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3Com WL-550 User Manual

Wireless 11g cable/dsl router wl-550
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Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router

User Guide

WL-550
3CRWER101U-75
3CRWER101E-75
3CRWER101A-75
http://www.3Com.com/
Part No. 10016641 Rev. AA
Published March 2008

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  • Page 1: User Guide

    Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router User Guide WL-550 3CRWER101U-75 3CRWER101E-75 3CRWER101A-75 http://www.3Com.com/ Part No. 10016641 Rev. AA Published March 2008...
  • Page 2 3Com Corporation reserves the right to revise this documentation and to make changes in content from time USA 01752-3064 to time without obligation on the part of 3Com Corporation to provide notification of such revision or change. 3Com Corporation provides this documentation without warranty, term, or condition of any kind, either implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties, terms or conditions of merchantability, satisfactory quality, and fitness for a particular purpose.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    BOUT UIDE Naming Convention Conventions Feedback About This User Guide Related Documentation NTRODUCING THE OUTER Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router Router Advantages Package Contents Minimum System and Component Requirements Physical Features NSTALLING THE OUTER Introduction Positioning the Router Powering Up the Router Connecting the Router to the Internet Connecting the Router to LAN Setting up your computers for networking with the Router...
  • Page 4 Macintosh Disabling PPPoE and PPTP Client Software Disabling Web Proxy UNNING THE ETUP IZARD Accessing the Setup Wizard Setup Wizard - Wireless Settings Setup Wizard - Connection Settings ONFIGURING THE OUTER Navigating Through the Router Configuration screens Main Menu Network Settings Status LAN Settings WAN Settings...
  • Page 5 System UPNP DDNS Routing Static Routes Routing Table ROUBLESHOOTING Basic Connection Checks Browsing to the Router Configuration Screens Connecting to the Internet Forgotten Password and Reset to Factory Defaults Wireless Networking Recovering from Corrupted Software Frequently Asked Questions IP A DDRESSING The Internet Protocol Suite Managing the Router over the Network...
  • Page 6 ECHNICAL PECIFICATIONS Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router Standards System Requirements OFTWARE ICENSE GREEMENT BTAINING UPPORT FOR RODUCT LOSSARY EGULATORY OTICES NDEX...

  • Page 7: About This Guide

    LANs (Local Area Networks) and Internet Routers. If a release note is shipped with the 3Com Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router and contains information that differs from the information in this guide, follow the information in the release note.

  • Page 8: Conventions

    BOUT UIDE Conventions Table 1 Table 2 list conventions that are used throughout this guide. Table 1 Notice Icons Icon Notice Type Description Information note Information that describes important features or instructions. Caution Information that alerts you to potential loss of data or potential damage to an application, system, or device.

  • Page 9: Feedback About This User Guide

    ■ Document part number (on the title page) ■ Page number (if appropriate) ■ Example: 3Com Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router User Guide ■ Part Number 149100059700J Rev. AA ■ Page 24 ■ Do not use this e-mail address for technical support questions. For...
  • Page 10 BOUT UIDE...

  • Page 11: Ntroducing The Router

    NTRODUCING THE OUTER ® Welcome to the world of networking with 3Com . In the modern business environment, communication and sharing information is crucial. Computer networks have proved to be one of the fastest modes of communication but, until recently, only large businesses could afford the networking advantage.
  • Page 12 1: I HAPTER NTRODUCING THE OUTER Figure 1 Example Network Without a Router When you use the Router in your network (Figure 2), it becomes your connection to the Internet. Connections can be made directly to the Router, or to an OfficeConnect Switch, expanding the number of computers you can have in your network.

  • Page 13: Router Advantages

    Router Advantages Router Advantages The advantages of the Router include: Shared Internet connection for both wired and wireless computers ■ High speed 802.11g wireless networking ■ No need for a dedicated, “always on” computer serving as your ■ Internet connection Cross-platform operation for compatibility with Windows, Unix and ■...

  • Page 14: Minimum System And Component Requirements

    1: I HAPTER NTRODUCING THE OUTER Minimum System Your Router requires that the computer(s) and components in your and Component network be configured with at least the following: Requirements A computer with an operating system that supports TCP/IP ■ networking protocols (for example Windows 98/NT/Me/2000/ XP/Vista, Unix, Mac OS 8.5 or higher).
  • Page 15 Physical Features 1 Power LED Green Indicates that the Router is powered on, and the boot up is successful. 2 WLAN Status LED Green If the LED is on it indicates that wireless networking is enabled. If the LED is flashing, the link is OK and data is being transmitted or received. If the LED is off, the Wireless LAN has been disabled in the Router, or there is a problem.
  • Page 16 1: I HAPTER NTRODUCING THE OUTER 5 WAN Port Using the RJ-45 cable provided, you should connect your cable modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet router to this port. 6 LAN Ports Using suitable RJ-45 cables, you can connect your Router to a computer, or to any other piece of equipment that has an Ethernet connection (for example, a hub or a switch).
  • Page 17 Physical Features 9 Reset Button The reset button allows you to reboot the Router, or to restore the default factory settings. Push for one second to perform a system reboot. All of your settings will remain upon restarting. Push for 8 seconds to reset the Router to the factory default settings.
  • Page 18 1: I HAPTER NTRODUCING THE OUTER...

  • Page 19: Installing The Router

    NSTALLING THE OUTER Introduction This chapter will guide you through a basic installation of the Router, including: Connecting the Router to the Internet. ■ Connecting the Router to your network. ■ Setting up your computers for networking with the Router. ■...

  • Page 20: Powering Up The Router

    OUTER Air flow around the unit and through the vents in the side of the case ■ is not restricted. 3Com recommends you provide a minimum of 25 mm (1 in.) clearance. Powering Up the To power up the Router:...
  • Page 21 Router to communicate with the Internet. 3Com recommends that you perform the initial Router configuration from a computer that is directly connected to one of the LAN ports.

  • Page 22: Setting Up Your Computers For Networking With The Router

    2: I HAPTER NSTALLING THE OUTER Setting up your You may also connect the Router to your PC (using a wireless client computers for adapter) via radio signals. Install a wireless network adapter in each networking with computer that will be connected to the Internet or your local network via the Router radio signals.
  • Page 23 Setting up your computers for networking with the Router WLAN Connections Figure 8...
  • Page 24 2: I HAPTER NSTALLING THE OUTER...

  • Page 25: Obtaining An Ip Address Automatically

    ETTING OMPUTERS The Router has the ability to dynamically allocate network addresses to the computers on your network, using DHCP. However, your computers need to be configured correctly for this to take place. To change the configuration of your computers to allow this, follow the instructions in this chapter.
  • Page 26 3: S HAPTER ETTING OMPUTERS 4 Double click on LAN or High Speed Connection icon. A screen titled Local Area Connection Status will appear. 5 A screen similar to Figure 9 should be displayed. Select Internet Protocol TCP/IP and click on Properties. Figure 9 Local Area Connection Properties Screen 6 Ensure that the options Obtain an IP address automatically, and Obtain DNS servers automatically are both selected as shown in...

  • Page 27: Windows Vista

    Obtaining an IP Address Automatically Figure 10 Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Screen 7 Restart your computer. Windows Vista 1 From the Windows Start Menu, select Settings > Network. 2 Click on Organize. Select Properties. 3 Click on Manage network>Connections. 4 Double click Local Area Connection. Select Properties and click continue. 5 A screen similar to Figure 11 should be displayed.
  • Page 28 3: S HAPTER ETTING OMPUTERS Figure 11 Local Area Connection Properties Screen 6 Ensure that the options Obtain an IPv6,v4 address automatically, and Obtain DNS servers address automatically are both selected as shown in Figure 12. Click OK. Figure 12 Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) Properties Screen...

  • Page 29: Macintosh

    Obtaining an IP Address Automatically Macintosh If you are using a Macintosh computer, use the following procedure to change your TCP/IP settings: 1 From the desktop, select Apple Menu, Control Panels, and TCP/IP. 2 In the TCP/IP control panel, set Connect Via: to Ethernet. 3 In the TCP/IP control panel, set Configure: to Using DHCP Server.

  • Page 30: Disabling Pppoe And Pptp Client Software

    3: S HAPTER ETTING OMPUTERS Disabling PPPoE If you have PPPoE client software installed on your computer, you will and PPTP Client need to disable it. To do this: Software 1 From the Windows Start Menu, select Control Panel > Network and Internet Connections.

  • Page 31: Unning The Setup Wizard

    UNNING THE ETUP IZARD Accessing the Setup The Router setup program is Web-based, which means that it is accessed Wizard through your Web browser (Netscape Navigator 4.7 or higher, Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher, or Mozilla 1.2.1 or higher). To use the Setup Wizard: 1 Ensure that you have at least one computer connected to the Router.
  • Page 32 4: R HAPTER UNNING THE ETUP IZARD 4 To log in as an administrator, enter the password (the default password is admin) in the System Password field and click Log in (Figure 15). Figure 15 Router Login Screen 5 When you have logged in, if you are logging in for the first time, the Country Selection screen ■...

  • Page 33: Setup Wizard - Wireless Settings

    Accessing the Setup Wizard Figure 17 Status Screen Then click on Setup Wizard and you will be guided step by step through a basic setup procedure. The first item in the Setup Wizard is Getting Started. Click NEXT to proceed to the following screen and configure your Wireless Settings. Setup Wizard - The Wireless Settings screen allows you to set up your wireless network Wireless Settings...

  • Page 34: Setup Wizard - Connection Settings

    Wireless Network Name (SSID): The Service Set ID (SSID) is the name ■ of your wireless network. The SSID must be the same on the Router and all of its wireless clients. (Default: 3Com) Broadcast Wireless Network Name: Enable or disable the broadcasting ■...
  • Page 35 Accessing the Setup Wizard Figure 19 Connection Settings Screen Select a DSL mode from the following: Dynamic IP Address, automatically allocating IP addresses for all ■ connected clients, see page 33 PPPoE — PPP over Ethernet, providing routing for multiple PCs, see ■...
  • Page 36 4: R HAPTER UNNING THE ETUP IZARD Figure 20 Dynamic IP Address Screen If the ISP requires you to input a Host Name, type it in the Host Name field. The MAC Address field will be filled automatically. Check all of your settings. Click NEXT to proceed or BACK to change your settings.
  • Page 37 Accessing the Setup Wizard Figure 21 PPPoE Mode Screen 1 Enter your user name in the User name field. 2 Enter your password in the Password field. 3 Re-type your password in the Please retype your password field. 4 If your ISP has provided you with a Service Name enter it in the Service Name field, otherwise, leave it blank.
  • Page 38 4: R HAPTER UNNING THE ETUP IZARD 6 Enter the Maximum Idle Time for the Internet connection. After this time has been exceeded the connection will be terminated. Check Keep session to keep the session alive. Check the Auto-connect check box to automatically re-establish the connection as soon as you attempt to access the Internet again.
  • Page 39 Accessing the Setup Wizard Idle Time Out has expired, set the action you wish the Router to take. You can tell the device to connect manually or automatically as soon as you try to access the Internet again, or to keep the session alive. 5 Check all of your settings.
  • Page 40 4: R HAPTER UNNING THE ETUP IZARD To set up the Router for use with BigPond connection, use the following procedure: Figure 24 BigPond Mode Screen 1 Enter your user name in the User name field. 2 Enter your password in the Password field. 3 Re-type your password in the Please retype your password field.

  • Page 41: Onfiguring The Router

    ONFIGURING THE OUTER Navigating This chapter describes all the screens available through the Router Through the Router configuration screens, and is provided as a reference. To get to the Configuration configuration screens, enter the Router’s default IP in the location bar of screens your browser.
  • Page 42 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Figure 25 Status Screen Current Time: Displays the current time. ■ INTERNET: Displays WAN connection type and status. ■ Release: Click on this button to disconnect from the WAN. ■ Renew: Click on this button to establish a connection to the WAN. ■...

  • Page 43: Lan Settings

    Network Settings INFORMATION: Displays the number of attached clients, the firmware ■ versions, the physical MAC address for each media interface and for the Wireless 11g Router, as well as the hardware version and serial number. DHCP Client Log: Displays information on DHCP clients on your ■...
  • Page 44 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER LAN Settings The LAN Settings screen is used to specify the LAN IP address of your Router, and to configure the DHCP server. Figure 26 LAN Settings Screen 1 Enter the Router’s IP Address and Subnet Mask in the appropriate fields. The default IP address is 192.168.1.1.

  • Page 45: Wan Settings

    Network Settings WAN Settings Specify the WAN connection type required by your Internet Service Provider. You should see the first entry already contains information that’s been configured using the Setup Wizard in the initial setup. If you want to change that information or set up other connection, select your connetion type and click Next to set the detailed settings.
  • Page 46 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER 1 The Host name is optional, but may be required by some Service Provider’s. Enter the host name in the Host Name field. 2 If required by your Service Provider, you can use the Clone MAC Address button to copy the MAC address of the Network Interface Card (NIC) installed in your PC to replace the WAN MAC address.
  • Page 47 Network Settings 4 Enter a Maximum Idle Time (in minutes) to define a maximum period of time for which the Internet connection is maintained during inactivity. If the connection is inactive for longer than the Maximum Idle Time, then it will be dropped.
  • Page 48 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER minute, you should change the Idle Time Out to one minute. After the Idle Time Out has expired, set the action you wish the Router to take. You can tell the device to connect manually or automatically as soon as you try to access the Internet again, or to keep the session alive.
  • Page 49 Network Settings BigPond BigPond is a service provider in Australia that uses a heartbeat system to maintain the Internet connection. Figure 31 BigPond Mode Screen 1 Configure the built-in client with your user name, password and service name to get online. 2 Click SAVE SETTINGS.

  • Page 50: Wireless

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Wireless The Wireless Settings screens allow you to turn on/ turn off the wireless function, and set up basic wireless settings. You can enable or disable the wireless connection for your LAN. When disabled, no wireless PCs can gain access to either the Internet or other PCs on your wired or wireless LAN through this Router.
  • Page 51 Network Settings Channel and SSID Enter your wireless network settings on this screen. You must specify a common radio channel and SSID (Service Set ID) to be used by the Router and all of its wireless clients. Be sure you configure all of its clients to the same value.
  • Page 52 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER 4 Select the wireless channel you want to use from the Wi-Fi Channel number drop-down menu. 5 Enabling Extend Range extends the wireless radio range of the Router. 6 Click SAVE SETTINGS. Wireless Security This feature prevents any non-authorized party from reading or changing your data over the wireless network.
  • Page 53 Network Settings No WEP, No WPA/WPA2 In this mode, wireless transmissions will not be encrypted, and will be visible to everyone. However, when setting up or debugging wireless networks, it is often useful to use this security mode. WEP Only WEP is the basic mechanism to transmit your data securely over the wireless network.
  • Page 54 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER For 64-bit WEP, you can enter up to four keys, in the fields Key 1 to Key 4. The radio button on the left hand side selects the key that is used in transmitting data. Note that all four WEP keys on each device in the wireless network must be identical.
  • Page 55 Network Settings Figure 36 WPA/WPA2 Only Screen 1 Select WPA/WPA2 Only from the Security Mode drop-down menu. 2 Select Encryption technique from the drop-down menu, two options are available: TKIP+AES (WPA/WPA2) or AES WPA2 Only. 3 Select 802.1X or Pre-shared Key for the authentication method. 802.1X: for the enterprise network with a RADIUS server.
  • Page 56 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Access Control This feature is used to filter the clients based on their MAC addresses. Check the Enable MAC Address Filtering checkbox on the Access Control screen. Figure 37 Access Control Screen There are two options available in the Access rule for registered MAC address field: if you click Allow, this means only the MAC addresses registered here ■...
  • Page 57 Network Settings 802.1X If 802.1X is used in your network, then you should enable this function for the Router. 802.1X is a method of authenticating a client wireless connection. Enter the parameters below to connect the Router to the Authentication Server. Figure 38 802.1X Screen 802.1X Authentication ■...
  • Page 58 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER RADIUS Server Parameters ■ Server IP ■ Set the IP address of your RADIUS server. Server Port ■ Set the connection port that is configured on the radius server. Secret Key ■ The 802.1x secret key used to configure the Wireless 11g Router. NAS-ID ■...

  • Page 59: Firewall

    (PoD) and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. You can turn the firewall function off if needed. Turning off the firewall protection will not leave your network completely vulnerable to hacker attacks, but 3Com recommends that you leave the firewall enabled whenever possible.

  • Page 60: Schedule Rule

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Figure 40 Firewall Screen The firewall does not significantly affect system performance, so we advise leaving it enabled to protect your network. Enable the firewall feature, and click SAVE SETTINGS to proceed. Schedule Rule The Router can be configured to restrict access to the Internet, email or other network services at specific days and times.
  • Page 61 Firewall Figure 41 Schedule Rule Screen 1 Click Add Schedule Rule to add a schedule rule (a screen similar to Figure 42 will appear). Figure 42 Add Schedule Rule Screen 2 Enter a name and comment for the schedule rule in the Name and Comment fields.

  • Page 62: Access Control

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER 3 Specify the schedule rules for the required days and times - note that all times should be in 24 hour format. 4 Click OK and SAVE SETTINGS. Access Control The Router can be configured to restrict access to the Internet, email or other network services at specific days and times.
  • Page 63 Firewall Figure 44 Access Control Add PC Screen 3 Enter a description in the Client PC Description field, and the IP address or IP address range into the Client PC IP Address fields. 4 Select the services to be blocked. A list of popular services is given on this screen, to block a particular service, check the appropriate Blocking checkbox.

  • Page 64: Mac Filter

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER 5 If you want the restriction to apply only at certain times, select the schedule rule to apply from the Schedule Rule drop-down menu. Note that schedule rules are defined on the Schedule Rules screen (see page 58).

  • Page 65: Url Filtering

    Firewall URL Filtering To configure the URL filtering feature, use the table on the URL Filtering screen to specify the Web sites (www.somesite.com) and/or keywords you want to filter on your network. This feature can be used to protect children from accessing violent or pornographic web sites. For example, entering a keyword of xxx would block access to any URL that contains the string xxx.

  • Page 66: Intrusion Detection

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Intrusion Detection The Router’s firewall inspects packets at the application layer, maintains TCP and UDP session information including timeouts and number of active sessions, and provides the ability to detect and prevent certain types of network attacks such as Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks. Figure 47 Intrusion Detection Screen...
  • Page 67 Firewall Network attacks that deny access to a network device are called DoS attacks. DoS attacks are aimed at devices and networks with a connection to the Internet. Their goal is not to steal information, but to disable a device or network so users no longer have access to network resources.
  • Page 68 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Table 3 Intrusion Detection Parameters Parameter Defaults Description ntrusion Detection Feature SPI and Anti-DoS The Intrusion Detection feature of the Router firewall limits the access of incoming traffic at the WAN protection port. When the Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) feature is turned on, all incoming packets are blocked except those types marked with a check in the SPI section at the top of the screen.
  • Page 69 Firewall Parameter Defaults Description When hackers attempt to enter your network, we can alert you by email Your E-mail Enter your email address. Address SMTP Server Enter your SMTP server address (usually the part Address of the email address following the “@” sign). POP3 Server Enter your POP3 server address (usually the part Address...
  • Page 70 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Parameter Defaults Description Maximum Maximum number of incomplete TCP/UDP incomplete sessions sessions from the same host. TCP/UDP sessions number from same host Incomplete 900 msecs Length of time before an incomplete TCP/UDP TCP/UDP sessions session is detected as incomplete.
  • Page 71 Firewall If you have a client PC that cannot run an Internet application properly from behind the firewall, you can open the client up to unrestricted two-way Internet access. This may be necessary if the NAT feature is causing problems with an application such as a game or video conferencing application.

  • Page 72: Maintenance

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Maintenance These screens allow you to manage different parameters of the Router and perform certain administrative functions. Configuration Tools Use this configuration screen to backup, restore or reset the configuration details of the Router. Figure 49 Configuration Tools Screen Backup Wireless Router Configuration —...

  • Page 73: Firmware Upgrade

    Maintenance Firmware Upgrade From time to time 3Com may release new versions of the Router’s firmware. Firmware updates contain improvements and fixes to problems that may have existed. Figure 50 Firmware Upgrade Screen Please download the firmware file to your PC first, and then click Browse and select the firmware file.

  • Page 74: Restart Router

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Restart Router Sometimes it may be necessary to restart (or reboot) the Router. Restarting the Router from this screen will not delete any of your configuration settings. Figure 51 Reboot Screen Click the Reboot Wireless Router button to restart the Router. Advanced Settings From the Advanced Settings screen, you can configure: NAT: Shares a single ISP account with multiple users, sets up virtual...

  • Page 75: Nat

    Advanced Settings The first menu item in the Advanced Settings section is Network Address Translation (NAT). This process allows all of the computers on your home network to use one IP address. Using the NAT capability of the Router, you can access the Internet from any computer on your home network without having to purchase more IP addresses from your ISP.
  • Page 76 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Address Mapping Network Address Translation (NAT) allows IP addresses used in a private local network to be mapped to one or more addresses used in the public, global Internet. Figure 53 Address Mapping Screen This feature limits the number of public IP addresses required from the ISP and also maintains the privacy and security of the local network.
  • Page 77 Advanced Settings Figure 54 Virtual Servers Screen A list of popular servers has been included to choose from. Select the server from the Popular servers drop-down menu. Then click Add, your selection will be added to the table. If the server that you want to use is not listed in the drop-down menu, you can manually add the virtual server to the table.
  • Page 78 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER Special Applications Some applications, such as Internet gaming, video-conferencing, Internet telephony and others, require multiple connections. These applications cannot work with Network Address Translation (NAT) enabled. If you need to run applications that require multiple connections, use the following screen to specify the additional public ports to be opened for each application.
  • Page 79 Advanced Settings For a full list of ports and the services that run on them, see www.iana.org/assignments/port-numbers NAT Mapping Table This page displays the current NAPT (Network Address Port Translation) address mappings. Figure 56 NAT Mapping Table Screen The NAT address mappings are listed 20 lines per page, click the control buttons to move forwards and backwards.

  • Page 80: System

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER System This section includes all the basic configuration tools for the Router, such as time settings, password settings, remote management and Syslog server setup. Time Zone You can set the time settings for the Router on this screen. Figure 57 Time Zone Screen...
  • Page 81 Advanced Settings The Router keeps time by connecting to a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server. This allows the Router to synchronize the system clock to the Internet. The synchronized clock in the Router is used to record the security log and control client filtering. Select the time zone that you reside in.
  • Page 82 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER If your password is lost, or you cannot gain access to the user interface, press the reset button on the bottom of the device (holding it down for at least eight seconds) to restore the factory defaults. The default password is “admin”.
  • Page 83 Advanced Settings administration. This is more secure, as only the specified IP address will be able to manage the Router. Select Enable administration from a whole Subnet Internet Host, ■ and enter the IP address and subnet mask, to allow PCs from that specific subnet group to use the remote administration.

  • Page 84: Upnp

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER UPNP Universal Plug and Play technology makes home networking simple and affordable. This architecture offers pervasive peer-to-peer network connectivity of PCs of all form factors, intelligent appliances, and wireless devices. UPnP architecture leverages TCP/IP and the web to enable seamless proximity networking in addition to control and data transfer among networked devices in the home, office, and everywhere in between.

  • Page 85: Dns

    Advanced Settings Domain Name Service (or Server) is an Internet service that translates domain names into IP addresses. Because domain names are alphabetic, they’re easier to remember. The Internet however, is really based on IP addresses. Every time you use a domain name, a DNS service must translate the name into the corresponding IP address.

  • Page 86: Ddns

    5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER DDNS The Router provides a list of dynamic DNS providers for you to choose from. Dynamic Domain Name Server (DDNS) enables you to map a static domain name to a dynamic IP address. The Router supports two DDNS providers: DynDNS.org ■...

  • Page 87: Routing

    Advanced Settings Routing This section defines routing related parameters, including static routes, RIP (Routing Information Protocol) parameters and routing table. Static Routes You can configure static routes in this screen. To add a static route entry to the table, click Add. To change an existing entry, click Edit.

  • Page 88: Rip

    4 In the Version field, select 1 or 2. 3Com recommends that you only use RIPv1 if there is an existing RIP-enabled device on your network that does not support RIPv2. In all...

  • Page 89: Routing Table

    Advanced Settings 5 Use the Poison Reverse drop-down menu to enable or disable Poison Reverse on the Router. Enabling Poison Reverse on your Router allows it to indicate to other RIP-enabled devices that they have both routes that point to each other, preventing data loops. 6 Use the Authentication Required field to choose the mode of authentication: None —...
  • Page 90 5: C HAPTER ONFIGURING THE OUTER...

  • Page 91: Troubleshooting

    ROUBLESHOOTING Basic Connection Check that the Router is connected to your computers and to the ■ Checks telephone line, and that all the equipment is powered on. Check that the LAN Status and LEDs on the Router are illuminated, and that any corresponding LEDs on the NIC are also illuminated.

  • Page 92: Connecting To The Internet

    6: T HAPTER ROUBLESHOOTING If you cannot browse to the Router, use the winipcfg utility in ■ Windows 98/ME to verify that your computer has received the correct address information from the Router. From the Start menu, choose Run and then enter winipcfg. Check that the computer has an IP address of the form 192.168.1.xxx (where xxx is in the range 2-254), the subnet mask is 255.255.255.0, and the default Router is 192.168.1.1 (the address of the Router).

  • Page 93: Wireless Networking

    Wireless Networking 4 Press and hold the Reset button on the bottom of the device for 8 seconds. 5 The Router will restart, and when the start-up sequence has completed, browse to: http://192.168.1.1 and run the configuration wizard. You may need to restart your computer before you attempt this.
  • Page 94 6: T HAPTER ROUBLESHOOTING Additionally consider moving the wireless computer closer to the Router to confirm that the building structure or fittings are not adversely affecting the connectivity. If this resolves the problem consider relocating the wireless computer or the Router, or trying a different channel on the Router.

  • Page 95: Recovering From Corrupted Software

    Ensure that one of your computers has a copy of the new software image file stored on its hard disk or available on CD-ROM. Check on www.3com.com for the latest version of firmware. 1 Remove power from the Router and disconnect the telephone line and all your computers, except for the one computer with the software image.

  • Page 96: Frequently Asked Questions

    You can expand the number of connections available on your LAN by using hubs, switches and wireless access points connected to the Router. 3Com wireless access points and switches provide a simple, reliable means of expanding your network; contact your supplier for more information, or visit: http://www.3com.com/...

  • Page 97: Ip Addressing

    IP A DDRESSING The Internet The Internet Protocol suite consists of a well-defined set of Protocol Suite communications protocols and several standard application protocols. Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is probably the most widely known and is a combination of two of the protocols (IP and TCP) working together.
  • Page 98 A: IP A PPENDIX DDRESSING For your network to work correctly, all devices on the network must have: The same sub-network address. ■ The same subnet mask. ■ The only value that will be different is the specific host device number. This value must always be unique.

  • Page 99: How Does A Device Obtain An Ip Address And Subnet Mask

    How does a Device Obtain an IP Address and Subnet Mask? This type of IP Address operates on a subnet mask of ‘255.255.0.0’. Table 5 for an example about how a network (only four computers represented) and a Router might be configured. Table 5 IP Addressing and Subnet Masking Device IP Address...
  • Page 100 A: IP A PPENDIX DDRESSING an IP address at random from the industry standard subnet of 169.254.x.x (with a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0). If two devices allocate themselves the same address, the conflict is detected and one of the devices allocates itself a new address. Automatic IP addressing support was introduced by Microsoft in the Windows 98 operating system and is also supported in Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
  • Page 101 ECHNICAL PECIFICATIONS This section lists the technical specifications for the Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router. Wireless 11g Interfaces Cable/DSL Router WAN connection — one 10 Mbps/100 Mbps dual speed Ethernet port LAN connection — four 10 Mbps/100 Mbps dual speed Ethernet ports WLAN Interfaces Standard IEEE 802.11g, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) Transmission rate: 54 Mbps, automatic fallback to 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, or...
  • Page 102 B: T PPENDIX ECHNICAL PECIFICATIONS Operating Temperature 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 105 °F) Power 9V 1A Humidity 0% to 90% (non-condensing) humidity Dimensions Width = 118 mm (4.6 in.) ■ Depth = 120 mm (4.7 in.) ■...
  • Page 103 Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router Ethernet Performance The Router complies to the IEEE 802.3i, u and x specifications. Cable Specifications The Router supports the following cable types and maximum lengths: Category 3 (Ethernet) or Category 5 (Fast Ethernet or Dual Speed ■...
  • Page 104 B: T PPENDIX ECHNICAL PECIFICATIONS...
  • Page 105 CONDITIONS BEFORE DOWNLOADING, INSTALLING AND/OR USING THIS SOFTWARE, THE USE OF WHICH IS LICENSED BY 3COM CORPORATION (“3COM”) TO ITS CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR USE ONLY AS SET FORTH BELOW. DOWNLOADING, INSTALLING OR OTHERWISE USING ANY PART OF THIS SOFTWARE OR DOCUMENTATION INDICATES THAT YOU ACCEPT THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
  • Page 106 Software is used only in connection with this 3Com product. You may reproduce and provide one (1) copy of the Software and Documentation for each such workstation or network server on which the Software is used as permitted hereunder.
  • Page 107 (the “Open Source Software”). This Open Source Software is licensed under the terms of the end-user license(s) that are provided as part of the Documentation or upon request to 3Com. Nothing in this Agreement limits your rights under, or grants you rights that supersede, the terms and conditions of any applicable end-user license for such Open Source Software.
  • Page 108 TRADE SECRETS; TITLE: You acknowledge and agree that the structure, sequence and organization of the Software are the valuable trade secrets of 3Com and its licensors. You agree to hold such trade secrets in confidence. You further acknowledge and agree that the...
  • Page 109 3Com for any reason, please contact the 3Com subsidiary serving your country, or write: 3Com Corporation, 350 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752. (508) 323-5000. Alternatively, log onto www.3Com.com and click "Contact Us" at the bottom of your screen for topic-specific contact information.
  • Page 110 C: E PPENDIX OFTWARE ICENSE GREEMENT Copyright © 2008 3Com Corporation. All rights reserved. 3Com is a registered trademark of 3Com Corporation.
  • Page 111 BTAINING UPPORT FOR RODUCT For technical support, register your product and request service via our online support system at http://www.3Com.com/esupport...
  • Page 112 D: O PPENDIX BTAINING UPPORT FOR RODUCT...
  • Page 113 LOSSARY 802.11b The IEEE specification for wireless Ethernet which allows speeds of up to 11 Mbps. The standard provides for 1, 2, 5.5 and 11 Mbps data rates. The rates will switch automatically depending on range and environment. 802.11g The IEEE specification for wireless Ethernet which allows speeds of up to 54 Mbps.
  • Page 114 LOSSARY Auto-negotiation Some devices in the range support auto-negotiation. Auto-negotiation is where two devices sharing a link, automatically configure to use the best common speed. The order of preference (best first) is: 100BASE-TX full duplex, 100BASE-TX half duplex, 10BASE-T full duplex, and 10BASE-T half duplex.
  • Page 115 DNS Server Address DNS stands for Domain Name System, which allows Internet host computers to have a domain name (such as 3com.com) and one or more IP addresses (such as 192.34.45.8). A DNS server keeps a database of host computers and their respective domain names and IP addresses, so that when a domain name is requested (as in typing “3com.com”...
  • Page 116 LOSSARY A device that regenerates LAN traffic so that the transmission distance of that signal can be extended. Hubs are similar to repeaters, in that they connect LANs of the same type; however they connect more LANs than a repeater and are generally more sophisticated. IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
  • Page 117 LOSSARY Local Area Network. A network of end stations (such as PCs, printers, servers) and network devices (hubs and switches) that cover a relatively small geographic area (usually not larger than a floor or building). LANs are characterized by high transmission speeds over short distances (up to 1000 metres).
  • Page 118 LOSSARY RJ-45 A standard connector used to connect Ethernet networks. The “RJ” stands for “registered jack”. Router A device that acts as a central hub by connecting to each computer's network interface card and managing the data traffic between the local network and the Internet.
  • Page 119 LOSSARY Traffic The movement of data packets on a network. Universal Plug and Universal Plug and Play is a system which allows compatible applications Play to read some of their settings from the Router. This allows them to automatically configure some, or all, of their settings and need less user configuration.
  • Page 120 LOSSARY WLAN Wireless Local Area Network. A WLAN is a group of computers and devices connected together by wireless in a relatively small area (such as a house or office). Wi-Fi Protected Access. A dynamically changing encryption mechanism for wireless networking. Encryption strength is 256 bit.
  • Page 121 ENERAL TATEMENTS The 3Com Wireless 11g Cable/DSL Router (WL-550) must be installed and used in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions as described in the user documentation that comes with the product. This product contains encryption. It is unlawful to export out of the U.S. without obtaining a U.S. Export License.
  • Page 123 NDEX Numbers 64-bit WEP Screen 47 Internet addresses 91 Internet Properties Screen 24 Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Screen 22 Access Control Screen 56 IP Address 38, 91 Add PC Screen 57 Add Schedule Rule Screen 55 Addresses IP 91 LAN Settings Screen 38 Automatic Addressing 93 LED 12 LEDs 12...
  • Page 124 NDEX Reset to Factory Defaults 86 RIP Parameter Screen 82 Router Login Screen 26 Routing Mode Screen 34 Schedule Rule Screen 55 Setup Wizard 25 Specifications technical 95 SSID 45 Static Addressing 93 Static Route Parameters Screen 81 Subnet Mask 91 TCP/IP 21, 23, 91 Technical specifications 95...

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