ZyXEL Communications G220F 802.11g Wireless USB Adapter User Manual ZyXEL G 220F User s Guide V1 00 Oct 2004
ZyXEL Communications Corporation 802.11g Wireless USB Adapter ZyXEL G 220F User s Guide V1 00 Oct 2004
Contents
- 1. Users Manual Part 1
- 2. User Manual Part 2
- 3. Users Manual
Users Manual Part 1
ZyXEL G-220F
802.11g Wireless USB Adapter
User's Guide
Version 1.00
October 2004
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Copyright ii
Copyright
Copyright ©2004 by ZyXEL Communications Corporation
The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any part or as a whole, transcribed, stored in a
retrieval system, translated into any language, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, photocopying, manual, or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of ZyXEL Communications Corporation.
Published by ZyXEL Communications Corporation. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
ZyXEL does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any products, or software
described herein. Neither does it convey any license under its patent rights nor the patents' rights of others.
ZyXEL further reserves the right to make changes in any products described herein without notice. This
publication is subject to change without notice.
Trademarks
Trademarks mentioned in this publication are used for identification purposes only and may be properties
of their respective owners.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
ZyXEL Limited Warranty iii
ZyXEL Limited Warranty
ZyXEL warrants to the original end user (purchaser) that this product is free from any defects in materials
or workmanship for a period of up to two (2) years from the date of purchase. During the warranty period
and upon proof of purchase, should the product have indications of failure due to faulty workmanship
and/or materials, ZyXEL will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective products or components
without charge for either parts or labor and to whatever extent it shall deem necessary to restore the product
or components to proper operating condition. Any replacement will consist of a new or re-manufactured
functionally equivalent product of equal value, and will be solely at the discretion of ZyXEL. This warranty
shall not apply if the product is modified, misused, tampered with, damaged by an act of God, or subjected
to abnormal working conditions.
NOTE
Repair or replacement, as provided under this warranty, is the exclusive remedy of the purchaser. This
warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular use or purpose. ZyXEL shall in no event be held liable for
indirect or consequential damages of any kind of character to the purchaser.
To obtain the services of this warranty, contact ZyXEL's Service Center for your Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number. Products must be returned Postage Prepaid. It is recommended that the unit
be insured when shipped. Any returned products without proof of purchase or those with an out-dated
warranty will be repaired or replaced (at the discretion of ZyXEL) and the customer will be billed for parts
and labor. All repaired or replaced products will be shipped by ZyXEL to the corresponding return address,
Postage Paid. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary
from country to country.
Online Registration
Register online at www.zyxel.com for free future product updates and information.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
iv Information for Canadian Users
Information for Canadian Users
The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the equipment meets
certain telecommunications network protective operation and safety requirements. The Industry Canada
does not guarantee that the equipment will operate to a user's satisfaction.
Before installing this equipment, users should ensure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities
of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed using an acceptable
method of connection. In some cases, the company's inside wiring associated with a single line individual
service may be extended by means of a certified connector assembly. The customer should be aware that
compliance with the above conditions may not prevent degradation of service in some situations.
Repairs to certified equipment should be made by an authorized Canadian maintenance facility designated
by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or equipment malfunctions,
may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user to disconnect the equipment.
For their own protection, users should ensure that the electrical ground connections of the power utility,
telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution
may be particularly important in rural areas.
Caution
Users should not attempt to make such connections themselves, but should contact the appropriate
electrical inspection authority, or electrician, as appropriate.
Note
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus
set out in the radio interference regulations of Industry.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
FCC Statement v
Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) Interference Statement
The device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operations.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio/television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
4. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Notice 1
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.
This product has been designed for the WLAN 2.4 GHz network throughout the EC region and
Switzerland, with restrictions in France.
Caution
1. The equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment, under 47 CFR 2.1093 paragraph (d)(2).
2. This Transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
Certifications
Refer to the product page at www.zyxel.com.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Customer Support vii
Customer Support
When contacting your Customer Support Representative, please have the following information ready:
Product model and serial number.
Warranty Information.
Date you received your product.
Brief description of the problem and the steps you took to solve it.
SUPPORT E-MAIL TELEPHONE1 WEB SITE METHOD
LOCATION
SALES E-MAIL FAX1 FTP SITE
REGULAR MAIL
support@zyxel.com.tw +886-3-578-3942 www.zyxel.com
www.europe.zyxel.com
ftp.zyxel.com
WORLDWIDE
sales@zyxel.com.tw +886-3-578-2439 ftp.europe.zyxel.com
ZyXEL Communications Corp.
6 Innovation Road II
Science Park
Hsinchu 300
Taiwan
support@zyxel.com +1-800-255-4101
+1-714-632-0882
www.us.zyxel.com NORTH
AMERICA
sales@zyxel.com +1-714-632-0858 ftp.us.zyxel.com
ZyXEL Communications Inc.
1130 N. Miller St.
Anaheim
CA 92806-2001
U.S.A.
support@zyxel.de +49-2405-6909-0 www.zyxel.de GERMANY
sales@zyxel.de +49-2405-6909-99
ZyXEL Deutschland GmbH.
Adenauerstr. 20/A2 D-52146
Wuerselen
Germany
+33 (0)4 72 52 97 97 FRANCE info@zyxel.fr
+33 (0)4 72 52 19 20
www.zyxel.fr ZyXEL France
1 rue des Vergers
Bat. 1 / C
69760 Limonest
France
support@zyxel.es +34 902 195 420 SPAIN
sales@zyxel.es +34 913 005 345
www.zyxel.es ZyXEL Communications
Alejandro Villegas 33
1º, 28043 Madrid
Spain
support@zyxel.dk +45 39 55 07 00 www.zyxel.dk DENMARK
sales@zyxel.dk +45 39 55 07 07
ZyXEL Communications A/S
Columbusvej 5
2860 Soeborg
Denmark
support@zyxel.no +47 22 80 61 80 www.zyxel.no NORWAY
sales@zyxel.no +47 22 80 61 81
ZyXEL Communications A/S
Nils Hansens vei 13
0667 Oslo
Norway
1 “+” is the (prefix) number you enter to make an international telephone call.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
viii Customer Support
SUPPORT E-MAIL TELEPHONE1 WEB SITE METHOD
LOCATION
SALES E-MAIL FAX1 FTP SITE
REGULAR MAIL
support@zyxel.se +46 31 744 7700 www.zyxel.se SWEDEN
sales@zyxel.se +46 31 744 7701
ZyXEL Communications A/S
Sjöporten 4, 41764 Göteborg
Sweden
FINLAND support@zyxel.fi +358-9-4780-8411 www.zyxel.fi ZyXEL Communications Oy
Malminkaari 10
00700 Helsinki
Finland
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Table of Contents ix
Table of Contents
Copyright.........................................................................................................................................ii
ZyXEL Limited Warranty ...............................................................................................................iii
Information for Canadian Users...................................................................................................iv
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement.....................................v
Customer Support ........................................................................................................................vii
List of Figures............................................................................................................................... xi
List of Tables................................................................................................................................ xii
Preface......................................................................................................................................... xiii
Chapter 1 Getting Started .......................................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 About Your ZyXEL G-220F ............................................................................................ 1-1
1.2 ZyXEL G-220F Hardware and Utility Installation ........................................................... 1-1
1.3 Configuration Methods................................................................................................... 1-1
1.4 Windows XP Users Only................................................................................................ 1-2
1.5 Accessing the ZyXEL Utility ........................................................................................... 1-2
1.6 ZyXEL G-220F Modes ................................................................................................... 1-3
1.6.1 Change ZyXEL G-220F Modes .............................................................................. 1-3
Chapter 2 Wireless LAN Network ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1.1 IEEE 802.11g 11 Mbps Wireless LAN.................................................................... 2-1
2.1.2 SSID........................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1.3 Channel...................................................................................................................2-1
2.1.4 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate).................................................................................. 2-2
2.1.5 Wireless Network Application ................................................................................. 2-2
2.1.6 Roaming.................................................................................................................. 2-4
2.2 Wireless LAN Security ................................................................................................... 2-5
2.2.1 Data Encryption with WEP...................................................................................... 2-5
2.3 Fragmentation Threshold............................................................................................... 2-5
2.4 RTS/CTS Threshold....................................................................................................... 2-5
2.5 Authentication Type ....................................................................................................... 2-6
2.6 Preamble Type...............................................................................................................2-7
Chapter 3 Wireless Station Mode Configuration..................................................................... 3-1
3.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 3-1
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
x Table of Contents
3.2 The Link Info Screen ...................................................................................................... 3-1
3.2.1 Trend Chart ............................................................................................................. 3-3
3.3 The Site Survey Screen ................................................................................................. 3-3
3.3.1 Connecting to a WLAN Network ............................................................................. 3-5
3.3.2 Security Settings ..................................................................................................... 3-5
3.4 The Profile Screen..........................................................................................................3-7
3.4.1 Adding a New Profile............................................................................................... 3-9
3.5 The Adapter Screen ..................................................................................................... 3-16
Chapter 4 Access Point Mode Configuration .......................................................................... 4-1
4.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1.1 Additional Setup Requirements .............................................................................. 4-1
4.2 The Link Info Screen ...................................................................................................... 4-1
4.3 The Configuration Screen .............................................................................................. 4-3
4.4 The MAC Filter Screen................................................................................................... 4-5
Chapter 5 Maintenance .............................................................................................................. 5-1
5.1 The About Screen .......................................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 Uninstalling the ZyXEL Utility ......................................................................................... 5-1
5.3 Upgrading the ZyXEL Utility ........................................................................................... 5-3
Chapter 6 Troubleshooting........................................................................................................ 6-1
6.1 Problems Starting the ZyXEL Utility Program ................................................................ 6-1
6.2 Problem Connecting to an Access Point........................................................................ 6-1
6.3 Problem with the Link Status.......................................................................................... 6-2
6.4 Problems Communicating With Other Computers ......................................................... 6-2
Appendix A Product Specifications.............................................................................................A
Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address................................................................C
Appendix C Access Point Mode Setup Example....................................................................... O
Appendix D Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool.......................................R
Appendix E Management with Wireless Zero Configuration ....................................................Y
Appendix F Types of EAP Authentication................................................................................OO
Appendix G Index .......................................................................................................................QQ
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
List of Figures xi
List of Figures
Figure 1-1 ZyXEL Utility: System Tray Icon.................................................................................. 1-2
Figure 1-2 ZyXEL Utility................................................................................................................ 1-3
Figure 2-1 IBSS Example ............................................................................................................. 2-2
Figure 2-2 BSS Example .............................................................................................................. 2-3
Figure 2-3 Infrastructure Network Example.................................................................................. 2-3
Figure 2-4 ZyXEL G-220F as an Access Point Example.............................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-5 Roaming Example....................................................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-6 RTS Threshold ............................................................................................................ 2-6
Figure 3-1 Station Mode: Link Info................................................................................................ 3-1
Figure 3-2 Station Mode: Link Info: Trend Chart .......................................................................... 3-3
Figure 3-3 Station Mode: Site Survey........................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-4 Station Mode: Site Survey: Security Settings ............................................................. 3-6
Figure 3-5 Station Mode: Profile................................................................................................... 3-8
Figure 3-6 Station Mode: Profile: Add New Profile ..................................................................... 3-10
Figure 3-7 Station Mode: Profile: Select a Channel ................................................................... 3-12
Figure 3-8 Station Mode: Profile: Wireless Settings................................................................... 3-13
Figure 3-9 Station Mode: Profile: Security Settings.................................................................... 3-14
Figure 3-10 Station Mode: Profile: Confirm New Settings.......................................................... 3-15
Figure 3-11 Station Mode: Profile: Activate the Profile ............................................................... 3-16
Figure 3-12 Station Mode: Adapter............................................................................................. 3-17
Figure 4-1 Access Point Mode: Link Info...................................................................................... 4-2
Figure 4-2 Access Point Mode: Configuration .............................................................................. 4-3
Figure 4-3 Access Point Mode: MAC Filter .................................................................................. 4-6
Figure 5-1 About ........................................................................................................................... 5-1
Figure 5-2 Confirm Uninstall......................................................................................................... 5-2
Figure 5-3 Uninstalling the ZyXEL Utility ...................................................................................... 5-2
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
xii List of Tables
List of Tables
Table 1-1 ZyXEL Utility: System Tray Icon.................................................................................... 1-2
Table 2-1 IEEE 802.11G ............................................................................................................... 2-1
Table 3-1 Station Mode: Link Info ................................................................................................. 3-2
Table 3-2 Station Mode: Link Info: Trend Chart ............................................................................ 3-3
Table 3-3 Station Mode: Site Survey ............................................................................................ 3-4
Table 3-4 Station Mode: Site Survey: Security Settings ............................................................... 3-6
Table 3-5 Station Mode: Profile..................................................................................................... 3-8
Table 3-6 Station Mode: Profile: Add New Profile ....................................................................... 3-10
Table 3-7 Station Mode: Profile: Select a Channel ..................................................................... 3-12
Table 3-8 Station Mode: Adapter.................................................................................................3-17
Table 4-1 Access Point Mode: Link Info........................................................................................ 4-2
Table 4-2 Access Point Mode: Configuration................................................................................ 4-4
Table 4-3 Access Point Mode: MAC Filter .................................................................................... 4-6
Table 5-1 About ............................................................................................................................. 5-1
Table 6-1 Troubleshooting Starting ZyXEL Utility Program........................................................... 6-1
Table 6-2 Troubleshooting Access Point Connection Problem..................................................... 6-1
Table 6-3 Troubleshooting Link Quality ........................................................................................ 6-2
Table 6-4 Troubleshooting Communication Problem.................................................................... 6-2
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Preface xiii
Preface
Congratulations on the purchase of your new ZyXEL G-220F!
About This User's Guide
This manual provides information about the ZyXEL Wireless LAN Utility.
Syntax Conventions
• “Type” or “Enter” means for you to type one or more characters. "Select" or "Choose" means for
you to use one of the predefined choices.
• Mouse action sequences are denoted using a comma. For example, “click the Apple icon, Control
Panels and then Modem” means first click the Apple icon, then point your mouse pointer to
Control Panels and then click Modem.
• Window and command choices are in Bold Times New Roman font. Predefined field choices are
in Bold Arial font.
• The ZyXEL G-220F 802.11g Wireless USB Adapter is referred to as the ZyXEL G-220F in this
guide.
• The ZyXEL Wireless LAN Utility may be referred to as the ZyXEL WLAN Utility or, simply, as
the ZyXEL Utility in this guide.
Related Documentation
Support Disk
Refer to the included CD for support documents and device drivers.
Quick Installation Guide
Our Quick Installation Guide is designed to help you get your ZyXEL G-220F up and running
right away. It contains a detailed easy-to-follow connection diagram and information on installing
your ZyXEL G-220F.
ZyXEL Glossary and Web Site
Please refer to www.zyxel.com for an online glossary of networking terms and additional support
documentation.
User Guide Feedback
Help us help you. E-mail all User’s Guide-related comments, questions or suggestions for improvement to
techwriters@zyxel.com.tw or send regular mail to The Technical Writing Team, ZyXEL Communications
Corp., 6 Innovation Road II, Science-Based Industrial Park, Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan. Thank you.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
xiv Preface
Graphics Icons Key
Wireless Access Point
Computer
Notebook computer
Server
Modem
Wireless Signal
Telephone
Switch
Router
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Getting Started 1-1
Chapter 1
Getting Started
This chapter introduces the ZyXEL G-220F and prepares you to use the ZyXEL Utility.
1.1 About Your ZyXEL G-220F
The ZyXEL G-220F is an IEEE 802.11g compliant wireless LAN adapter. With the ZyXEL G-220F, you
can enjoy the wireless mobility within the coverage area.
The following lists the main features of your ZyXEL G-220F.
• Your ZyXEL G-220F can communicate with other IEEE 802.11b/g compliant wireless devices.
• Automatic rate selection.
• Offers 64-bit, 128-bit and 256-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) data encryption for network
security.
• Proprietary SoftAP feature turns your ZyXEL G-220F into an access point (AP).
• Low CPU utilization allowing more computer system resources for other programs.
• A built-in antenna
• Plug-and-play installation for Windows ME, Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
• Driver and utility support for Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows ME, Windows 2000 and
Windows XP.
1.2 ZyXEL G-220F Hardware and Utility Installation
Follow the instructions in the Quick Installation Guide to install the ZyXEL Utility and make hardware
connections.
1.3 Configuration Methods
To configure your ZyXEL G-220F, use one of the following applications:
Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC) (recommended for Windows XP)
Odyssey Client Manager (recommended if you want to configure WPA or WPA-PSK with Windows
98 Second Edition, Windows ME or Windows 2000)
ZyXEL Utility (required when you want to use the ZyXEL G-220F as an access point)
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
1-2 Getting Started
DO NOT use the Windows XP configuration tool or the Odyssey Client Manager
and the ZyXEL Utility at the same time.
The bundled Odyssey Client Manager only works for your ZyXEL G-220F. Do NOT
use the Odyssey Client Manager to configure non-ZyXEL WLAN adapters.
Refer to the Odyssey Client Manager documentation for more information.
1.4 Windows XP Users Only
You must disable WZC if you want to use the ZyXEL utility. Refer to the appendices on how to deactivate
WZC or how to use WZC to manage the ZyXEL G-220F.
1.5 Accessing the ZyXEL Utility
After you install and start the ZyXEL Utility, an icon for the ZyXEL Utility appears in the system tray.
When the ZyXEL Utility system tray icon displays, the ZyXEL G-220F is installed
properly.
Figure 1-1 ZyXEL Utility: System Tray Icon
The color of the ZyXEL Utility system tray icon indicates the status of the ZyXEL G-220F. Refer to the
following table for details.
Table 1-1 ZyXEL Utility: System Tray Icon
COLOR DESCRIPTION
Red The ZyXEL G-220F is operating in wireless station mode but is not connected to a wireless
network.
Green The ZyXEL G-220F is operating in wireless station mode and connected to a wireless
network.
Pale Blue The ZyXEL G-220F is operating in access point mode.
Double-click on the ZyXEL Wireless LAN Utility icon in the system tray to open the ZyXEL Utility. The
ZyXEL Utility screens are similar in all Microsoft Windows versions. Screens for Windows XP are shown.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Getting Started 1-3
Click the icon (located in the top right corner) to display the on-line help
window.
1.6 ZyXEL G-220F Modes
You can set your ZyXEL G-220F to operate in either wireless station or access point (AP) modes.
In wireless station mode, your ZyXEL G-220F must connect to a peer wireless station or an AP to take part
in your wireless network.
In access point mode, your ZyXEL G-220F functions as an access point. This allows you to set up your
wireless network without using a dedicated AP device. Up to 16 wireless stations can associate to the
ZyXEL G-220F to form a wireless network. Refer to Section 4.1 for more information.
1.6.1 Change ZyXEL G-220F Modes
To change between the modes, select either the Station Mode or AP Mode option in the any ZyXEL
Utility screens.
Figure 1-2 ZyXEL Utility
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
1-4 Getting Started
Wait for about five seconds for the ZyXEL Utility to complete the mode change.
The current mode is indicated by the color of the radio button.
When you use the Windows XP configuration tool and the ZyXEL Utility to
configure the ZyXEL G-220F at the same time, the ZyXEL G-220F automatically
operates in wireless station mode and doesn’t allow any configuration change.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless LAN Network 2-1
Chapter 2
Wireless LAN Network
This chapter provides background information on wireless LAN network.
2.1 Overview
This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications.
2.1.1 IEEE 802.11g 11 Mbps Wireless LAN
IEEE 802.11g is fully compatible with the IEEE 802.11b standard. This means an IEEE 802.11b radio card
can interface directly with an IEEE 802.11g wireless device (and vice versa) at 11 Mbps or lower
depending on range. IEEE 802.11g has several intermediate rate steps between the maximum and minimum
data rates. The IEEE 802.11g data rate and modulation are as follows:
Table 2-1 IEEE 802.11G
DATA RATE (MBPS) MODULATION
1 DBPSK (Differential Binary Phase Shift Keyed)
2 DQPSK (Differential Quadrature Phase Shift Keying)
5.5 / 11 CCK (Complementary Code Keying)
6/9/12/18/24/36/48/54 OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing)
The ZyXEL G-220F may be prone to RF (Radio Frequency) interference from other
2.4 GHz devices such as microwave ovens, wireless phones, Bluetooth enabled
devices, and other wireless LANs.
