LINKSYS WUSB300N Wireless-N USB Network Adapter User Manual Book
LINKSYS LLC Wireless-N USB Network Adapter Book
LINKSYS >
Contents
- 1. Manual Part1
- 2. Manual Part2
Manual Part1
Model No.
USB Network Adapter
Wireless-N
WUSB300N
User Guide
WIRELESS
GHz
2.4
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Copyright and Trademarks
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Linksys is a registered trademark or trademark of Cisco
Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. Copyright © 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All
rights reserved. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
How to Use this User Guide
This user guide has been designed to make understanding networking with the Network Adapter easier than
ever. Look for the following items when reading this User Guide:
In addition to these symbols, there are definitions for technical terms that are presented like this:
Also, each figure (diagram, screenshot, or other image) is provided with a figure number and description, like
this:
Figure numbers and descriptions can also be found in the "List of Figures" section.
This exclamation point means there is a caution or warning and is
something that could damage your property or the Network Adapter.
word: definition.
This checkmark means there is a note of interest and is something you
should pay special attention to while using the Network Adapter.
This question mark provides you with a reminder about something
you might need to do while using the Network Adapter.
Figure 0-1: Sample Figure Description
WUSB300N-UG-PSK-60818NC BW
WARNING: This product contains chemicals, including lead, known
to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction 1
Welcome 1
What’s in this User Guide? 1
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network 3
Network Topology 3
Roaming 3
Network Layout 4
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter 5
The LED Indicators 5
USB Extension Base 6
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter 7
Starting the Setup 7
Connecting the Adapter 8
Setting up the Adapter 8
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor 18
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor 18
Using the Wireless Network Monitor 18
Link Information 18
Connect 21
Profiles 22
Create a New Profile 23
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 33
Common Problems and Solutions 33
Frequently Asked Questions 33
Appendix B: Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration 37
Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration 37
Appendix C: Wireless Security 40
Security Precautions 40
Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks 40
Appendix D: Windows Help 43
Appendix E: Glossary 44
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Appendix F: Specifications 49
Appendix G: Warranty Information 51
Appendix H: Regulatory Information 52
Appendix I: Contact Information 59
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
List of Figures
Figure 3-1: Front Panel 5
Figure 3-2: USB Extension Base 6
Figure 4-1: Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen 7
Figure 4-2: Setup Wizard’s License Agreement 7
Figure 4-3: Connecting the Adapter 8
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Networks 8
Figure 4-5: WEP Key Needed for Connection 9
Figure 4-6: PSK Needed for Connection 9
Figure 4-7: PSK2 Needed for Connection 10
Figure 4-8: Congratulations 10
Figure 4-9: Available Wireless Network 11
Figure 4-10: Network Settings 11
Figure 4-11: Wireless Mode 11
Figure 4-12: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 12
Figure 4-13: Wireless Security - WEP 12
Figure 4-14: Wireless Security - PSK 13
Figure 4-15: Wireless Security - PSK2 13
Figure 4-16: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - EAP-TLS 14
Figure 4-17: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - PEAP 14
Figure 4-18: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - EAP-TLS 15
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - PEAP 15
Figure 4-20: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 16
Figure 4-21: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 16
Figure 4-22: Confirm New Settings 17
Figure 4-23: Congratulations screen 17
Figure 5-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 18
Figure 5-2: Link Information 18
Figure 5-3: More Information - Wireless Network Status 19
Figure 5-4: More Information - Network Statistics 20
Figure 5-5: Connect 20
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Figure 5-6: WEP Key Needed for Connection 21
Figure 5-7: PSK Needed for Connection 21
Figure 5-8: PSK2 Needed for Connection 21
Figure 5-9: Profiles 22
Figure 5-10: Creating a Profile 23
Figure 5-11: WEP Key Needed for Connection 23
Figure 5-12: PSK Needed for Connection 24
Figure 5-13: PSK2 Needed for Connection 24
Figure 5-14: Congratulations 24
Figure 5-15: Available Wireless Networks 25
Figure 5-16: Network Settings 25
Figure 5-17: Wireless Mode 26
Figure 5-18: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 26
Figure 5-19: Wireless Security - WEP 27
Figure 5-20: Wireless Security - PSK 28
Figure 5-21: Wireless Security - PSK2 28
Figure 5-22: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - EAP-TLS 29
Figure 5-23: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - PEAP 29
Figure 5-24: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - EAP-TLS 30
Figure 5-25: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - PEAP 30
Figure 5-26: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS 31
Figure 5-27: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP 31
Figure 5-28: Confirm New Settings 32
Figure 5-29: Congratulations 32
Figure B-1: Wireless Network Monitor Icon 37
Figure B-2: Windows XP - Use Windows XP Wireless Configuration 37
Figure B-3: Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration Icon 37
Figure B-4: Available Wireless Network 38
Figure B-5: No Wireless Security 38
Figure B-6: Network Connection - Wireless Security 39
Figure B-7: Wireless Network Connection 39
1
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome
Thank you for choosing the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter. Setting up your network and your Wireless-N USB
Network Adapter is easier than ever. Just connect it to your PC's USB port and enjoy incredible high-speed
wireless network access, at unheard-of distances.
How does the Adapter do this? Like all wireless products, the Adapter allows for greater range and mobility
within your wireless network, whether it’s using the Wireless-G (802.11g) or Wireless-B (802.11b) standard. But
with Wireless-N, it has even better range and speed.
But what does all of this mean?
Networks are useful tools for sharing computer resources. You can access one printer from different computers
and access data located on another computer's hard drive. Networks are even used for playing multiplayer video
games. So, networks are not only useful in homes and offices, they can also be fun.
PCs equipped with wireless cards and adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the
same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network.
The included Setup Wizard walks you through configuring the Adapter to your wireless network settings, step by
step. Use the instructions in this Guide to help you set up and connect the Adapter using the Setup Wizard. These
instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Adapter.
What’s in this User Guide?
This user guide covers the steps for setting up and using the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter.
• Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter describes the Adapter’s applications and this User Guide.
• Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
This chapter discusses a few of the basics about wireless networking.
• Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
This chapter describes the physical features of the Adapter.
802.11b: a wireless networking standard that
specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps
and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.
adapter: a device that adds network functionality
to your PC.
network: a series of computers or devices
connected for the purpose of data sharing,
storage, and/or transmission between users.
802.11g a wireless networking standard that
specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps
and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.
bit: a binary digit.
encryption: encoding data transmitted in a network
2
Chapter 1: Introduction
What’s in this User Guide?
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
• Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
This chapter instructs you on how to install and configure the Adapter.
• Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
This chapter show you how to use the Adapter’s Wireless Network Monitor.
• Appendix A: Troubleshooting
This appendix describes some problems and solutions, as well as frequently asked questions, regarding
installation and use of the Adapter.
• Appendix B: Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration
This appendix describes how to use Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration.
• Appendix C: Wireless Security
This appendix discusses security issues regarding wireless networking and measures you can take to help
protect your wireless network.
• Appendix D: Windows Help
This appendix describes how you can use Windows Help for instructions about networking, such as installing
the TCP/IP protocol.
• Appendix E: Glossary
This appendix gives a brief glossary of terms frequently used in networking.
• Appendix F: Specifications
This appendix provides the Adapter’s technical specifications.
• Appendix G: Warranty Information
This appendix supplies the Adapter’s warranty information.
• Appendix H: Regulatory Information
This appendix supplies the Adapter’s regulatory information.
• Appendix I: Contact Information
This appendix provides contact information for a variety of Linksys resources, including Technical Support.
3
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network
Network Topology
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network
Network Topology
A wireless network is a group of computers, each equipped with one wireless adapter. Computers in a wireless
network must be configured to share the same radio channel. Several PCs equipped with wireless cards or
adapters can communicate with one another to form an ad-hoc network.
