D-Link DWA-525 User manual

2D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Table of Contents
Product Overview.............................................................. 3
Package Contents........................................................................... 3
System Requirements................................................................... 3
Introduction ..................................................................................... 4
Features.............................................................................................. 5
Hardware Overview....................................................................... 6
LEDs................................................................................................. 6
Installation ......................................................................... 7
Getting Started................................................................................ 7
Remove Existing Installations ................................................ 7
Disable Other Wireless Adapters........................................... 8
Wireless Installation Considerations..................................10
Software/Driver Installation .....................................................11
Install Adapter into Your Computer...................................14
Configuration...................................................................18
D-Link Wireless Connection Manager...................................18
Wireless Networks ....................................................................19
My Wireless Networks.............................................................20
Support ........................................................................................23
About ............................................................................................24
Connect to a Wireless Network.......................................25
Using Windows®7.........................................................................25
Connect to a Wireless Network.......................................26
Using Windows Vista®..................................................................26
Using Windows®XP ......................................................................27
Wireless Security .............................................................28
What is WPA™? ................................................................................28
Configure WPA™/WPA2™- Personal ..........................................29
Using the D-Link Utility ..........................................................29
Using Windows®7.....................................................................31
Using Windows Vista®..............................................................34
Using Windows®XP ..................................................................36
Configure WPA™/WPA2™-Enterprise........................................38
Using the D-Link Utility ..........................................................38
Troubleshooting ..............................................................39
Windows®7 Troubleshooting ...................................................44
Wireless Basics .................................................................46
Networking Basics...........................................................50
Check your IP address.................................................................50
Windows®XP/2000 Users .......................................................50
Windows®7/Windows Vista®Users......................................50
Statically Assign an IP address.................................................51
Windows®XP/2000 Users .......................................................51
Windows®7/Windows Vista®Users......................................52
Technical Specifications..................................................53
Contacting Technical Support ........................................54
Warranty...........................................................................55
Registration .....................................................................61
Table of Contents

3D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
• D-Link DWA-525 Wireless N 150 Desktop PCI Adapter
• One Antenna
• Low Profile Mounting Bracket
• Manual and Warranty on CD
• D-Link Wireless Connection Manager on CD
System Requirements
• A desktop computer with an available PCI slot
• Windows® 7, Windows Vista® (32/64-bit), or XP (32/64-bit with Service Pack 2 or higher)
• 300MHz processor and at least 64MB of RAM
Product Overview
Package Contents

4D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
Introduction
The D-LinkWireless N 150 Desktop PCI Adapter (DWA-525) is a 802.11n client device that delivers unrivaled wireless performance
for your desktop computer. With the DWA-525, you can add or upgrade your Desktop PC’s wireless connectivity without having
to purchase a new computer. Once connected, access your network’s high-speed Internet connection while sharing photos,
files, music, video, printers, and storage. Get a better Internet experience with a faster wireless connection so you can enjoy
digital phone calls, gaming, downloading, and video streaming.
Powered by Wireless N 150 technology, the DWA-525 provides a faster wireless connection and superior reception than
802.11g*. The DWA-525 is designed for use in bigger homes and for those that demand higher networking. Maximize wireless
performance by connecting this desktop adapter to a Wireless N 150 Router and stay connected from virtually anywhere in
the home. This adapter supports WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption to prevent outside intrusion and protect your personal
information from being exposed.
The D-Link DWA-525 is a powerful 32-bit desktop adapter that installs quickly and easily into desktop computers. Like all D-
Link wireless adapters, the DWA-525 can be used in ad-hoc mode to connect directly with other cards for peer-to-peer file
sharing or in infrastructure mode to connect with a wireless access point or router for access to the Internet in your office or
home network.
The DWA-525 features robust security to help protect the wireless network from intruders, complying with the latest wireless
networking security protocols, includingWEP encryption andWi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) support for WPA2-PSK.The DWA-525
also includes a configuration utility to discover available wireless networks and create and save detailed connectivity profiles
for those networks most often accessed.
•Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11g and 802.11n specifications. Actual data throughput will vary. Network conditions and environmental factors,
including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate. Environmental factors will adversely affect
wireless signal range.

