Cisco Systems 102044 AIR-CB20A-A-K9 User Manual winincfgb

Cisco Systems Inc AIR-CB20A-A-K9 winincfgb

Contents

User Manual Part 1

BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALCorporate HeadquartersCisco Systems, Inc.170 West Tasman DriveSan Jose, CA 95134-1706 USAhttp://www.cisco.comTel: 408 526-4000800 553-NETS (6387)Fax: 408 526-4100Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guidefor WindowsCustomer Order Number: Text Part Number: OL-1394-03
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALTHE SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION REGARDING THE PRODUCTS IN THIS MANUAL ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL STATEMENTS, INFORMATION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS IN THIS MANUAL ARE BELIEVED TO BE ACCURATE BUT ARE PRESENTED WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. USERS MUST TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR APPLICATION OF ANY PRODUCTS.THE SOFTWARE LICENSE AND LIMITED WARRANTY FOR THE ACCOMPANYING PRODUCT ARE SET FORTH IN THE INFORMATION PACKET THAT SHIPPED WITH THE PRODUCT AND ARE INCORPORATED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO LOCATE THE SOFTWARE LICENSE OR LIMITED WARRANTY, CONTACT YOUR CISCO REPRESENTATIVE FOR A COPY.The following information is for FCC compliance of Class A devices: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case users will be required to correct the interference at their own expense. The following information is for FCC compliance of Class B devices: The equipment described in this manual generates and may radiate radio-frequency energy. If it is not installed in accordance with Cisco’s installation instructions, it may cause interference with radio and television reception. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device in accordance with the specifications in part 15 of the FCC rules. These specifications are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. Modifying the equipment without Cisco’s written authorization may result in the equipment no longer complying with FCC requirements for Class A or Class B digital devices. In that event, your right to use the equipment may be limited by FCC regulations, and you may be required to correct any interference to radio or television communications at your own expense.You can determine whether your equipment is causing interference by turning it off. If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the Cisco equipment or one of its peripheral devices. If the equipment causes interference to radio or television reception, try to correct the interference by using one or more of the following measures:• Turn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.• Move the equipment to one side or the other of the television or radio.• Move the equipment farther away from the television or radio.• Plug the equipment into an outlet that is on a different circuit from the television or radio. (That is, make certain the equipment and the television or radio are on circuits controlled by different circuit breakers or fuses.) Modifications to this product not authorized by Cisco Systems, Inc. could void the FCC approval and negate your authority to operate the product. The Cisco implementation of TCP header compression is an adaptation of a program developed by the University of California, Berkeley (UCB) as part of UCB’s public domain version of the UNIX operating system. All rights reserved. Copyright © 1981, Regents of the University of California. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER WARRANTY HEREIN, ALL DOCUMENT FILES AND SOFTWARE OF THESE SUPPLIERS ARE PROVIDED “AS IS” WITH ALL FAULTS. CISCO AND THE ABOVE-NAMED SUPPLIERS DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT OR ARISING FROM A COURSE OF DEALING, USAGE, OR TRADE PRACTICE.IN NO EVENT SHALL CISCO OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO DATA ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS MANUAL, EVEN IF CISCO OR ITS SUPPLIERS HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.CCIP, the Cisco Powered Network mark, the Cisco Systems Verified logo, Cisco Unity, Follow Me Browsing, FormShare, Internet Quotient, iQ Breakthrough, iQ Expertise, iQ FastTrack, the iQ Logo, iQ Net Readiness Scorecard, Networking Academy, ScriptShare, SMARTnet, TransPath, and Voice LAN are trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc.; Changing the Way We Work, Live, Play, and Learn, Discover All That’s Possible, The Fastest Way to Increase Your Internet Quotient, and iQuick Study are service marks of Cisco Systems, Inc.; and Aironet, ASIST, BPX, Catalyst, CCDA, CCDP, CCIE, CCNA, CCNP, Cisco, the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert logo, Cisco IOS, the Cisco IOS logo, Cisco Press, Cisco Systems, Cisco Systems Capital, the Cisco Systems logo, Empowering the Internet Generation, Enterprise/Solver, EtherChannel, EtherSwitch, Fast Step, GigaStack, IOS, IP/TV, LightStream, MGX, MICA, the Networkers logo, Network Registrar, Packet, PIX, Post-Routing, Pre-Routing, RateMUX, Registrar, SlideCast, StrataView Plus, Stratm, SwitchProbe, TeleRouter, and VCO are registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document or Web site are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. (0203R)Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsCopyright © 2002, Cisco Systems, Inc.All rights reserved.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALiiiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03CONTENTSPreface xiAudience xiiPurpose xiiOrganization xiiConventions xiiiRelated Publications xvObtaining Documentation xvWorld Wide Web xvDocumentation CD-ROM xvOrdering Documentation xvDocumentation Feedback xviObtaining Technical Assistance xviCisco.com xviTechnical Assistance Center xviiCisco TAC Web Site xviiCisco TAC Escalation Center xviiCHAPTER 1Product Overview 1-1Introduction to the Client Adapters 1-2Terminology 1-3Hardware Components 1-3Radio 1-3Radio Antenna 1-4LEDs 1-4Software Components 1-5Radio Firmware 1-5Driver 1-5Client Utility 1-5Overview of ACU 1-6Buttons on the ACU Screens 1-7Network Configurations Using the Client Adapter 1-7Ad Hoc Wireless LAN 1-8Wireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LAN 1-9
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsivCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03CHAPTER 2Preparing for Installation 2-1Safety information 2-2FCC Safety Compliance Statement 2-2Safety Guidelines 2-2Warnings 2-3Unpacking the Client Adapter 2-3Package Contents 2-3System Requirements 2-4Site Requirements 2-5For Infrastructure Devices 2-5For Client Devices 2-5CHAPTER 3Installing the Client Adapter 3-1Determining the Latest Versions of the Driver and ACU 3-2Installing the Driver 3-3Installing the Driver for Windows 95 3-3Windows 95 Version A 3-4Windows 95 Version B 3-5Installing the Driver for Windows 98 3-7Installing the Driver for Windows NT 3-9Installing the Driver for Windows 2000 3-10Installing the Driver for Windows Millennium Edition (Me) 3-12Installing the Driver for Windows XP 3-13Installing ACU 3-16Verifying Installation 3-19Selecting Between Two Installed Client Adapters 3-19CHAPTER 4Using the Profile Manager 4-1Overview of Profile Manager 4-2Opening Profile Manager 4-2Creating a New Profile 4-3Selecting the Active Profile 4-4Modifying a Profile 4-5Editing a Profile 4-5Setting a Profile to Default Values 4-6Renaming a Profile 4-6Deleting a Profile 4-6
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsvCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Importing and Exporting Profiles 4-6Importing a Profile 4-7Exporting a Profile 4-7Denying Access to Non-Administrative Users 4-7CHAPTER 5Configuring the Client Adapter 5-1Overview 5-2Setting System Parameters 5-3Setting RF Network Parameters 5-6Setting Advanced Infrastructure Parameters 5-13Setting Advanced Ad Hoc Parameters 5-17Setting Network Security Parameters 5-20Setting the Allow Association To Mixed Cells Parameter 5-21Overview of Security Features 5-21Static WEP Keys 5-22EAP (with Static or Dynamic WEP Keys) 5-22Additional WEP Key Security Features 5-24Synchronizing Security Features 5-25Using Static WEP 5-26Entering a New Static WEP Key 5-26Overwriting an Existing Static WEP Key 5-28Disabling Static WEP 5-28Enabling LEAP 5-28Enabling Host-Based EAP 5-31Disabling LEAP or Host-Based EAP 5-34Disabling LEAP 5-34Disabling Host-Based EAP 5-34CHAPTER 6Using EAP Authentication 6-1Overview 6-2Using LEAP with the Windows Username and Password 6-2After Profile Selection/Card Insertion 6-2After a Reboot/Logoff 6-3After Your LEAP Credentials Expire 6-4Using LEAP with an Automatically Prompted Login 6-4After Profile Selection/Card Insertion 6-4After a Reboot/Logoff 6-5After Your LEAP Credentials Expire 6-7
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsviCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Using LEAP with a Manually Prompted Login 6-8After Profile Selection 6-8After a Reboot/Logoff/Card Insertion 6-8After Your LEAP Credentials Expire 6-10Using LEAP with a Saved Username and Password 6-10After Profile Selection/Card Insertion 6-10After a Reboot/Logoff 6-11After Your LEAP Credentials Expire 6-11Using Host-Based EAP 6-11After Profile Selection/Card Insertion 6-11EAP-TLS 6-12EAP-MD5 6-12After a Reboot/Logoff 6-12EAP-TLS 6-12EAP-MD5 6-13CHAPTER 7Performing Diagnostics 7-1Overview of ACU Diagnostic Tools 7-2Setting Parameters that Affect ACU Diagnostic Tools 7-2Viewing the Current Status of Your Client Adapter 7-4Viewing Statistics for Your Client Adapter 7-12Viewing the Link Status Meter 7-16Running an RF Link Test 7-18CHAPTER 8Routine Procedures 8-1Inserting and Removing a Client Adapter 8-2Inserting a Client Adapter 8-2Inserting a PC Card or PC-Cardbus Card 8-2Inserting a PCI Card 8-3Removing a Client Adapter 8-4Removing a PC Card or PC-Cardbus Card 8-4Removing a PCI Card 8-4Upgrading the Firmware 8-5Determining the Firmware Version 8-5Loading New Firmware 8-6
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsviiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Driver Procedures 8-7Determining the Driver Version 8-7Upgrading the Driver 8-8Upgrading the Driver for Windows 95 and 98 8-8Upgrading the Driver for Windows NT 8-9Upgrading the Driver for Windows 2000 8-10Upgrading the Driver for Windows Me 8-11Upgrading the Driver for Windows XP 8-12Uninstalling the Driver 8-13Uninstalling the 6.10 Driver 8-13Uninstalling a Driver Other Than the 6.10 Driver 8-16ACU Procedures 8-18Opening ACU 8-18Exiting ACU 8-19Modifying ACU Installation Settings 8-19Determining the Version of ACU 8-21Upgrading ACU 8-22Uninstalling ACU 8-24Uninstalling ACU Versions Prior to 4.13 8-24Uninstalling ACU Version 4.13 or Greater 8-24Deleting the ACU Icon from the Desktop 8-25Restarting the Client Adapter 8-25Turning Your Client Adapter’s Radio On or Off 8-25Uninstalling Microsoft Hot Fixes 8-26CHAPTER 9Troubleshooting 9-1Accessing the Latest Troubleshooting Information 9-2Interpreting the Indicator LEDs 9-2Troubleshooting the Client Adapter 9-3Problems Installing the Driver 9-3Problems Installing ACU 9-3Client Adapter Recognition Problems 9-4Resolving Resource Conflicts 9-4Resolving Resource Conflicts in Windows 95, 98, and Me 9-5Resolving Resource Conflicts in Windows NT 9-5Resolving Resource Conflicts in Windows 2000 9-6Resolving Resource Conflicts in Windows XP 9-7Problems Associating to an Access Point 9-7Problems Authenticating to an Access Point 9-8
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsviiiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Problems Connecting to the Network 9-8Losing Association Upon Resuming from Suspend Mode(Windows NT and Mini PCI Card Only) 9-8Parameters Missing from ACU Properties Screens 9-8LEAP Login Screen Appears Before Windows Login Screen 9-9Microsoft Hot Fixes 9-9Error Messages 9-9Getting Help 9-15APPENDIX ATechnical Specifications A-1APPENDIX BTranslated Safety Warnings B-1Explosive Device Proximity Warning B-2Dipole Antenna Installation Warning B-3Warning for Laptop Users B-4APPENDIX CDeclarations of Conformity and Regulatory Information C-1Manufacturer’s Federal Communication Commission Declaration of Conformity Statement C-2Department of Communications – Canada C-3Canadian Compliance Statement C-3European Community, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein C-4Declaration of Conformity with Regard to the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC C-42.4-GHz Client Adapters C-55-GHz Client Adapters C-6Declaration of Conformity for RF Exposure C-6Guidelines for Operating Cisco Aironet Client Adapters in Japan C-6Japanese Translation C-6English Translation C-7APPENDIX DChannels, Power Levels, and Antenna Gains D-1Channels D-2For IEEE 802.11a D-2For IEEE 802.11b D-3Maximum Power Levels and Antenna Gains D-4For IEEE 802.11a D-4For IEEE 802.11b D-4
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsixCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03APPENDIX EConfiguring the Client Adapter throughWindows XP E-1Overview E-2Overview of Security Features E-2Static WEP Keys E-2EAP (with Static or Dynamic WEP Keys) E-2Configuring the Client Adapter E-4Enabling EAP-TLS Authentication E-7Enabling EAP-MD5 Authentication E-9Using Windows XP to Associate to an Access Point E-10Viewing the Current Status of Your Client Adapter E-10APPENDIX FPerforming a Site Survey F-1Overview F-2Guidelines F-2Additional Information F-2Specifying Signal Strength Units F-3Using Passive Mode F-3Using Active Mode F-7Forcing the Client Adapter To Reassociate F-14GLOSSARYINDEX
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALContentsxCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03PrefaceThe preface provides an overview of the Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows, references related publications, and explains how to obtain other documentation and technical assistance, if necessary.The following topics are covered in this section:•Audience, page xii•Purpose, page xii•Organization, page xii•Conventions, page xiii•Related Publications, page xv•Obtaining Documentation, page xv•Obtaining Technical Assistance, page xvi
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxiiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03PrefaceAudienceAudienceThis publication is for the person responsible for installing, configuring, and maintaining a Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapter on a computer running Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, or XP. This person should be familiar with computing devices and with network terms and concepts.PurposeThis publication describes the Cisco Aironet client adapters and explains how to install, configure, and troubleshoot them.OrganizationThis publication contains the following chapters:•Chapter 1, “Product Overview,” describes the types of client adapters and their hardware and software components and illustrates two common network configurations.•Chapter 2, “Preparing for Installation,” provides information that you need to know before installing a client adapter, such as safety information and system requirements.•Chapter 3, “Installing the Client Adapter,” provides instructions for installing the driver and client utility as well as setting basic configuration parameters.•Chapter 4, “Using the Profile Manager,” explains how to use the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) profile manager feature to create and manage profiles for your client adapter.•Chapter 5, “Configuring the Client Adapter,” explains how to change the configuration parameters for a specific profile.•Chapter 6, “Using EAP Authentication,” explains the sequence of events that occurs and the actions you must take when a profile that is set for EAP authentication is selected for use.•Chapter 7, “Performing Diagnostics,” explains how to use ACU to perform user-level diagnostics.•Chapter 8, “Routine Procedures,” provides procedures for common tasks related to the client adapter, such as upgrading client software and restarting the adapter.•Chapter 9, “Troubleshooting,” provides information for diagnosing and correcting common problems encountered when installing or operating a client adapter.•Appendix A, “Technical Specifications,” lists the physical, radio, power, and regulatory specifications for the client adapters.•Appendix B, “Translated Safety Warnings,” provides translations of the client adapters’ safety warnings in nine languages.•Appendix C, “Declarations of Conformity and Regulatory Information,” provides declarations of conformity and regulatory information for the client adapters.•Appendix D, “Channels, Power Levels, and Antenna Gains,” lists the IEEE 802.11a and IEEE 802.11b channels supported by the world's regulatory domains as well as the maximum power levels and antenna gains allowed per domain.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxiiiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Preface Conventions•Appendix E, “Configuring the Client Adapter through Windows XP,” explains how to configure and use the client adapter with Windows XP.•Appendix F, “Performing a Site Survey,” shows people who are responsible for conducting a site survey how they can use ACU to determine the best placement for infrastructure devices within a wireless network.ConventionsThis publication uses the following conventions to convey instructions and information:•Commands and keywords are in boldface.•Variables are in italics.•Configuration parameters are capitalized.•Notes, cautions, and warnings use the following conventions and symbols:Note Means reader take note. Notes contain helpful suggestions or references to materials not contained in this manual.Caution Means reader be careful. In this situation, you might do something that could result in equipment damage or loss of data.WarningThis warning symbol means danger. You are in a situation that could cause bodily injury. Before you work on any equipment, be aware of the hazards involved with electrical circuitry and be familiar with standard practices for preventing accidents. (To see translations of the warnings that appear in this publication, refer to the appendix “Translated Safety Warnings.”)WaarschuwingDit waarschuwingssymbool betekent gevaar. U verkeert in een situatie die lichamelijk letsel kan veroorzaken. Voordat u aan enige apparatuur gaat werken, dient u zich bewust te zijn van de bij elektrische schakelingen betrokken risico’s en dient u op de hoogte te zijn van standaard maatregelen om ongelukken te voorkomen. (Voor vertalingen van de waarschuwingen die in deze publicatie verschijnen, kunt u het aanhangsel “Translated Safety Warnings” (Vertalingen van veiligheidsvoorschriften) raadplegen.)VaroitusTämä varoitusmerkki merkitsee vaaraa. Olet tilanteessa, joka voi johtaa ruumiinvammaan. Ennen kuin työskentelet minkään laitteiston parissa, ota selvää sähkökytkentöihin liittyvistä vaaroista ja tavanomaisista onnettomuuksien ehkäisykeinoista. (Tässä julkaisussa esiintyvien varoitusten käännökset löydät liitteestä "Translated Safety Warnings" (käännetyt turvallisuutta koskevat varoitukset).)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxivCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03PrefaceConventionsAttentionCe symbole d’avertissement indique un danger. Vous vous trouvez dans une situation pouvant entraîner des blessures. Avant d’accéder à cet équipement, soyez conscient des dangers posés par les circuits électriques et familiarisez-vous avec les procédures courantes de prévention des accidents. Pour obtenir les traductions des mises en garde figurant dans cette publication, veuillez consulter l’annexe intitulée « Translated Safety Warnings » (Traduction des avis de sécurité).WarnungDieses Warnsymbol bedeutet Gefahr. Sie befinden sich in einer Situation, die zu einer Körperverletzung führen könnte. Bevor Sie mit der Arbeit an irgendeinem Gerät beginnen, seien Sie sich der mit elektrischen Stromkreisen verbundenen Gefahren und der Standardpraktiken zur Vermeidung von Unfällen bewußt. (Übersetzungen der in dieser Veröffentlichung enthaltenen Warnhinweise finden Sie im Anhang mit dem Titel “Translated Safety Warnings” (Übersetzung der Warnhinweise).)AvvertenzaQuesto simbolo di avvertenza indica un pericolo. Si è in una situazione che può causare infortuni. Prima di lavorare su qualsiasi apparecchiatura, occorre conoscere i pericoli relativi ai circuiti elettrici ed essere al corrente delle pratiche standard per la prevenzione di incidenti. La traduzione delle avvertenze riportate in questa pubblicazione si trova nell’appendice, “Translated Safety Warnings” (Traduzione delle avvertenze di sicurezza).AdvarselDette varselsymbolet betyr fare. Du befinner deg i en situasjon som kan føre til personskade. Før du utfører arbeid på utstyr, må du være oppmerksom på de faremomentene som elektriske kretser innebærer, samt gjøre deg kjent med vanlig praksis når det gjelder å unngå ulykker. (Hvis du vil se oversettelser av de advarslene som finnes i denne publikasjonen, kan du se i vedlegget "Translated Safety Warnings" [Oversatte sikkerhetsadvarsler].)AvisoEste símbolo de aviso indica perigo. Encontra-se numa situação que lhe poderá causar danos fisicos. Antes de começar a trabalhar com qualquer equipamento, familiarize-se com os perigos relacionados com circuitos eléctricos, e com quaisquer práticas comuns que possam prevenir possíveis acidentes. (Para ver as traduções dos avisos que constam desta publicação, consulte o apêndice “Translated Safety Warnings” - “Traduções dos Avisos de Segurança”).¡Advertencia!Este símbolo de aviso significa peligro. Existe riesgo para su integridad física. Antes de manipular cualquier equipo, considerar los riesgos que entraña la corriente eléctrica y familiarizarse con los procedimientos estándar de prevención de accidentes. (Para ver traducciones de las advertencias que aparecen en esta publicación, consultar el apéndice titulado “Translated Safety Warnings.”)Varning!Denna varningssymbol signalerar fara. Du befinner dig i en situation som kan leda till personskada. Innan du utför arbete på någon utrustning måste du vara medveten om farorna med elkretsar och känna till vanligt förfarande för att förebygga skador. (Se förklaringar av de varningar som förekommer i denna publikation i appendix "Translated Safety Warnings" [Översatta säkerhetsvarningar].)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxvCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Preface Related PublicationsRelated PublicationsFor more information about Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters, refer to the following publications:•Release Notes for Cisco Aironet Client Utilities for Windows•Release Notes for Cisco Aironet Client Adapter Drivers for Windows•Release Notes for Cisco Aironet Client Adapter Firmware•Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows CE•Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Linux•Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Mac OSFor more information about related Cisco Aironet products, refer to the following publications:•Quick Start Guide: Cisco Aironet Access Points•Cisco Aironet Access Point Hardware Installation Guide•Cisco Aironet Access Point Software Configuration Guide•Release Notes for Cisco Aironet Access PointsObtaining DocumentationThese sections explain how to obtain documentation from Cisco Systems.World Wide WebYou can access the most current Cisco documentation on the World Wide Web at this URL:http://www.cisco.comTranslated documentation is available at this URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/countries_languages.shtmlDocumentation CD-ROMCisco documentation and additional literature are available in a Cisco Documentation CD-ROM package, which is shipped separately from the CD that was included with your product. The Documentation CD-ROM is updated monthly and may be more current than printed documentation. The CD-ROM package is available as a single unit or through an annual subscription.Ordering DocumentationYou can order Cisco documentation in these ways:•Registered Cisco.com users (Cisco direct customers) can order Cisco product documentation from the Networking Products MarketPlace:http://www.cisco.com/cgi-bin/order/order_root.pl
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxviCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03PrefaceObtaining Technical Assistance•Registered Cisco.com users can order the Documentation CD-ROM through the online Subscription Store:http://www.cisco.com/go/subscription•Nonregistered Cisco.com users can order documentation through a local account representative by calling Cisco Systems Corporate Headquarters (California, U.S.A.) at 408 526-7208 or, elsewhere in North America, by calling 800 553-NETS (6387). Documentation FeedbackYou can submit comments electronically on Cisco.com. In the Cisco Documentation home page, click the Fax or Email option in the “Leave Feedback” section at the bottom of the page. You can e-mail your comments to bug-doc@cisco.com.You can submit your comments by mail by using the response card behind the front cover of your document or by writing to the following address:Cisco SystemsAttn: Document Resource Connection170 West Tasman DriveSan Jose, CA 95134-9883We appreciate your comments.Obtaining Technical AssistanceCisco provides Cisco.com as a starting point for all technical assistance. Customers and partners can obtain online documentation, troubleshooting tips, and sample configurations from online tools by using the Cisco Technical Assistance Center (TAC) Web Site. Cisco.com registered users have complete access to the technical support resources on the Cisco TAC Web Site. Cisco.comCisco.com is the foundation of a suite of interactive, networked services that provides immediate, open access to Cisco information, networking solutions, services, programs, and resources at any time, from anywhere in the world. Cisco.com is a highly integrated Internet application and a powerful, easy-to-use tool that provides a broad range of features and services to help you with these tasks:•Streamline business processes and improve productivity •Resolve technical issues with online support•Download and test software packages•Order Cisco learning materials and merchandise•Register for online skill assessment, training, and certification programsIf you want to obtain customized information and service, you can self-register on Cisco.com. To access Cisco.com, go to this URL:http://www.cisco.com
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxviiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Preface Obtaining Technical AssistanceTechnical Assistance CenterThe Cisco Technical Assistance Center (TAC) is available to all customers who need technical assistance with a Cisco product, technology, or solution. Two levels of support are available: the Cisco TAC Web Site and the Cisco TAC Escalation Center.Cisco TAC inquiries are categorized according to the urgency of the issue:•Priority level 4 (P4)—You need information or assistance concerning Cisco product capabilities, product installation, or basic product configuration.•Priority level 3 (P3)—Your network performance is degraded. Network functionality is noticeably impaired, but most business operations continue.•Priority level 2 (P2)—Your production network is severely degraded, affecting significant aspects of business operations. No workaround is available.•Priority level 1 (P1)—Your production network is down, and a critical impact to business operations will occur if service is not restored quickly. No workaround is available.The Cisco TAC resource that you choose is based on the priority of the problem and the conditions of service contracts, when applicable.Cisco TAC Web SiteYou can use the Cisco TAC Web Site to resolve P3 and P4 issues yourself, saving both cost and time. The site provides around-the-clock access to online tools, knowledge bases, and software. To access the Cisco TAC Web Site, go to this URL:http://www.cisco.com/tacAll customers, partners, and resellers who have a valid Cisco service contract have complete access to the technical support resources on the Cisco TAC Web Site. The Cisco TAC Web Site requires a Cisco.com login ID and password. If you have a valid service contract but do not have a login ID or password, go to this URL to register:http://www.cisco.com/register/If you are a Cisco.com registered user, and you cannot resolve your technical issues by using the Cisco TAC Web Site, you can open a case online by using the TAC Case Open tool at this URL:http://www.cisco.com/tac/caseopenIf you have Internet access, we recommend that you open P3 and P4 cases through the Cisco TAC Web Site.Cisco TAC Escalation CenterThe Cisco TAC Escalation Center addresses priority level 1 or priority level 2 issues. These classifications are assigned when severe network degradation significantly impacts business operations. When you contact the TAC Escalation Center with a P1 or P2 problem, a Cisco TAC engineer automatically opens a case.To obtain a directory of toll-free Cisco TAC telephone numbers for your country, go to this URL:http://www.cisco.com/warp/public/687/Directory/DirTAC.shtml
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIALxviiiCisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03PrefaceObtaining Technical AssistanceBefore calling, please check with your network operations center to determine the level of Cisco support services to which your company is entitled: for example, SMARTnet, SMARTnet Onsite, or Network Supported Accounts (NSA). When you call the center, please have available your service agreement number and your product serial number.
CHAPTER1-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-031Product OverviewThis chapter describes the Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters and illustrates their role in a wireless network.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Introduction to the Client Adapters, page 1-2•Hardware Components, page 1-3•Software Components, page 1-5•Network Configurations Using the Client Adapter, page 1-7
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product OverviewIntroduction to the Client AdaptersIntroduction to the Client AdaptersThe Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters are radio modules that provide transparent wireless data communications between fixed, portable, or mobile devices and other wireless devices or a wired network infrastructure. The client adapters are fully compatible when used in devices supporting Plug-and-Play (PnP) technology.The primary function of the client adapters is to transfer data packets transparently through the wireless infrastructure through an access point connected to a wired LAN. The adapters operate similarly to a standard network product except that the cable is replaced with a radio connection and an access point is required to make the connection to the wire. No special wireless networking functions are required, and all existing applications that operate over a network can operate using the adapters.This document covers the five client adapters described in Table 1-1.Table 1-1 Client Adapter TypesClient Adapter Model Number Description IllustrationPC card AIR-PCM3xx An IEEE 802.11b-compliant 11-Mbps 2.4-GHz PCMCIA card radio module that can be inserted into any device equipped with an external Type II or Type III PC card slot. Host devices can include laptops, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, and handheld or portable devices. The PC card is available in the 340 and 350 series.LM card AIR-LMC3xx An IEEE 802.11b-compliant 11-Mbps 2.4-GHz PCMCIA card radio module that is usually preinstalled in a device equipped with an internal Type II or Type III PC card slot. Host devices usually include handheld or portable devices. The LM card is available in the 340 and 350 series.PCI card AIR-PCI3xx An IEEE 802.11b-compliant 11-Mbps 2.4-GHz client adapter card radio module that can be inserted into any device equipped with an empty PCI expansion slot, such as a desktop personal computer. The PCI card is available in the 340 and 350 series.Mini PCI card AIR-MPI350 An IEEE 802.11b-compliant 11-Mbps 2.4-GHz client adapter card radio module that is preinstalled in a device equipped with an internal Type IIIA mini PCI card slot, such as a laptop computer. The mini PCI card is available only in the 350 series.PC-Cardbus card AIR-CB20A An IEEE 802.11a-compliant 54-Mbps 5-GHz client adapter card radio module with a Cardbus interface that can be inserted into any device equipped with an external Type II or Type III Cardbus slot. Host devices can include laptops, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, and handheld or portable devices.CISCO AIRONET 340 SERIES11 Mbps WIRELESS LAN ADAPTER47519CISCO AIRONET 340 SERIES11 Mbps WIRELESS LAN ADAPTER478936518965190
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product Overview Hardware ComponentsNote In the first three product model numbers, the first x represents the client adapter series (340 or 350), and the second x indicates the wired equivalent privacy (WEP) level of the card, where 0 = no WEP capability, 1 = 40-bit WEP, and 2 = 128-bit WEP. If the last two product model numbers contain K9, the card is 128-bit WEP capable.TerminologyThe following terms are used throughout this document:•client adapter – Refers to all five types of adapters.•PC card, LM card, PCI card, mini PCI card, or PC-Cardbus card – Refers to a specific adapter.•workstation (or station) – Refers to a computing device with an installed client adapter.•infrastructure device – Refers to a device that connects client adapters to a wired LAN, such as an access point, bridge, or base station. Throughout this document, access point is used to represent infrastructure devices in general.Hardware ComponentsThe client adapter has three major hardware components: a radio, a radio antenna, and two LEDs.RadioDifferent radios are used for the 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz client adapters:•The Cisco Aironet 340 and 350 series PC, LM, PCI, and mini PCI cards are IEEE 802.11b-compliant client adapters. They contain a direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) radio that operates in the 2.4-GHz Industrial Scientific Medical (ISM) license-free band. The 340 series 30-milliwatt (mW) radio and the 350 series 100-mW radio transmit data over a half-duplex radio channel operating at up to 11 Mbps. These cards interoperate with other IEEE 802.11b-compliant client devices in ad hoc (or peer-to-peer) mode or with Cisco Aironet 340, 350, and 1200 Series Access Points (with a 2.4-GHz radio) and other IEEE 802.11b-compliant infrastructure devices in infrastructure mode. They are approved for indoor and outdoor use.DSSS technology distributes a radio signal over a wide range of frequencies and then returns the signal to the original frequency range at the receiver. The benefit of this technology is its ability to protect the data transmission from interference. For example, if a particular frequency encounters noise or interference or both, enough redundancy is built into the signal on other frequencies that the client adapter usually will still be successful in its transmission.•The Cisco Aironet AIR-CB20A PC-Cardbus card is an IEEE 802.11a-compliant client adapter. It contains an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) radio that operates in the Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) 1 and UNII 2 license-free bands located in the lower 5-GHz portion of the radio frequency spectrum. The 20-mW radio transmits data over a half-duplex radio channel operating at up to 54 Mbps. This card interoperates with other IEEE 802.11a-compliant client devices in ad hoc mode or with Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Points (with a 5-GHz radio) and other IEEE 802.11a-compliant infrastructure devices in infrastructure mode. It is approved for indoor use only, except in the United States which allows for outdoor use on channels 52 through 64.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product OverviewHardware ComponentsRadio AntennaThe type of antenna used depends on your client adapter:•PC cards have an integrated, permanently attached diversity antenna. The benefit of the diversity antenna system is improved coverage. The system works by allowing the card to switch and sample between its two antenna ports in order to select the optimum port for receiving data packets. As a result, the card has a better chance of maintaining the radio frequency (RF) connection in areas of interference. The antenna is housed within the section of the card that hangs out of the PC card slot when the card is installed.•LM cards are shipped without an antenna; however, an antenna can be connected through the card’s external connector.•PCI cards are shipped with a 2-dBi dipole antenna that attaches to the card’s antenna connector. However, other types of antennas may be used. PCI cards can be operated through the primary (or right) antenna port only.•Mini PCI cards are designed to be used with either one or two antennas, which connect to the card’s two antenna connectors. If two antennas are used, the radio automatically selects the antenna that presents the best RF signal. If only one antenna is used, the radio finds and uses it regardless of which connector it is plugged into.•PC-Cardbus cards have an integrated, permanently attached non-diversity antenna that contains two antenna ports, one for transmitting and one for receiving. The card cannot switch and sample between the ports. The antenna is housed within the section of the card that hangs out of the Cardbus slot when the card is installed.Note Refer to the Antenna Mode (Transmit and Receive) parameters in Table 5-4 and Table 5-5 for information on setting the client adapter’s antenna mode.Note External antennas used in combination with a power setting resulting in a radiated power level above 100 mW equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) are not allowed for use within the European community and other countries that have adopted the European R&TTE directive or the CEPT recommendation Rec 70.03 or both. For more details on legal combinations of power levels and antennas in those countries, refer to the “Declaration of Conformity with Regard to the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC” section on page C-4 and the “Maximum Power Levels and Antenna Gains” section on page D-4.LEDsThe client adapters have two LEDs that glow or blink to indicate the status of the adapter or to convey error messages. Refer to Chapter 9 for an interpretation of the LED codes.Note Mini PCI cards do not have LEDs.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product Overview Software ComponentsSoftware ComponentsThe client adapter has three major software components: radio firmware, a driver, and a client utility.Radio FirmwareThe firmware, which is contained in the client adapter’s Flash memory, controls the adapter’s radio. The client adapter is shipped with the firmware installed; however, a more recent version of the firmware may be available from Cisco.com.Note Cisco recommends using the most current version of radio firmware. Chapter 8 provides instructions for determining the version of your client adapter’s firmware and upgrading it if necessary.DriverThe driver provides an interface between a computer running a Windows operating system and the client adapter, thereby enabling Windows and the applications it runs to communicate with the adapter. The driver is provided on the CD that shipped with the client adapter and must be installed before the adapter can be used. Chapter 3 provides instructions for installing the driver.Note The CD has the latest version of the driver available at the time of pressing; however, a more recent version of the driver may be available from Cisco.com. Cisco recommends installing the most current version of the driver. Chapter 3 provides instructions for installing the driver from either location.Client UtilityThe client utility, which is entitled Aironet Client Utility (ACU), is an optional application that interacts with the radio firmware to adjust client adapter settings and display information about the adapter. ACU is provided on the CD that shipped with the client adapter. If you plan to use ACU, it should be installed before the adapter is used. Chapter 3 provides instructions for installing ACU.Note The CD has the latest version of ACU available at the time of pressing; however, a more recent version of ACU may be available from Cisco.com. Cisco recommends installing the most current version of ACU. Chapter 3 provides instructions for installing ACU from either location.Note If your computer is running Windows XP, you can configure your client adapter through the Windows operating system instead of through ACU. Refer to Appendix E for information. However, ACU is recommended for configuring the client adapter.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product OverviewSoftware ComponentsOverview of ACUThe Aironet Client Utility screen (see Figure 1-1) is ACU’s primary screen.Figure 1-1 Aironet Client Utility ScreenThe status bar at the bottom of the Aironet Client Utility screen reflects the current state of your client adapter. Possible states include Associated, Not Associated, Not Inserted, Being Flashed with New Firmware, and Unable To Read Status from the Card.If your client adapter is associated to an access point, the status bar shows the name of the access point, provided it was configured with one. If shown, the access point name is limited to 16 characters by the client adapter’s radio firmware. The status bar also shows either the IP address or the MAC address of the access point to which the client adapter is associated. The information shown in the status bar is updated once per second.The right side of the status bar shows the current time of day. If you set the clock to display seconds in the Aironet Client Utility Preferences screen, the time will include seconds in addition to hours and minutes.Note To enable the clock to display seconds, open ACU, click the Preferences icon or select Preferences from the Options drop-down menu, select the Display Seconds on Clock checkbox, and click OK.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product Overview Network Configurations Using the Client AdapterButtons on the ACU ScreensThe buttons on the ACU screens are used to perform specific functions. Table 1-2 describes the most common buttons.Network Configurations Using the Client AdapterThe client adapter can be used in a variety of network configurations. In some configurations, access points provide connections to your network or act as repeaters to increase wireless communication range. The maximum communication range is based on how you configure your wireless network.This section describes and illustrates the two most common network configurations:•Ad hoc wireless local area network (LAN)•Wireless infrastructure with workstations accessing a wired LANFor examples of more complex network configurations involving client adapters and access points, refer to the Cisco Aironet Access Point Hardware Installation Guide.Note Refer to Chapter 5 for information on setting the client adapter’s network mode.Table 1-2 Buttons on the ACU ScreensButton DescriptionApply Saves any changes without exiting the screenCancel Exits the screen without saving any changesDefaults Displays the default value of each parameterHelp Provides information on the screen and its parametersOK Saves any changes and exits the screenStart Initiates a testStop Stops a test that is running
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product OverviewNetwork Configurations Using the Client AdapterAd Hoc Wireless LANAn ad hoc (or peer-to-peer) wireless LAN (see Figure 1-2) is the simplest wireless LAN configuration. In a wireless LAN using an ad hoc network configuration, all devices equipped with a client adapter can be linked together and communicate directly with each other.Figure 1-2 Ad Hoc Wireless LAN47520
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-9Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product Overview Network Configurations Using the Client AdapterWireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LANA microcellular network can be created by placing two or more access points on a LAN. Figure 1-3 shows a microcellular network with workstations accessing a wired LAN through several access points.This configuration is useful with portable or mobile stations because it allows them to be directly connected to the wired network even while moving from one microcell domain to another. This process is transparent, and the connection to the file server or host is maintained without disruption. The mobile station stays connected to an access point as long as it can. However, once the transfer of data packets needs to be retried or beacons are missed, the station automatically searches for and associates to another access point. This process is referred to as seamless roaming.Figure 1-3 Wireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LANAccess Point(Root Unit)Access Point(Root Unit)5835Wired LAN
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL1-10Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 1 Product OverviewNetwork Configurations Using the Client Adapter
CHAPTER2-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-032Preparing for InstallationThis chapter provides information that you need to know before installing a client adapter.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Safety information, page 2-2•Unpacking the Client Adapter, page 2-3•System Requirements, page 2-4•Site Requirements, page 2-5
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL2-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 2 Preparing for InstallationSafety informationSafety informationFollow the guidelines in this section to ensure proper operation and safe use of the client adapter.FCC Safety Compliance StatementThe FCC, with its action in ET Docket 96-8, has adopted a safety standard for human exposure to RF electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC-certified equipment. When used with approved Cisco Aironet antennas, Cisco Aironet products meet the uncontrolled environmental limits found in OET-65 and ANSI C95.1, 1991. Proper operation of this radio device according to the instructions in this publication will result in user exposure substantially below the FCC recommended limits.Safety Guidelines•Do not touch or move the antenna while the unit is transmitting or receiving.•Do not hold any component containing a radio such that the antenna is very close to or touching any exposed parts of the body, especially the face or eyes, while transmitting.•Do not operate the radio or attempt to transmit data unless the antenna is connected; otherwise, the radio may be damaged.•High-gain, wall-mount, or mast-mount antennas are designed to be professionally installed and should be located at a minimum distance of 12 inches (30 cm) or more from the body of all persons. Please contact your professional installer, VAR, or antenna manufacturer for proper installation requirements.•Use in specific environments:–The use of wireless devices in hazardous locations is limited to the constraints posed by the safety directors of such environments.–The use of wireless devices on airplanes is governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).–The use of wireless devices in hospitals is restricted to the limits set forth by each hospital.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL2-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 2 Preparing for Installation Unpacking the Client AdapterWarningsObserve the following warnings when operating the client adapter:WarningDo not operate your wireless network device near unshielded blasting caps or in an explosive environment unless the device has been modified to be especially qualified for such use.WarningIn order to comply with FCC radio frequency (RF) exposure limits, dipole antennas should be located at a minimum of 7.9 inches (20 cm) or more from the body of all persons.WarningIn order to comply with RF exposure limits established in the ANSI C95.1 standards, it is recommended when using a laptop with a PC card client adapter that the adapter’s integrated antenna is positioned more than 2 inches (5 cm) from your body or nearby persons during extended periods of transmitting or operating time. If the antenna is positioned less than 2 inches (5 cm) from the user, it is recommended that the user limit exposure time.Translated versions of these safety warnings are provided in Appendix B.Unpacking the Client AdapterFollow these steps to unpack the client adapter:Step 1 Open the shipping container and carefully remove the contents. Step 2 Return all packing materials to the shipping container and save it.Step 3 Ensure that all items listed in the “Package Contents” section below are included in the shipment. Check each item for damage.Note If any item is damaged or missing, notify your authorized Cisco sales representative. Any remote antenna and its associated wiring are shipped separately.Package ContentsEach client adapter is shipped with the following items:•Standard 2-dBi dipole antenna (PCI cards only)•Quick Start Guide: Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters•Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters CD (for 2.4-GHz client adapters) orCisco Aironet 5-GHz 54-Mbps Wireless Adapter CD (for 5-GHz client adapters)•Cisco product registration card
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL2-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 2 Preparing for InstallationSystem RequirementsSystem RequirementsIn addition to the items shipped with the client adapter, you will also need the following in order to install and use the adapter:•One of the following computing devices running Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, or XP:–Laptop, notebook, or portable or handheld device equipped with a Type II or Type III PC card slot or Cardbus slot–Desktop personal computer equipped with an empty PCI expansion slot–Handheld or portable device with an embedded LM card–Laptop or other computing device with an embedded mini PCI cardNote Cisco recommends using a display with a minimum resolution of 800 x 600.Note All drivers and supporting software (Card and Socket Services) for the PC card slot or Cardbus slot must be loaded and configured.•Windows NT Service Pack 3 or greater if your computer is running Windows NT•A Phillips screwdriver (for PCI cards)•The following information from your system administrator:–The logical name for your workstation (also referred to as client name)–The protocols necessary to bind to the client adapter–The case-sensitive service set identifier (SSID) for your RF network–If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server, the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer–The Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) keys of the access points with which your client adapter will communicate, if your wireless network uses static WEP for security–The username and password for your network account–The username and password for your RADIUS server account, if your wireless network uses LEAP or EAP-MD5 authentication
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL2-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 2 Preparing for Installation Site RequirementsSite RequirementsThis section discusses the site requirements for both infrastructure and client devices.For Infrastructure DevicesBecause of differences in component configuration, placement, and physical environment, every network application is a unique installation. Therefore, before you install any wireless infrastructure devices (such as access points, bridges, and base stations, which connect your client adapters to a wired LAN), a site survey must be performed to determine the optimum placement of these devices to maximize range, coverage, and network performance. Appendix F, which is provided for people who are responsible for conducting a site survey, explains how ACU’s site survey tool can be used to determine the best placement for infrastructure devices within a wireless network.Note As a rule, infrastructure devices are installed and initially configured prior to client devices.For Client DevicesBecause the client adapter is a radio device, it is susceptible to RF obstructions and common sources of interference that can reduce throughput and range. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best possible performance:•Install the client adapter in an area where large steel structures such as shelving units, bookcases, and filing cabinets will not obstruct radio signals to and from the client adapter.•Install the client adapter away from microwave ovens. Microwave ovens operate on the same frequency as the client adapter and can cause signal interference.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL2-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 2 Preparing for InstallationSite Requirements
CHAPTER3-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-033Installing the Client AdapterThis chapter provides instructions for installing the client adapter driver and the client utility.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Determining the Latest Versions of the Driver and ACU, page 3-2•Installing the Driver, page 3-3•Installing ACU, page 3-16•Verifying Installation, page 3-19
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterDetermining the Latest Versions of the Driver and ACUDetermining the Latest Versions of the Driver and ACUThe driver and the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) are provided on the CD that shipped with the client adapter; however, a more recent version of each may be available from Cisco.com. Cisco recommends installing the most current versions of the driver and ACU.Note Although the client adapter is shipped with the firmware installed, you may want to check Cisco.com to see if a more recent version is available. Chapter 8 provides instructions for determining the version of your client adapter’s firmware and upgrading it if necessary.Note Mini PCI cards, along with their driver and ACU, are generally preinstalled inside of computers. Therefore, the mini PCI software is not provided on the CD, and you do not need to follow the instructions in this chapter to install the card’s driver and ACU. However, if you want to upgrade the mini PCI card’s driver and ACU, refer to the instructions provided in Chapter 8.Follow the steps below to determine the most recent versions of the driver and ACU on your CD and Cisco.com.Step 1 To determine the version of the driver and ACU on the CD, open the FileList.txt file on the CD’s root directory. This file lists the version numbers for all of the software files provided on the CD.Note If the FileList.txt file is not present on the root directory, your CD is obsolete, and more recent versions of the software are available on Cisco.com. Go to the “Installing the Driver” section on page 3-3.Step 2 To determine the latest driver and ACU versions available on Cisco.com, follow the steps below:a. Use your computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Locate the drivers for your specific operating system and client adapter type and find the one with the greatest release number. This is the latest available version on Cisco.com.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.d. Locate the ACU files and find the one with the greatest release number. This is the latest available version on Cisco.com.Step 3 Go to the “Installing the Driver” section on page 3-3. If the driver version on Cisco.com is greater than the version on the CD, follow the instructions for installing the driver from Cisco.com.Step 4 After you install the driver, go to the “Installing ACU” section on page 3-16. If the ACU version on Cisco.com is greater than the version on the CD, follow the instructions for installing ACU from Cisco.com.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverInstalling the DriverNote This procedure is meant to be used the first time the driver is installed on a computer running Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, or XP. If a Cisco Aironet client adapter driver is already installed on your computer, follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to upgrade to a new driver. However, if the 6.10 driver is installed on your Windows 95, 98, NT, or 2000 computer, you must remove this driver before you can install a more recent driver. Refer to the “Uninstalling the 6.10 Driver” section on page 8-13 for instructions.The driver you use for your client adapter depends on which operating system your computer is running and your client adapter type. This section provides instructions for installing the correct driver for your operating system. Use Table 3-1 to quickly locate the installation instructions for your specific operating system.Note Before you begin the driver installation process, make sure you have the installation disks for your computer’s operating system nearby. Some operating system files may be needed to complete the driver installation.Installing the Driver for Windows 95Note Windows 95 limits your computer’s network connections to four. If you try to install a client adapter when four network devices (such as a PCMCIA Ethernet card, dial-up adapter, VPN adapter, docking station Ethernet card, etc.) are already connected to your computer, the new adapter cannot establish a network connection.The driver installation instructions vary for Windows 95 Version A and Version B. You can determine which version your computer is running by double-clicking My Computer, Control Panel, System, and General. The version of your computer’s operating system is located under the System heading. If you have Windows 95 Version B, the version number ends with the letter B.•For Windows 95 Version A driver installation instructions, go to the “Windows 95 Version A” section on page 3-4.•For Windows 95 Version B driver installation instructions, go to the “Windows 95 Version B” section on page 3-5.Table 3-1 Locating Driver Installation InstructionsOperating System Page NumberWindows 95 3-3Windows 98 3-7Windows NT 3-9Windows 2000 3-10Windows Millennium Edition (Me) 3-12Windows XP 3-13
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverWindows 95 Version AIf your computer’s operating system is Windows 95 Version A, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows 95 and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 After you insert the client adapter into your computing device, Windows automatically detects it and opens the New Hardware Found window.Step 4 Select Driver from disk provided by hardware manufacturer and click OK.Step 5 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.Step 6 In the Install From Disk window, enter the path to where the driver is located (CD, floppy disk, or hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\Win95.Step 7 Click OK.Step 8 If you are prompted to insert the Windows 95 operating system disk, click OK and do one of the following:•If the Windows 95 operating system files are installed on your computer, they are usually located in the C:\Windows\Options\Cabs folder. Type C:\Windows\Options\Cabs in the Copy files from dialog box. Click OK to copy the required files.•If Windows 95 prompts for the Windows 95 operating system CD, insert this CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. If your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path in the dialog box should be D:\Win95. Click OK to copy the required files.Step 9 After the files are copied, remove any disks from your computer.Step 10 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network.Step 11 Select the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter and click Properties.Step 12 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverStep 13 Select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 14 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 15 Click OK.Step 16 If you are prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.Step 17 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network. Select TCP/IP > Cisco Systems Wireless LAN Adapter. Click the Properties button, select Specify an IP address, and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK twice. When prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.Note On Windows 95, TCP/IP is not installed by default.The driver installation is complete.Windows 95 Version BIf your computer’s operating system is Windows 95 Version B, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows 95 and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 After you insert the client adapter into your computing device, Windows automatically detects it and briefly opens the New Hardware Found window.Step 4 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverStep 5 The Update Device Driver Wizard dialog box opens and indicates that Windows will complete the installation of the client adapter. Click Next.Step 6 If the Update Device Driver Wizard indicates that Windows was unable to locate a driver for the client adapter, click Other Locations.Step 7 In the Select Other Location window, enter the path to where the driver is located (CD, floppy disk, or hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\Win95.Step 8 Click OK.Step 9 When the Update Device Driver Wizard indicates that it has found the driver, click Finish.Step 10 When the Insert Disk window appears prompting you to insert the Aironet Wireless LAN Adapter Installation Disk, click OK.Step 11 If a window appears indicating that the pcx50*.sys file could not be found, enter the same path that you entered in Step 7 and click OK.Step 12 If you are prompted to insert the Windows 95 operating system disk, click OK and do one of the following:•If the Windows 95 operating system files are installed on your computer, they are usually located in the C:\Windows\Options\Cabs folder. Type C:\Windows\Options\Cabs in the Copy files from dialog box. Click OK to copy the required files.•If Windows 95 prompts for the Windows 95 operating system CD, insert this CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. If your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path in the dialog box should be D:\Win95. Click OK to copy the required files.Step 13 When prompted to restart your computer, remove any disks and click Yes.Step 14 When the computer restarts, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network.Step 15 Select the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter and click Properties.Step 16 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Advanced tab.Step 17 Select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 18 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 19 Click OK.Step 20 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network. Select TCP/IP > Cisco Systems Wireless LAN Adapter. Click the Properties button, select Specify an IP address, and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.Note On Windows 95, TCP/IP is not installed by default.Step 21 In the Network window, click OK.Step 22 When prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.The driver installation is complete.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverInstalling the Driver for Windows 98Note Windows 98 limits your computer’s network connections to eight. If you try to install a client adapter when eight network devices (such as a PCMCIA Ethernet card, dial-up adapter, VPN adapter, docking station Ethernet card, etc.) are already connected to your computer, the new adapter cannot establish a network connection.If your computer’s operating system is Windows 98, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows 98 and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 After you insert the client adapter into your computing device, Windows automatically detects it, briefly opens the New Hardware Found window, and starts collecting information for a driver information database.The Add New Hardware Wizard dialog box opens and indicates that Windows is searching for new drivers.Step 4 Click Next. Another dialog box opens and asks what you want Windows to do.Step 5 Select Display a list of all the drivers in a specific location, so you can select the driver you want and click Next.Step 6 Select Network adapters from the drop-down list of devices and click Next.Step 7 Click Have Disk.Step 8 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverStep 9 Enter or browse to the path where the driver is located (CD, floppy disk, or hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\Win98.Step 10 Click OK.Step 11 Make sure the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter is selected in the Select Device screen and click OK. The wizard finds the installation files and displays the search results.Step 12 When the client adapter driver is displayed, click Next to copy the required files.Step 13 During driver installation, you may be prompted to enter a path to the Windows 98 operating system files. If so, do one of the following:•If the Windows 98 operating system files are installed on your computer, they are usually located in the C:\Windows\Options\Cabs folder. Type C:\Windows\Options\Cabs in the Copy files from dialog box. Click OK to copy the required files.•If Windows 98 prompts for the Windows 98 operating system CD, insert this CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. If your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path in the dialog box should be D:\Win98. Click OK to copy the required files.Step 14 The Add New Hardware Wizard window opens and indicates that the installation is complete. Click Finish.Step 15 When prompted to restart your computer, remove the CD or floppy disk (if installed) and click Yes.Step 16 When the computer restarts, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network.Step 17 Select the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter and click Properties.Step 18 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Advanced tab.Step 19 Select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 20 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 21 Click OK.Step 22 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network. Select TCP/IP > Cisco Systems Wireless LAN Adapter. Click the Properties button, select Specify an IP address, and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.Step 23 In the Network window, click OK.Step 24 When prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.The driver installation is complete.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-9Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverInstalling the Driver for Windows NTNote This procedure requires that your computer has Windows NT Service Pack 3 or greater.If your computer’s operating system is Windows NT, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows NT and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 After you insert the client adapter into your computer, an error message may appear indicating that at least one service or driver failed during system setup. If this message appears, click OK.Step 4 Follow the steps below to obtain an available interrupt request (IRQ):a. Select Start > Programs > Administrative Tools > Windows NT Diagnostics.b. Click the Resources tab.c. The used IRQs are listed in numerical order along the left side of the Resources window. Write down the number of an IRQ that is not being used. You will need this IRQ for Step 15.Step 5 On your computer desktop, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Devices. Scroll down and select Pcmcia. Click Startup, select Automatic, and click OK.Note For PC cards and PC-Cardbus cards, also ensure that the Cardbus service is deselected.Step 6 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.Step 7 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network.Step 8 Click the Adapters tab and select Add.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-10Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverStep 9 In the Select Network Adapter window, click Have Disk.Step 10 In the Insert Disk window, enter the path to where the driver is located (CD, floppy disk, or hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\WinNT4.Step 11 Click OK.Step 12 In the Select OEM Option box, select the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter and click OK.Step 13 In the Adapter Setup window, select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 14 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 15 Enter an available IRQ number, which you obtained in Step 4.Step 16 Click OK and Close.Step 17 The Microsoft TCP/IP Properties window should open. If it does not open, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network. Click Protocols, TCP/IP, and Properties.Step 18 Perform one of the following:•If your computer is connected to a DHCP server, select Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server. When asked if you want to enable DHCP, click Yes and OK.•If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server, select Specify an IP address and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.Step 19 When prompted to restart your computer, remove the CD or floppy disk (if installed) and click Yes.The driver installation is complete.Installing the Driver for Windows 2000If your computer’s operating system is Windows 2000, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows 2000 (Win2K) and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-11Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the Driverh. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 After you insert the client adapter into your computer, Windows 2000 automatically detects it and briefly opens the Found New Hardware window.The Found New Hardware Wizard window opens and indicates that the wizard will help you to install the driver.Step 4 Click Next. Another window opens and asks what you want the wizard to do.Step 5 Select Display a list of the known drivers for this device so that I can choose a specific driver and click Next.Step 6 Click Have Disk.Step 7 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.Step 8 Enter or browse to the path where the driver is located (CD, floppy disk, or hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\Win2000.Step 9 Click OK. The wizard finds the installation files and displays the search results.Step 10 When the client adapter driver is displayed, click Next to copy the required files.Step 11 When you receive a message indicating that Windows has finished the installation, click Finish.Step 12 Remove the CD or floppy disk (if installed).Step 13 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and System.Step 14 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.Step 15 Click Device Manager.Step 16 In the Device Manager window, double-click Network Adapters.Step 17 Right-click the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter.Step 18 Click Properties.Step 19 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Advanced tab.Step 20 In the Advanced window, select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 21 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 22 Click OK.Step 23 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, follow these steps:a. Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network and Dial-up Connections.b. Right-click Local Area Connection.c. Click Properties, Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), and Properties.d. Click Use the following IP address and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.e. In the Local Area Connection Properties window, click OK.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-12Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverStep 24 If you are prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.The driver installation is complete.Installing the Driver for Windows Millennium Edition (Me)The first release of Windows Me comes with driver version 6.15, which is installed automatically the first time you insert a client adapter. To upgrade to the driver on the CD that shipped with your client adapter or on Cisco.com, follow these steps.Step 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped wih your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows Me and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.Step 4 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and System.Step 5 Click the Device Manager tab.Step 6 Double-click Network Adapters.Step 7 Select the Cisco Aironet wireless LAN adapter. Click Properties.Step 8 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Driver tab.Step 9 Click Update Driver. The Update Device Driver Wizard window appears.Step 10 Select Specify the location of the driver (Advanced) and click Next.Step 11 Select Search for a better driver than the one your device is using now (Recommended).Step 12 Make sure the Removable Media checkbox is deselected.Step 13 Select the Specify a location checkbox and click Browse.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-13Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverStep 14 Find the location of the driver (on your CD, floppy disk, or computer’s hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\WinME.Step 15 Click Next.Step 16 When asked what you would like to install, select The updated driver (recommended) and click Next.Step 17 When a screen appears indicating the driver that will be installed and its location, click Next.Step 18 If Windows cannot find the pcx50*.sys file, enter the same path that you browsed to in Step 14 and click OK.Step 19 When you are notified that the installation is complete, click Finish.Step 20 When you are prompted to restart your computer, remove the CD or floppy disk (if installed) and click No.Step 21 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network.Step 22 Select the Cisco Systems wireless LAN adapter. Click Properties.Step 23 In the client adapter Properties window, click the Advanced tab.Step 24 In the Advanced window, select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 25 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 26 Click OK.Step 27 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network. Select TCP/IP > Cisco Systems Wireless LAN Adapter. Click the Properties button, select Specify an IP address, and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.Step 28 In the Network window, click OK.Step 29 When prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.The driver installation is complete.Installing the Driver for Windows XPThe first release of Windows XP comes with driver version 7.29, which is installed automatically the first time you insert a client adapter. To upgrade to the driver on the CD that shipped with your client adapter or on Cisco.com, follow these steps.Note If you do not upgrade from the 7.29 driver, you cannot specify an SSID through Windows XP’s driver Advanced tab.Note These instructions assume you are using Windows XP’s classic view rather than its category view.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-14Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling the DriverStep 1 If you are installing the driver from Cisco.com, follow the steps below. If you are installing the driver from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, go to Step 2.a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest driver file for Windows XP and your client adapter type.Note The drivers for PC, LM, and PCI cards are labeled PCM-LMC-PCI; the drivers for mini PCI cards and PC-Cardbus cards are labeled MPI-CB.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the driver file to download it.g. Save the file to a floppy disk or to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Go to Step 2.Step 2 Follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to insert the client adapter into your computer. The instructions vary by operating system and are different for PC cards, PC-Cardbus cards, and PCI cards.Step 3 Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and System.Step 4 Click the Hardware tab and Device Manager.Step 5 Double-click Network Adapters and Cisco Systems 3x0 Series Wireless LAN Adapter.Step 6 Click the Driver tab.Step 7 Click Update Driver. The Welcome to the Hardware Update Wizard screen appears.Step 8 Select the Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) option and click Next.Step 9 When prompted to choose your search and installation options, select Don’t search. I will choose the driver to install and click Next.Step 10 When prompted to select a network adapter to install, click Have Disk. The Install From Disk screen appears.Step 11 Insert the CD that shipped with your client adapter or a floppy disk containing the latest driver into your computer, unless you are installing the driver from your computer’s hard drive.Step 12 Click Browse; then find the location of the driver (on your CD, floppy disk, or computer’s hard drive). If you are installing the driver from the CD and your CD-ROM drive is drive D, the path should be D:\WinXP.Step 13 Click Open. The installation wizard finds the driver file (netx500.inf).Step 14 Click OK on the Install From Disk screen.Step 15 The Select Network Adapter screen reappears. Select the Cisco Systems Wireless LAN Adapter and click Next.Step 16 The installation wizard copies the driver files from the CD, floppy disk, or computer’s hard drive. When the installation is complete, click Finish.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-15Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing the DriverStep 17 Click Close on the Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Adapter Properties screen and exit the Control Panel.Note You must exit the Control Panel before opening it again in Step 18. Otherwise, the SSID property option will not be available when you get to Step 22.Step 18 Double-click Control Panel and Network Connections.Step 19 Right-click Wireless Network Connection.Step 20 Click Properties, Configure, and the Advanced tab.Step 21 In the Advanced window, select Client Name. Type your computer’s unique client name, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 22 Select SSID. Type your RF network’s (case-sensitive) SSID, which can be obtained from your system administrator, in the Value dialog box.Step 23 Click OK.Step 24 If your computer is not connected to a DHCP server and you plan to use TCP/IP, right-click Wireless Network Connection and click Properties. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click Properties. Select Use the following IP address and enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway address of your computer (which can be obtained from your system administrator). Click OK.Step 25 The driver installation is complete. Now you must decide whether to configure your client adapter through Windows XP or ACU. To help you with your decision, Table 3-2 compares the Windows XP and ACU client adapter features.Table 3-2 Comparison of Windows XP and ACU Client Adapter FeaturesFeature Windows XP ACUConfiguration parameters Limited ExtensiveCapabilitiesCreate profiles No YesUpgrade radio firmware No YesRestart client adapter without rebooting or ejecting card No YesTurn radio on or off No YesSecurityStatic WEP Yes YesLEAP authentication with dynamic WEP No YesHost-based EAP authentication with static or dynamic WEP Yes Yes
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-16Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling ACUStep 26 Perform one of the following:•If you are planning to configure your client adapter through ACU instead of through Windows XP, follow the steps below:a. Double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections.b. Right-click Wireless Network Connection and click Properties.c. Select the Wireless Networks tab.d. Deselect the Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings checkbox.e. Follow the instructions in the “Installing ACU” section on page 3-16 to install ACU.•If you are planning to configure your client adapter through Windows XP instead of through ACU, go to Appendix E and follow the instructions there.•If you are planning to configure your client adapter through Windows XP but you want to use ACU’s diagnostic tools, go to Appendix E to configure the adapter through Windows XP; then install ACU but do not create any profiles.Installing ACUAfter you have installed the appropriate driver for your computer’s operating system and your client adapter type, follow the steps below to install the Aironet Client Utility (ACU).Note Follow the procedure below if ACU has never been installed on your computer or if ACU version 4.13 or greater is currently installed. If a version of ACU prior to 4.13 is installed on your computer, follow the instructions in Chapter 8 to uninstall it; then follow the steps below to install the latest version. Cisco does not recommend uninstalling ACU version 4.13 or greater before installing the latest version of ACU.Note ACU version 5.02.005 or greater must be used with PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.2 or greater and PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.30 or greater or mini PCI card driver version 3.4 or greater and mini PCI card firmware version 5.00.03 or greater. ACU version 5.02.006 or greater must be used with PC-Cardbus card driver version 3.4 or greater and PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater.Diagnostics Status screen Limited ExtensiveStatistics screen (transmit & receive) No YesSite survey tool No YesRF link test tool No YesLink status meter (graphical display) No YesTable 3-2 Comparison of Windows XP and ACU Client Adapter Features (continued)Feature Windows XP ACU
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-17Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Installing ACUStep 1 Close any Windows programs that are running.Step 2 Perform one of the following:•If you are installing ACU from the CD that shipped with your client adapter, follow the steps below:a. Insert the CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive.b. Select Start > Run, enter the following path (where D is the letter of your CD-ROM drive): D:\Aironet Client Utility\Setup.exe, and click OK. The Aironet Client Utility Setup screen and the InstallShield Wizard appear.c. Go to Step 3.•If you are installing ACU from Cisco.com, follow the steps below:a. Use the computer’s web browser to access the following URL:http://www.cisco.com/public/sw-center/sw-wireless.shtmlb. Locate the section for client adapter drivers and utilities.c. Click the link for individual Windows files.d. Select the latest ACU file.e. Read and accept the terms and conditions of the Software License Agreement.f. Select the ACU file to download it.g. Save the file to your computer’s hard drive.h. Locate the file using Windows Explorer, double-click it, and extract its files to a folder.i. Select Start > Run, enter or browse to the path where you extracted the files (for example, C:\temp\setup.exe), and click OK. The Aironet Client Utility Setup screen and the InstallShield Wizard appear.j. Go to Step 3.Step 3 When the Welcome screen appears, click Next.Step 4 In the Select Options screen, select as many of the following options as desired and click Next:Option DescriptionLEAP Enables you to create a profile in ACU that uses LEAP authentication. If this option is not selected now and you later want to use LEAP, you must run this installation again, select Modify, and select this option.Default:SelectedNote Refer to Chapter 5 for information on enabling LEAP.Note If you select LEAP on a Windows 95, 98, or 98 SE device, Microsoft hot fixes are installed during ACU installation to fix two problems related to the use of LEAP. Refer to Chapter 9 for more information on the hot fixes.Note If you select LEAP on a Windows XP device, you cannot use Windows XP’s fast user switching feature.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-18Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterInstalling ACUStep 5 In the Choose Destination Location screen, perform one of the following:•If you want the ACU program files to be installed in the default location (C:\Program Files, provided C:\Program Files is the default Windows program file folder), click Next.•If you want to specify a different destination location for the ACU program files, click Browse, select a location, and click Next.Step 6 In the Select Program Folder screen, specify a program folder name for ACU by selecting from the list of existing folders (the default name is Cisco Aironet) or entering a new folder name; then click Next.A status screen displays the progress of the installation. Then one of two Setup Complete screens displays, depending on whether Windows needs to be restarted to complete the installation.Step 7 Perform one of the following:•If your computer does not need to be rebooted, select either of the following options and click Finish:•If your computer needs to be rebooted, select Yes, I want to restart my computer now or No, I will restart my computer later, remove the CD (if installed), and click Finish.Note If you are prompted to reboot your computer, Cisco recommends that you select the Yes, I want to restart my computer now option.Allow Saved LEAP User Name and Password Enables you to create a profile in ACU that uses a saved (rather than temporary) username and password for LEAP authentication. When such a profile is used, the saved username and password are used to start the LEAP authentication process, and you are not prompted to enter them.Default:SelectedNote This option is available only if the LEAP option is selected.Create ACU Icon on your Desktop Causes the installation program to add an ACU icon to your computer’s desktop to provide quick access to the utility.Default:DeselectedAllow Non-Administrator Users to use ACU to modify profilesEnables users without administrative rights to modify profiles in ACU on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP.Default:SelectedNote This option is not available for Windows 95, 98, and Me because these versions of Windows do not support different classes of users.Option DescriptionView the README.TXT file Opens a read-me file containing information about ACU.Launch the Aironet Client Utility Opens ACU so you can configure your client adapter.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-19Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client Adapter Verifying InstallationStep 8 The driver and client utility installation is complete. The client adapter has been installed and configured for basic operation. Go to the “Verifying Installation” section below to determine if the installation was successful. After you verify installation, go to Chapter 4 if you want to create profiles for your client adapter.Verifying InstallationTo verify that you have properly installed the driver and ACU and minimally configured your client adapter, check the client adapter’s LEDs. If the installation was successful, the client adapter’s green LED blinks.Note If your installation was unsuccessful or you experienced problems during or after driver installation, refer to Chapter 9 for troubleshooting information.Go to Chapter 4 if you want to create profiles for your client adapter.Note If two client adapters (e.g., a PCI card and a PC-Cardbus card) are installed in your computer, you must specify the one for which you currently wish to set up profiles in ACU. Go to the “Selecting Between Two Installed Client Adapters” section for instructions.Selecting Between Two Installed Client AdaptersIf two client adapters are installed in your computer, follow the instructions below to specify the one for which you want to set up profiles in ACU.Step 1 Double-click the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) icon on your desktop to open ACU. The Select A Wireless LAN Adapter Card screen displays (see Figure 3-1).
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL3-20Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 3 Installing the Client AdapterSelecting Between Two Installed Client AdaptersFigure 3-1 Select A Wireless LAN Adapter Card ScreenStep 2 Select the card you wish to configure from the list of available cards and click OK.Step 3 Go to Chapter 4 to create profiles for this card.
CHAPTER4-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-034Using the Profile ManagerThis chapter explains how to use ACU’s profile manager feature to create and manage profiles for your client adapter.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Overview of Profile Manager, page 4-2•Opening Profile Manager, page 4-2•Creating a New Profile, page 4-3•Selecting the Active Profile, page 4-4•Modifying a Profile, page 4-5•Importing and Exporting Profiles, page 4-6•Denying Access to Non-Administrative Users, page 4-7
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile ManagerOverview of Profile ManagerOverview of Profile ManagerACU’s profile manager feature allows you to create and manage up to 16 profiles (or saved configurations) for your client adapter. These profiles enable you to use your client adapter in different locations, each of which requires different configuration settings. For example, you may want to set up profiles for using your client adapter at the office, at home, and in public areas such as airports. Once the profiles are created, you can easily switch between them without having to reconfigure your client adapter each time you enter a new location.Profiles are stored in the part of the registry reserved for the client adapter driver and, therefore, are tied to radio type. Consequently, if you set up profiles for a 340 series PC card and later upgrade to a 350 series PC card, all of the profiles will be lost. Similarly, all profiles are lost if you uninstall the client adapter’s driver. To prevent your profiles from being lost, Cisco recommends that you back up your profiles using the profile manager’s import/export capability. See the “Importing and Exporting Profiles” section on page 4-6 for details.Opening Profile ManagerTo open ACU’s profile manager, double-click the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) icon on your desktop to open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu. The Profile Manager screen displays (see Figure 4-1).Figure 4-1 Profile Manager Screen
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile Manager Creating a New ProfileProfile manager allows you to perform the following tasks related to the management of profiles:•Create a new profile, see below•Select the active profile, see page 4-4•Edit a profile, see page 4-5•Set a profile to default values, see page 4-6•Rename a profile, see page 4-6•Delete a profile, see page 4-6•Import a profile, see page 4-7•Export a profile, see page 4-7Follow the instructions on the page indicated for the task you want to perform.Creating a New ProfileFollow the steps below to create a new profile.Step 1 Click Add. A cursor appears in the Profile Management edit box.Step 2 Enter the name for your new profile (for example, Office, Home, etc.).Step 3 Press Enter. The Properties screens appear with the name of your new profile in parentheses.Step 4 Perform one of the following:•If you want this profile to use the default values, click OK. The profile is added to the list of profiles on the Profile Manager screen.•If you want to change any of the configuration parameter settings, follow the instructions in Chapter 5. The profile is added to the list of profiles on the Profile Manager screen.Step 5 If you want this profile to be included in auto profile selection, select the Include Profile in Auto Profile Selection checkbox on the Profile Manager screen.Note If your profile is configured to use LEAP, it can be included in auto profile selection only if it has a saved LEAP username and password. For more information on auto profile selection, see the “Selecting the Active Profile” section on page 4-4.Step 6 Click OK or Apply to save your profile.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile ManagerSelecting the Active ProfileSelecting the Active ProfileFollow the steps below to specify the profile that the client adapter is to use.Note If this is the first time that you are using profile manager and no profiles have been set previously, the Use Selected Profile drop-down box is disabled but displays “Driver Advanced Tab Settings,” which indicates that the driver is using any settings that were set through the Control Panel.Step 1 Open ACU; then click the Select Profile icon or select Select Profile from the Commands drop-down menu. The Select Profile screen displays (see Figure 4-2).Figure 4-2 Select Profile ScreenStep 2 Select one of the following options:•Use Selected Profile – This option allows you to select one profile for the client adapter to use. If you choose this option, you also must select the desired profile from the drop-down box.If the client adapter cannot associate to an access point or loses association while using the selected profile, the adapter does not attempt to associate using another profile. To associate, you must select a different profile or select Use Auto Profile Selection.•Use Auto Profile Selection – This option causes the client adapter’s driver to automatically select a profile from the list of profiles that were set up to be included in auto profile selection. The name of the profile that is being used appears in the box to the right of the Use Auto Profile Selection option.If the client adapter loses association for more than 10 seconds (or for more than the time specified by the LEAP authentication timeout value on the LEAP Settings screen if LEAP is enabled), the driver switches automatically to another profile that is included in auto profile selection. The adapter will not switch profiles as long as it remains associated or reassociates within 10 seconds (or within the time specified by the LEAP authentication timeout value). To force the client adapter to associate to a different access point, you must disable auto profile selection and select a new profile.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile Manager Modifying a ProfileNote This option is available only if two or more profiles are included in auto profile selection and if the client adapter is using PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 or greater (or mini PCI/PC-Cardbus card driver version 2.20 or greater).Note Login scripts are not reliable if you use auto profile selection with LEAP. If you LEAP authenticate and achieve full network connectivity before or at the same time as you log into the computer, the login scripts will run. However, if you LEAP authenticate and achieve full network connectivity after you log into the computer, the login scripts will not run.•Allow Windows To Configure My Wireless Network Settings – This option, which is available only on Windows XP, allows Windows to configure the client adapter and disregard any ACU profiles. You must select this option if you are configuring your card through Windows XP but want to use ACU’s diagnostic tools. Refer to Appendix E for information on configuring your client adapter through Windows XP.Step 3 Click OK or Apply to save your selection. The client adapter starts using a profile based on the option selected above.Modifying a ProfileThis section provides instructions for modifying an existing profile. Follow the steps in the corresponding section below to edit, set to default values, rename, or delete a profile.Editing a ProfileStep 1 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 2 From the Profile Management drop-down box, select the profile that you want to edit.Step 3 Click Edit. The Properties screens appear with the name of the profile in parentheses.Step 4 Follow the instructions in Chapter 5 to change any of the configuration parameters for this profile.Step 5 If you want this profile to be included in auto profile selection, make sure the Include Profile in Auto Profile Selection checkbox on the Profile Manager screen is selected.Note If your profile is configured to use LEAP, it can be included in auto profile selection only if it has a saved LEAP username and password.Step 6 Click OK or Apply to save your configuration changes.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile ManagerImporting and Exporting ProfilesSetting a Profile to Default ValuesStep 1 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 2 From the Profile Management drop-down box, select the profile that you want to set to default values.Step 3 Click Use Defaults.Step 4 When prompted, click Yes to confirm your decision.Step 5 Click OK or Apply to save your change. The profile is saved with default values.Renaming a ProfileStep 1 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 2 From the Profile Management drop-down box, select the profile that you want to rename.Step 3 Click Rename. The Profile Management edit box becomes enabled.Step 4 Enter a new name for the profile.Step 5 Click OK or Apply to save your change. The profile is renamed and added to the list of profiles.Deleting a ProfileStep 1 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 2 From the Profile Management drop-down box, select the profile that you want to delete. Step 3 Click Delete.Step 4 When prompted, click Yes to confirm your decision.Step 5 Click OK or Apply to save your change. The profile is deleted.Importing and Exporting ProfilesThis section provides instructions for importing and exporting profiles. You may want to use the import/export feature for the following reasons:•To back up profiles before uninstalling the client adapter driver or changing radio types•To set up your computer with a profile from another computer•To export one of your profiles and use it to set up additional computersFollow the steps in the corresponding section below to import or export profiles.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile Manager Denying Access to Non-Administrative UsersImporting a ProfileStep 1 If the profile that you want to import is on a floppy disk, insert the disk into your computer’s floppy drive.Step 2 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 3 Click Import. The Import Profile screen appears.Step 4 Find the directory where the profile is located.Step 5 Click the profile so it appears in the File name box at the bottom of the Import Profile screen.Step 6 Click Open. The imported profile appears in the list of profiles on the Profile Manager screen.Exporting a ProfileStep 1 Insert a blank floppy disk into your computer’s floppy drive, if you wish to export a profile to a floppy disk.Step 2 Open ACU; then click the Profile Manager icon or select Profile Manager from the Commands drop-down menu.Step 3 From the Profile Management drop-down box, select the profile that you want to export.Step 4 Click Export. The Save Profile As screen appears. The default filename is ProfileName.pro, where ProfileName is the name of the selected profile, and the default directory is the directory in which ACU was installed.Step 5 If you want to change the profile name, enter a new name in the File name edit box.Step 6 Select a different directory (for example, your computer’s floppy disk drive or a location on the network) from the Save in drop-down box.Step 7 Click Save. The profile is exported to the specified location.Step 8 Follow the instructions in the “Importing a Profile” section to import the profile on another computer.Denying Access to Non-Administrative UsersBy default, ACU allows regular-class users to modify and save profiles to the registry. However, if you have administrative rights, you can prevent regular-class users from saving profiles on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP. (This option is not available for Windows 95, 98, and Me because these versions of Windows do not support different classes of users.)Note You were able to grant or deny access to non-administrative users during ACU installation. If you chose to deny access then, you can follow the steps below to change your decision.Follow the steps below if you wish to prevent users without administrative rights from modifying and saving profiles (or to allow regular-class users to save profiles if permission was denied previously).
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL4-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 4 Using the Profile ManagerDenying Access to Non-Administrative UsersStep 1 Open ACU by double-clicking the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) icon on your desktop.Step 2 Click the Preferences icon or select Preferences from the Options drop-down menu. The Aironet Client Utility Preferences screen appears (see Figure 4-3).Figure 4-3 Aironet Client Utility Preferences ScreenStep 3 Deselect the Allow Non-Administrator Users to use ACU to modify profiles checkbox (or select this checkbox if you wish to allow regular-class users to save profiles).Step 4 Click OK to save your changes.
CHAPTER5-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-035Configuring the Client AdapterThis chapter explains how to change the configuration parameters for a specific profile.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Overview, page 5-2•Setting System Parameters, page 5-3•Setting RF Network Parameters, page 5-6•Setting Advanced Infrastructure Parameters, page 5-13•Setting Advanced Ad Hoc Parameters, page 5-17•Setting Network Security Parameters, page 5-20
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterOverviewOverviewWhen you choose to create a new profile or edit an existing profile on the Profile Manager screen, the Properties screens appear with the name of your profile in parentheses. These screens enable you to set the configuration parameters for that profile.Note If you do not change any of the configuration parameters, the default values are used.Note If you are planning to set parameters on more than one of the Properties screens, wait until you are finished with all of the screens before clicking OK. When you click OK, you are returned to the Profile Manager screen.Each of the Properties screens (listed below) contains parameters that affect a specific aspect of the client adapter:•System Parameters – Prepares the client adapter for use in a wireless network•RF Network – Controls how the client adapter transmits and receives data•Advanced (Infrastructure) – Controls how the client adapter operates within an infrastructure network•Advanced (Ad Hoc) – Controls how the client adapter operates within an ad hoc (peer-to-peer) network•Network Security – Controls how a client adapter associates to an access point, authenticates to the wireless network, and encrypts and decrypts dataTable 5-1 enables you to quickly locate the instructions for setting each Properties screen’s parameters.Note If your system administrator used an auto-installer to deactivate certain parameters in ACU, these parameters are grayed out on the ACU Properties screens and cannot be selected.Table 5-1 Locating Configuration InstructionsParameter Category Page NumberSystem 5-3RF network 5-6Advanced infrastructure 5-13Advanced ad hoc 5-17Network security 5-20
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting System ParametersSetting System ParametersThe System Parameters screen (see Figure 5-1) enables you to set parameters that prepare the client adapter for use in a wireless network. This screen appears after you create and save a new profile or click Edit on the Profile Manager screen.Figure 5-1 System Parameters ScreenTable 5-2 lists and describes the client adapter’s system parameters. Follow the instructions in the table to change any parameters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting System ParametersTable 5-2 System Parameters Parameter DescriptionClient Name A logical name for your workstation. It allows an administrator to determine which devices are connected to the access point without having to memorize every MAC address. This name is included in the access point’s list of connected devices.Range: You can key in up to 16 ASCII charactersDefault: A blank fieldNote Each computer on the network should have a unique client name.SSID1 The service set identifier (SSID) identifies the specific wireless network that you want to access.Range: You can key in up to 32 ASCII characters (case sensitive)Default: A blank fieldNote If you leave this parameter blank, your client adapter can associate to any access point on the network that is configured to allow broadcast SSIDs (see the AP Radio Hardware page in the access point management system). If the access point with which the client adapter is to communicate is not configured to allow broadcast SSIDs, the value of this parameter must match the SSID of the access point. Otherwise, the client adapter is unable to access the network.SSID2 An optional SSID that identifies a second distinct network and enables you to roam to that network without having to reconfigure your client adapter.Range: You can key in up to 32 ASCII characters (case sensitive)Default: A blank fieldSSID3 An optional SSID that identifies a third distinct network and enables you to roam to that network without having to reconfigure your client adapter.Range: You can key in up to 32 ASCII characters (case sensitive)Default: A blank field
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting System ParametersPower Save Mode Sets your client adapter to its optimum power consumption setting.Options: CAM, Max PSP, or Fast PSPDefault: CAM (Constantly Awake Mode)Power Save Mode DescriptionCAM (Constantly Awake Mode) Keeps the client adapter powered up continuously so there is little lag in message response time.Consumes the most power but offers the highest throughput. Is recommended for desktop computers and devices that use AC power.Max PSP (Max Power Savings) Causes the access point to buffer incoming messages for the client adapter, which wakes up periodically and polls the access point to see if any buffered messages are waiting for it. The adapter can request each message and then go back to sleep.Conserves the most power but offers the lowest throughput. Is recommended for devices for which power consumption is the ultimate concern (such as small battery-powered devices).Note When you set Max PSP mode and close ACU, the following message appears the next time you open ACU: “Maximum Power Save mode will be temporarily disabled while you are running this application.” While ACU is open, Fast PSP mode is active. When you close ACU, the card returns to Max PSP mode.Fast PSP (Power Save Mode) Switches between PSP mode and CAM mode, depending on network traffic. This mode switches to CAM when retrieving a large number of packets and switches back to PSP after the packets have been retrieved.Is recommended when power consumption is a concern but you need greater throughput than that allowed by Max PSP.Table 5-2 System Parameters (continued) Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting RF Network ParametersGo to the next section to set additional parameters or click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen. On the Profile Manager screen, click OK or Apply to save your changes.Setting RF Network ParametersThe RF Network screen (see Figure 5-2) enables you to set parameters that control how and when the client adapter transmits and receives data. To access this screen, select the RF Network tab from the Properties screens.Network Type Specifies the type of network in which your client adapter is installed.Options: Ad Hoc or InfrastructureDefault: InfrastructureNetwork Type DescriptionAd Hoc Often referred to as peer to peer. Indicates that your wireless network consists of a few wireless devices that are not connected to a wired Ethernet network through an access point. For example, an ad hoc network could be set up between computers in a conference room so users can share information in a meeting.Infrastructure Indicates that your wireless network is connected to a wired Ethernet network through an access point.Table 5-2 System Parameters (continued) Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting RF Network ParametersFigure 5-2 RF Network ScreenTable 5-3 lists and describes the client adapter’s RF network parameters. Follow the instructions in the table to change any parameters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting RF Network ParametersTable 5-3 RF Network ParametersParameter DescriptionData Rate Specifies the rate at which your client adapter should transmit or receive packets to or from access points (in infrastructure mode) or other clients (in ad hoc mode).Auto Rate Selection is recommended for infrastructure mode; setting a specific data rate is recommended for ad hoc mode.Options: Auto Rate Selection, 1 Mbps Only, 2 Mbps Only, 5.5 Mbps Only, or 11 Mbps Only (2.4-GHz client adapters);Auto Rate Selection, 6 Mbps Only, 9 Mbps Only, 12 Mbps Only, 18 Mbps Only, 24 Mbps Only, 36 Mbps Only, 48 Mbps Only, or 54 Mbps Only (5-GHz client adapters)Default: Auto Rate SelectionData RateDescription2.4-GHz Client Adapters 5-GHz Client AdaptersAuto Rate Selection Auto Rate Selection Uses the 11-Mbps (for 2.4-GHz client adapters) or 54-Mbps (for 5-GHz client adapters) data rate when possible but drops to lower rates when necessary.1 Mbps Only 6 Mbps Only Offers the greatest range but the lowest throughput.2 Mbps Only and 5.5 Mbps Only9 Mbps Only to 48 Mbps OnlyProgressively offers less range but greater throughput than the 1 Mbps Only (for 2.4-GHz client adapters) or 6 Mbps Only (for 5-GHz client adapters) option.11 Mbps Only 54 Mbps Only Offers the greatest throughput but the lowest range.Note Your client adapter’s data rate must be set to Auto Rate Selection or must match the data rate of the access point (in infrastructure mode) or the other clients (in ad hoc mode) with which it is to communicate. Otherwise, your client adapter may not be able to associate to them.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-9Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting RF Network ParametersUse Short Radio Headers Selecting this checkbox sets your client adapter to use short radio headers. However, the adapter can use short radio headers only if the access point is also configured to support them and is using them. If any clients associated to an access point are using long headers, then all clients in that cell must also use long headers, even if both this client and the access point have short radio headers enabled.Short radio headers improve throughput performance; long radio headers ensure compatibility with clients and access points that do not support short radio headers.Default: SelectedNote This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note This parameter is referred to as Preambles on the access point screens.World Mode Selecting this checkbox enables the client adapter to adopt the maximum transmit power level and the frequency range of the access point to which it is associated, provided the access point is also configured for world mode. This parameter is available only in infrastructure mode and is designed for users who travel between countries and want their client adapters to associate to access points in different regulatory domains.Default: DeselectedNote This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note When World Mode is enabled, the client adapter is limited to the maximum transmit power level allowed by the country of operation’s regulatory agency.Periodically Scan For A Better Access Point Selecting this checkbox causes the client to look for a better access point if its signal strength becomes low and to switch associations if it finds one.Default: SelectedNote This parameter is available only if your client adapter is using PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.30 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.00.03 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater.Table 5-3 RF Network Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-10Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting RF Network ParametersChannel Specifies which frequency your client adapter will use as the channel for communications. These channels conform to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for your regulatory domain.•In infrastructure mode, this parameter is set automatically and cannot be changed. The client adapter listens to the entire spectrum, selects the best access point to associate to, and uses the same frequency as that access point.•In ad hoc mode, the channel of the client adapter must be set to match the channel used by the other clients in the wireless network.Range: Dependent on client adapter radio and regulatory domainExample for 2.4-GHz client adapters:1 to 11 (2412 to 2462 MHz) in North AmericaExample for 5-GHz client adapters:36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, and 64 (5180, 5200, 5220, 5240, 5260, 5280, 5300, and 5320 MHz) in North AmericaDefault: Dependent on client adapter radio and regulatory domainExample for 2.4-GHz client adapters:6 (2437 MHz) in North AmericaExample for 5-GHz client adapters:36 (5180 MHz) in North AmericaNote Refer to Appendix D for a list of channel identifiers, channel center frequencies, and regulatory domains for each channel.Table 5-3 RF Network Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-11Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting RF Network ParametersTransmit Power Defines the power level at which your client adapter transmits. This value must not be higher than that allowed by your country’s regulatory agency (FCC in the U.S., DOC in Canada, ETSI in Europe, MKK in Japan, etc.).Options: Dependent on the power table programmed into the client adapter; see the table belowDefault: The maximum level programmed into the client adapter and allowed by your country’s regulatory agencyPossible Power Levels Client Adapter Type100 mW, 50 mW, 30 mW, 20 mW, 5 mW, or 1 mW 350 series client adapters30 mW or 1 mW 340 series PC cards30 mW, 15 mW, 5 mW, or1 mW 340 series PCI cards and LM cards20 mW, 10 mW, or 5 mW PC-Cardbus cardNote Reducing the transmit power level conserves battery power but decreases radio range.Note When World Mode is enabled, the client adapter is limited to the maximum transmit power level allowed by the country of operation’s regulatory agency.Note If you are using an older version of a 340 or 350 series client adapter, your power level options may be different than those listed here.Table 5-3 RF Network Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-12Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting RF Network ParametersClear Channel Assessment Specifies the method that determines whether the channel on which your client adapter will operate is clear prior to the transmission of data.Options: Firmware Default (XXX), Carrier/Correlation (Car/Cor), Energy Detect (ED), or ED or Car/CorDefault: Firmware Default (XXX)Method DescriptionFirmware Default (XXX) The Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) mechanism will report that the channel is busy based on the default value of the client adapter’s firmware. The firmware’s CCA default value is shown in parentheses.Note The CCA default value for PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware is Car/Cor; the default value for mini PCI card firmware is ED.Carrier/Correlation (Car/Cor) The CCA mechanism will report that the channel is busy upon detection of a direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) signal. This signal may be above or below the ED threshold.Energy Detect (ED) The CCA mechanism will report that the channel is busy upon detection of any energy above the ED threshold.ED or Car/Cor The CCA mechanism will report that the channel is busy upon detection of a DSSS signal or any energy above the ED threshold.Note This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters using PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.30 or greater (or mini PCI card firmware version 5.00.03 or greater).Table 5-3 RF Network Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-13Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Advanced Infrastructure ParametersGo to the next section to set additional parameters or click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen. On the Profile Manager screen, click OK or Apply to save your changes.Setting Advanced Infrastructure ParametersNote You can set advanced infrastructure parameters only if your client adapter has been set to operate in an infrastructure network. See the Network Type parameter in Table 5-2.The Advanced (Infrastructure) screen (see Figure 5-3) enables you to set parameters that control how the client adapter operates within an infrastructure network. To access this screen, select the Advanced (Infrastructure) tab from the Properties screens.Data Retries Defines the number of times a packet will be resent if the initial transmission is unsuccessful.Range: 1 to 128Default: 16Note If your network protocol performs its own retries, set this to a smaller value than the default. This way notification of a “bad” packet is sent up the protocol stack quickly so the application can retransmit the packet if necessary.Fragment Threshold Defines the threshold above which an RF data packet will be split up or fragmented. If one of those fragmented packets experiences interference during transmission, only that specific packet would need to be resent.Throughput is generally lower for fragmented packets because the fixed packet overhead consumes a higher portion of the RF bandwidth.Range: 256 to 2312Default: 2312Table 5-3 RF Network Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-14Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Advanced Infrastructure ParametersFigure 5-3 Advanced (Infrastructure) ScreenTable 5-4 lists and describes the client adapter’s advanced infrastructure parameters. Follow the instructions in the table to change any parameters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-15Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Advanced Infrastructure ParametersTable 5-4 Advanced (Infrastructure) ParametersParameter DescriptionAntenna Mode (Receive) Specifies the antenna that your client adapter uses to receive data.•PC card – The PC card’s integrated, permanently attached antenna operates best when used in diversity mode. Diversity mode allows the card to use the better signal from its two antenna ports.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)•LM card – The LM card is shipped without an antenna; however, an antenna can be connected through the card’s external connector. If a snap-on antenna is used, diversity mode is recommended. Otherwise, select the mode that corresponds to the antenna port to which the antenna is connected.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)•PCI client adapter – The PCI client adapter must use the Primary Antenna Only option.Default: Primary Antenna Only•Mini PCI card – The mini PCI card, which can be used with one or two antennas, operates best in diversity mode. Diversity mode allows the card to use the better signal from its two antenna connectors.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)Note This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note The Primary Antenna Only and Secondary Antenna Only options were formerly named Right Antenna Only and Left Antenna Only, respectively.Antenna Mode (Transmit) Specifies the antenna that your client adapter uses to transmit data. See the Antenna Mode (Receive) parameter above for information on the options available for your client adapter.Note This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-16Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Advanced Infrastructure ParametersGo to the next section to set additional parameters or click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen. On the Profile Manager screen, click OK or Apply to save your changes.Specified Access Point 1- 4 Specifies the MAC addresses of up to four preferred access points with which the client adapter can associate. If the specified access points are not found or the client adapter roams out of range, the adapter may associate to another access point.You can enter the MAC addresses of the access points in the edit boxes or choose not to specify access points by leaving the boxes blank.Default: Blank fieldsNote This parameter should be used only for access points that are in repeater mode. For normal operation, leave these fields blank because specifying an access point slows down the roaming process.RTS Threshold Specifies the size of the data packet that the low-level RF protocol issues to a request-to-send (RTS) packet.Setting this parameter to a small value causes RTS packets to be sent more often. When this occurs, more of the available bandwidth is consumed and the throughput of other network packets is reduced, but the system is able to recover faster from interference or collisions, which may be caused from a high multipath environment characterized by obstructions or metallic surfaces.Range: 0 to 2312Default: 2312Note Refer to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for more information on the RTS/CTS mechanism.RTS Retry Limit Specifies the number of times the client adapter will resend a request-to-send (RTS) packet if it does not receive a clear-to-send (CTS) packet from the previously sent RTS packet.Setting this parameter to a large value decreases the available bandwidth whenever interference is encountered but makes the system more immune to interference and collisions, which may be caused from a high multipath environment characterized by obstructions or metallic surfaces.Range: 1 to 128Default: 16Note Refer to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for more information on the RTS/CTS mechanism.Table 5-4 Advanced (Infrastructure) Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-17Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Advanced Ad Hoc ParametersSetting Advanced Ad Hoc ParametersNote You can set advanced ad hoc parameters only if your client adapter has been set to operate in an ad hoc network. See the Network Type parameter in Table 5-2.The Advanced (Ad Hoc) screen (see Figure 5-4) enables you to set parameters that control how the client adapter operates within an ad hoc network. To access this screen, select the Advanced (Ad Hoc) tab from the Properties screens.Figure 5-4 Advanced (Ad Hoc) ScreenTable 5-5 lists and describes the client adapter’s advanced ad hoc parameters. Follow the instructions in the table to change any parameters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-18Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Advanced Ad Hoc ParametersTable 5-5 Advanced (Ad Hoc) ParametersParameter DescriptionAntenna Mode (Receive) Specifies the antenna that your client adapter uses to receive data.•PC card – The PC card’s integrated, permanently attached antenna operates best when used in diversity mode. Diversity mode allows the card to use the better signal from its two antenna ports.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)•LM card – The LM card is shipped without an antenna; however, an antenna can be connected through the card’s external connector. If a snap-on antenna is used, diversity mode is recommended. Otherwise, select the mode that corresponds to the antenna port to which the antenna is connected.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)•PCI client adapter – The PCI client adapter must use the Primary Antenna Only option.Default: Primary Antenna Only•Mini PCI card – The mini PCI card, which can be used with one or two antennas, operates best in diversity mode. Diversity mode allows the card to use the better signal from its two antenna connectors.Options: Diversity (Both), Primary Antenna Only, Secondary Antenna OnlyDefault: Diversity (Both)Note This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note The Primary Antenna Only and Secondary Antenna Only options were formerly named Right Antenna Only and Left Antenna Only, respectively.Antenna Mode (Transmit) Specifies the antenna that your client adapter uses to transmit data. See the Antenna Mode (Receive) parameter above for information on the options available for your client adapter.Note This parameter is available only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-19Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Advanced Ad Hoc ParametersRTS Threshold Specifies the size of the data packet that the low-level RF protocol issues to a request-to-send (RTS) packet.Setting this parameter to a small value causes RTS packets to be sent more often. When this occurs, more of the available bandwidth is consumed and the throughput of other network packets is reduced, but the system is able to recover faster from interference or collisions, which may be caused from a high multipath environment characterized by obstructions or metallic surfaces.Range: 0 to 2312Default: 2312Note Refer to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for more information on the RTS/CTS mechanism.RTS Retry Limit Specifies the number of times the client adapter will resend a request-to-send (RTS) packet if it does not receive a clear-to-send (CTS) packet from the previously sent RTS packet.Setting this parameter to a large value decreases the available bandwidth whenever interference is encountered but makes the system more immune to interference and collisions, which may be caused from a high multipath environment characterized by obstructions or metallic surfaces.Range: 1 to 128Default: 16Note Refer to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for more information on the RTS/CTS mechanism.Wake Duration (Kµs) Specifies the amount of time following a beacon that the client adapter stays awake to receive announcement traffic indication message (ATIM) packets, which are sent to the adapter to keep it awake until the next beacon.Refer to the Power Save Mode parameter in Table 5-2.Range: 0 Kµs (in CAM mode); 5 to 60 Kµs (in Max PSP or Fast PSP mode)Default: 5 KµsNote If your client adapter is set to CAM mode, you must set the wake duration to 0 Kµs. If your client adapter is set to Max PSP or Fast PSP mode, you must set the wake duration to a minimum of 5 Kµs.Note Kµs is a unit of measurement in software terms. K = 1024,µ = 10-6, and s = seconds, so Kµs = .001024 seconds, 1.024 milliseconds, or 1024 microseconds.Table 5-5 Advanced (Ad Hoc) Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-20Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersGo to the next section to set additional parameters or click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen. On the Profile Manager screen, click OK or Apply to save your changes.Setting Network Security ParametersThe Network Security screen (see Figure 5-5) enables you to set parameters that control how the client adapter associates to an access point, authenticates to the wireless network, and encrypts and decrypts data. To access this screen, select the Network Security tab from the Properties screens.Figure 5-5 Network Security ScreenBeacon Period (Kµs) Specifies the duration between beacon packets, which are used to help clients find each other in ad hoc mode.Range: 20 to 976 KµsDefault: 100 KµsTable 5-5 Advanced (Ad Hoc) Parameters (continued)Parameter Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-21Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersThis screen is different from the other Properties screens in that it presents several security features, each of which involves a number of steps. In addition, the security features themselves are complex and need to be understood before they are implemented. Therefore, this section provides an overview of the security features as well as procedures for using them.However, before you determine the appropriate security settings for your client adapter, you must decide how to set the Allow Association To Mixed Cells parameter, which appears at the bottom of the Network Security screen and is not associated to any of the security features. See the “Setting the Allow Association To Mixed Cells Parameter” section below.Setting the Allow Association To Mixed Cells ParameterThe Allow Association To Mixed Cells parameter indicates whether the client adapter can associate to an access point that allows both WEP and non-WEP associations. Follow the steps below to set this parameter.Step 1 Perform one of the following:•Select the Allow Association To Mixed Cells checkbox if the access point with which the client adapter is to associate has WEP set to Optional (regardless of whether WEP is enabled on the adapter). Otherwise, the client adapter is unable to establish a connection with the access point.