2.1.2 SSID
The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a wireless network.
Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.
2.1.3 Channel
A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
2-2 Wireless LAN Network
2.1.4 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate)
The ZyXEL G-220F provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options include
Fully Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36
Mbps, 48 Mbps, and 54 Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the factory default Fully Auto setting
proves the most efficient. This setting allows your ZyXEL G-220F to operate at the maximum transmission
(data) rate. When the communication quality drops below a certain level, the ZyXEL G-220F automatically
switches to a lower transmission (data) rate. Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more reliable.
However, when the communication quality improves again, the ZyXEL G-220F gradually increases the
transmission (data) rate again until it reaches the highest available transmission rate.
You can select any of the above options. If you wish to balance speed versus reliability, select 54 Mbps in
a networking environment where you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate at the highest
transmission (data) rate. 1 Mbps or 2 Mbps are used often in networking environments where the range of
the wireless connection is more important than speed.
With USB1.1, the ZyXEL G-220F can only transmit at up to 11Mbps.
2.1.5 Wireless Network Application
Wireless LAN works in either of the two modes: ad-hoc and infrastructure.
To connect to a wired network within a coverage area using Access Points (APs), set the ZyXEL G-220F
operation mode to Infrastructure (BSS). An AP acts as a bridge between the wireless stations and the
wired network. In case you do not wish to connect to a wired network, but prefer to set up a small
independent wireless workgroup without an AP, use the Ad-hoc (IBSS) (Independent Basic Service Set)
mode.
Ad-Hoc (IBSS)
Ad-hoc mode does not require an AP or a wired network. Two or more wireless stations communicate
directly to each other. An ad-hoc network may sometimes be referred to as an Independent Basic Service
Set (IBSS).
Figure 2-1 IBSS Example
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless LAN Network 2-3
Figure 2-2 BSS Example
A series of overlapping BSS and a network medium, such as an Ethernet forms an Extended Service Set
(ESS) or infrastructure network. All communication is done through the AP, which relays data packets to
other wireless stations or devices connected to the wired network. Wireless stations can then access
resource, such as the printer, on the wired network.
Figure 2-3 Infrastructure Network Example
Access Point Mode
The following figure depicts a network example in which you set the ZyXEL G-220F in access point mode.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
2-4 Wireless LAN Network
Figure 2-4 ZyXEL G-220F as an Access Point Example
In the example, the ZyXEL G-220F is installed on computer A and set to operate in access point mode.
Computer A shares Internet connection to the wireless LAN, so wireless stations B and C can access the
Internet.
2.1.6 Roaming
In an infrastructure network, wireless stations are able to switch from one BSS to another as they move
between the coverage areas. During this period, the wireless stations maintain uninterrupted connection to
the network. This is roaming. As the wireless station moves from place to place, it is responsible for
choosing the most appropriate AP depending on the signal strength, network utilization or other factors.
The following figure depicts a roaming example. When wireless station B moves to position X, the ZyXEL
G-220F in wireless station B automatically switches the channel to the one used by access point 2 in order
to stay connected to the network.
Figure 2-5 Roaming Example
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless LAN Network 2-5
2.2 Wireless LAN Security
Wireless LAN security is vital to your network to protect wireless communications.
Configure the wireless LAN security using the Configuration or the Profile Security Settings screen. If
you do not enable any wireless security on your ZyXEL G-220F, the ZyXEL G-220F’s wireless
communications are accessible to any wireless networking device that is in the coverage area.
2.2.1 Data Encryption with WEP
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption scrambles all data packets transmitted between the ZyXEL G-
220F and the AP or other wireless stations to keep network communications private. Both the wireless
stations and the access points must use the same WEP key for data encryption and decryption.
There are two ways to create WEP keys in your ZyXEL G-220F.
• Automatic WEP key generation based on a “password phrase” called a passphrase. The passphrase
is case sensitive. You must use the same passphrase for all WLAN adapters with this feature in the
same WLAN.
For WLAN adapters without the passphrase feature, you can still take advantage of this feature by
writing down the four automatically generated WEP keys from the Security Settings screen of the
ZyXEL Utility and entering them manually as the WEP keys in the other WLAN adapter(s).
• Enter the WEP keys manually.
Your ZyXEL G-220F allows you to configure up to four 64-bit, 128-bit or 256-bit WEP keys and only one
key is used as the default key at any one time.
2.3 Fragmentation Threshold
A Fragmentation Threshold is the maximum data fragment size (between 256 and 2432 bytes) that can be
sent in the wireless network before the ZyXEL G-220F will fragment the packet into smaller data frames.
A large Fragmentation Threshold is recommended for networks not prone to interference while you
should set a smaller threshold for busy networks or networks that are prone to interference.
If the Fragmentation Threshold value is smaller than the RTS/CTS Threshold value (see previously)
you set then the RTS (Request To Send)/CTS (Clear to Send) handshake will never occur as data frames
will be fragmented before they reach RTS/CTS Threshold size.
2.4 RTS/CTS Threshold
A hidden node occurs when two stations are within range of the same access point, but are not within range
of each other. The following figure illustrates a hidden node. Both stations are within range of the access
point (AP) or wireless gateway, but out-of-range of each other, so they cannot “hear” each other, that is
they do not know if the channel is currently being used. Therefore, they are considered hidden from each
other.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
2-6 Wireless LAN Network
Figure 2-6 RTS Threshold
When station A sends data to the AP, it might not know that the station B is already using the channel. If
these two stations send data at the same time, collisions may occur when both sets of data arrive at the AP
at the same time, resulting in a loss of messages for both stations.
RTS/CTS Threshold is designed to prevent collisions due to hidden nodes. An RTS/CTS Threshold
defines the biggest size data frame you can send before an RTS (Request To Send)/CTS (Clear to Send)
handshake is invoked.
When a data frame exceeds the RTS/CTS Threshold value you set (between 0 to 2432 bytes), the station
that wants to transmit this frame must first send an RTS (Request To Send) message to the AP for
permission to send it. The AP then responds with a CTS (Clear to Send) message to all other stations within
its range to notify them to defer their transmission. It also reserves and confirms with the requesting station
the time frame for the requested transmission.
Stations can send frames smaller than the specified RTS/CTS Threshold directly to the AP without the
RTS (Request To Send)/CTS (Clear to Send) handshake.
You should only configure RTS/CTS Threshold if the possibility of hidden nodes exists on your network
and the “cost” of resending large frames is more than the extra network overhead involved in the RTS
(Request To Send)/CTS (Clear to Send) handshake.
If the RTS/CTS Threshold value is greater than the Fragmentation Threshold value (see next), then the
RTS (Request To Send)/CTS (Clear to Send) handshake will never occur as data frames will be fragmented
before they reach RTS/CTS Threshold size.
Enabling the RTS Threshold causes redundant network overhead that could
negatively affect the throughput performance.
2.5 Authentication Type
The IEEE 802.11b standard describes a simple authentication method between the wireless stations and
AP. Three authentication modes are defined: Auto, Open System and Shared Key.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless LAN Network 2-7
Open System mode is implemented for ease-of-use and when security is not an issue. The wireless station
and the AP do not share a secret key. Thus the wireless stations can associate with any AP and listen to any
data transmitted plaintext.
Shared Key mode involves a shared secret key to authenticate the wireless station to the AP. This requires
you to enable the WEP encryption and specify a WEP key on both the wireless station and the AP.
Auto authentication mode allows the ZyXEL G-220F to switch between the open and shared key
authentication modes automatically. Use the auto mode if you do not know the authentication mode of the
other wireless stations.
2.6 Preamble Type
A preamble is used to synchronize the transmission timing in your wireless network. There are two
preamble modes: Long Preamble and Short Preamble.
Short preamble takes less time to process and minimizes overhead, so it should be used in a good wireless
network environment when all wireless stations support it.
Select Long Preamble if you have a ‘noisy’ network or are unsure of what preamble mode the access point
or the other wireless stations support as all IEEE 802.11b compliant wireless adapters must support long
preamble. However, not all wireless adapters support short preamble. Use long preamble if you are unsure
what preamble mode the wireless adapters support, to ensure interpretability between the ZyXEL G-220F
and the access point/wireless stations and to provide more reliable communication in ‘noisy’ networks.
Select Auto to have the ZyXEL G-220F automatically use short preamble when all access point/wireless
stations support it, otherwise the ZyXEL G-220F uses long preamble.
The ZyXEL G-220F and the access point/wireless stations MUST use the same preamble mode in order to
communicate.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-1
Chapter 3
Wireless Station Mode Configuration
This chapter shows you how to configure your ZyXEL G-220F in wireless station mode.
3.1 Introduction
To set your ZyXEL G-220F in wireless station mode, refer to Section 1.6.1.
3.2 The Link Info Screen
When the ZyXEL Utility starts, the Link Info screen displays, showing the current configuration and
connection status of your ZyXEL G-220F.
Figure 3-1 Station Mode: Link Info
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-2 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Table 3-1 Station Mode: Link Info
LABEL DESCRIPTION
AP Mode
Station Mode
Use the radio button to set the ZyXEL G-220F to operate in wireless station or access
point mode.
Refer to Section 1.6 for more information.
Wireless Network Status
Profile Name This is the name of the profile you are currently using.
Network Name
(SSID)
The SSID identifies the Service Set to which a wireless station is associated. This field
displays the name of the wireless device to which the ZyXEL G-220F is associated.
AP MAC Address This field displays the MAC address of the wireless device to which the ZyXEL G-220F
is associated.
Network Type This field displays the network type (Infrastructure(BSS) or Ad Hoc) of the wireless
network.
Transmission Rate This field displays the current transmission rate of the ZyXEL G-220F in megabits per
second (Mbps).
Security This field displays whether WEP data encryption is activated (WEP) or inactive
(Disabled).
Channel This field displays the radio channel the ZyXEL G-220F is currently using.
Statistics
Transmit Rate This field displays the current data transmission rate in kilobits per second (Kbps).
Receive Rate This field displays the current data receiving rate in kilobits per second (Kbps).
Authentication This field displays the authentication method of the ZyXEL G-220F.