Linksys wireless adapters also provide users access to a wired network when using an access point or wireless
router. An integrated wireless and wired network is called an infrastructure network. Each wireless PC in an
infrastructure network can talk to any computer in a wired network infrastructure via the access point or wireless
router.
An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of a wireless PC to a wired network, and can double the
effective wireless transmission range for two wireless adapter PCs. Since an access point is able to forward data
within a network, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure network can be doubled.
Roaming
Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. Roaming means that you can move your
wireless PC within your network and the access points will pick up the wireless PC's signal, providing that they
both share the same channel and SSID.
Before enabling you consider roaming, choose a feasible radio channel and optimum access point position.
Proper access point positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.
infrastructure: a wireless network that is
bridged to a wired network via an access point.
ad-hoc: a group of wireless devices
communicating directly with each other (peer-
to-peer) without the use of an access point.
roaming: the ability to take a wireless device
from one access point's range to another without
losing the connection.
ssid: your wireless network's name.
topology: the physical layout of a network.
access point: a device that allows wireless-
equipped computers and other devices to
communicate with a wired network
4
Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network
Network Layout
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Network Layout
Linksys wireless access points and wireless routers have been designed for use with 802.11a, 802.11b, and
802.11g products. With 802.11g products communicating with the 802.11b standard and some products
incorporating both “a” and “g”, products using these standards can communicate with each other.
Access points and wireless routers are compatible with 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g adapters, such at the PC
Cards for your laptop computers, PCI Card for your desktop PC, and USB Adapters for when you want to enjoy USB
connectivity. Wireless products will also communicate with the wireless PrintServer.
When you wish to connect your wired network with your wireless network, network ports on access points and
wireless routers can be connected to any of Linksys's switches or routers.
With these, and many other, Linksys products, your networking options are limitless. Go to the Linksys website at
www.linksys.com for more information about wireless products.
5
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
The LED Indicators
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-N USB Network
Adapter
The LED Indicators
The USB Network Adapter's LEDs display information about network activity.
Power Green. The Power LED lights up when the Adapter is powered on.
Link/Act Green. The Link/Act LED lights up when the Adapter has an active connection.
Figure 3-1: Front Panel
Power
Link/Act
6
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
USB Extension Base
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
USB Extension Base
A USB Extension Base is provided for easy access to the USB port. The USB Extension Base is connected to the
USB port in your PC, then the Adapter is connected to the Base.
Figure 3-2: USB Extension Base
7
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Starting the Setup
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N
USB Network Adapter
Starting the Setup
The Wireless-N USB Network Adapter Setup Wizard will guide you through the installation procedure. The Setup
Wizard will install the driver and Wireless Network Monitor, as well as connect and configure the Adapter.
Insert the Setup Wizard CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive. The Setup Wizard should run automatically, and the
Welcome screen should appear. If it does not, click the Start button and choose Run. In the field that appears,
enter D:\setup.exe (if “D” is the letter of your CD-ROM drive).
On the Welcome screen, you have the following choices:
Click Here to Start- Click the Click Here to Start button to begin the software installation process.
User Guide - Click the User Guide button to open the PDF file of this User Guide.
Diagnostic - Click the Diagnostic button to run a diagnostic check on your installed Network Adapter’s Wireless
Network Monitor and driver.
Exit - Click the Exit button to exit the Setup Wizard.
1. To install the Adapter, click the Click Here to Start button on the Welcome screen.
2. After reading the License Agreement, click the Next button if you agree and want to continue the installation,
or click the Cancel button to end the installation.
3. Windows will begin copying the files onto your PC.
Figure 4-1: Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen
Figure 4-2: Setup Wizard’s License Agreement
IMPORTANT: Do not connect the Adapter until you are instructed to
do so or the setup will not work.