•Deselect the Allow Association To Mixed Cells checkbox if the access point with which the client adapter is to associate does not have WEP set to Optional. This is the default setting.Note For security reasons, Cisco recommends that WEP-enabled and WEP-disabled clients not be allowed in the same cell because broadcast packets will be sent unencrypted, even to clients running WEP.Step 2 Perform one of the following:•If you do not want to change any other parameters on the Network Security screen, click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen; then click OK or Apply to save your changes•If you want to change some of the other parameters on the Network Security screen, go to the next section.Overview of Security FeaturesYou can protect your data as it is transmitted through your wireless network by encrypting it through the use of Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption keys. With WEP encryption, the transmitting device encrypts each packet with a WEP key, and the receiving device uses that same key to decrypt each packet.The WEP keys used to encrypt and decrypt transmitted data can be statically associated with your adapter or dynamically created as part of the EAP authentication process. The information in the “Static WEP Keys” and “EAP (with Static or Dynamic WEP Keys)” sections below can help you to decide which type of WEP keys you want to use. Dynamic WEP keys with EAP offer a higher degree of security than static WEP keys.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-22Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersWEP keys, whether static or dynamic, are either 40 or 128 bits in length. 128-bit WEP keys offer a greater level of security than 40-bit WEP keys.Note Refer to the “Additional WEP Key Security Features” section on page 5-24 for information on three security features that can make your WEP keys even more secure.Static WEP KeysEach device (or profile) within your wireless network can be assigned up to four static WEP keys. If a device receives a packet that is not encrypted with the appropriate key (as the WEP keys of all devices that are to communicate with each other must match), the device discards the packet and never delivers it to the intended receiver.Static WEP keys are write-only and temporary; therefore, they cannot be read back from the client adapter, and they are lost when power to the adapter is removed or the Windows device is rebooted. Although the keys are temporary, you do not need to re-enter them each time the client adapter is inserted or the Windows device is rebooted. This is because the keys are stored (in an encrypted format for security reasons) in the registry of the Windows device. When the driver loads and reads the client adapter’s registry parameters, it also finds the static WEP keys, unencrypts them, and stores them in volatile memory on the adapter.The Network Security screen enables you to view the current WEP key settings for the client adapter and then to assign new WEP keys or overwrite existing WEP keys as well as to enable or disable static WEP. Refer to the “Using Static WEP” section on page 5-26 for instructions.EAP (with Static or Dynamic WEP Keys)The new standard for wireless LAN security, as defined by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), is called 802.1X for 802.11, or simply 802.1X. An access point that supports 802.1X and its protocol, Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP), acts as the interface between a wireless client and an authentication server, such as a Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server, to which the access point communicates over the wired network.Two 802.1X authentication types can be selected in ACU for use with Windows operating systems:•EAP-Cisco Wireless (or LEAP) – This authentication type is available for Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, and XP, as well as non-Windows systems. Support for LEAP is provided not in the Windows operating system but in your client adapter’s firmware and the Cisco software that supports it. RADIUS servers that support LEAP include Cisco Secure ACS version 2.6 and greater, Cisco Access Registrar version 1.7 and greater, and Funk Software’s Steel-Belted RADIUS version 3.0 and greater.LEAP is enabled or disabled for a specific profile through ACU, provided LEAP was selected during ACU installation. Once enabled, a variety of configuration options are available, including how and when a username and password are entered to begin the authentication process.The username and password are used by the client adapter to perform mutual authentication with the RADIUS server through the access point. The username and password are stored in the client adapter’s volatile memory; therefore, they are temporary and need to be re-entered whenever power is removed from the adapter, typically due to the client adapter being ejected or the system powering down.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-23Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersNote If LEAP was not selected during installation, the LEAP option is unavailable in ACU. If you want to be able to enable and disable LEAP, you must run the installation program again and select Modify and LEAP.•Host Based EAP – Selecting this option enables you to use any 802.1X authentication type for which your operating system has built-in support. For example, Windows XP has built-in support for both EAP-TLS and EAP-MD5.–EAP-TLS – EAP-TLS is enabled or disabled through the operating system and uses a dynamic, session-based WEP key, which is derived from the client adapter and RADIUS server, to encrypt data. Once enabled, a few configuration parameters must be set within the operating system.RADIUS servers that support EAP-TLS include Cisco Secure ACS version 3.0 and greater and Cisco Access Registrar version 1.8 and greater.Note EAP-TLS requires the use of a certificate. Refer to Microsoft’s documentation for information on downloading and installing the certificate.–EAP-MD5 – EAP-MD5 is enabled or disabled through the operating system and uses static WEP to encrypt data. EAP-MD5 requires you to enter a separate EAP username and password (in addition to your standard Windows network login) in order to start the EAP authentication process and gain access to the network.RADIUS servers that support EAP-MD5 include Cisco Secure ACS version 3.0 and greater and Cisco Access Registrar version 1.8 and greater.Note If you want to authenticate without encrypting the data that is transmitted over your network, you can use EAP-MD5 without static WEP.Note Although EAP-TLS and EAP-MD5 are enabled in the operating system, you can set up profiles in ACU to use these authentication types. To do so, follow the instructions in the “Enabling Host-Based EAP” section on page 5-31.When you enable Network-EAP on your access point and configure your client adapter for LEAP, EAP-TLS, or EAP-MD5 using ACU or enable Require EAP on your access point and configure your client adapter for EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5 using Windows XP, authentication to the network occurs in the following sequence:1. The client associates to an access point and begins the authentication process.Note The client does not gain access to the network until mutual authentication between the client and the RADIUS server is successful.2. Communicating through the access point, the client and RADIUS server complete a mutual authentication process, with the password (or certificate for EAP-TLS) being the shared secret for authentication. The password (or certificate) is never transmitted during the process.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-24Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersNote The authentication process is now complete for EAP-MD5. For LEAP or EAP-TLS, the process continues.3. If mutual authentication is successful, the client and RADIUS server derive a dynamic, session-based WEP key that is unique to the client.4. The RADIUS server transmits the key to the access point using a secure channel on the wired LAN.5. For the length of a session, or time period, the access point and the client use this key to encrypt or decrypt all unicast packets that travel between them.Refer to the “Enabling LEAP” section on page 5-28 for instructions on enabling LEAP or to the “Enabling Host-Based EAP” section on page 5-31 for instructions on enabling EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5.Note Refer to the IEEE 802.11 Standard for more information on 802.1X authentication and to the following URL for additional information on RADIUS servers: http://www.cisco.com/univercd/cc/td/doc/product/software/ios120/12cgcr/secur_c/scprt2/scrad.htmAdditional WEP Key Security FeaturesThe three security features discussed in this section (MIC, TKIP, and broadcast key rotation) are designed to prevent sophisticated attacks on your wireless network’s WEP keys. These features are supported in the following client adapter software releases:•PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.23 or greater and PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 or greater•Mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater and mini PCI card driver version 2.20 or greater•PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater and PC-Cardbus driver 3.4.9 or greaterThese features do not need to be enabled on the client adapter; they are supported automatically in the firmware and driver versions listed above. However, they must be enabled on the access point.Note Access point firmware version 11.10T or greater is required to enable these security features. Refer to the Cisco Aironet Access Point Software Configuration Guide for instructions on enabling these security features on the access point.Message Integrity Check (MIC)MIC prevents bit-flip attacks on encrypted packets. During a bit-flip attack, an intruder intercepts an encrypted message, alters it slightly, and retransmits it, and the receiver accepts the retransmitted message as legitimate. The MIC adds a few bytes to each packet to make the packets tamper-proof.The Status screen indicates if MIC is being used, and the Statistics screen provides MIC statistics.Note If you enable MIC on the access point, your client adapter’s driver must support these features; otherwise, the client cannot associate.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-25Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersTemporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP)This feature, also referred to as WEP key hashing, defends against an attack on WEP in which the intruder uses the initialization vector (IV) in encrypted packets to calculate the WEP key. TKIP removes the predictability that an intruder relies on to determine the WEP key by exploiting IVs. It protects both unicast and broadcast WEP keys.Note If you enable TKIP on the access point, your client adapter’s firmware must support these features; otherwise, the client cannot associate.Broadcast Key RotationEAP authentication provides dynamic unicast WEP keys for client devices but uses static broadcast, or multicast, keys. When you enable broadcast WEP key rotation, the access point provides a dynamic broadcast WEP key and changes it at the interval you select. When you enable this feature, only wireless client devices using LEAP or EAP-TLS authentication can associate to the access point. Client devices using static WEP (with open, shared key, or EAP-MD5 authentication) cannot associate.Synchronizing Security FeaturesIn order to use any of the security features discussed in this section, both your client adapter and the access point to which it will associate must be set appropriately. Table 5-6 indicates the client and access point settings required for each security feature. This chapter provides specific instructions for enabling the security features on your client adapter. Refer to the Cisco Aironet Access Point Software Configuration Guide for instructions on enabling the features on the access point.Table 5-6 Client and Access Point Security SettingsSecurity Feature Client Setting Access Point SettingStatic WEP with open authentication Create a WEP key and enable Use Static WEP Keys and Open AuthenticationSet up and enable WEP and enable Open AuthenticationStatic WEP with shared key authentication Create a WEP key and enable Use Static WEP Keys and Shared Key AuthenticationSet up and enable WEP and enable Shared Key AuthenticationLEAP authentication Enable LEAP Set up and enable WEP and enable Network-EAPEAP-TLS authenticationIf using ACU to configure card Enable Host Based EAP in ACU and enable Smart Card or Other Certificate in Windows XPSet up and enable WEP and enable Network-EAPIf using Windows XP to configure card Enable Smart Card or other Certificate Set up and enable WEP and enable Require EAP and Open Authentication
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-26Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersUsing Static WEPThis section provides instructions for entering new static WEP keys or overwriting existing static WEP keys.Entering a New Static WEP KeyFollow the steps below to enter a new static WEP key for this profile.Step 1 Select None from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the Network Security screen.Step 2 Select Use Static WEP Keys under WEP.Step 3 Select one of the following WEP key entry methods:•Hexadecimal (0-9, A-F) – Specifies that the WEP key will be entered in hexadecimal characters, which include 0-9, A-F, and a-f.•ASCII Text – Specifies that the WEP key will be entered in ASCII text, which includes alpha characters, numbers, and punctuation marks.EAP-MD5 authenticationIf using ACU to configure card Enable Host Based EAP in ACU and enable MD5-Challenge in Windows XPSet up and enable WEP and enable Network-EAPIf using Windows XP to configure card Enable MD5-Challenge Set up and enable WEP and enable Require EAP and Open AuthenticationMIC Use PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 or greater, mini PCI card driver version 2.20 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card driver version 3.4.9 or greaterSet up and enable WEP with full encryption, set MIC to MMH, and set Use Aironet Extensions to YesTKIP Use PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.23 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greaterSet up and enable WEP, set TKIP to Cisco, and set Use Aironet Extensions to YesBroadcast key rotation Use PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.23 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater and enable LEAPSet up and enable WEP and set Broadcast WEP Key Rotation Interval to any value other than zero (0)Table 5-6 Client and Access Point Security Settings (continued)Security Feature Client Setting Access Point Setting
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-27Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersStep 4 Select one of the following access point authentication options, which defines how your client adapter will attempt to authenticate to an access point:•Open Authentication – Allows your client adapter, regardless of its WEP settings, to authenticate and attempt to communicate with an access point. Open Authentication is the default setting.•Shared Key Authentication – Allows your client adapter to communicate only with access points that have the same WEP key. This option is available only if Use Static WEP Keys is selected.In shared key authentication, the access point sends a known unencrypted “challenge packet” to the client adapter, which encrypts the packet and sends it back to the access point. The access point attempts to decrypt the encrypted packet and sends an authentication response packet indicating the success or failure of the decryption back to the client adapter. If the packet is successfully encrypted/decrypted, the user is considered to be authenticated.Note Cisco recommends that shared key authentication not be used because it presents a security risk.Step 5 For the static WEP key that you are entering (1, 2, 3, or 4), select a WEP key size of 40 or 128 on the right side of the screen. 128-bit client adapters can use 40- or 128-bit keys, but 40-bit adapters can use only 40-bit keys. If 128 bit is not supported by the client adapter, this option is grayed out, and you are unable to select it.Step 6 Obtain the static WEP key from your system administrator and enter it in the blank field for the key you are creating. Follow the guidelines below to enter a new static WEP key: •WEP keys must contain the following number of characters:–10 hexadecimal characters or 5 ASCII text characters for 40-bit keysExample: 5A5A313859 (hexadecimal) or ZZ18Y (ASCII)–26 hexadecimal characters or 13 ASCII text characters for 128-bit keysExample: 5A583135333554595549333534 (hexadecimal) or ZX1535TYUI354 (ASCII)•Your client adapter’s WEP key must match the WEP key used by the access point (in infrastructure mode) or clients (in ad hoc mode) with which you are planning to communicate.•When setting more than one WEP key, the keys must be assigned to the same WEP key numbers for all devices. For example, WEP key 2 must be WEP key number 2 on all devices. When multiple WEP keys are set, they must be in the same order on all devices.Note After you enter a WEP key, you can write over it, but you cannot edit or delete it.Step 7 Click the Transmit Key button to the left of the key you want to use to transmit packets. Only one WEP key can be selected as the transmit key.Step 8 Click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen; then click OK or Apply to save your changes.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-28Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersOverwriting an Existing Static WEP KeyFollow the steps below to overwrite an existing static WEP key.Note You can overwrite existing WEP keys, but you cannot edit or delete them.Step 1 Look at the current WEP key settings in the middle of the Network Security screen. A checkmark appears in the Already Set? box for all existing static WEP keys.Note For security reasons, the codes for existing static WEP keys do not appear on the screen.Step 2 Decide which existing static WEP key you want to overwrite.Step 3 Click within the blank field of that key.Step 4 Enter a new key, following the guidelines outlined in Step 6 of the “Entering a New Static WEP Key” section on page 5-26.Step 5 Make sure the Transmit Key button to the left of your key is selected, if you want this key to be used to transmit packets.Step 6 Click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen; then click OK or Apply to save your changesDisabling Static WEPIf you ever need to disable static WEP for a particular profile, select No WEP under WEP on the Network Security screen, click OK, and click OK or Apply on the Profile Manager screen.Note Selecting LEAP from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the Network Security screen disables static WEP automatically.Enabling LEAPNote LEAP authentication is supported only on client adapters that support WEP and use PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.13 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater, or PC-Cardbus firmware version 4.99 or greater.Note In order to use LEAP authentication, your client adapter and access point firmware must have matching 802.1X draft standards. That is, if the access point uses draft 8 firmware (prior to 11.06) or has draft 8 selected, the client adapter must use draft 8 firmware (prior to 4.25.x). Similarly, if the access point uses draft 10 firmware (11.06 or later) and has draft 10 selected, the client adapter must use draft 10 firmware (4.25.x or later). Mini PCI firmware and PC-Cardbus card firmware were first released at draft 10.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-29Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersFollow the steps below to enable LEAP authentication for this profile.Step 1 Select LEAP from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the bottom of the Network Security screen.Note When you select this option, dynamic WEP is set automatically.Note The LEAP option is available only if you selected LEAP during the ACU installation process and the firmware supports it.Step 2 Click Configure to the right of the Network Security Type drop-down box. The LEAP Settings screen appears (see Figure 5-6).Figure 5-6 LEAP Settings Screen
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-30Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersStep 3 Select one of the following LEAP username and password setting options:•Use Temporary User Name and Password – Requires you to enter the LEAP username and password each time the computer reboots in order to authenticate and gain access to the network.•Use Saved User Name and Password – Does not require you to enter a LEAP username and password each time the computer reboots. Authentication occurs automatically as needed using a saved username and password (which are registered with the RADIUS server).Note The Use Saved User Name and Password option is available only if the Allow Saved LEAP User Name and Password checkbox was selected during installation.Note If a profile is using LEAP, it can be included in auto profile selection only if it has a saved user name and password. The Include Profile In Auto Profile Selection checkbox on the Profile Manager screen is grayed out and cannot be selected for profiles that are using LEAP without a saved user name and password.Step 4 Perform one of the following:•If you selected Use Temporary User Name and Password in Step 3, select one of the following options:–Use Windows User Name and Password – Causes your Windows username and password to also serve as your LEAP username and password, giving you only one set of credentials to remember. After you log in, the LEAP authentication process begins automatically. This option is the default setting.–Automatically Prompt for LEAP User Name and Password – Requires you to enter a separate LEAP username and password (which are registered with the RADIUS server) in addition to your regular Windows login in order to start the LEAP authentication process.–Manually Prompt for LEAP User Name and Password – Requires you to manually invoke the LEAP authentication process as needed using the Manual LEAP Login option from the Commands drop-down menu. You are not prompted to enter a LEAP username and password during the Windows login. This option might be used to support a SoftToken one-time password system or other systems that require additional software that is not available at login.•If you selected Use Saved User Name and Password in Step 3, follow the steps below:a. Enter a username and password in the appropriate fields.Note Usernames and passwords are limited to 32 ASCII characters each. However, if a domain name is entered in the Domain field, the sum of the username and domain name is limited to 31 ASCII characters.b. Re-enter the password in the Confirm Password field.c. If you wish to specify a domain name that will be passed to the RADIUS server along with your username, enter it in the Domain field.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-31Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersStep 5 If you work in an environment with multiple domains and, therefore, want your Windows login domain to be passed to the RADIUS server along with your username, select the Include Windows Login Domain With User Name checkbox. The default setting is selected.Note If you selected to use a saved username and password but do not select the Include Windows Login Domain With User Name checkbox, the Domain field becomes unavailable, and a domain name is not passed to the RADIUS server.Step 6 If you want to force the client adapter to disassociate after you log off so that another user cannot gain access to the wireless network using your credentials, select the No Network Connection Unless User is Logged In checkbox. The default setting is selected.Step 7 In the LEAP Authentication Timeout Value field, enter the amount of time (in seconds) before a LEAP authentication is considered to be failed and an error message appears.Range: 10 to 300 secondsDefault: 90 secondsStep 8 Click OK to exit the LEAP Settings screen.Step 9 Click OK to exit the Network Security screen and return to the Profile Manager screen. On the Profile Manager screen, click OK or Apply to save your changesNote Chapter 6 describes the sequence of events that occurs when a profile that is set for LEAP authentication is selected for use.Enabling Host-Based EAPNote Host-based EAP authentication is supported only on client adapters that support WEP and use PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.13 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater.Note In order to use EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5 authentication, your client adapter and access point must use 802.1X draft standard 10 firmware.Follow the steps below to enable host-based EAP authentication (such as EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5) for this profile.Step 1 Select Host Based EAP from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the Network Security screen.Note The Host Based EAP option is available only if your computer’s operating system has built-in EAP support, such as Windows XP.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-32Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersStep 2 Perform one of the following:•If you are planning to use EAP-TLS authentication, select Use Dynamic WEP Keys under WEP.•If you are planning to use EAP-MD5 authentication with static WEP, select Use Static WEP Keys under WEP.•If you are planning to use EAP-MD5 authentication without WEP, select No WEP under WEP.Step 3 If you are planning to use EAP-MD5 authentication with static WEP, follow Step 3 through Step 7 in the “Entering a New Static WEP Key” section to create a new static WEP key or follow the steps in the “Overwriting an Existing Static WEP Key” section to overwrite an existing static WEP key.Step 4 Click OK to return to the Profile Manager screen.Step 5 Click OK or Apply on the Profile Manager screen to save your changes.Step 6 On your computer desktop, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections.Note These instructions assume you are using Windows XP’s classic view rather than its category view.Step 7 Right-click Wireless Network Connection.Step 8 Click Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties screen appears.Step 9 Click the Authentication tab. The following screen appears (see Figure 5-7).Figure 5-7 Wireless Network Connection Properties Screen (Authentication Tab)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-33Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client Adapter Setting Network Security ParametersStep 10 Select the Enable network access control using IEEE 802.1X checkbox.Step 11 Perform one of the following:•If you are planning to use EAP-TLS, select Smart Card or other Certificate for EAP type; then go to Step 12.•If you are planning to use EAP-MD5, select MD5-Challenge for EAP type; then go to Step 16.Step 12 Click Properties. The Smart Card or other Certificate Properties screen appears (see Figure 5-8).Figure 5-8 Smart Card or other Certificate Properties ScreenStep 13 Select the Use a certificate on this computer option.Step 14 Select the Validate server certificate checkbox.Step 15 Make sure that the name of the certificate authority from which the EAP-TLS certificate was downloaded appears in the Trusted root certificate authority field.Step 16 Click OK to save your settings. The configuration is complete.Note Chapter 6 describes the sequence of events that occurs when a profile that is set for EAP authentication is selected for use.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL5-34Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 5 Configuring the Client AdapterSetting Network Security ParametersDisabling LEAP or Host-Based EAPIf you ever need to disable LEAP or host-based EAP for a particular profile, follow the instructions below for your EAP authentication type.Disabling LEAPTo disable LEAP for a particular profile, select None from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the Network Security screen in ACU, click OK, and click OK or Apply on the Profile Manager screen.Disabling Host-Based EAPTo disable host-based EAP (EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5) for a particular profile, follow the steps below:Step 1 Select None from the Network Security Type drop-down box on the Network Security screen in ACU and click OK.Step 2 Click OK or Apply on the Profile Manager screen.Step 3 On your computer desktop, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections.Step 4 Right-click Wireless Network Connection.Step 5 Click Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties screen appears.Step 6 Click the Authentication tab.Step 7 Deselect the Enable network access control using IEEE 802.1X checkbox.Step 8 Click OK.
CHAPTER6-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-036Using EAP AuthenticationThis chapter explains the sequence of events that occurs and the actions you must take when a profile that is set for EAP authentication is selected for use.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Overview, page 6-2•Using LEAP with the Windows Username and Password, page 6-2•Using LEAP with an Automatically Prompted Login, page 6-4•Using LEAP with a Manually Prompted Login, page 6-8•Using LEAP with a Saved Username and Password, page 6-10•Using Host-Based EAP, page 6-11
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationOverviewOverviewThis chapter explains the sequence of events that occurs as soon as you or ACU’s auto profile selection feature selects a profile that uses EAP authentication as well as after you eject and reinsert the client adapter, reboot the computer, log off while this profile is selected, or are informed that your username and password have expired. The chapter contains five sections based on the profile’s authentication type and its username and password settings: LEAP (with the Windows username and password, with an automatically prompted login, with a manually prompted login, or with a saved username and password) or host-based EAP.When LEAP authentication begins, the “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears. This message provides information about the status of authentication. Table 6-1 lists and explains the stages of LEAP authentication.Follow the instructions for your profile’s authentication type and credential settings to successfully authenticate.Using LEAP with the Windows Username and PasswordAfter Profile Selection/Card InsertionAfter you (or auto profile selection) select a profile that uses LEAP authentication and specifies that your Windows username and password also serve as your LEAP username and password or you eject and reinsert the client adapter while this profile is selected, the following events occur:1. The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.2. If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.Table 6-1 Stages of LEAP Authentication Status Message ExplanationStarting LEAP Authentication The client adapter associates to an access point, and the LEAP authentication process begins.Checking Link Status The client adapter is LEAP authenticated, and the network connection is verified.Renewing IP Address If DHCP is enabled, the IP address is released and renewed.Finding Domain Controller If you are logging into a domain and the active profile specifies that the domain name be included, an attempt is made to find the domain controller to make sure subsequent access to the domain is successful.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using LEAP with the Windows Username and PasswordAfter a Reboot/LogoffAfter your computer reboots or you log off, follow the steps below to LEAP authenticate.Step 1 When the Windows login screen appears (see Figure 6-1 and Figure 6-2), enter your Windows username and password and click OK. The domain name is optional.Note If your computer is running Windows NT, 2000, or XP and has Novell Client 32 software installed, a separate LEAP login screen appears before the Novell login screen. If this occurs, enter your Windows and Novell username and password in the login screens and click OK.Figure 6-1 Windows Login Screen (Windows 95, 98, and Me)Figure 6-2 Windows Login Screen (Windows 2000)Note The Windows login screens shown above appear on computers running Windows 95, 98, and Me (Figure 6-1) and Windows 2000 (Figure 6-2), respectively. The login screen looks slightly different on computers running Windows NT and XP.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing LEAP with an Automatically Prompted LoginThe “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.Step 2 If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.Step 3 Windows continues to log you onto the system.After Your LEAP Credentials ExpireIf the LEAP credentials (username and password) for your current profile expire or become invalid, follow the steps below to reauthenticate.Note If your computer is running Windows NT, 2000, or XP and you change your Windows password using the standard Windows Change Password function, the client will update the LEAP password automatically and maintain its connection to the access point if the current profile uses the Windows username and password. If your computer is running Windows 95, 98, or Me and you change your Windows password, the client will lose association from the access point, and you will be prompted to enter your new credentials.Step 1 Click OK when the following message appears: “The user name and password entered for profile 'xxx' are no longer valid and have failed the LEAP authentication. Please enter a new user name and password.”Step 2 When the Windows login screen appears, enter your new username and password and click OK. The client adapter should authenticate using your new credentials.Note If you click Cancel rather than OK on the Windows login screen, the following message appears: “The current profile will be disabled until the system restarts or you eject and reinsert the card. Are you sure?” If you click No, the Windows login reappears and allows you to enter your new credentials. If you click Yes, the current profile is disabled until you reboot your computer or eject and reinsert the card. The Current Profile field on the Status screen lists the profile as being “Disabled.”Using LEAP with an Automatically Prompted LoginAfter Profile Selection/Card InsertionAfter you (or auto profile selection) select a profile that uses LEAP authentication but specifies that you be automatically prompted to enter a separate LEAP username and password or you eject and reinsert the client adapter while this profile is selected, follow the steps below to LEAP authenticate.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using LEAP with an Automatically Prompted LoginStep 1 When the LEAP login screen appears (see Figure 6-3), enter your LEAP username and password and click OK. The domain name is optional.Figure 6-3 LEAP Login ScreenNote The LEAP login screen shown above appears on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP. The LEAP login screen looks slightly different on computers running other Windows operating systems.The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.Step 2 If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.After a Reboot/LogoffAfter your computer reboots or you log off, follow the steps below to LEAP authenticate.Step 1 When the LEAP login screen appears (see Figure 6-4), enter your LEAP username and password and click OK. The domain name is optional.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing LEAP with an Automatically Prompted LoginFigure 6-4 LEAP Login ScreenNote The LEAP login screen shown above appears on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP. The LEAP login screen looks slightly different on computers running other Windows operating systems.The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.Step 2 If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.Step 3 When the network login screen appears (see Figure 6-5 and Figure 6-6), enter your network username and password and click OK.Note Figure 6-5 shows an example network login screen that may appear on computers running Windows 95, 98, and Me. Your screen may look different. Figure 6-6 shows the network login screen that appears on Windows 2000 systems. The login screen looks slightly different on computers running Windows NT and XP.Figure 6-5 Network Login Screen (Windows 95, 98, and Me)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using LEAP with an Automatically Prompted LoginFigure 6-6 Network Login Screen (Windows 2000)After Your LEAP Credentials ExpireIf the LEAP credentials (username and password) for your current profile expire or become invalid, follow the steps below to reauthenticate.Step 1 Click OK when the following message appears: “The user name and password entered for profile 'xxx' are no longer valid and have failed the LEAP authentication. Please enter a new user name and password.”Step 2 When the LEAP login screen appears, enter your new username and password and click OK. The client adapter should authenticate using your new credentials.Note If you click Cancel rather than OK on the LEAP login screen, the following message appears: “The current profile will be disabled until the system restarts or you eject and reinsert the card. Are you sure?” If you click No, the LEAP login reappears and allows you to enter your new credentials. If you click Yes, the current profile is disabled until you reboot your computer or eject and reinsert the card. The Current Profile field on the Status screen lists the profile as being “Disabled.”
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing LEAP with a Manually Prompted LoginUsing LEAP with a Manually Prompted LoginAfter Profile SelectionAfter you (or auto profile selection) select a profile that uses LEAP authentication but specifies that the process be manually invoked, follow the steps below to LEAP authenticate.Step 1 When the LEAP login screen appears (see Figure 6-7), enter your LEAP username and password and click OK. The domain name is optional.Figure 6-7 LEAP Login ScreenNote The LEAP login screen shown above appears on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP. The LEAP login screen looks slightly different on computers running other Windows operating systems.The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.Step 2 If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.After a Reboot/Logoff/Card InsertionAfter your computer reboots, you log off, or you eject and reinsert the client adapter, the adapter does not automatically attempt to authenticate. You must manually invoke the authentication process. To do so, follow the steps below.Step 1 If you rebooted your computer or logged off, complete your standard Windows login.Step 2 Double-click the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) icon on your desktop to open ACU.Step 3 Select the Manual LEAP Login option from the Commands drop-down menu (see Figure 6-8).
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-9Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using LEAP with a Manually Prompted LoginFigure 6-8 Commands Drop-Down MenuStep 4 When the LEAP login screen appears (see Figure 6-9), enter your LEAP username and password and click OK. The domain name is optional.Figure 6-9 LEAP Login ScreenNote The LEAP login screen shown above appears on computers running Windows NT, 2000, or XP. The LEAP login screen looks slightly different on computers running other Windows operating systems.The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-10Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing LEAP with a Saved Username and PasswordStep 5 If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.After Your LEAP Credentials ExpireIf the LEAP credentials (username and password) for your current profile expire or become invalid, follow the steps below to reauthenticate.Step 1 Click OK when the following message appears: “The user name and password entered for profile 'xxx' are no longer valid and have failed the LEAP authentication. Please enter a new user name and password.”Step 2 When the LEAP login screen appears, enter your new username and password and click OK. The client adapter should authenticate using your new credentials.Note If you click Cancel rather than OK on the LEAP login screen, the following message appears: “The current profile will be disabled until the system restarts or you eject and reinsert the card. Are you sure?” If you click No, the LEAP login reappears and allows you to enter your new credentials. If you click Yes, the current profile is disabled until you reboot your computer or eject and reinsert the card. The Current Profile field on the Status screen lists the profile as being “Disabled.”Using LEAP with a Saved Username and PasswordAfter Profile Selection/Card InsertionAfter you (or auto profile selection) select a profile that uses LEAP authentication with a saved LEAP username and password or you eject and reinsert the client adapter while this profile is selected, the following events occur:1. The “LEAP Authentication in progress” message appears.2. If your client adapter authenticates, the message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-11Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using Host-Based EAPAfter a Reboot/LogoffAfter your computer reboots or you log off, the following events occur:1. After you enter your Windows username and password, the LEAP authentication process begins automatically using your saved LEAP username and password.2. If your client adapter authenticates, the “LEAP Authentication in progress” message disappears, and the Server Based Authentication field on the ACU Status screen shows “LEAP Authenticated.”If the authentication attempt fails, an error message appears after the LEAP timeout period has expired. Refer to the “Error Messages” section in Chapter 9 for the necessary action to take.3. Windows continues to log you onto the system.After Your LEAP Credentials ExpireIf the LEAP credentials (username and password) for your current profile expire or become invalid, follow the steps below to reauthenticate.Step 1 Click OK when the following message appears: “The user name and password entered for saved profile 'xxx' are no longer valid and have failed the LEAP authentication. Please enter a new user name and password. Please also remember to change them permanently in the saved profile using the ACU Profile Manager.”Step 2 When the LEAP login screen appears, enter your new username and password and click OK. The client adapter should authenticate using your new credentials.Note If you click Cancel rather than OK on the LEAP login screen, the following message appears: “The current profile will be disabled until the system restarts or you eject and reinsert the card. Are you sure?” If you click No, the LEAP login reappears and allows you to enter your new credentials. If you click Yes, the current profile is disabled until you reboot your computer or eject and reinsert the card. The Current Profile field on the Status screen lists the profile as being “Disabled.”Step 3 Edit the profile in ACU by changing the saved username and password on the LEAP Settings screen.Step 4 Save the changes to your profile.Using Host-Based EAPAfter Profile Selection/Card InsertionAfter you (or auto profile selection) select a profile that uses host-based EAP authentication or you eject and reinsert the client adapter while this profile is selected, follow the steps below for either EAP-TLS or EAP-MD5 to EAP authenticate.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-12Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing Host-Based EAPEAP-TLSStep 1 If a pop-up message appears above the Windows system tray informing you that you need to accept a certificate to begin the EAP authentication process, click the message and follow the instructions provided to accept the certificate.Note You should not have to accept a certificate for future authentication attempts. The same certificate, which is tied to your standard Windows network login, will be used.Step 2 The client adapter should now EAP authenticate. To verify authentication, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections. The status appears to the right of your Wireless Network Connection. If the client adapter is authenticated, the status reads, “Authentication succeeded.” The status line also indicates if the authentication attempt fails.EAP-MD5Step 1 When a pop-up message appears above the Windows system tray informing you that you need to enter your credentials to access the network, click the message. The Wireless Network Connection screen appears.Step 2 Enter your EAP-MD5 authentication username, password, and optional domain name (which are registered with the RADIUS server) and click OK.Step 3 The client adapter should now EAP authenticate. To verify authentication, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections. The status appears to the right of your Wireless Network Connection. If the client adapter is authenticated, the status reads, “Authentication succeeded.” The status line also indicates if the authentication attempt fails.After a Reboot/LogoffEAP-TLSAfter your computer reboots or you log off and you enter your Windows username and password, the EAP authentication process begins automatically and the client adapter should EAP authenticate.To verify authentication, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections. The status is displayed to the right of your Wireless Network Connection. If the client adapter is authenticated, the status reads, “Authentication succeeded.” The status line also indicates if the authentication attempt fails.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-13Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP Authentication Using Host-Based EAPEAP-MD5After your computer reboots or you log off and you enter your Windows username and password, follow the steps below to EAP authenticate.Step 1 When a pop-up message appears above the Windows system tray informing you that you need to enter your credentials to access the network, click the message. The Wireless Network Connection screen appears.Step 2 Enter your EAP-MD5 authentication username, password, and optional domain name (which are registered with the RADIUS server) and click OK.Step 3 The client adapter should now EAP authenticate. To verify authentication, double-click My Computer, Control Panel, and Network Connections. The status appears to the right of your Wireless Network Connection. If the client adapter is authenticated, the status reads, “Authentication succeeded.” The status line also indicates if the authentication attempt fails.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL6-14Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 6 Using EAP AuthenticationUsing Host-Based EAP
CHAPTER7-1Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-037Performing DiagnosticsThis chapter explains how to use ACU to perform user-level diagnostics.The following topics are covered in this chapter:•Overview of ACU Diagnostic Tools, page 7-2•Setting Parameters that Affect ACU Diagnostic Tools, page 7-2•Viewing the Current Status of Your Client Adapter, page 7-4•Viewing Statistics for Your Client Adapter, page 7-12•Viewing the Link Status Meter, page 7-16•Running an RF Link Test, page 7-18
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-2Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsOverview of ACU Diagnostic ToolsOverview of ACU Diagnostic ToolsIn addition to enabling you to configure your client adapter for use in various types of networks, ACU provides tools that enable you to assess the performance of the client adapter and other devices on the wireless network. ACU diagnostic tools perform the following functions:•Display your client adapter’s current status and configured settings•Display statistics pertaining to your client adapter’s transmission and reception of data•Display a graphical image of your client adapter’s RF link•Run an RF link test to assess the performance of the RF link between your client adapter and its associated access pointTable 7-1 enables you to quickly locate the instructions for using each of the diagnostic tools.Setting Parameters that Affect ACU Diagnostic ToolsSeveral parameters affect the operation of ACU diagnostic tools. Follow the steps below to set these parameters.Step 1 Double-click the Aironet Client Utility (ACU) icon on your desktop to open ACU.Step 2 Click the Preferences icon or select Preferences from the Options drop-down menu. The Aironet Client Utility Preferences screen appears (see Figure 7-1).Table 7-1 Locating Diagnostic InstructionsDiagnostic Tool Page NumberStatus 7-4Statistics 7-12Link status meter 7-16RF link test 7-18
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-3Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Setting Parameters that Affect ACU Diagnostic ToolsFigure 7-1 Aironet Client Utility Preferences ScreenStep 3 Table 7-2 lists and describes the parameters that affect the operation of ACU diagnostic tools. Follow the instructions in the table to change any parameters.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-4Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterStep 4 Click OK to save your changes.Viewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterACU enables you to view the current status of your client adapter as well as many of the settings that have been configured for the adapter.To view your client adapter’s status and settings, open ACU; then click the Status icon or select Status from the Commands drop-down menu. The Status screen appears. Figure 7-2 shows the Status screen with the signal strength values displayed as percentages, and Figure 7-3 shows the bottom of the same screen with the signal strength values displayed in decibels with respect to milliwatts (dBm). Note The name of the current profile appears in parentheses at the top of the screen.Table 7-2 Parameters Affecting ACU Diagnostic ToolsParameter DescriptionScreen Update Timer (seconds between updates) Specifies how often the Status and Statistics screens are updated. You can type a number in the edit box or use the slider to change this value.Range: 1 to 60 seconds between updates (in 1-second increments)Default: 1 second between updatesSignal Strength Display Units Specifies the units used to display signal strength on the Status, Linktest, and Site Survey screens.Default: PercentUnits DescriptionPercent Displays the signal strength as a percentage.dBm Displays the signal strength in decibels with respect to milliwatts.Note dBm can be selected only if your client adapter is using PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 3.92 or greater, mini PCI card firmware version 5.0 or greater, or PC-Cardbus card firmware version 4.99 or greater.Show History Selecting this checkbox causes the Link Status Meter graphical display to show a recent history of the RF performance between your client adapter and its associated access point. Black dots on the graphical display show the performance of the last 50 signals.Default: Selected
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-5Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterFigure 7-2 Status Screen (with Signal Strength as a Percentage)Figure 7-3 Bottom of Status Screen (with Signal Strength in dBm)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-6Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterTable 7-3 interprets each element of the Status screen.Table 7-3 Client Adapter StatusStatus DescriptionDevice A description of your client adapter.Manufacturer The manufacturer of your client adapter.Firmware Version The version of the firmware that is currently running on your client adapter.Boot Block Version The version of the boot block firmware that is currently in your client adapter. The boot block firmware contains identification information for the client adapter and functions to start up the radio and pass control to the main firmware, which (unlike the boot block) can be modified and upgraded by the user.NDIS Driver Version The version of the NDIS device driver that is currently installed on your computer.Default Profile The network configuration (or profile) shown in the Use Selected Profile drop-down box on the Profile Manager screen, if your driver supports auto profile selection. This is the profile that you have selected as the active profile.Note The current profile may be different than the default profile if you are using auto profile selection. The client adapter will not switch profiles as long as it remains associated to the access point or reassociates within 10 seconds (or within the time specified by the LEAP authentication timeout value if LEAP is enabled). Refer to Chapter 4 for information on creating and using profiles.Note Auto profile selection is supported in PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 and greater (or mini PCI/PC-Cardbus card driver version 2.20 and greater).Current Profile The network configuration (or profile) your client adapter is currently using, if your driver supports auto profile selection.Note The current profile may be different than the default profile if you are using auto profile selection. The client adapter does not switch profiles as long as it remains associated to the access point or reassociates within 10 seconds (or within the time specified by the LEAP authentication timeout value if LEAP is enabled). Refer to Chapter 4 for information on creating and using profiles.Note If your current profile becomes disabled due to an invalid LEAP username and password, this field lists the profile as (Disabled).Note Auto profile selection is supported in PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 and greater (or mini PCI/PC-Cardbus card driver version 2.20 and greater).