Wireless Mode This field indicates the wireless standard (802.11b or 802.11g) of the wireless device.
This field displays G Only, B Only or Mixed Mode.
Total Transmit This field displays the total number of data frames transmitted.
Total Receive This field displays the total number of data frames received.
Signal Strength This field displays the signal strength of the ZyXEL G-220F.
Trend Chart Click this button to display the real-time statistics of the data rate in kilobits per second
(Kbps).
Signal Strength The status bar shows the strength of the signal.
Link Quality The status bar shows the quality of the signal.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-3
3.2.1 Trend Chart
Click Trend Chart in the Link Info screen to display a screen as shown below. Use this screen to view
real-time data traffic statistics.
Figure 3-2 Station Mode: Link Info: Trend Chart
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-2 Station Mode: Link Info: Trend Chart
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Transmit This field displays the current data transmission rate in kilobits per second (Kbps).
Receive This field displays the current data receiving rate in kilobits per second (Kbps).
3.3 The Site Survey Screen
Use the Site Survey screen to scan for and connect to a wireless network automatically.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-4 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Figure 3-3 Station Mode: Site Survey
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-3 Station Mode: Site Survey
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Available Network List
Click a column heading to sort the entries.
,
,
or
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode and the wireless
security is activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode and the wireless security is
activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-5
Table 3-3 Station Mode: Site Survey
LABEL DESCRIPTION
SSID This field displays the SSID (Service Set IDentifier) of each wireless device.
Channel This field displays the channel number used by each wireless device.
Signal This field displays the signal strength of each wireless device.
Scan Click Scan to search for available wireless devices within transmission range.
Connect Click Connect to associate to the selected wireless device.
Site Info
Click an entry in the Available Network List table to display the information of the selected wireless device.
Network Type This field displays the network type (Infrastructure or Ad Hoc) of the wireless device.
Channel This field displays the channel number used by each wireless device.
Encryption This field shows whether data encryption is activated (WEP, WPA-PSK or WPA) or
inactive (Disable).
MAC address This field displays the MAC address of the wireless device.
Surveyed at This field displays the time when the wireless device is scanned.
3.3.1 Connecting to a WLAN Network
Follow the steps below to connect to a WLAN network using the Site Survey screen.
Step 1. Click Scan to search for all available wireless networks within range.
Step 2. To join a network, click an entry in the table to select a wireless network and then click
Connect.
Step 3. If the WEP encryption is activated for the selected wireless network, the Security Settings
screen displays. You must set the related fields in the Security Settings screen to the same
security settings as the associated wireless device. Refer to Section 3.3.2 for more information.
Otherwise click the close ( ) button and connect to another wireless network without WEP
encryption.
Step 4. Verify that you have successfully connected to the selected network and check the network
information in the Link Info screen.
3.3.2 Security Settings
When you configure the ZyXEL G-220F to connect to a network with WEP encryption activated and the
security settings are disabled on the ZyXEL G-220F, the screen displays as follows.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-6 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Figure 3-4 Station Mode: Site Survey: Security Settings
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-4 Station Mode: Site Survey: Security Settings
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Security Settings
WEP Select 64 Bits, 128 Bits or 256 Bits to activate WEP encryption and then fill in the
related fields.
Select Disable to deactivate WEP encryption.
Authentication Select an authentication method. Choices are Auto, Shared Key and Open System.
Refer to Section 2.5 for more information.
Pass Phrase When you select the radio button, enter the passphrase. As you enter the passphrase,
the ZyXEL G-220F automatically generates four different WEP keys and displays it in the
key field below.
Refer to Section 2.2.1 for more information.
Transmit Key Select a default WEP key to use for data encryption. The key displays in the field below.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-7
Table 3-4 Station Mode: Site Survey: Security Settings
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Key x
(where x is a
number
between 1 and
4)
Select this option if you want to manually enter the WEP keys.
Enter the WEP key in the field provided.
If you select 64 Bits in the WEP field.
Enter either 10 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example, 11AA22BB33) for HEX key type
or
Enter 5 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey) for ASCII key type.
If you select 128 Bits in the WEP field,
Enter either 26 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example, 00112233445566778899AABBCC) for HEX key type
or
Enter 13 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey12345678) for ASCII key type.
If you select 256 Bits in the WEP field,
Enter either 58 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example,
0000111122223333444455556666777788889999AAAABBBBCCCC000011)
for HEX key type
or
Enter 29 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey111122223333444455556678) for ASCII key type.
The values for the WEP keys must be set up exactly the same on
all wireless devices in the same wireless LAN.
ASCII WEP keys are case sensitive.
Save Click Save to save the changes back to the ZyXEL G-220F. Otherwise, click the close
() button to discard the changes and go back to the Link Info screen.
3.4 The Profile Screen
Click the Profile tab in the ZyXEL Utility program to display the Profile screen as shown next.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-8 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
The profile function allows you to save the wireless network settings in this screen, or use one of the pre-
configured network profiles.
Figure 3-5 Station Mode: Profile
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-5 Station Mode: Profile
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Profile List
Click a column heading to sort the entries.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-9
Table 3-5 Station Mode: Profile
LABEL DESCRIPTION
,
,
or
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode and the wireless
security is activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode and the wireless security is
activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
Profile Name This is the name of the pre-configured profile.
SSID This is the SSID of the wireless network to which the selected profile associate.
Connect To use a previously saved network profile, select a pre-configured profile name in the
table and click Connect.
Add To add a new profile into the table, click Add.
Delete To delete an existing wireless network configuration, select a profile in the table and click
Delete.
Edit To edit an existing wireless network configuration, select a profile in the table and click
Edit.
Profile Info
The following fields display detail information of the selected profile in the Profile List table.
Network Type This field displays the network type (Infrastructure or Ad Hoc) of the profile.
SSID This field displays the SSID (Service Set IDentifier) of the profile.
Channel This field displays the channel number used by the profile.
Security This field shows whether WEP data encryption is activated (Enabled) or inactive
(Disabled).
Transmission
Rate
This field displays the transmission speed of the selected profile in megabits per second
(Mbps).
3.4.1 Adding a New Profile
Follow the steps below to add a new profile.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-10 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Step 1. Click Add in the Profile screen. An Add New Profile screen displays as shown next. Click
Next to continue.
Figure 3-6 Station Mode: Profile: Add New Profile
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-6 Station Mode: Profile: Add New Profile
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Add New Profile
Profile Name Enter a descriptive name in this field.
SSID Select an available wireless device in the Scan Info table and click Select, or enter the
SSID of the wireless device to which you want to associate in this field manually.
Otherwise, leave this field blank to have the ZyXEL G-220F associate to or roam
between any infrastructure wireless networks.
Network Type Select the Infrastructure radio button to associate to an AP.
Select the Ad-Hoc radio button to associate to a peer computer.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-11
Table 3-6 Station Mode: Profile: Add New Profile
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Next Click Next to go to the next screen.
Exit Click Exit to go back to the previous screen without saving.
Scan Info
This table displays the information of the available wireless networks within the transmission range.
,
,
or
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode and the wireless
security is activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode and the wireless security is
activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in Ad-Hoc mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
SSID This field displays the SSID (Service Set IDentifier) of each wireless device.
Scan Click Scan to search for available wireless devices within transmission range.
Select Select an available wireless device in the table and click Select to add it to this profile.
Whenever you activate this profile, the ZyXEL G-220F associates to the selected
wireless network only.
Step 2. If you select the Ad-Hoc network type in the previous screen, a screen displays as follows.
Select a channel number and wireless LAN mode and click Next to continue.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-12 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Figure 3-7 Station Mode: Profile: Select a Channel
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-7 Station Mode: Profile: Select a Channel
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Wireless Settings
Channel Select a channel number from the drop-down list box. To associate to an ad-hoc
network, you must use the same channel as the peer computer.
Wireless Mode Select Mixed Mode to have the ZyXEL G-220F connect to either an IEEE 802.11g or
IEEE 802.11b wireless device.
Select G Only to have the ZyXEL G-220F connect to an IEEE 802.11g wireless device
only and vice versa.
Select B Only to have the ZyXEL G-220F connect to an IEEE 802.11g wireless device
only and vice versa.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-13
Step 3. Select WEP from the drop-down list box to enable WEP encryption. Otherwise, select
Disabled to allow the ZyXEL G-220F to communicate with the access points or other peer
wireless computers without any data encryption and skip to Step 5.
Figure 3-8 Station Mode: Profile: Wireless Settings
Step 4. The WEP keys are used to encrypt data before transmitting. The values for the keys must be set
up exactly the same on the APs or other peer wireless computers as they are on the ZyXEL G-
220F. Refer to Section 3.3.1 for detailed information on setting up the WEP key.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-14 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Figure 3-9 Station Mode: Profile: Security Settings
Step 5. This read-only screen shows a summary of the new profile settings. Verify that the settings are
correct. Click Save to save and go to the next screen. Click Back to return to the previous
screen. Otherwise, click Exit to go back to the Profile screen without saving.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-15
Figure 3-10 Station Mode: Profile: Confirm New Settings
Step 6. To use this network profile, click the Activate Now button. Otherwise, click the Activate Later
button.
Once you activate a profile, the ZyXEL Utility will use that profile the next time it
is started.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-16 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Figure 3-11 Station Mode: Profile: Activate the Profile
3.5 The Adapter Screen
To set the advanced features on the ZyXEL G-220F, click the Adapter tab.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Wireless Station Mode Configuration 3-17
Figure 3-12 Station Mode: Adapter
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 3-8 Station Mode: Adapter
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Adapter
Transmission
Rate
Select a transmission speed from the drop-down list box. Choose from Fully Auto
(default), 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps,
24 Mbps, 36 Mbps, 48 Mbps, and 54 Mbps.
Preamble Type Select a preamble type. Choices are Long Preamble, Short Preamble and Auto.
The default setting is Auto.
Refer to Section 2.6 for more information.
Power Saving
Mode
Select Enabled to save power (especially for notebook computers). This forces the
ZyXEL G-220F to go to sleep mode when it is not transmitting data.
When you select Disabled, the ZyXEL G-220F will never go to sleep mode.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
3-18 Wireless Station Mode Configuration
Table 3-8 Station Mode: Adapter
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Save Click Save to save the changes back to the ZyXEL G-220F and return to the Link Info
screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Configuration 4-1
Chapter 4
Access Point Mode Configuration
This chapter shows you how to configure your ZyXEL G-220F in access point mode.
4.1 Introduction
To set your ZyXEL G-220F as an Access Point (AP), refer to Section 1.6.1.
In access point mode, your ZyXEL G-220F functions as an access point. This allows you to set up your
wireless networks without using a dedicated AP device. Up to 16 wireless stations can associate to the
ZyXEL G-220F.
4.1.1 Additional Setup Requirements
To bridge your wired and wireless network using the ZyXEL G-220F, the following requirements must be
met:
1. The ZyXEL G-220F must be installed on a computer connected to the wired network.
2. Either configure network sharing (refer to the appendix for an example) or bridge the two interfaces
(wireless and wired) on the computer.
3. Set the wireless station’s IP address to be in the same subnet as the computer in which the ZyXEL G-
220F is installed. Refer to the Setting Up Your Computer’s IP Address appendix.
4.2 The Link Info Screen
Select the AP Mode radio button and wait for about five seconds to display the screen as shown.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
4-2 Access Point Mode Configuration
Figure 4-1 Access Point Mode: Link Info
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 4-1 Access Point Mode: Link Info
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Status
SSID This field displays the name that identifies your ZyXEL G-220F in the wireless LAN
network.
Current Channel This field displays the radio channel the ZyXEL G-220F is currently using.
Security This field displays the authentication type of the ZyXEL G-220F.
MAC This field displays the MAC address of the ZyXEL G-220F.
Output Power This field shows the strength of the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna gain or transmission
power.
Association List
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Configuration 4-3
Table 4-1 Access Point Mode: Link Info
LABEL DESCRIPTION
or
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode and the wireless
security is activated.
denotes that the wireless device is in infrastructure mode but the wireless security is
deactivated.
MAC Address This field displays the MAC addresses of up to 16 wireless stations that are currently
connected to the ZyXEL G-220F.
Refresh Click Refresh to update this screen.
4.3 The Configuration Screen
Click Configuration in the ZyXEL Utility screen to display the screen as shown.
Figure 4-2 Access Point Mode: Configuration
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
4-4 Access Point Mode Configuration
Table 4-2 Access Point Mode: Configuration
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Wireless Settings
SSID The SSID identifies the Service Set to which a wireless station is associated. Wireless
stations associating to the access point (the ZyXEL G-220F) must have the same SSID.
Enter a descriptive name (up to 32 printable 7-bit ASCII characters) for the wireless LAN.
Hide SSID Select this check box to hide the SSID in the outgoing beacon frame so a station cannot
obtain the SSID through passive scanning using a site survey tool.
Channel Set the operating frequency/channel depending on your geographical region.
OutputPower Set this field if you need to conserve power consumption (especially for notebook
computers). This control changes the strength of the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna gain or
transmission power. Antenna gain, measured in dBm (decibel relative units compared to
milliwatts), is the increase in coverage. Higher antenna gain improves the range of the
signal for better communications.
Select High to set the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna to transmit at 17-dBm.
Select Medium-High to set the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna to transmit at 15-dBm.
Select Medium-Low to set the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna to transmit at 13-dBm.
Select Low to set the ZyXEL G-220F’s antenna to transmit at 11-dBm. This allows for
the least power consumption.
Security Settings
WEP Select 64 Bits, 128 Bits or 256 Bits to activate WEP encryption and then fill in the
related fields.
Select Disable to deactivate the WEP encryption.
Authentication
Type
Select an authentication method. Choices are Auto, Shared Key and Open System.
Refer to Section 2.5 for more information.
Pass Phrase When you select the radio button, enter the passphrase. As you enter the passphrase,
the ZyXEL G-220F automatically generates four different WEP key and displays it in the
key field below.
Refer to Section 2.2.1 for more information.
Transmit Key Select a default WEP key to use for data encryption. The key displays in the field below.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Configuration 4-5
Table 4-2 Access Point Mode: Configuration
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Key x
(where x is a
number
between 1 and
4)
Select this option if you want to manually enter the WEP keys.
Enter the WEP key in the field provided.
If you select 64 Bits in the WEP field.
Enter either 10 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example, 11AA22BB33) for HEX key type
or
Enter 5 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey) for ASCII key type.
If you select 128 Bits in the WEP field,
Enter either 26 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example, 00112233445566778899AABBCC) for HEX key type
or
Enter 13 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey12345678) for ASCII key type.
If you select 256 Bits in the WEP field,
Enter either 58 hexadecimal digits in the range of “A-F”, “a-f” and “0-9” (for
example,
0000111122223333444455556666777788889999AAAABBBBCCCC000011)
for HEX key type
or
Enter 29 ASCII characters (case sensitive) ranging from “a-z”, “A-Z” and “0-9”
(for example, MyKey111122223333444455556678) for ASCII key type.
The values for the WEP keys must be set up exactly the same on
all wireless devices in the same wireless LAN.
ASCII WEP keys are case sensitive.
Save Click Save to save the changes.
Cancel Click Cancel to discard the changes.
4.4 The MAC Filter Screen
The MAC Filter screen allows you to configure the ZyXEL G-220F to give exclusive access to (Accept)
devices or exclude devices from (Reject) connecting to the ZyXEL G-220F. Every Ethernet device has a
unique MAC (Media Access Control) address. The MAC address is assigned at the factory and consists of
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
4-6 Access Point Mode Configuration
six pairs of hexadecimal characters, for example, 00:A0:C5:00:00:02. You need to know the MAC address
of the device(s) to configure this screen.
Figure 4-3 Access Point Mode: MAC Filter
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Table 4-3 Access Point Mode: MAC Filter
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Filter Type Define the filter action for the list of MAC addresses in the MAC address filter table.
Select Disable to deactivate the MAC filter feature.
Select Reject to block access to the ZyXEL G-220F, MAC addresses not listed will be
allowed to access the ZyXEL G-220F.
Select Accept to permit access to the ZyXEL G-220F, MAC addresses not listed will be
denied access to the ZyXEL G-220F.
Filter MAC Address
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Configuration 4-7
Table 4-3 Access Point Mode: MAC Filter
LABEL DESCRIPTION
1-16 Specify the MAC address(es) of the wireless station(s) that is allowed or denied
association to the ZyXEL G-220F.
Enter six pairs of hexadecimal digits (separated by colons) in the range of “A-F”, “a-f”
and “0-9” (for example, 00:A0:C5:00:00:02).
If you enter an invalid MAC address, once you click Save to save the values, a warning
screen will be displayed.
Save Click Save to save the changes back to the ZyXEL G-220F.
Cancel Click Cancel to discard the changes.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Maintenance 5-1
Chapter 5
Maintenance
This chapter describes how to uninstall or upgrade the ZyXEL Utility.
5.1 The About Screen
The About screen displays related version numbers of the ZyXEL G-220F. To display the screen as shown
below, click the about ( ) button.
Figure 5-1 About
The following table describes the read-only fields in this screen.
Table 5-1 About
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Driver Version This field displays the version number of the ZyXEL G-220F driver.
Utility Version This field displays the version number of the ZyXEL Utility.
5.2 Uninstalling the ZyXEL Utility
Follow the steps below to remove (or uninstall) the ZyXEL Utility from your computer.
Step 1. Click Start, Programs, ZyXEL G-220F Utility, Uninstall ZyXEL G-220F Utility.
Step 2. When prompted, click OK to remove the driver and the utility software.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
5-2 Maintenance
Figure 5-2 Confirm Uninstall
Step 3. Click Finish to complete uninstalling the software and restart the computer when prompted.
Figure 5-3 Uninstalling the ZyXEL Utility
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Maintenance 5-3
5.3 Upgrading the ZyXEL Utility
Before you uninstall the ZyXEL Utility, take note of the current network
configuration.
To perform the upgrade, follow the steps below.
Step 1. Download the latest version of the utility from the ZyXEL web site and save the file on your
computer.
Step 2. Follow the steps in Section 5.2 to remove the current ZyXEL Utility from your computer.
Step 3. Restart your computer when prompted.
Step 4. Remove the ZyAIR from your computer.
Step 5. Double-click on the setup program for the new utility to start the ZyXEL Utility installation.
Step 6. Check the version numbers in the About screen to make sure the new utility is installed
properly.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Troubleshooting 6-1
Chapter 6
Troubleshooting
This chapter covers potential problems and the possible remedies. After each problem
description, some instructions are provided to help you to diagnose and to solve the problem.
6.1 Problems Starting the ZyXEL Utility Program
Table 6-1 Troubleshooting Starting ZyXEL Utility Program
Make sure the ZyXEL G-220F is properly inserted and the LED(s) is on. Refer
to the Quick Installation Guide for the LED descriptions.
Use the Device Manager to check for possible hardware conflicts.
Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, System, Hardware and Device
Manager. Verify the status of the ZyXEL G-220F under Network Adapter.
(Steps may vary depending on the version of Windows).
Cannot start the ZyXEL
Wireless LAN Utility
Install the ZyXEL G-220F in another computer.
If the error persists, you may have a hardware problem. In this case, you
should contact your local vendor.
Cannot change to
Access Point mode
If you use the Windows XP configuration tool and the ZyXEL Utility to
configure the ZyXEL G-220F at the same time, the ZyXEL G-220F
automatically operates in wireless station mode. You need to disable the
Windows XP configuration tool to change between the modes using the
ZyXEL Utility (refer to the Section 1.6 for more information).
6.2 Problem Connecting to an Access Point
Table 6-2 Troubleshooting Access Point Connection Problem
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
When using the Windows
XP configuration tool, cannot
scan for or connect to any
access points.
The ZyXEL G-220F might still be operating in access point mode. This
results when you set the ZyXEL G-220F to operate in access point mode
using the ZyXEL Utility, close the ZyXEL Utility and then use the Windows
XP configuration tool.
Before you use the Windows XP configuration tool, make sure you set the
ZyXEL G-220F to operate in station mode before you close and exit the
ZyXEL Utility.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
6-2 Troubleshooting
6.3 Problem with the Link Status
Table 6-3 Troubleshooting Link Quality
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
The link quality and/or signal
strength is poor all the time.
Search and connect to another AP with a better link quality using the Site
Survey screen.
Move your computer closer to the AP or the peer computer(s) within the
transmission range.
There may be too much radio interference (for example microwave or
another AP using the same channel) around your wireless network.
Relocate or reduce the radio interference.
6.4 Problems Communicating With Other Computers
Table 6-4 Troubleshooting Communication Problem
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
In wireless station mode, the
computer with the ZyXEL G-
220F installed cannot
communicate with the other
computer(s).
A. Infrastructure Make sure that the AP and the associated computers are turned on and
working properly.
Make sure the ZyXEL G-220F computer and the associated AP use the
same SSID.
Change the AP and the associated wireless clients to use another radio
channel if interference is high.
Make sure that the computer and the AP share the same security option
and key. Verify the settings in the Profile Security Settings screen.
B. Ad-Hoc (IBSS) Verify that the peer computer(s) is turned on.
Make sure the ZyXEL G-220F computer and the peer computer(s) are
using the same SS ID and channel.
Make sure that the computer and the peer computer(s) share the same
security option and key.
Change the wireless clients to use another radio channel if interference is
high.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Troubleshooting 6-3
Table 6-4 Troubleshooting Communication Problem
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
In access point mode, the
wireless station(s) cannot
associate to the ZyXEL G-
220F.
Verify that the computer with the ZyXEL G-220F installed is turned on.
Make sure the wireless station(s) uses the same SSID as the ZyXEL G-
220F.
Make sure the wireless station(s) uses the same security option and/or
WEP keys.
Verify that the wireless station(s) is not blocked in the MAC Filter screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Product Specifications A
Appendix A
Product Specifications
PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Product Name ZyXEL G-220F 802.11g Wireless USB Adapter
Interface USB 2.0 compatible
Standards IEEE 802.11b
IEEE 802.11g
Network Architectures Infrastructure
Ad-Hoc
Operating Frequencies 2.412-2.484GHz
Operating Channels
IEEE 802.11b: 11 Channels (North America)
IEEE 802.11g: 11 Channels (North America)
IEEE 802.11b: 13 Channels (Europe)
IEEE 802.11g: 13 Channels (Europe)
Data Rate IEEE 802.11b: 11, 5.5, 2, 1Mbps
IEEE 802.11g: 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps
Modulation
IEEE 802.11g: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (64QAM, 16QAM,
QPSK and BPSK)
IEEE 802311b: PBCC, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (CCK, DQPSK,
DBPSK).
Security 64/128/256-bit WEP
Operating Temperature 0 ~ 50 degrees Centigrade
Storage Temperature -30 ~ 60 degrees Centigrade
Operating Humidity 20 ~ 95% (non-condensing)
Storage Humidity 20 ~ 95% (non-condensing)
Power Consumption IEEE 802.11g: TX: 450mA RX: 345mA
IEEE 802.11b: TX: 450mA RX: 345mA
Voltage 5V
Weight 25.8 g
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
B Product Specifications
Dimension (W) 95 mm × (D) 30 mm × (H) 16 mm
RADIO SPECIFICATIONS
Media Access Protocol IEEE 802.11
Frequency 2.4 ~ 2.484GHz (Industrial Scientific Medical Band)
Channels 1~11 Channels (USA, Canada)
1~13 Channels (Europe)
Data Rate 802.11g (OFDM): 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54 Mbps
802.11b: 1, 2, 5.5, 11 Mbps
Modulation 802.11g: 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps (OFDM)
802.11b: 11, 5.5 Mbps (CCK), 2 Mbps (DQPSK), 1 Mbps (DBPSK)
Output Power 17 dBm (typical) at 11Mbps CCK, QPSK, BPSK
15 dBm (typical) at 54Mbps OFDM
RX Sensitivity 802.11g (OFDM): 54 Mbps: < -72 dBm
802.11b (CCK): 11 Mbps: < -85 dBm
SOFTWARE SPECIFICATIONS
Device Drivers Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows
XP
Roaming IEEE 802.11b/g compliant
WEP Supports 64-bit, 128-bit and 256-bit WEP encryption
ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS
Temperature Operating: 0° ~ 50° C
Storage: -30° ~ 60° C
Relative Humidity 20% to 95% (non-condensing)
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address C
Appendix B
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
All computers must have a 10M or 100M Ethernet adapter card and TCP/IP installed.
Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP, Macintosh OS 7 and later operating systems and all versions of
UNIX/LINUX include the software components you need to install and use TCP/IP on your computer.
Windows 3.1 requires the purchase of a third-party TCP/IP application package.
TCP/IP should already be installed on computers using Windows NT/2000/XP, Macintosh OS 7 and later
operating systems.
After the appropriate TCP/IP components are installed, configure the TCP/IP settings in order to
"communicate" with your network.
If you manually assign IP information instead of using dynamic assignment, make sure that your computers
have IP addresses that place them in the same subnet as the ZyXEL G-220F.
Windows 95/98/Me
Click Start, Settings, Control Panel and double-click the
Network icon to open the Network window.
The Network window Configuration tab displays a list of installed components. You need a network
adapter, the TCP/IP protocol and Client for Microsoft Networks.
If you need the adapter:
a. In the Network window, click Add.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
D Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
b. Select Adapter and then click Add.
c. Select the manufacturer and model of your network adapter and then click OK.
If you need TCP/IP:
a. In the Network window, click Add.
b. Select Protocol and then click Add.
c. Select Microsoft from the list of manufacturers.
d. Select TCP/IP from the list of network protocols and then click OK.
If you need Client for Microsoft Networks:
a. Click Add.
b. Select Client and then click Add.
c. Select Microsoft from the list of manufacturers.
d. Select Client for Microsoft Networks from the list of network clients and then click OK.
e. Restart your computer so the changes you made take effect.
In the Network window Configuration tab, select your network adapter's TCP/IP entry and click
Properties.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address E
1. Click the IP Address tab.
-If your IP address is dynamic, select Obtain an
IP address automatically.
-If you have a static IP address, select Specify
an IP address and type your information into
the IP Address and Subnet Mask fields.
2. Click the DNS Configuration tab.
-If you do not know your DNS information, select
Disable DNS.
-If you know your DNS information, select
Enable DNS and type the information in the
fields below (you may not need to fill them all
in).
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
F Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
3.
Click the Gateway tab.
-If you do not know your gateway’s IP address,
remove previously installed gateways.
-If you have a gateway IP address, type it in the
New gateway field and click Add.
4. Click OK to save and close the TCP/IP Properties window.
5. Click OK to close the Network window. Insert the Windows CD if prompted.
6. Restart your computer when prompted.
Verifying Your Computer’s IP Address
1. Click Start and then Run.
2. In the Run window, type "winipcfg" and then click OK to open the IP Configuration window.
3. Select your network adapter. You should see your computer's IP address, subnet mask and default
gateway.
Windows 2000/NT/XP
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address G
1. For Windows XP, click start, Control Panel.
In Windows 2000/NT, click Start, Settings,
Control Panel.
2. For Windows XP, click Network
Connections. For Windows 2000/NT, click
Network and Dial-up Connections.
3. Right-click Local Area Connection and
then click Properties.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
H Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
4. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) (under the
General tab in Win XP) and click Properties.
5. The Internet Protocol TCP/IP Properties
window opens (the General tab in Windows
XP).
-If you have a dynamic IP address click
Obtain an IP address automatically.
-If you have a static IP address click Use the
following IP Address and fill in the IP
address, Subnet mask, and Default
gateway fields.
Click Advanced.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address I
6. -If you do not know your gateway's IP
address, remove any previously installed
gateways in the IP Settings tab and click OK.
Do one or more of the following if you want to
configure additional IP addresses:
-In the IP Settings tab, in IP addresses, click
Add.
-In TCP/IP Address, type an IP address in IP
address and a subnet mask in Subnet mask,
and then click Add.
-Repeat the above two steps for each IP
address you want to add.
-Configure additional default gateways in the
IP Settings tab by clicking Add in Default
gateways.
-In TCP/IP Gateway Address, type the IP
address of the default gateway in Gateway.
To manually configure a default metric (the
number of transmission hops), clear the
Automatic metric check box and type a
metric in Metric.
-Click Add.
-Repeat the previous three steps for each default gateway you want to add.
-Click OK when finished.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
J Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
7. In the Internet Protocol TCP/IP Properties
window (the General tab in Windows XP):
-Click Obtain DNS server address
automatically if you do not know your DNS
server IP address(es).
-If you know your DNS server IP address(es),
click Use the following DNS server addresses,
and type them in the Preferred DNS server and
Alternate DNS server fields.
If you have previously configured DNS servers,
click Advanced and then the DNS tab to order
them.
8. Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window.
9. Click OK to close the Local Area Connection Properties window.
10. Restart your computer (if prompted).
Verifying Your Computer’s IP Address
1. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories and then Command Prompt.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type "ipconfig" and then press [ENTER]. You can also open
Network Connections, right-click a network connection, click Status and then click the Support tab.
Macintosh OS 8/9
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address K
1. Click the Apple menu, Control Panel and double-click
TCP/IP to open the TCP/IP Control Panel.
2. Select Ethernet from the
Connect via list.
3. For dynamically assigned settings, select Using DHCP Server from the Configure: list.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
L Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address
4. For statically assigned settings, do the following:
-From the Configure box, select Manually.
-Type your IP address in the IP Address box.
-Type your subnet mask in the Subnet mask box.
-Type the IP address of your ZyXEL G-220F in the Router address box.
5. Close the TCP/IP Control Panel.
6. Click Save if prompted, to save changes to your configuration.
7. Restart your computer (if prompted).
Verifying Your Computer’s IP Address
Check your TCP/IP properties in the TCP/IP Control Panel window.
Macintosh OS X
1. Click the Apple menu, and click System Preferences
to open the System Preferences window.
2. Click Network in the icon bar.
- Select Automatic from the Location list.
- Select Built-in Ethernet from the Show list.
- Click the TCP/IP tab.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address M
3. For dynamically assigned settings, select Using DHCP from the Configure list.
4. For statically assigned settings, do the following:
-From the Configure box, select Manually.
-Type your IP address in the IP Address box.
-Type your subnet mask in the Subnet mask box.
-Type the IP address of your ZyXEL G-220F in the Router address box.
5. Click Apply Now and close the window.
6. Restart your computer (if prompted).
Verifying Your Computer’s IP Address
Check your TCP/IP properties in the Network window.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Setup Example O
Appendix C
Access Point Mode Setup Example
This example uses the network sharing feature in Windows 2000 to bridge the wired and wireless network
when you set the ZyXEL G-220F in access point (AP) mode.
Refer to Section 4.1.1 for setup methods and requirements.
Steps may vary depending on your Windows version. You may need to install additional software in
Windows 98 Second Edition and Windows ME.
Configuring the Computer on Which You Install the ZyXEL G-220F
Step 1. Refer to Section 1.6.1 to set the ZyXEL G-220F to operate in AP mode.
Step 2. Click Start, Settings, Network and Dial-up Connections (or click Start, Settings, Control
Panel and double-click Network and Dial-up Connections).
Diagram 1 Windows 2000: Start
Step 3. Right-click on the icon for your wired Ethernet adapter and click Properties.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
P Access Point Mode Setup Example
Diagram 2 Windows 2000: Network and Dial-up Connections
Step 4. A Properties screen displays. Click the Sharing tab and select Enable Internet Connection
Sharing for this connection. Click OK.
Diagram 3 Windows 2000: Network Properties
Step 5. A notice screen displays. Click Yes.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Access Point Mode Setup Example Q
Diagram 4 Windows 2000: Local Network
Configuring the Wireless Station Computer
Refer to the Setting Up Your Computer’s IP Address appendix to set up the wireless station computer(s) IP
address.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
R Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool
Appendix D
Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN
Configuration Tool
Windows XP includes a configuration tool (also known as Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC)) for
wireless devices.
Follow the steps below to disable the configuration tool in Windows XP after you install the ZyXEL
Utility. The screen varies depending on the version of Windows XP service pack.
Via the Wireless Network System Tray Icon
If the network icon for wireless connections is not present in the system tray, see the next section.
Step 1. Double-click the network icon for wireless connections in the system tray.
Diagram 5 Windows XP: System Tray Icon
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool S
Step 2. Windows XP SP1: When a Wireless Network Connection window displays, click
Advanced….
Diagram 6 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection
Windows XP SP2: When a Wireless Network Connection window displays, click Change
advanced settings under Related Tasks and then the Wireless Networks tab.
Diagram 7 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
T Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool
Step 3. In the Wireless Network Connection Properties window, make sure the Use Windows to
configure my wireless network settings check box is not selected. Click OK.
Diagram 8 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection Properties
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool U
Diagram 9 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection Properties
Via the Control Panel
Step 1. If the icon for the wireless network connection is not in the system tray, click Start, Control
Panel and double-click Network Connections.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
V Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool
Step 4. Double-click on the icon for wireless network connection to display a status window as shown
next.
Diagram 10 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection Status
Diagram 11 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection Status
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool W
Step 5. Click Properties and click the Wireless Networks tab.
Step 6. In the Wireless Network Connection Properties window, make sure the Use Windows to
configure my wireless network settings check box is not selected. Click OK.
Diagram 12 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection Properties
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
X Disable Windows XP Wireless LAN Configuration Tool
Diagram 13 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection Properties
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration Y
Appendix E
Management with Wireless Zero
Configuration
This appendix shows you how to manage your ZYXEL G-220F using the Windows XP wireless
configuration tool.
Be sure you have the Windows XP service pack 2 installed on your computer. Otherwise, you should at
least have the Windows XP service pack 1 already on your computer and download the support patch for
WPA from the Microsoft web site.
Windows XP SP2 screen shots are shown unless otherwise specified. Click the help icon ( ) in most
screens, move the cursor to the item that you want the information about and click to view the help.
Activating Wireless Zero Configuration
Make sure the Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings check box is selected in the
Wireless Network Connection Properties screen. Refer to Appendix D.
If you see the following screen, refer to article 871122 on the Microsoft web site for information on starting
WZC.
Diagram 14 Windows XP SP2: WZC Not Available
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Z Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Connecting to a Wireless Network
Step 1. Double-click the network icon for wireless connections in the system tray to open the Wireless
Network Connection Status screen.
Diagram 15 Windows XP SP2: System Tray Icon
The type of the wireless network icon in Windows XP SP2 indicates the status of the ZyXEL G-220F.
Refer to the following table for details.
Chart 1 Windows XP SP2: System Tray Icon
ICON DESCRIPTION
The ZyXEL G-220F is connected to a wireless network.
The ZyXEL G-220F is in the process of connecting to a wireless network.
The connection to a wireless network is limited because the network did not assign a network
address to the computer.
The ZyXEL G-220F is not connected to a wireless network.
Step 2. Windows XP SP2: In the Wireless Network Connection Status screen, click View Wireless
Networks to open the Wireless Network Connection screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration AA
Diagram 16 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection Status
Windows XP SP1: In the Wireless Network Connection Status screen, click Properties and the
Wireless Networks tab to open the Wireless Network Connection Properties screen.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
BB Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Diagram 17 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection Status
Step 3. Windows XP SP2: Click Refresh network list to reload and search for available wireless
devices within transmission range. Select a wireless network in the list and click Connect to
join the selected wireless network.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration CC
Diagram 18 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection
The following table describes the icons in the wireless network list.
Chart 2 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection
ICON DESCRIPTION
This denotes that the wireless security is activated for the wireless network.
This denotes that this wireless network is your preferred network. Ordering your preferred
networks is important because the ZyXEL G-220F tries to associate to the preferred network first
in the order that you specify. Refer to the section on security settings for detailed information.
This denotes the signal strength of the wireless network.
Move your cursor to the icon to see details on the signal strength.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
DD Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Windows XP SP1: Click Refresh to reload and search for available wireless devices within transmission
range. Select a wireless network in the Available networks list, click Configure and set the related fields
to the same security settings as the associated AP to add the selected network into the Preferred networks
table. Click OK to join the selected wireless network. Refer to the section on security settings (discussed
later) for more information.
Diagram 19 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Network Connection Properties
Step 4. Windows XP SP2: If the wireless security is activated for the selected wireless network, the
Wireless Network Connection screen displays. You must set the related fields in the Wireless
Network Connection screen to the same security settings as the associated AP. Refer to the
section on security settings (discussed later) for more information. Otherwise click Cancel and
connect to another wireless network without data encryption. If there is no security activated for
the selected wireless network, a warning screen appears. Click Connect Anyway if wireless
security is not your concern.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration EE
Diagram 20 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection: WEP or WPA-PSK
Diagram 21 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Network Connection: No Security
Step 5. Verify that you have successfully connected to the selected network and check connection
status in the wireless network list or the connection icon in the Preferred networks or
Available networks list.
The following table describes the connection icons.
Chart 3 Windows XP: Wireless Networks
ICON DESCRIPTION
This denotes the wireless network is an available wireless network.
This denotes the ZyXEL G-220F is associated to the wireless network.
This denotes the wireless network is not available.
Security Settings
When you configure the ZyXEL G-220F to connect to a secure network but the security settings are not yet
enabled on the ZyXEL G-220F, you will see different screens according to the authentication and
encryption methods used by the selected network.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
FF Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Association
Select a network in the Preferred networks list and click Properties to view or configure security.
Diagram 22 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Association
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Chart 4 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Association
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Network name
(SSID)
This field displays the SSID (Service Set IDentifier) of each wireless network.
Network
Authentication
This field automatically shows the authentication method (Share, Open, WPA or WPA-
PSK) used by the selected network.
Refer to Section 2.5 for more information.
Data Encryption This field automatically shows the encryption type (TKIP, WEP or Disable) used by the
selected network.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration GG
Chart 4 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Association
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Network Key Enter the passphrase, pre-shared key or WEP key.
The values for the keys must be set up exactly the same on all wireless devices in the
same wireless LAN.
Confirm network
key
Enter the key again for confirmation.
Key index
(advanced)
Select a default WEP key to use for data encryption.
This field is available only when the network use WEP encryption method and the The
key is provided for me automatically check box is not selected.
The key is
provided for me
automatically
If this check box is selected, the wireless AP assigns the ZyXEL G-220F a key.
This is a
computer-to-
computer (ad
hoc) network;
wireless access
points are not
used
If this check box is selected, you are connecting to another computer directly.
OK Click OK to save your changes.
Cancel Click Cancel to leave this screen without saving any changes you may have made.
Authentication
Click the Authentication tab in the Wireless (network) properties screen to display the screen shown
next. The fields on this screen are grayed out when the network is in Ad-Hoc mode or data encryption is
disabled.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
HH Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Diagram 23 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Authentication
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Chart 5 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Authentication
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Enable IEEE
802.1x
authentication
for this network
This field displays whether the IEEE 802.1x authentication is active.
If the network authentication is set to Open in the previous screen, you can choose to
disable or enable this feature.
EAP Type Select the type of EAP authentication. Options are Protected EAP (PEAP) and Smart
Card or other Certificate.
Properties Click this button to open the properties screen and configure certificates. The screen
varies depending on what you select in the EAP type field.
Authenticate as
computer when
computer
information is
available
Select this check box to have the computer send its information to the network for
authentication when a user is not logged on.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration II
Chart 5 Windows XP: Wireless (network) properties: Authentication
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Authenticate as
guest when user
or computer
information is
unavailable
Select this check box to have the computer access to the network as a guest when a
user is not logged on or computer information is not available.
OK Click OK to save your changes.
Cancel Click Cancel to close this screen without saving any changes you may have made.
Authentication Properties
Select an EAP authentication type in the Wireless (network) properties: Authentication screen and click
the Properties button to display the following screen.
Protected EAP Properties
Diagram 24 Windows XP: Protcted EAP Properties
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
JJ Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Chart 6 Windows XP: Protected EAP Properties
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Validate server
certificate
Select the check box to verify the certificate of the authentication server.
Connect to
these servers
Select the check box and specify a domain in the field below to have your computer
connect to a server which resides only within this domain.
Trusted Root
Certification
Authorities:
Select a trusted certification authority from the list below.
You must first have a wired connection to a network and obtain
the certificate(s) from a certificate authority (CA). Consult your
network administrator for more information.
Do not prompt
user to
authorize new
server or trusted
certification
authorities.
Select this check box to authorize a new authentication server or trusted CA without
prompting.
This field is available only if you installed the Windows XP server pack 2.
Select
Authentication
Method:
Select an authentication method from the drop-down list box and click Configure to do
settings.
Enable Fast
Reconnect
Select the check box to automatically reconnect to the network (without re-
authentication) if the wireless connection goes down.
OK Click OK to save your changes.
Cancel Click Cancel to leave this screen without saving any changes you may have made.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration KK
Smart Card or other Certificate Properties
Diagram 25 Windows XP: Smart Card or other Certificate Properties
The following table describes the labels in this screen.
Chart 7 Windows XP: Smart Card or other Certificate Properties
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Use my smart
card
Select this check box to use the smart card for authentication.
Use a certificate
on this computer
Select this check box to use a certificate on your computer for authentication.
Validate server
certificate
Select the check box to check the certificate of the authentication server.
Connect to
these servers
Select the check box and specify a domain in the field below to have your computer
connect to a server which resides only within this domain.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
LL Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Chart 7 Windows XP: Smart Card or other Certificate Properties
LABEL DESCRIPTION
Trusted Root
Certification
Authorities:
Select a trusted certification authority from the list below.
You must first have a wired connection to a network and obtain
the certificate(s) from a certificate authority (CA). Consult your
network administrator for more information.
View Certificate Click this button if you want to verify the selected certificate.
Use a different
user name for
the connection:
Select the check box to use a different user name when the user name in the smart card
or certificate is not the same as the user name in the domain that you are logged on to.
OK Click OK to save your changes.
Cancel Click Cancel to leave this screen without saving any changes you may have made.
Ordering the Preferred Networks
Follow the steps below to manage your preferred networks.
Step 1. Windows XP SP2: Click Change the order of preferred networks in the Wireless Network
Connection screen (see Diagram 18)The screen displays as shown.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Management with Wireless Zero Configuration MM
Diagram 26 Windows XP SP2: Wireless Networks: Preferred Networks
Windows XP SP1: In the Wireless Network Connection Status screen, click Properties and the
Wireless Networks tab to open the screen as shown.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
NN Management with Wireless Zero Configuration
Diagram 27 Windows XP SP1: Wireless Networks: Preferred Networks
Step 2. Whenever the ZyXEL G-220F tries to connect to a new network, the new network is added in
the Preferred networks table automatically. Select a network and click Move up or Move
down to change it’s order, click Remove to delete it or click Properties to view the security,
authentication or connection information of the selected network. Click Add to add a preferred
network into the list manually.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Types of EAP Authentication OO
Appendix F
Types of EAP Authentication
This appendix discusses the five popular EAP authentication types: EAP-MD5, EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS,
PEAP and LEAP. The type of authentication you use depends on the RADIUS server. Consult your
network administrator for more information.
EAP-MD5 (Message-Digest Algorithm 5)
MD5 authentication is the simplest one-way authentication method. The authentication server sends a
challenge to the wireless station. The wireless station ‘proves’ that it knows the password by encrypting the
password with the challenge and sends back the information. Password is not sent in plain text.
However, MD5 authentication has some weaknesses. Since the authentication server needs to get the
plaintext passwords, the passwords must be stored. Thus someone other than the authentication server may
access the password file. In addition, it is possible to impersonate an authentication server as MD5
authentication method does not perform mutual authentication. Finally, MD5 authentication method does
not support data encryption with dynamic session key. You must configure WEP encryption keys for data
encryption.
EAP-TLS (Transport Layer Security)
With EAP-TLS, digital certifications are needed by both the server and the wireless stations for mutual
authentication. The server presents a certificate to the client. After validating the identity of the server, the
client sends a different certificate to the server. The exchange of certificates is done in the open before a
secured tunnel is created. This makes user identity vulnerable to passive attacks. A digital certificate is an
electronic ID card that authenticates the sender’s identity. However, to implement EAP-TLS, you need a
Certificate Authority (CA) to handle certificates, which imposes a management overhead.
EAP-TTLS (Tunneled Transport Layer Service)
EAP-TTLS is an extension of the EAP-TLS authentication that uses certificates for only the server-side
authentications to establish a secure connection. Client authentication is then done by sending username
and password through the secure connection, thus client identity is protected. For client authentication,
EAP-TTLS supports EAP methods and legacy authentication methods such as PAP, CHAP, MS-CHAP and
MS-CHAP v2.
PEAP (Protected EAP)
Like EAP-TTLS, server-side certificate authentication is used to establish a secure connection, then use
simple username and password methods through the secured connection to authenticate the clients, thus
hiding client identity. However, PEAP only supports EAP methods, such as EAP-MD5, EAP-MSCHAPv2
and EAP-GTC (EAP-Generic Token Card), for client authentication. EAP-GTC is implemented only by
Cisco.
LEAP
LEAP (Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol) is a Cisco implementation of IEEE802.1x.
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
PP Types of EAP Authentication
For added security, certificate-based authentications (EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS and PEAP) use dynamic keys
for data encryption. They are often deployed in corporate environments, but for public deployment, a
simple user name and password pair is more practical. The following table is a comparison of the features
of five authentication types.
Comparison of EAP Authentication Types
EAP-MD5 EAP-TLS EAP-TTLS PEAP LEAP
Mutual
Authentication
No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Certificate – Client No Yes Optional Optional No
Certificate – Server No Yes Yes Yes No
Dynamic Key
Exchange
No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Credential Integrity None Strong Strong Strong Moderate
Deployment
Difficulty
Easy Hard Moderate Moderate Moderate
Client Identity
Protection
No No Yes Yes No
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Index QQ
Appendix G
Index
A
About ..............................................................5-1
About the ZyXEL Utility ................................5-1
access point mode ...........................................2-3
Access point mode ..........................................1-3
Access Point Mode..........................................4-1
Additional setup requirements ....................4-1
antenna output power..................................4-4
Configuration ..............................................4-3
Link Info .....................................................4-2
MAC Filter..................................................4-6
Setup example............................................... O
Access Points (APs)........................................2-2
Accessing the ZyXEL Utility..........................1-2
Adapter screen, the........................................3-16
ad-hoc..............................................................2-2
Antenna gain ...................................................4-4
Authentication Mode.......................................2-6
Auto ............................................................2-7
Open............................................................2-7
Shared .........................................................2-7
Auto authentication mode ...............................2-7
Automatic WEP key generation......................2-5
C
CA.................................................................. OO
Certificate Authority ................................ See CA
channel ............................................................2-1
Communication Problem
Ad-hoc(IBSS) .............................................6-2
Infrastructure...............................................6-2
Computer’s IP Address ..................................... C
Configuration ..................................................4-3
Connecting to a WLAN Network ...................3-5
Copyright ...........................................................ii
Disclaimer ......................................................ii
Trademarks.....................................................ii
CTS (Clear to Send .........................................2-6
Customer Support.............................................vii
D
Data encryption ...............................................2-5
E
EAP Authentication
MD5 ........................................................... OO
PEAP.......................................................... OO
TLS ............................................................ OO
TTLS .......................................................... OO
ESS..................................................................2-3
Extended Service Set...............................See ESS
F
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Interference Statement....................................v
Model Specific ...............................................v
Filter MAC address.........................................4-6
Fragmentation Threshold ................................2-5
G
Graphics Icons Key .........................................xvi
H
Hidden node ....................................................2-5
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
RR Index
I
IBSS................................................................ 2-2
Independent Basic Service Set.............. See IBSS
Information for Canadian Users........................ iv
Caution.......................................................... iv
Note .............................................................. iv
L
Link Info......................................................... 3-1
M
MAC (Media Access Control)........................ 4-5
MAC Filter .....................................................4-5
MAC filter type............................................... 4-6
maintenance .................................................... 5-1
MD5................................................................OO
Message Digest Algorithm 5 ................ See MD5
N
Network Type................................................. 2-2
Ad-Hoc(IBSS) ............................................ 2-2
O
Online Registration........................................... iii
Open authentication mode .............................. 2-7
P
passphrase....................................................... 2-5
PEAP ..............................................................OO
Preamble Mode............................................... 2-7
Preface ............................................................. xv
problem description ........................................ 6-1
Profile ............................................................. 3-7
Protected EAP...................................... See PEAP
R
radio frequency ...............................................2-1
Related Documentation.................................... xv
roaming...........................................................2-4
Example ......................................................2-4
RTS (Request To Send) ..................................2-6
RTS/CTS handshake.......................................2-6
RTS/CTS Threshold .......................................2-5
S
Security Settings .............................................3-5
Service Set ...............................................3-2, 4-4
Service Set Identity............................... See SSID
Shared authentication mode............................2-7
Site Survey......................................................3-3
SSID................................................................2-1
Station Mode
Configuration ..............................................4-4
Syntax Conventions ......................................... xv
T
TLS ................................................................ OO
Transmission Speed ......................................3-17
Transmission Speeds.......................................2-2
Transport Layer Security ....................... See TLS
Trend Chart.....................................................3-3
Troubleshooting
communication problem with other computers
................................................................6-2
Troubleshooting ..............................................6-1
Checking Hardware Conflict ......................6-1
connection to an access point......................6-1
problem with link status..............................6-2
Radio interference.......................................6-2
starting the ZyXEL Utility ..........................6-1
TTLS.............................................................. OO
Tunneled Transport Layer Service....... See TTLS
ZyXEL G-220F User’s Guide
Index SS
U
uninstall...........................................................5-1
W
Warranty ...........................................................iii
Note...............................................................iii
WEP................................................................2-5
WEP Data Encryption with.............................2-5
WEP Key ........................................................2-5
Windows XP Requirement................................ R
Wired Equivalent Privacy ..................... See WEP
Wireless LAN Network ..................................2-1
Wireless LAN Security ...................................2-5
Data Encryption with WEP.........................2-5
Wireless Network Basics .................................. R
Wireless station mode .....................................1-3
Wireless Station Mode ....................................3-1
Z
ZyXEL G-220F Modes ...................................1-3
Access point ................................................4-1
Station .........................................................3-1
Switch between modes................................1-3
ZyXEL Utility
before you upgrade......................................5-3
Link Info .....................................................3-1
maintenance ................................................5-1
Trend Chart .................................................3-3
uninstalling..................................................5-1
upgrading ....................................................5-3