8
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Connecting the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Connecting the Adapter
1. Locate an available USB port on your PC.
2. Connect the Adapter in one of three ways:
1. Insert the Adapter into the USB port.
2. If you want to use the included USB Extension Base, first connect the USB Extension Base to the USB port
on the PC, then insert the Adapter into the USB port on the Base.
3. If you want to use the included USB Extension Cable, connect the Adapter to the female end of the USB
Extension Cable, then connect the male end of the Cable to the PC.
3. Windows will begin copying the driver files to your computer.
4. Click Next.
Setting up the Adapter
The next screen to appear will be the Available Wireless Networks screen.
This screen provides two options for setting up the Adapter.
• Available Wireless Networks. (For most users.) Use this option if you already have a network set up. The
networks available to this Adapter will be listed on this screen. You can choose one of these networks and
click the Connect button to connect to it. Click the Refresh button to update the Available Wireless Network
list.
• Manual Setup. If your network is not listed on this screen, select Advanced Setup to set up the adapter
manually. This method of setting up the Adapter is intended for Advanced Users only.
The setup for each option is described, step by step, under the appropriate heading on the following pages.
Click Exit to close the Setup Wizard, if you wish to set up the Adapter later.
Available Wireless Networks
The available networks are listed in the table on the center of the screen by Wireless Network Name. Select the
wireless network you wish to connect to and click the Connect button. (If you do not see your network listed,
you can click the Refresh button to bring the list up again.) If the network utilizes wireless security, you will
Figure 4-3: Connecting the Adapter
Figure 4-4: Available Wireless Networks
9
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
need to configure security on the Adapter. If not, you will be taken directly to the Congratulations screen.
1. If you have wireless security enabled on your network, continue to step 2. If you don’t have wireless security
enabled, continue to step 3.
2. If your network has WEP, PSK, or PSK2 wireless security enabled, then that security screen will appear.
Continue to the screen for your wireless security.
• WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)
If you have WEP enabled, this screen will appear. Select 64-bit or 128-bit. Then enter a passphrase or
WEP key. You must enter the same security settings used on your network.
Passphrase - Enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. The
passphrase is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. It must match
the passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you
have any non-Linksys wireless products, enter the WEP key manually on those products.)
WEP Key - The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. For 64-bit
encryption, enter exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. For 128-bit encryption, enter exactly 26
hexadecimal characters. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
• PSK (Pre-shared key)
If your network has the wireless security PSK enabled, this screen will appear. You must enter the same
security settings used on your network.
Encryption - Select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down
menu.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
Figure 4-5: WEP Key Needed for Connection
Figure 4-6: PSK Needed for Connection
encryption: encoding data transmitted in a network.
PSK (Pre-shared key: a wireless security protocol using
TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) encryption, which can
be used in conjunction with a RADIUS server.
wep (wired equivalent privacy): a method of encrypting network
data transmitted on a wireless network for greater security.
10
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
• PSK2 (Pre-shared key 2)
If your network has the wireless security PSK2 enabled, this screen will appear. You must enter the same
security settings used on your network.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
3. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Finish to
exit. For more information about the Wireless Network Monitor, refer to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network
Monitor.
Congratulations! The installation of the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter is complete.
To check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration changes,
proceed to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor.
Figure 4-7: PSK2 Needed for Connection
Figure 4-8: Congratulations
11
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Advanced Setup
If your network is not listed with the available networks, you can use Manual Setup.
1. Click Advanced Setup on the Available Wireless Network screen to set up the adapter manually.
2. The Network Settings screen from the Wireless Network Monitor will appear. If your network has a DHCP
server or router, click the radio button next to Obtain network settings automatically (DHCP).
If your network does not have a DHCP server or router, click the radio button next to Specify network settings.
Enter an IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS addresses appropriate for your network. You
must specify the IP Address and Subnet Mask on this screen. If you are unsure about the Default Gateway and
DNS addresses, leave these fields empty.
IP Address - This IP Address must be unique to your network.
Subnet Mask - The Adapter’s Subnet Mask must be the same as your wired network’s Subnet Mask.
Default Gateway - Enter the IP address of your network’s Gateway here.
DNS 1 and DNS 2 - Enter the DNS address of your wired Ethernet network here.
Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back button to return to the previous screen.
3. The Wireless Mode screen shows a choice of two wireless modes. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio
button if you want to connect to a wireless router or access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you
want to connect to another wireless device directly without using a wireless router or access point. Enter the
Wireless Network Name for your network.
Infrastructure Mode - Use this mode if you want to connect to a wireless router or access point.
Ad-Hoc Mode - Use this mode if you want to connect to another wireless device directly without using a
wireless router or access point.
Wireless Network Name- This is the wireless network name (SSID) that must be used for all the devices in
your wireless network. It is case- sensitive and should be a unique name to help prevent others from entering
your network.
Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-9: Available Wireless Network
Figure 4-11: Wireless Mode
Figure 4-10: Network Settings
12
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
4. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, the Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
screen will appear.
Network Mode - Select the Network Mode in which your wireless network will operate. In Mixed mode,
Wireless-N, Wireless-B and Wireless-G devices can operate on the same network.
Standard Channel - Select the correct channel for your wireless network. The channel you choose should
match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. If you are unsure about which channel
to use, keep the default setting Auto.
Click the Next button to continue. Click the Back button to change any settings.
5. If your wireless network doesn’t have wireless security, select Disabled and then click the Next button to
continue. Proceed to Step 6.
If your wireless network has wireless security, select the method of security used: WEP, PSK, PSK2,
PSK+RADIUS, PSK2+RADIUS, or RADIUS. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, and PSK stands for Pre-
shared key. PSK2 stands for Pre-shared key 2. RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Proceed to the appropriate section for the security method used on your network: WEP, PSK, PSK2,
PSK+RADIUS, PSK2+RADIUS, or RADIUS.
WEP
WEP - Select 64-bit or 128-bit encryption. You must enter the same security settings used on your network.
Passphrase - Enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-
sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must match the
passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you have any
non-Linksys wireless products, enter the WEP key manually on those products.)
WEP Key - The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. For 64-bit encryption, Figure 4-13: Wireless Security - WEP
Figure 4-12: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings
13
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
enter exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. For 128-bit encryption, enter exactly 26 hexadecimal characters.
Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Advanced Users
TX Key - The default transmit key number is 1. If your network’s access point or wireless router uses transmit
key number 2, 3, or 4, select the appropriate number from the TX Key drop-down box.
Authentication -The default is set to Auto, so it will auto-detect for Shared Key or Open System authentication.
For Shared Key authentication, both the sender and the recipient share a WEP key for authentication. For
Open System authentication, the sender and the recipient do not share a WEP key for authentication. If you
are not sure which authentication method to select, keep the default, Auto.
Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PSK
PSK offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. Select TKIP or AES for
encryption. Then enter a Pre-shared Key that is 8-63 characters in length. You must enter the same security
settings used on your network.
Encryption - Select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down menu.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PSK2
Enter a Pre-shared Key that is 8-63 characters in length. You must enter the same security settings used on
your network.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-14: Wireless Security - PSK
Figure 4-15: Wireless Security - PSK2
14
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
PSK+RADIUS
PSK+RADIUS features PSK security used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used
when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router.) PSK+RADIUS offers two authentication methods, EAP-TLS
and PEAP, as well as two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. You must enter
the same security settings used on your network.
Authentication - Select the authentication method your network is using, EAP-TLS or PEAP.
EAP-TLS
If you selected EAP-TLS, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
name of the authentication server in the Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down
menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network. Select the type
of encryption, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down menu.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PEAP
If you selected PEAP, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
password of your wireless network in the Password field. Enter the name of the authentication server in the
Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have
installed to authenticate you on your wireless network; if you want to use any certificate, keep the default
setting, Trust Any. Then select the authentication method used inside the PEAP tunnel. Select the type of
encryption, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down menu.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-17: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - PEAP
Figure 4-16: Wireless Security - PSK+RADIUS - EAP-
TLS
15
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
PSK2+RADIUS
PSK2+RADIUS features PSK2 security used in coordination with a RADIUS server. (This should only be used
when a RADIUS server is connected to the Router.) PSK2+RADIUS offers two authentication methods, EAP-
TLS and PEAP. You must enter the same security settings used on your network.
Authentication - Select the authentication method your network is using, EAP-TLS or PEAP.
EAP-TLS
If you selected EAP-TLS, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
name of the authentication server in the Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down
menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PEAP
If you selected PEAP, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
password of your wireless network in the Password field. Enter the name of the authentication server in the
Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have
installed to authenticate you on your wireless network; if you want to use any certificate, keep the default
setting, Trust Any. Then select the authentication method used inside the PEAP tunnel.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-18: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - EAP-
TLS
Figure 4-19: Wireless Security - PSK2+RADIUS - PEAP
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Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
RADIUS
RADIUS features use of a RADIUS server. (This should only be used when a RADIUS server is connected to the
Router.) RADIUS offers two authentication types: EAP-TLS and PEAP. You must enter the same security
settings used on your network.
Authentication - Select the authentication method your network is using, EAP-TLS or PEAP.
EAP-TLS
If you selected EAP-TLS, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
name of the authentication server in the Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down
menu, select the certificate you have installed to authenticate you on your wireless network.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
PEAP
If you selected PEAP, enter the login name of your wireless network in the Login Name field. Enter the
password of your wireless network in the Password field. Enter the name of the authentication server in the
Server Name field (this is optional). From the Certificate drop-down menu, select the certificate you have
installed to authenticate you on your wireless network; if you want to use any certificate, keep the default
setting, Trust Any. Then select the authentication method used inside the PEAP tunnel.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Figure 4-20: Wireless Security - RADIUS - EAP-TLS
Figure 4-21: Wireless Security - RADIUS - PEAP
17
Chapter 4: Setting up and Connecting the Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Setting up the Adapter
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
4. The Confirm New Settings screen will appear next and show the new settings. To save the new settings, click
the Save button. To edit the new settings, click the Back button. To exit the Advanced Setup through the
Wireless Network Monitor, click Exit.
5. The Congratulations screen will appear next. Click Connect to Network to implement the new settings and
return to the Link Information screen. Click Return to Profiles screen to return to the Profiles screen.
Congratulations! Your advanced setup through the Wireless Network Monitor is complete.
To check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration changes,
proceed to Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor.
Figure 4-22: Confirm New Settings
Figure 4-23: Congratulations screen
18
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Use the Wireless Network Monitor to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or create
profiles that hold different configuration settings.
Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor
After installing the Adapter, the Wireless Network Monitor icon will appear in the system tray of your computer. If
the Wireless Network Monitor is enabled, then the icon will be green. If the Wireless Network Monitor is disabled
or the Adapter is not connected, then the icon will be gray.
Using the Wireless Network Monitor
The opening screen of the Wireless Network Monitor is the Link Information screen. From this screen, you can
find out how strong the current wireless signal is and how good the connection’s quality is. You can also click the
More Information button to view additional status information about the current wireless connection. To search
for available wireless networks, click the Connect tab. To perform configuration changes or create connection
profiles, click the Profiles tab.
Link Information
The Link Information screen displays network mode, signal strength, and link quality information about the
current connection. It also provides a button to click for additional status information.
Ad-Hoc Mode or Infrastructure Mode - The screen indicates whether the Adapter is currently working in ad-hoc or
infrastructure mode.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the More Information button to view additional information about the wireless network connection on the
Wireless Network Status screen.
Figure 5-1: Wireless Network Monitor
Icon
Figure 5-2: Link Information
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Wireless Network Status
The Wireless Network Status screen provides information on your current network settings.
Radio Band - This shows the radio band used on the network.
Wireless Network Name- This is the unique name (SSID) of the wireless network.
Wireless Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use is displayed here.
Wide Channel - This displays the Wireless-N primary channel used with a 40 MHz radio band network.
Standard Channel - This displays the channel used by your wireless network.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
Authentication - This is your wireless network’s authentication method.
IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter is displayed here.
Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter is shown here.
Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter is displayed here.
DNS1 - This is the DNS address of the Adapter.
MAC Address- The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point or wireless router is shown here.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates the signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the Statistics button to go to the Wireless Network Statistics screen. Click the Back button to return to the
initial Link Information screen. Click the Save to Profile button to save the currently active connection settings to
a profile.
Figure 5-3: More Information - Wireless Network Status
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Link Information
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Wireless Network Statistics
The Wireless Networks Statistics screen provides statistics on your current network settings.
Transmit Rate - This is the data transfer rate of the current connection. (In Auto mode, the Adapter dynamically
shifts to the fastest data transfer rate possible at any given time.)
Receive Rate - This is the rate at which data is received.
Packets Received - This shows the packets received by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the wireless
network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Packets Transmitted - This shows the packets transmitted from the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the
wireless network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Bytes Received - This shows the bytes received by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the wireless
network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Bytes Transmitted - This shows the bytes transmitted by the Adapter, in real time, since connecting to the
wireless network or since the Refresh Statistics button was last pressed.
Driver Version - This shows the version of the Adapter’s driver.
Signal Strength - This is the intensity of the wireless signal received by the Adapter.
Transmit Power - This is the power output at which the Adapter is transmitting.
Up Time - This indicates the length of the most recent connection to a wireless network.
Total Up Time - This indicates the cumulative total of the Adapter’s connection time.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates the signal strength.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless network connection.
Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen. Click the Status button to go to the Wireless
Network Status screen. Click the Save to Profile button to save the currently active connection settings to a
profile. Click the Refresh button to reset the statistics.
Figure 5-4: More Information - Network Statistics
Figure 5-5: Connect
21
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Connect
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Connect
The Connect screen displays a list of available networks in the table on the left. The table shows each network’s
Wireless Network Name, Channel, and the quality of the wireless signal the Adapter is receiving. You may click
Wireless Network Name, CH (Channel), or Signal, to sort by that field.
Wireless Network Name - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network is displayed here.
CH - This is the channel that the network uses.
Signal - This is the percentage of signal strength, from 0 to 100%.
Site Information
For each network selected, the following settings are listed:
Wireless Mode - This is the mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Network Type- This is the network type used by your wireless network.
Radio Band - This is the radio band used by your wireless network.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
MAC Address- The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point is displayed here.
Refresh - Click the Refresh button to perform a new search for wireless devices.
Connect - To connect to one of the networks on the list, select the wireless network, and click the Connect
button. If the network has encryption enabled, then you will see a new screen appear.
• If the network has the wireless security WEP encryption enabled, then you will see the WEP Key Needed for
Connection screen. Select the appropriate level of WEP encryption, 64-bit or 128-bit). Then enter the
network’s Passphrase or WEP Key. You must enter the same security settings used on your network. Click the
Connect button. To cancel the connection, click the Cancel button.
• If the network has the wireless security PSK security enabled, then you will see the PSK Needed for
Connection screen. Select the appropriate encryption type, TKIP or AES. Enter the network’s Pre-shared Key
in the Pre-shared Key field. You must enter the same security settings used on your network. Then click the
Connect button. To cancel the connection, click the Cancel button.
Figure 5-6: WEP Key Needed for Connection
Figure 5-7: PSK Needed for Connection
Figure 5-8: PSK2 Needed for Connection
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Profiles
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
• If the network has PSK2 wireless security enabled, then you will see the PSK2 Needed for Connection screen.
Enter the network’s Pre-shared Key in the Pre-shared Key field. You must enter the same security settings
used on your network. To connect to the network, click Connect. To cancel the connection, click Cancel.
Profiles
The Profiles screen lets you save different configuration profiles for different network setups. The table on the left
displays a list of available profiles with their profile names and Wireless Network Names.
Profile - The name of the profile is displayed here.
Wireless Network Name - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network is displayed here.
Profile Information
For each profile selected, the following are listed:
Wireless Mode - This is the mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Wide Channel - This displays the Wireless-N primary channel used with a 40 MHz radio band network.
Standard Channel - This displays the channel used by your wireless network.
Security - The status of the wireless security feature is displayed here.
Authentication - The authentication setting for the network is shown here.
Connect - To connect to a wireless network using a specific profile, select the profile, and click Connect.
New - Click the New button to create a new profile. See the next section, “Creating a New Profile,” for detailed
instructions.
Edit - Select the profile you want to change, and then click the Edit button.
Import - Click the Import button to import a profile that has been saved in another location. Select the
appropriate file, and click the Open button.
Export - Select the profile you want to save in a different location, and click the Export button. Direct Windows
to the appropriate folder, and click the Save button.
Delete - Select the profile you want to delete, and then click the Delete button.
NOTE: If you want to export more than one profile,
you have to export them one at a time.
Figure 5-9: Profiles
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Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Create a New Profile
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
Create a New Profile
The next screen to appear will be the Available Wireless Networks screen.
This screen provides two options for setting up the Adapter.
• Available Wireless Networks. (For most users.) Use this option if you already have a network set up. The
networks available to this Adapter will be listed on this screen. You can choose one of these networks and
click the Connect button to connect to it. Click the Refresh button to update the Available Wireless Networks
list.
• Advanced Setup. If your network is not listed on this screen, select Advanced Setup to set up the adapter
manually. This method of setting up the Adapter is intended for Advanced Users only.
The setup for each option is described, step by step, under the appropriate heading on the following pages.
Click Exit to close the Setup Wizard, if you wish to set up the Adapter later.
Available Wireless Networks
The available networks are listed in the table on the center of the screen by Wireless Network Name. Select the
wireless network you wish to connect to and click the Connect button. (If you do not see your network listed, you
can click the Refresh button to bring the list up again.) If the network utilizes wireless security, you will need to
configure security on the Adapter. If not, you will be taken directly to the Congratulations screen.
1. If you have wireless security enabled on your network, continue to step 2. If you don’t have wireless security
enabled, continue to step 3.
2. If your network has WEP, PSK, or PSK2 wireless security enabled, then that security screen will appear.
Continue to the screen for your wireless security.
• WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)
If you have WEP enabled, this screen will appear. Select 64-bit or 128-bit. Then enter a passphrase or
WEP key. You must enter the same security settings used on your network.
Passphrase - Enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. The
passphrase is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. It must match
Figure 5-10: Creating a Profile
Figure 5-11: WEP Key Needed for Connection
24
Chapter 5: Using the Wireless Network Monitor
Create a New Profile
Wireless-N USB Network Adapter
the passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you
have any non-Linksys wireless products, enter the WEP key manually on those products.)
WEP Key - The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. For 64-bit
encryption, enter exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. For 128-bit encryption, enter exactly 26
hexadecimal characters. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
• PSK (Pre-shared key)
If your network has the wireless security PSK enabled, this screen will appear. You must enter the same
security settings used on your network.
Encryption - Select the type of algorithm you want to use, TKIP or AES, from the Encryption drop-down
menu.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
• PSK2 (Pre-shared key 2)
If your network has the wireless security PSK2 enabled, this screen will appear. You must enter the same
security settings used on your network.
Pre-shared Key - Enter a Pre-shared Key of 8-63 characters in the Pre-shared Key field.
Then click Connect and proceed to Step 3.
3. After the software has been successfully installed, the Congratulations screen will appear. Click Finish to
return to the Link Information screen.
Congratulations! The profile has been successfully configured.
Figure 5-12: PSK Needed for Connection
Figure 5-13: PSK2 Needed for Connection
Figure 5-14: Congratulations