5D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
• Faster Wireless Networking* - Enable wireless connectivity on your Desktop PC computer with the DWA-525.
With the performance of D-Link’s Wireless N 150 line of wireless products, the DWA-525 delivers a more reliable
wireless connection. Perform multiple network tasks at once with the speed provided by this Wireless Adapter.
• Compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g Devices - Fully compatible with the IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g standards,
the DWA-525 can connect with existing 802.11b or 802.11g compliant routers, access points and cards. That means
you can still communicate with colleagues and friends while you have the ability to link to even more wireless
networks.
• Better Security with WPA/WPA2 and WPS - With the DWA-525 in your Desktop PC you can securely connect to
a wireless network using WPA/WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) for wireless authentication, as well as WPS (Wi-Fi
Protected Setup) providing you a much higher level and an easier way of security for your data and communication
than has previously been available.
•Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11g and 802.11n specifications. Actual data throughput will vary. Network conditions and environmental
factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate. Environmental factors will
adversely affect wireless signal range.
Features

6D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
Hardware Overview
LEDs
WLAN LED
A solid light indicates that wireless is
ready. This LED blinks during wireless
data transmission.

7D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Getting Started
Installation
This section will walk you through the installation process. If you have a built-in wireless adapter, please disable it in the device
manager before installing your D-Link adapter. Also, if you have previously installed another wireless adapter, please make
sure any software is uninstalled.
Note: Do NOT install the PCI adapter into your computer before installing the drivers.
Before installing your new D-Link wireless adapter, please verify the following:
• Remove any previous installations of wireless adapters
• Disable any built-in wireless adapters
• Verify the settings such as the SSID and security settings of the network(s) you want to connect to
Remove Existing Installations
If you have installed a different manufacturer’s adapter or a different model D-Link adapter, make sure the software is uninstalled
before installing the new software. Some utilities may cause a conflict with the new software. If you plan to use multiple adapters
at different times, make sure the utilities are not set to load when your computer boots up. Windows Vista®and XP users may
use the built-in wireless utility for all adapters.
To remove any old software:
Windows® 7 users: Click Start > Control Panel > Programs and Features.
Windows Vista®/XP users: Click Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs.
Windows® 2000 users: Click Start > Settings > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs.

8D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Disable Other Wireless Adapters
To prevent any conflicts with the D-Link wireless adapter, it is recommended to disable any wireless adapter (as well as any
unused Ethernet adapters).
From the desktop, right-click on the My Computer icon and select
Properties.
Click the Hardware tab and then click Device Manager. Scroll down the
list and click the +sign to the left of Network Adapters.
Right-click the adapter you would like to disable and select Disable.

9D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Click Yes to disable the adapter.
The adapter is now disabled. When disabled, a red X will be displayed.
Disabling the adapter will not remove the drivers. If you would like to use
the adapter, simply right-click it and select Enable.

10D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Wireless Installation Considerations
The D-Link wireless adapter lets you access your network using a wireless connection from virtually anywhere within the
operating range of your wireless network. Keep in mind, however, that the number, thickness and location of walls, ceilings,
or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through, may limit the range. Typical ranges vary depending on the types
of materials and background RF (radio frequency) noise in your home or business. The key to maximizing wireless range is to
follow these basic guidelines:
1. Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the D-Link adapter and other network devices to a minimum.
Each wall or ceiling can reduce your adapter’s range from 3-90 feet (1-30 meters). Position your devices so that
the number of walls or ceilings is minimized.
2. Be aware of the direct line between network devices. A wall that is 1.5 feet thick (.5 meters), at a
45-degree angle appears to be almost 3 feet (1 meter) thick. At a 2-degree angle it looks over 42 feet (14 meters)
thick! Position devices so that the signal will travel straight through a wall or ceiling (instead of at an angle) for
better reception.
3. Building Materials make a difference. A solid metal door or aluminum studs may have a negative effect on
range. Try to position access points, wireless routers, and computers so that the signal passes through drywall
or open doorways. Materials and objects such as glass, steel, metal, walls with insulation, water (fish tanks),
mirrors, file cabinets, brick, and concrete will weaken your wireless signal.
4. Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet or 1-2 meters) from electrical devices or appliances that generate RF
noise.
5. If you are using 2.4GHz cordless phones or X-10 (wireless products such as ceiling fans, lights, and home security
systems), your wireless connection may degrade dramatically or drop completely. Make sure your 2.4GHz phone
base is as far away from your wireless devices as possible. The base transmits a signal even if the phone in not
in use.

11D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Note: Do NOT install the DWA-525 Desktop Adapter into your computer before installing the driver software from the D-Link CD.
When the “Add New Hardware” wizard appears, click Cancel.
Turn on the computer and Insert the D-Link DWA-525 Driver CD in the CD-ROM drive.The step-by-step instructions that follow
are shown in Windows Vista®. The steps and screens are similar for other Windows® operating systems.
If the CD Autorun function does not automatically start on your computer, go to Start > Run. In the run box, type
“D:\DWA525.exe” (where D: represents the drive letter of your CD-ROM drive).
Software/Driver Installation
Click Install

12D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
The Welcome window will appear. Click Next to continue.
By default setup will install to the default location: C:\Program Files\D-Link\DWA-525,
where C: represents the drive letter of your hard drive. To install to a different location
click Browse and specify the location. Click Next to continue.
The InstallShield Wizard window will appear. Select the language to use and click
Next to continue.

13D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Click Next to continue.
Select the Program Files folder location. Click Next to continue.
Once you click Finish, shut down your computer and unplug the power. Please refer
to the next page to install your PCI adapter into your computer.

14D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Install Adapter into Your Computer
Please refer to your computer’s manual for specific instructions on opening your computer case and installing PCI
adapters.
Step 1 - Turn off your computer and unplug the power to your
computer.
Step 2 - Open/remove your case to your computer and locate an
available PCI slot on your motherboard.
Step 3 - Slide the DWA-525 into the PCI slot and press down until
the adapter is set in place.
Step 4 - Secure the adapter’s fastening tab to your PC’s chassis with
a mounting screw.
Step 5 - Attach the adapter’s antenna. For best results the antenna
should be straight up. Also, make sure there is some space
between the antenna and the wall or back of your desk.
Step 6 - Close or put the case back on the computer and plug the
power back in.
Step 7 - Turn on computer and boot into Windows®.
Step 8 - TheWireless ConnectionWizard will now appear. If you want
to manually connect to a wireless network, refer to page
16. The following instructions will connect you to a wireless
network using Wi-Fi®Protected Setup (WPS). Click Next to
continue.

15D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
To connect to your network using the WPS push button configuration method, click
the virtual button as shown in the screenshot.
Press the WPS button on your access point or wireless router within two minutes to
establish connectivity.
When this screen appears, you have successfully connected to your wireless network.
Click Finish to complete your setup.
Push Button Configuration (PBC)

16D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
To manually connect to your wireless network, select Manually connect to a wireless
network and then click Next.
Enter the network name (SSID) manually. If you enter the SSID incorrectly, you will
automatically be brought to the site survey page. Click Scan to display the site survey
page.
Manual Connect
When you click the Scan button, a list of wireless networks (site survey) will appear.
Click on the network name (SSID) that you want to connect to and click Next to
continue. If there is a lock icon under Security, you will be prompted to enter the
encryption key.

17D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
When this screen appears, you are successfully connected to your wireless network.
Click Finish to complete your setup.

18D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
Configuration
D-Link Wireless Connection Manager
This section will show you how to configure your new D-Link wireless adapter using the D-Link Utility as well as Windows® XP
Zero Configuration and Windows® 7 / Vista® WLAN Auto Configuration.
The D-Link DWA-525 uses the Wireless Connection Manager as the management software. The manager provides the user an
easy interface to change any settings related to the wireless adapter. Clicking on the Wireless Connection Manager icon on
the desktop will start the Configuration.
If you are using Windows® 7, skip to page 25; for Windows Vista®, please skip to page 26; for Windows® XP skip to page 27.
Double-click the Wireless Connection
Manager icon on your desktop.

19D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
Wireless Networks
The Wireless Networks (Site Survey) page will display all wireless networks that are available in your area. To connect to a
network, simply highlight the wireless network (SSID) and click Connect.
The SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name of the
wireless network.
Displays the MAC address of the wireless device.
Displays the Link Quality of the wireless
connection.
If there is a “lock” icon, this means the wireless
network is secure. You must know the encryption
key/security settings to connect.
Displays the channel of the wireless network.
Connect to a wireless network using Wi-Fi®
Protected Setup. Refer to the next page.
Rescans for available wireless networks in your
area.
Highlight a wireless network and click the Connect
button. If the network is secure, a pop-up window
will appear. Enter the security information to
connect (refer to the Wireless Security section for
more information).
Select a wireless network profile from the
drop-down menu and click Activate to connect.
Allow up to 30 seconds to connect.
MAC:
SSID:
Channel:
Signal:
Security:
Refresh Button:
Connect Button:
Activate Button:
WPS Button:

20D-Link DWA-525 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
My Wireless Networks
The My Wireless Networks page will allow you to create, edit, and delete wireless network profiles. Every time you connect to
a network using the Wireless Networks page, a profile will automatically be created.
New:
Modify:
Click New to create a new wireless network profile
(refer to the next page).
Click Modify to edit a current profile (refer to page
22).
Click Delete to remove a profile.
Click Activate to use a profile. Allow up to 30
seconds to connect to the wireless network.
The Profile Details section will display information
about the wireless network such as the network
name (SSID) and if the network is secured.
Delete:
Activate:
Profile Details: