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Technical News & Discussion => Networking & Routers => Netgear => Topic started by: Simon on Nov 24, 2008, 22:27:34

Title: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 24, 2008, 22:27:34
A friend (who is with IDNet) has a set up with a Netgear DG843G, and I think a WG111 USB wireless network adapter.  All was well last night, but when he switched his computer on this evening, although the router appears to be connected to the Internet, he can't connect, and the Netgear USB connection screen keeps asking to 'validate settings'.  He says there seems to be no option to actually do anything, other than to click Apply, which takes him back to the set up screen, but still doesn't allow the connection between the PC and the router.  No settings have been changed, as far as he is aware.

I was stumped with this over the phone, and he's asked me to go round tomorrow to help him sort it out, so I thought I'd ask here first, in case anyone's had the same problem.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Lance on Nov 24, 2008, 22:30:43
Two questions to do with netgears running wirelessly in one night!

I'm afraid i can't help, but if the usual things don't seen to work i would do factory reset.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 24, 2008, 22:33:47
I was wondering if the USB dongle thingy has packed up.  Is this something likely to happen?
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Lance on Nov 24, 2008, 22:37:38
Sorry, i mis read and took it as the router screen kept coming up, not the dongle config screen. Perhaps reinstalling the drivers and software for the dongle might help. Of course, as you say, its not impossible for the dongle to have given up the ghost.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Steve on Nov 24, 2008, 22:41:47
I'd try rebooting router and PC and then if no luck as Lance says reinstall the dongle software
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 24, 2008, 22:46:20
I think he's done all that, Steve.  I would imagine that an internal PCI wireless network card would be infinitely better anyway, so I'm going to suggest he gets one.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Ray on Nov 25, 2008, 08:34:02
Quote from: Simon on Nov 24, 2008, 22:46:20
I think he's done all that, Steve.  I would imagine that an internal PCI wireless network card would be infinitely better anyway, so I'm going to suggest he gets one.

I've always found it better not to use the connection software that comes with the wireless adapter, I've found a lot of it to be very poor and unreliable, I always use the built in Windows wireless connection software instead.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 09:21:25
Might just be worth trying a different USB port...
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 10:34:43
Been round, and the router is alive and well, and appears to be seeing the wireless dongle, as all the lights are up.  Can't access the router to check the settings, as he didn't have an ethernet cable handy, and it won't connect wirelessly.  I think the dongle has had it, so we're going to wait for the new network card to arrive from Amazon.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 10:40:10
Seems wise, Simon, they are more 'processor efficient' than USB dongles.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: vitriol on Nov 25, 2008, 12:57:32
Quote from: Sheltieuk on Nov 25, 2008, 08:34:02
I've always found it better not to use the connection software that comes with the wireless adapter, I've found a lot of it to be very poor and unreliable, I always use the built in Windows wireless connection software instead.

I agree, I had a friend that used Belkin USB wireless dongles and the software I found to be very unstable.  The Windows configuration is much better imo.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 13:16:01
I'll advise that when he gets the new card.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:39:07
Sounds similar to when my son had his wireless set up. The only thing I could find that worked was to re tick the box for broadcast the SSID name, wait till it was stable then untick the box. I also put the MAC address in the Access List to make it safer. I seem to remember that the position of the dongle took a while to get right too. Sat in the cradle was no good and the best position was just lying on the floor under the desk.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:41:05
Wasn't it hard to see the monitor from there though, Baz? ;D :out:

Congratulations on becoming a Master. :karma:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:44:37
Quote from: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:41:05
Wasn't it hard to see the monitor from there though, Baz? ;D :out:

Congratulations on becoming a Master. :karma:

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: very good. surprised you never picked up on the position of the dongle bit ;)

you got me with the master bit :dunno:  but thanks for the karma :thumb:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: David on Nov 25, 2008, 15:44:42
 :karmic: well done Master Baz :congrats: I would kneel at your feet but people might talk  ;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:46:03
Quote from: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:44:37
you got me with the master bit :dunno:  but thanks for the karma :thumb:

You moved from being a Grand Netter to being a Master Netter when you made the 1000th post, Baz. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:47:28
ah right just clicked  :blush:  im shocked at that. its something I never check and it doesnt seem that long that I started posting.

thanks guys.

kneel if you wish i'll say nowt  ;) ;) :D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:48:32
that doesnt seem many posts to reach master status. whats the other levels
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:49:25
Quote from: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:47:28
kneel if you wish i'll say nowt  ;) ;) :D

I'm laying under the desk, Baz. If it's good enough for you... ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:50:56
Quote from: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:48:32
that doesnt seem many posts to reach master status. whats the other levels

The revealed 'titles' so far are:

New Netter  -        0-24 posts
Full Netter  -         25-74 posts
Regular Netter  -    75-124 posts
Addicted Netter  -  125-249 posts
Super Netter  -      250-499 posts
Grand Netter  -      500-999 posts
Master Netter  -     1000-2499 posts
Netter Nutter  -      2500-4999 posts
Live-in Netter  -      5000-7499 posts
Legendary Netter  - 7500-9999 posts
Extraordinary Netter - 10000-12499 posts
Power Netter -        12500-14999 posts

Members have yet to discover what comes next, but it shouldn't take too much longer when In comes back from Spain. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:53:53
never thought I had posted this many.

whats your title Rik, cant see it there  :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 15:56:10
It's Administrator, Baz. ;D We haven't got one for anything over 25,000 posts yet. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:59:09
give yourself one then, you could change the  name whenever too  :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 16:01:44
Until someone else breaks the 25K mark, we have no need for any more titles. At that point, we'll be scratching our heads anyway. As staff titles don't reflect post counts, there's no problem, and former staff also don't reflect post count in their titles, so no issue when I stand down either. ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Ray on Nov 25, 2008, 16:21:00
 :congrats: Baz, and :karma:  :thumb:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 16:36:12
Quote from: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 15:39:07I seem to remember that the position of the dongle took a while to get right too. Sat in the cradle was no good and the best position was just lying on the floor under the desk.

I think we may be talking about different things, Baz.  This "dongle" is basically a USB stick, so it has to be plugged in to a USB port. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 25, 2008, 16:37:58
Some come with an extension lead and socket, Simon, eg Belkin.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 16:38:48
Oh right, well this one doesn't, but I believe the new network card does.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Baz on Nov 25, 2008, 18:39:34
this one has a lead as Rik said so you could move it about like an aerial I suppose, to get good reception. didnt work too well.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Nov 25, 2008, 19:19:54
It might be worth deleting the profile from the NETGEAR application and re-creating it, just in case.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 20:24:19
Well, to be honest, I think it would be much better if he had a network card anyway, so I'm not going to spend any more time on this USB thing, as even if I got it working, it could break down again.  I'm also going to ignore the software that comes with the card, and use the Windows network wizard, as that should hopefully be more reliable.  :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: g7pkf on Nov 25, 2008, 20:56:08
Forget usb wireless "dongles" etc in a word you may get it working for a while but it will give you grief (and n my experiance lots of it).

ficed pc's use a wired connection (if possible) or a wireless pci card.

even laptops give grief on wireless (3 in the house and i spend about 2 hours a month re-configuring one of them)

best way:-

Fixed static ip wired computer.

no grief (except for wiring it in)

Sorry if that is not what you wanted to hear.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 21:17:52
I know what you mean, Dean, but some people just can't be bothered with it all, and just want an easy solution.  Problem with this guy is, the PC is nowhere near a phone socket, and he doesn't want to pay out to have an extension installed, but can't be arsed to do it himself either.  We're both looking for the simplest way round.  ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: vitriol on Nov 25, 2008, 22:45:09
A cat5e cable?

And suggestion for 25,000+ posts

Uber Netter
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: drummer on Nov 26, 2008, 01:18:55
Quote from: Simon on Nov 25, 2008, 20:24:19
Well, to be honest, I think it would be much better if he had a network card anyway, so I'm not going to spend any more time on this USB thing, as even if I got it working, it could break down again.  I'm also going to ignore the software that comes with the card, and use the Windows network wizard, as that should hopefully be more reliable.  :)
Best thing really because USB dongles are a bit hit-and-miss at best, but they're actually rubbish and a complete waste of time.

Wireless PCI cards are the only realistic option and you've assumed correctly that only the card's drivers are necessary, as opposed to the useless wireless connection software provided.

Wireless Zero Configuration within Windows always works for me and I have no shame in endorsing it.

Laptops are very promiscuous though and will latch on to the first available network, even if it's not yours.

Shameless strumpets!
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 26, 2008, 09:50:51
Presumably, I would have to hard reset the router, in order to bypass the current WPA security?
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Steve on Nov 26, 2008, 09:57:36
A hardware reset will reset the wireless network to open. How about wired with a laptop? I suppose it depends what else has been setup in the router in the way of services and firewall ammendments as I presume that they will disappear as well with a hardware reset.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 26, 2008, 10:17:21
In my view, the best thing would be to start afresh with the new network card.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: g7pkf on Nov 26, 2008, 10:24:11
Better if he stopped being tight and got a cable run.   ::)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Nov 26, 2008, 18:56:07
Quote from: Simon on Nov 26, 2008, 09:50:51
Presumably, I would have to hard reset the router, in order to bypass the current WPA security?

You could always connect by ethernet.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 26, 2008, 20:39:26
Yes, I'll bear that in mind, Seb.  :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 27, 2008, 08:45:25
Probably the easiest way to do this is to take your lappy along, together with a cable. You then have a controlled environment.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 09:45:20
I don't want to mess up the connection on my lappy though.  I'm not really very well up on this, so I think I'll just do it the way I know how to.  :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 27, 2008, 09:46:26
You won't affect your lappy - it's just a case of diving into the router interface from that.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 09:51:58
But I still won't be able to get into his router without resetting it, because of the WPA, will I?

Off to work now...  (http://si6776.www.idnet.com/smileys/wave2.gif)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 27, 2008, 09:53:38
You will with a cable connection...
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 10:19:05
Yes, of course.  Duh!
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Myst on Nov 27, 2008, 12:24:55
Lol at the post count whores :P

its like a my d...ks bigger then yours substitute :D

/taxi
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 12:39:29
Sorry, I don't follow.  We're just discussing a wireless issue, aren't we?  :dunno:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Myst on Nov 27, 2008, 13:00:16
Whoops went into the wrong thread  :not:

Sorry guys

2nd thoughts no i didnt.

It was in response earlier in the posts about forum post counts and suchlike
just on our forums folk indulge in such things.

Anyway was just a jokey throwaway comment and not meant to detract from the subject matter
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 13:21:51
Threads do tend to meander here, but we try to stick to the point with tech queries.  I guess the post counts bit could be split away in this case.
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 27, 2008, 13:46:50
 ???
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Nov 27, 2008, 20:03:17
Quote from: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 10:19:05
Yes, of course.  Duh!

Indeed, hence my:

Quote from: Sebby on Nov 26, 2008, 18:56:07
You could always connect by ethernet.

;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 27, 2008, 21:52:32
Penny stuck in the slot, Seb.  ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: g7pkf on Nov 27, 2008, 22:05:07
I could answer this thread with a very good/excellent comment

but i won't.

Ive been working away for 4 days and the wife needs "some" attention.

penny for your thoughts comes to mind....

and i need to sort her iT needs first.

(else no food for me tommorrow)

and yes her laptops dropped off the fuc***g wireless network AGAIN (second time in 3 weeks)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Nov 27, 2008, 22:14:57
Quote from: g7pkf on Nov 27, 2008, 22:05:07
and yes her laptops dropped off the fuc***g wireless network AGAIN (second time in 3 weeks)

I hate wireless. :mad:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: g7pkf on Nov 27, 2008, 22:29:18
Have you ever tried to refuse it support from/to your wife?

No DON'T   :laugh:

yuu will never get any support/S*X again

i promise you if you tell her to always plug it in youll get a whole load of verbal.

Mostly about all the ironing etc she does for you etc etc


I once pointed out she has to plug that in, You would not belive the language!!!
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Nov 27, 2008, 22:36:46
I can't say I've had that exact issue, Dean. :P
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 28, 2008, 09:00:52
Give it time, Seb. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Steve on Nov 28, 2008, 09:06:11
Irons are definitely not "plug and play" :D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 28, 2008, 09:07:50
I don't know, Steve. Sue plugs while I play. ;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Myst on Nov 28, 2008, 12:09:29
Keep on topic now or we will have Simon on again  :angel:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 28, 2008, 12:10:54
He's good on the spoons, I'm told. ;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 28, 2008, 12:12:17
:evil:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Myst on Nov 28, 2008, 12:14:33
Some folk need to get outside more  :hide:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 28, 2008, 12:21:41
We know. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: g7pkf on Nov 28, 2008, 16:21:59
Why?

It's cold out there.

Much rather be infront of my lovely warm open fire
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Nov 28, 2008, 16:30:21
Or, in my case, monitor. ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Nov 30, 2008, 23:34:40
Just to update, I fitted the new network card today, and all is up and running.  I connected the router by ethernet to copy the WPA key, then used the Windows network software, as advised, and all was very straightforward.

Thanks for all the advice.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Lance on Nov 30, 2008, 23:38:05
Great stuff!
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Dec 01, 2008, 00:03:29
Glad it's now sorted, Simon. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Dec 01, 2008, 10:32:39
USB dongles are a pain. ;)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Dec 01, 2008, 10:42:10
They are when they don't work!
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Steve on Dec 01, 2008, 10:43:35
Never sat on one yet ;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Simon on Dec 01, 2008, 10:45:40
I wanted to stand on this one, but I wasn't allowed.  ;D
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Rik on Dec 01, 2008, 10:55:47
:rofl:

It depends which way it's pointing, of course. :)
Title: Re: Netgear Wireless connection problem
Post by: Sebby on Dec 01, 2008, 19:12:29
:rofl2: