103 is connected and turned on. Connect to it and check its settings. If you cannot connect to it, check the LAN and power connections.
  • Page 69: Appendix A Specifications

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point This appendix provides technical specifications for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. Specifications for the ME103 Parameter 802.11b Data Rates 1, 2, 5.5, & 11 Mbps (Auto-rate capable) 802.11b 2.412 ~ 2.462 GHz (US)
  • Page 70 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Specifications August 2003...
  • Page 71: Wireless Networking Basics

    This chapter provides an overview of wireless networking and security. Wireless Networking Overview The ME103 Access Point conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs). On an 802.11b wireless link, data is encoded using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and is transmitted in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.5GHz.
  • Page 72: Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-To-Peer Workgroup

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point 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.
  • Page 73: 802.11 Authentication

    The 802.11 standard defines several services that govern how two 802.11 devices communicate. The following events must occur before an 802.11 Station can communicate with an Ethernet network through an access point such as the one built in to the ME103: Turn on the wireless station.
  • Page 74: Shared Key Authentication

    The station connects to the network. If the decrypted text does not match the original challenge text (i.e., the access point and station do not share the same WEP Key), then the access point will refuse to authenticate the station and the station will be unable to communicate with either the 802.11 network or Ethernet network.
  • Page 75: Overview Of Wep Parameters

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point 802.11b Authentication Shared Key Steps 1) Authentication request sent to AP 2) AP sends challenge text Client 3) Client encrypts attempting challenge text and to connect sends it back to AP...
  • Page 76: Key Size

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Note: Some 802.11 access points also support Use WEP for Authentication Only (Shared Key Authentication without data encryption). However, the ME103 does not offer this option. Key Size The IEEE 802.11 standard supports two types of WEP encryption: 40-bit and 128-bit.
  • Page 77: Wep Configuration Options

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point WEP Configuration Options The WEP settings must match on all 802.11 devices that are within the same wireless network as identified by the SSID. In general, if your mobile clients will roam between access points, then all of the 802.11 access points and all of the 802.11 client adapters on the network must have the same...
  • Page 78 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The radio frequency channels used are listed in Table B-1. 802.11b Radio Frequency Channels Channel Center Frequency 2412 MHz 2417 MHz 2422 MHz 2427 MHz 2432 MHz 2437 MHz 2442 MHz...
  • Page 79: Understanding 802.1X Port Based Network Access Control

    802.1x is well on its way to becoming an industry standard, and provides an effective wireless LAN security solution. Windows XP implements 802.1x natively, and the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point supports 802.1x. The 802.11i committee is specifying the use of 802.1x to eventually become part of the 802.11 standard.
  • Page 80 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The client sends an EAP-start message. This begins a series of message exchanges to authenticate the client. The access point replies with an EAP-request identity message. The client sends an EAP-response packet containing the identity to the authentication server.
  • Page 81 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).
  • Page 82 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point B-12 Wireless Networking Basics August 2003...
  • Page 83: Network, Routing, Firewall, And Cabling Basics

    Appendix C Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics This chapter provides an overview of IP networks, routing, and wireless networking. As you read this document, you may be directed to various RFC documents for further information. An RFC is a Request For Comment (RFC) published by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), an open organization that defines the architecture and operation of the Internet.
  • Page 84: What Is A Router

    Routers vary in performance and scale, number of routing protocols supported, and types of physical WAN connection they support. The ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point is a small office router that routes the IP protocol over a single-user broadband connection.
  • Page 85 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Class A Network Class B Network Class C Network Figure 6-3: Three Main Address Classes The five address classes are: • Class A Class A addresses can have up to 16,777,214 hosts on a single network. They use an eight-bit network number and a 24-bit node number.
  • Page 86: Netmask

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point This addressing structure allows IP addresses to uniquely identify each physical network and each node on each physical network. For each unique value of the network portion of the address, the base address of the range (host address of all zeros) is known as the network address and is not usually assigned to a host.
  • Page 87 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Subnet addressing allows us to split one IP network address into smaller multiple physical networks known as subnetworks. Some of the node numbers are used as a subnet number instead.
  • Page 88 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The following table lists the additional subnet mask bits in dotted-decimal notation. To use the table, write down the original class netmask and replace the 0 value octets with the dotted-decimal value of the additional subnet bits.
  • Page 89: Private Ip Addresses

    172.16.0.0 - 172.31.255.255 192.168.0.0 - 192.168.255.255 Choose your private network number from this range. The DHCP server of the ME103 Access Point is preconfigured to automatically assign private addresses. Regardless of your particular situation, do not create an arbitrary IP address; always follow the guidelines explained here.
  • Page 90: Ip Configuration By Dhcp

    IP addresses, along with other information (such as gateway and DNS addresses) that it may assign to the other devices on the network. The ME103 Access Point has the capacity to act as a DHCP server.
  • Page 91: Domain Name Server

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The ME103 Access Point also functions as a DHCP client when connecting to the ISP. The firewall can automatically obtain an IP address, subnet mask, DNS server addresses, and a gateway address if the ISP provides this information by DHCP.
  • Page 92: Mac Addresses And Arp

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point MAC Addresses and ARP An IP address alone cannot be used to deliver data from one LAN device to another. To send data between LAN devices, you must convert the IP address of the destination device to its media access control address (MAC address).
  • Page 93: What Is A Firewall

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point What is a Firewall? A firewall is a device that protects one network from another, while allowing communication between the two. A firewall incorporates the functions of the NAT router, while adding features for dealing with a hacker intrusion or attack.
  • Page 94: Ethernet Cabling

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Ethernet Cabling Although Ethernet networks originally used thick or thin coaxial cable, most installations currently use unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling. The UTP cable contains eight conductors, arranged in four twisted pairs, and terminated with an RJ45 type connector. A normal straight-through UTP Ethernet cable follows the EIA568B standard wiring and pinout as described in Table 6-1.
  • Page 95: Cable Quality

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The ME103 Access Point incorporates Auto Uplink technology (also called MDI/MDIX). The Ethernet port will automatically sense whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port should have a normal connection (e.g. connecting to a PC) or an uplink connection (e.g. connecting to a router, switch, or hub).
  • Page 96 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point C-14 Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics August 2003...
  • Page 97: Preparing Your Pcs For Network Access

    Appendix D Preparing Your PCs for Network Access This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet through the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point. For adding file and print sharing to your network, please consult the Windows help information included with the version of Windows installed on each computer on your network.
  • Page 98 Double-click the Network icon. The Network window opens, which displays a list of installed components: You must have an Ethernet adapter or an ME103, the TCP/IP protocol, and the Client for Microsoft Networks. Note: It is not necessary to remove any other network components shown in the Network window in order to install the adapter, TCP/IP, or Client for Microsoft Networks.
  • Page 99: Enabling Dhcp To Automatically Configure Tcp/Ip Settings

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Click the Add button. Select Client, and then click Add. Select Microsoft. Select File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.
  • Page 100 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Verify the following settings as shown: • Client for Microsoft Network exists • Ethernet adapter is present • TCP/IP is present • Primary Network Logon is set to Windows logon Click on the Properties button.
  • Page 101: Selecting Windows' Internet Access Method

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point By default, the IP Address tab is open on this window. • Verify the following: Obtain an IP address automatically is selected. If not selected, click in the radio button to the left of it to select it.
  • Page 102: Configuring Windows 2000 Or Xp For Tcp/Ip Networking

    From the drop-down box, select your Ethernet adapter. The window is updated to show your settings, which should match the values below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR recommends for connecting through a router or gateway: •...
  • Page 103: Dhcp Configuration Of Tcp/Ip In Windows Xp

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP. The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of these versions of Windows.
  • Page 104 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Now you should be at the Local Area Network Connection Status window. This box displays the connection status, duration, speed, and activity statistics. Administrator logon access rights are needed to use this window.
  • Page 105: Dhcp Configuration Of Tcp/Ip In Windows 2000

    Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Verify that Obtain an IP address automatically radio button is selected and that the Obtain DNS server address automatically radio button is selected. • Click the OK button. This completes the DHCP configuration in Windows XP.
  • Page 106 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point The Local Area Connection Properties dialog box appears. Verify that you have the correct Ethernet card selected in the Connect using: box and that the following two items are displayed and selected in the box of “Components checked are used by...
  • Page 107: Verifying Tcp/Ip Properties For Windows Xp Or 2000

    Type ipconfig /all Your IP Configuration information will be listed, and should match the values below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR recommends for connecting through a router or gateway: • The IP address is between 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254 •...
  • Page 108 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point D-12 Preparing Your PCs for Network Access August 2003...
  • Page 109: Glossary

    Glossary Use the list below to find definitions for technical terms used in this manual. 10BASE-T IEEE 802.3 specification for 10 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring. 100BASE-Tx IEEE 802.3 specification for 100 Mbps Ethernet over twisted pair wiring. 802.1x 802.1x defines port-based, network access control used to provide authenticated network access and automated data encryption key management.
  • Page 110 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point also Reverse ARP (RARP) which can be used by a host to discover its IP address. In this case, the host broadcasts its physical address and a RARP server replies with the host's IP address.
  • Page 111 .com, .edu, .uk, etc. For example, in the address mail.NETGEAR.com, mail is a server name and NETGEAR.com is the domain. Short for digital subscriber line, but is commonly used in reference to the asymmetric version of this technology (ADSL) that allows data to be sent over existing copper telephone lines at data rates of from 1.5...
  • Page 112 Media Dependant Interface (MDI). In MDI wiring, a PC transmits on pins 1 and 2. At the hub, switch, router, or access point, the perspective is reversed, and the hub receives on pins 1 and 2. This wiring is referred to as Media Dependant Interface - Crossover (MDI-X). See also Auto Uplink.
  • Page 113 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point NetBIOS for sharing services Network Basic Input Output System. An application programming interface (API) and information on l ocal-area networks (LANs). Provides for communication between stations of a network where each station is given a name. These names are alphanumeric names, 16 characters in length.
  • Page 114 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point This is typically the configuration parameter for a wireless PC card. It corresponds to the ESSID in the wireless Access Point and to the wireless network name. See also Wireless Network Name and ESSID.
  • Page 115 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point WINS WINS. Windows Internet Naming Service is a server process for resolving Windows-based computer names to IP addresses. Wireless Network Name (SSID) Wireless Network Name (SSID) is the name assigned to a wireless network. This is the same as the SSID or ESSID configuration parameter.
  • Page 116 Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point Glossary August 2003...
  • Page 117 IP addresses and NAT B-7 and the Internet B-2 assigning B-2, B-10 private B-7 translating B-8 IP configuration by DHCP B-8 IP networking for Windows C-1, C-6 Log In to the ME103 3-8, 3-10 MAC address B-10 MDI/MDI-X B-13, D-2...
  • Page 118 MDI/MDI-X wiring B-12, D-4 netmask translation table B-6 Network Address Translation B-7 Open System authentication B-2 Passphrase 3-13, 3-14, 3-18 pinout, Ethernet cable B-12 Placement 3-1 port forwarding behind NAT B-8 protocols Address Resolution B-10 DHCP B-8 RADIUS Port 5-2, 5-14 RADIUS Shared Key 5-2, 5-14 Range 3-1 range 3-1...

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