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-7Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterUsing Short Radio Headers Indicates whether your client adapter is actually using short radio headers.Value: Yes or NoNote This setting appears only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note Refer to the Use Short Radio Headers parameter in Table 5-3 for information on using short radio headers.Using Message Integrity Check Indicates whether your client adapter is using message integrity check (MIC) to protect packets sent to and received from the access point.MIC prevents bit-flip attacks on encrypted packets. During a bit-flip attack, an intruder intercepts an encrypted message, alters it slightly, and retransmits it, and the receiver accepts the retransmitted message as legitimate. Client adapters using PCM/LMC/PCI card driver version 8.01 or greater and PCM/LMC/PCI card firmware version 4.25.23 or greater (or mini PCI/PC-Cardbus card driver version 2.20 or greater and mini PCI/PC-Cardbus card firmware version 5.0 or greater) support MIC; however, MIC can be used only if it is also enabled on the access point.Note If the access point is using MIC, your client adapter’s driver must support MIC; otherwise, the client will not be able to associate.Value: Yes or NoServer Based Authentication Indicates the configuration of the access point to which your client adapter is associated.Value: None, WEP Key In Use, Cell Is Secure, or LEAP AuthenticatedServer Based Authentication DescriptionNone The access point is configured for No Encryption.WEP Key In Use The access point is configured for Optional encryption.Cell Is Secure The access point is configured for Full Encryption.Note If the client’s current profile does not have Allow Association To Mixed Cells enabled, the client can associate only to access points that use full encryption.LEAP Authenticated The client is using LEAP and is authenticated to an access point that has WEP and Network-EAP enabled.Table 7-3 Client Adapter Status (continued)Status Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-8Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterWEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) Your client adapter’s current WEP status.Value: Enabled, Not Enabled, or Need Firmware UpgradeNote Refer to the “Setting Network Security Parameters” section on page 5-20 for information on enabling WEP.Authentication Type Indicates whether the client adapter must share the same WEP keys as the access point in order to communicate or can communicate with the access point regardless of its WEP settings.Value: Open or Shared KeyNote Refer to the “Setting Network Security Parameters” section on page 5-20 for information on setting the authentication type.Antenna Selection The antenna mode that your client adapter is currently using.Value: Diversity, Primary Only, Secondary Only(Primary Only is the only option available for PCI client adapters)Note This setting appears only for 2.4-GHz client adapters.Note The Primary Only and Secondary Only values were formerly named Right Only and Left Only, respectively. Refer to the Antenna Mode (Receive) and Antenna Mode (Transmit) parameters in Table 5-4 and Table 5-5 for information on setting the antenna mode.Channel Set The regulatory domain for which your client adapter is currently configured, such as Americas. (For the Japan channel set, the Call ID is also displayed.) This value is not user selectable.Note Refer to Appendix D for a list of channel identifiers, channel center frequencies, and regulatory domains for each channel.Client Name The name your client adapter uses when it associates to an access point.Note Refer to the Client Name parameter in Table 5-2 for information on setting the client name.MAC Address The MAC address assigned to your client adapter at the factory.IP Address The IP address of your client adapter.Current Link Speed The rate at which your client adapter is currently transmitting data packets.Value: 1, 2, 5.5, or 11 Mbps (2.4-GHz client adapters);6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, or 54 Mbps (5-GHz client adapters)Table 7-3 Client Adapter Status (continued)Status Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-9Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterData Rate The rate at which your client adapter has been configured to transmit or receive data packets.Value: 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, or Auto Rate Selection (2.4-GHz client adapters);6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36 Mbps,48 Mbps, 54 Mbps, or Auto Rate Selection (5-GHz client adapters)Note Refer to the Data Rate parameter in Table 5-3 for information on setting the client adapter’s data rate.Current Power Level The power level at which your client adapter is currently transmitting. The maximum level is dependent upon the radio installed in your client adapter and your country’s regulatory agency.Value: 1, 5, 20, 30, 50, or 100 mW (350 series client adapters);1, 5, 15, or 30 mW (340 series client adapters);5, 10, or 20 mW (5-GHz client adapters)Note Refer to the Transmit Power parameter in Table 5-3 for information on setting the client adapter’s power level.Available Power Levels The power levels at which your client adapter is capable of transmitting. The maximum level is dependent upon the radio installed in your client adapter and your country’s regulatory agency.Value: 1, 5, 15, 20, 30, 50, or 100 mW (350 series client adapters);1, 5, 15, or 30 mW (340 series client adapters);5, 10, or 20 mW (5-GHz client adapters)Note Refer to the Transmit Power parameter in Table 5-3 for information on the client adapter’s available power levels.Channel (Frequency) The frequency that your client adapter is currently using as the channel for communications.Value: Dependent on client adapter radio and regulatory domainNote Refer to the Channel parameter in Table 5-3 for information on selecting the frequency for your client adapter.Status The operational mode of your client adapter.Value: Error, Configured, Associated, Not Associated, orAd Hoc ModeSSID The SSID that your client adapter is currently using.Note Refer to the SSID1 parameter in Table 5-2 for information on the client adapter’s SSID.Network Type The type of network in which your client adapter is being used.Value: Infrastructure or Ad HocNote Refer to the Network Type parameter in Table 5-2 for information on setting the network type.Table 7-3 Client Adapter Status (continued)Status Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-10Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterPower Save Mode The client adapter’s current power consumption setting.Value: CAM, Max PSP, or Fast PSPNote Refer to the Power Save Mode parameter in Table 5-2 for information on setting the client adapter’s power save mode.Associated Access Point Name The name of the access point to which your client adapter is associated. It is shown only if the access point was configured with a name and the client adapter is in infrastructure mode.Associated Access Point IP Address The IP address of the access point to which your client adapter is associated. It is shown only if the access point was configured with an IP address and the client adapter is in infrastructure mode.Associated Access Point MAC Address The MAC address of the access point to which your client adapter is associated. It is shown only if the client adapter is in infrastructure mode.Beacon Period Specifies the duration between beacon packets, which are used to help clients find each other in ad hoc mode.Range: Approximately 20 to 999 milliseconds (ms)Note The beacon period is shown only if your client adapter is in ad hoc mode.Up Time (hh:mm:ss) The amount of time (in hours:minutes:seconds) that the client adapter has been receiving power. If the adapter has been running for more than 24 hours, the time is displayed in days, hours:minutes:seconds.Current Signal Strength The signal strength for all received packets. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the stronger the signal.Range: 0 to 100% or –95 to –45 dBmCurrent Signal Quality (2.4-GHz client adapters) The signal quality for all received packets. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the better the quality of the signal.Range: 0 to 100%Note This setting appears only for 2.4-GHz client adapters and only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Table 7-3 Client Adapter Status (continued)Status Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-11Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing the Current Status of Your Client AdapterCurrent Beacons Received (5-GHz client adapters) The percentage of beacon packets received versus those expected to be received. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the clearer the signal.Example: The access point sends out 10 beacons per second, so youwould expect the client adapter to receive 50 beacon packetsin 5 seconds. If it receives only 40 packets, the percentage ofbeacons received would be 80%.Range: 0 to 100%Note This setting appears only for 5-GHz client adapters (or for 2.4-GHz client adapters using firmware version less than 4.05) and only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Current Noise Level The level of background radio frequency energy in the 2.4- or 5-GHz band. The lower the value and the more green the bar graph is, the less background noise present.Range: –100 to –45 dBmNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed in dBm. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Overall Link Quality The client adapter’s ability to communicate with the access point, which is determined by the combined result of the adapter’s signal strength and signal quality.Value: Not Associated, Poor, Fair, Good, ExcellentNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Signal To Noise Ratio The difference between the signal strength and the current noise level. The higher the value, the better the client adapter’s ability to communicate with the access point.Range: 0 to 90 dBNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed in dBm. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Table 7-3 Client Adapter Status (continued)Status Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-12Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing Statistics for Your Client AdapterViewing Statistics for Your Client AdapterACU enables you to view statistics that indicate how data is being received and transmitted by your client adapter.To view your client adapter’s statistics, open ACU; then click the Statistics icon or select Statistics from the Commands drop-down menu. The Statistics screen appears (see Figure 7-4).Note The name of the current profile appears in parentheses at the top of the screen.Note The receive and transmit statistics are host statistics. That is, they show packets and errors received or sent by the Windows device. Link status tests from the access point or site survey tool are performed at the firmware level; therefore, they have no effect on the statistics shown in the Statistics screen.Figure 7-4 Statistics ScreenThe statistics are calculated as soon as your client adapter is started or the Reset button is selected and are continually updated at the rate specified by the Screen Update Timer. Instructions for changing the Screen Update Timer setting are provided in Table 7-2.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-13Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing Statistics for Your Client AdapterTable 7-4 describes each statistic that is displayed for your client adapter.Table 7-4 Client Adapter StatisticsStatistic DescriptionReceive StatisticsMulticast Packets Received The number of multicast packets that were received successfully.Broadcast Packets Received The number of broadcast packets that were received successfully.Unicast Packets Received The number of unicast packets that were received successfully.Bytes Received The number of bytes of data that were received successfully.Beacons Received The number of beacon packets that were received successfully.Total Packets Received OK The number of all packets that were received successfully.Duplicate Packets Received The number of duplicate packets that were received successfully.Overrun Errors The number of packets received when no receive buffers were available. These errors usually occur when the host does not read the received packets from the client adapter fast enough.PLCP CRC Errors The number of times the client adapter started to receive an 802.11 physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) header but the rest of the packet was ignored due to a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) error in the header.Note CRC errors can be attributed to packet collisions caused by a dense population of client adapters, overlapping access point coverage on a channel, high multipath conditions due to bounced signals, or the presence of other 2.4-GHz signals from devices such as microwave ovens, wireless handset phones, etc.PLCP Format Errors The number of times an 802.11 PLCP header was received with a valid CRC but the rest of the packet was ignored due to an unknown value in the header.PLCP Length Errors The number of times an 802.11 PLCP header was received but the rest of the packet was ignored due to an illegal header length.MAC CRC Errors The number of packets that had a valid 802.11 PLCP header but contained a CRC error in the data portion of the packet.Note CRC errors can be attributed to packet collisions caused by a dense population of client adapters, overlapping access point coverage on a channel, high multipath conditions due to bounced signals, or the presence of other 2.4-GHz signals from devices such as microwave ovens, wireless handset phones, etc.Partial Packets Received The number of fragments that were discarded because the entire packet was not received successfully.SSID Mismatches The number of times the client adapter tried to associate to an access point but was unable to because the adapter’s SSID was not the same as the access point’s.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-14Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing Statistics for Your Client AdapterAP Mismatches The number of times the client adapter tried to associate to an access point but was unable to because the access point was not the adapter’s specified access point.Note Refer to the Specified Access Point 1- 4 parameter in Table 5-4 for information on specifying access points.Data Rate Mismatches The number of times the client adapter tried to associate to an access point but was unable to because the adapter’s data rate was not supported by the access point.Note Refer to the Data Rate parameter in Table 5-3 for information on supported data rates.Authentication Rejects The number of times the client adapter tried to authenticate to an access point but was rejected.Authentication T/O The number of times the client adapter tried to authenticate to an access point but was unable to because the access point did not respond fast enough (timed out).Association Rejects The number of times the client adapter tried to associate to an access point but was rejected.Association T/O The number of times the client adapter tried to associate to an access point but was unable to because the access point did not respond fast enough (timed out).Packets Aged The number of packets received successfully but discarded by the client adapter because either all fragments were not received within 10 seconds or the host did not read the packet from the adapter within 10 seconds.Packets MIC OK The number of packets that were received successfully with a valid message integrity check (MIC).Note This field is not displayed if the client adapter’s driver does not support MIC functionality or MIC is not enabled on the access point.Packets No MIC The number of packets that were discarded due to no MIC being found.Note This field is not displayed if the client adapter’s driver does not support MIC functionality or MIC is not enabled on the access point.Packets Incorrect MIC The number of packets that were discarded due to an incorrect MIC value. Note This field is not displayed if the client adapter’s driver does not support MIC functionality or MIC is not enabled on the access point.Table 7-4 Client Adapter Statistics (continued)Statistic Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-15Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing Statistics for Your Client AdapterPackets No MIC Seed The number of packets that were discarded due to no MIC seed being received.Note This field is not displayed if the client adapter’s driver does not support MIC functionality or MIC is not enabled on the access point.Packets Wrong MIC Sequence The number of packets that were discarded due to the MIC sequence number being wrong.Note This field is not displayed if the client adapter’s driver does not support MIC functionality or MIC is not enabled on the access point.Up Time (hh:mm:ss) The amount of time (in hours:minutes:seconds) since the Reset button was selected. If the client adapter has been running for more than 24 hours, the time is displayed in days, hours:minutes:seconds.Total Up Time (hh:mm:ss) The amount of time (in hours:minutes:seconds) that the client adapter has been receiving power. The total up time continues to increment even if the Reset button is selected. If the adapter has been running for more than 24 hours, the time is displayed in days, hours:minutes:seconds.Transmit StatisticsMulticast Packets Transmitted The number of multicast packets that were transmitted successfully.Broadcast Packets Transmitted The number of broadcast packets that were transmitted successfully.Unicast Packets Transmitted The number of unicast packets that were transmitted successfully.Bytes Transmitted The number of bytes of data that were transmitted successfully.Beacons Transmitted The number of beacon packets that were transmitted successfully (in ad hoc mode only).Ack Packets Transmitted The number of acknowledgment (Ack) packets that were transmitted in response to successfully received unicast packets.RTS Packets Transmitted The number of request-to-send (RTS) packets that were transmitted successfully.CTS Packets Transmitted The number of clear-to-send (CTS) packets that were transmitted in response to a successfully received RTS packet.Single Collisions The number of packets that had to be retransmitted once due to a collision.Multiple Collisions The number of packets that had to be retransmitted more than once due to additional collisions.Packets No Deferral The number of packets that were able to be transmitted immediately without being delayed due to energy detect or protocol deferral.Packets Deferred Protocol The number of packets that were delayed due to 802.11 protocol reasons (such as not enough time left to send the packet).Table 7-4 Client Adapter Statistics (continued)Statistic Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-16Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsViewing the Link Status MeterViewing the Link Status MeterACU’s link status meter can be used to assess the performance of your client adapter’s RF link. If this tool is used to assess the RF link at various locations, you can avoid areas where performance is weak and eliminate the risk of losing the connection between your client adapter and an access point.To open the link status meter, open ACU; then click the Link Status Meter icon or select Link Status Meter from the Commands drop-down menu. The Link Status Meter screen appears (see Figure 7-5).Note The name of the current profile appears in parentheses at the top of the screen.Packets Deferred Energy Detect The number of packets that were delayed because RF energy was already detected. This condition is usually caused by another radio transmitting a packet or by some other RF source jamming the signal (such as a microwave oven).Packets Retry Long The number of normal data packets that were retransmitted.Packets Retry Short The number of request-to-send (RTS) packets that were retransmitted.Packets Max Retries The number of packets that failed to be transmitted successfully after exhausting the maximum number of retries.Packets Ack Received The number of transmitted packets that had their corresponding acknowledgment (Ack) packet received successfully.Packets No Ack Received The number of transmitted packets that did not have their corresponding Ack packet received successfully.Packets CTS Received The number of clear-to-send (CTS) packets that were received in response to an RTS packet.Packets No CTS Received The number of packets for which no CTS packet was received in response to an RTS packet.Packets Aged The number of packets that were discarded by the client adapter because they were not transmitted successfully within 5 seconds.Table 7-4 Client Adapter Statistics (continued)Statistic Description
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-17Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Viewing the Link Status MeterFigure 7-5 Link Status Meter ScreenThe Link Status Meter screen provides a graphical display of the following:•Signal strength – The strength of the client adapter’s radio signal at the time packets are being received. It is displayed as a percentage along the vertical axis.•Signal quality – The quality of the client adapter’s radio signal at the time packets are being received. It is displayed as a percentage along the horizontal axis.The combined result of the signal strength and signal quality is represented by a diagonal line (see Figure 7-5). Where the line falls on the graphical display determines whether the RF link between your client adapter and its associated access point is poor, fair, good, or excellent. The access point that is associated to your client adapter and its MAC address are indicated at the bottom of the display.Note ACU’s Status screen also shows signal strength and signal quality. However on the Status screen, these data are represented by histograms.If you want to see a recent history of the RF performance between your client adapter and its associated access point, select the Show History checkbox on the Aironet Client Utility Preferences screen. Black dots on the graphical display show the performance of the last 50 signals.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-18Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsRunning an RF Link TestRunning an RF Link TestACU’s link test tool sends out pings to assess the performance of the RF link. The test is designed to be performed multiple times at various locations throughout your area and is run at the data rate set on ACU’s RF Network Properties screen (see the Data Rate parameter in Table 5-3). The results of the link test can be used to determine RF network coverage and ultimately the required number and placement of access points in your network. The test also helps you to avoid areas where performance is weak, thereby eliminating the risk of losing the connection between your client adapter and its associated access point.Because the link test operates above the RF level, it does more than test the RF link between two network devices. It also checks the status of wired sections of the network and verifies that TCP/IP and the proper drivers have been loaded.Note A link test can also be run from an access point through a Telnet session. Refer to the Cisco Aironet Access Point Software Configuration Guide for information.The following prerequisites are required before you can run an RF link test:•The TCP/IP protocol must be installed on your system.Note See the Help section of your Windows operating system for information on installing and setting up TCP/IP.•An IP address must be configured for the access point (or other computer in ad hoc mode).Follow the steps below to run an RF link test.Step 1 Open ACU; then click the Link Test icon or select Linktest from the Commands drop-down menu. The Linktest screen appears (see Figure 7-6).Note The name of the current profile appears in parentheses at the top of the screen.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-19Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Running an RF Link TestFigure 7-6 Linktest ScreenStep 2 In the IP Address of Access Point field, enter the IP address of the access point or other wireless device with which you want to test the RF link.Step 3 You can set the link test to run until it has attempted to send a specific number of packets or to run until you stop it. Follow one of the steps below to determine how long the link test will run:•Select the number of packets that the link test should attempt to send. You can type a number in the Number of Packets field or use the slider to select this value. (The Number of Packets parameter is ignored if the Continuous Linktest checkbox is selected.)Range: 1 to 1000Default: 4•Select the Continuous Linktest checkbox to allow the link test to run continuously.Default: DeselectedStep 4 Select the size of the data packet that is to be sent to the access point. You can type a number in the Packet Size field or use the slider to select this value.Range: 64 to 2048Default: 100
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-20Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsRunning an RF Link TestNote The Windows TCP/IP stack fragments (splits up) packets that are greater than 512 bytes. Therefore, the number of transmitted packets does not match the number of received packets (even if none are lost) if the packet size is greater than 512 bytes.Step 5 Click the Start button to run the link test. While the test is running, statistics are displayed and updated periodically.Figure 7-7 shows the Linktest screen with the signal strength values displayed as percentages, and Figure 7-8 shows the bottom of the same screen with the signal strength values displayed in dBm.Figure 7-7 Linktest Screen (with Test Running and Signal Strength as a Percentage)Figure 7-8 Bottom of Linktest Screen (with Test Running and Signal Strength in dBm)
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-21Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for WindowsOL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing Diagnostics Running an RF Link TestTable 7-5 interprets the statistics that are displayed on the Linktest screen while the link test is running.Table 7-5 Linktest StatisticsLinktest Statistic DescriptionPackets Received OK The number of packets of the specified size that have been received successfully.Packets Transmitted OK The number of packets of the specified size that have been transmitted successfully.Status The operational mode of your client adapter.Value: Error, Configured, Associated, Not Associated, orAd Hoc ModeCurrent Link Speed The rate at which your client adapter is currently transmitting data packets.Value: 1, 2, 5.5, or 11 Mbps (2.4-GHz client adapters);6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, or 54 Mbps (5-GHz clientadapters)Associated Access Point Name The name of the access point to which your client adapter is associated. It is shown only if the access point was configured with a name and the client adapter is in infrastructure mode.Associated Access Point MAC Address The MAC address of the access point to which your client adapter is associated. It is shown only if the client adapter is in infrastructure mode.Current Signal Strength The signal strength for all received packets. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the stronger the signal.Range: 0 to 100% or –95 to –45 dBmCurrent Signal Quality (2.4-GHz client adapters) The signal quality for all received packets. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the clearer the signal.Range: 0 to 100%Note This setting appears only for 2.4-GHz client adapters and only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.
BETA DRAFT - CISCO CONFIDENTIAL7-22Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Windows OL-1394-03Chapter 7 Performing DiagnosticsRunning an RF Link TestStep 6 If you did not set the link test to run continuously, the test ends after the specified number of packets is sent, and the Stop button changes back to the Start button. To stop the link test at any time, click Stop, OK, or Cancel.Current Beacons Received (5-GHz client adapters) The percentage of beacon packets received versus those expected to be received. The higher the value and the more green the bar graph is, the clearer the signal.Example: The access point sends out 10 beacons per second, soyou would expect the client adapter to receive 50beacon packets in 5 seconds. If it receives only 40packets, the percentage of beacons received would be80%.Range: 0 to 100%Note This setting appears only for 5-GHz client adapters (or for 2.4-GHz client adapters using firmware version less than 4.05) and only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Current Noise Level The level of background radio frequency energy in the 2.4- or 5-GHz band. The lower the value and the more green the bar graph is, the less background noise present.Range: –100 to –45 dBmNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed in dBm. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Overall Link Quality The client adapter’s ability to communicate with the access point, which is determined by the combined result of the adapter’s signal strength and signal quality.Value: Not Associated, Poor, Fair, Good, ExcellentNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed as a percentage. See the Signal Strength Display Units parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Signal To Noise Ratio The difference between the signal strength and the current noise level. The higher the value, the better the client adapter’s ability to communicate with the access point.Range: 0 to 90 dBNote This setting appears only if you selected signal strength to be displayed in dBm. See the “Signal Strength Display Units” parameter in Table 7-2 for information.Table 7-5 Linktest Statistics (continued)Linktest Statistic Description

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