D-Link DWA-556 User manual

2D-Link DWA-556 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
Adapter Installation ...........................................................11
Configuration ...................................................... 18
D-Link Wireless Connection Manager ...............................18
Wireless Networks.........................................................19
Wi-Fi®Protected Setup (WPS).......................................20
My Wireless Networks ...................................................23
Support..........................................................................26
About .............................................................................27
Connect to a Wireless Network
Using Windows®Vista ...................................................28
Windows®XP Configuration Utility ................................30
Disabling The Windows®XP Utility................................31
Wireless Security ................................................. 33
What is WEP? ................................................................... 33
What is WPA? ...................................................................34
Configure WEP..................................................................35
Using the D-Link Wireless Connection Manager............35
Using the Windows®Vista Utility ................................... 37
Using the Windows®XP Utility ......................................39
Configure WPA/WPA2 Passphrase.................................... 41
Using the D-Link Wireless Connection Manager............41
Using the Windows®Vista ............................................43
Using the Windows®XP Utility ......................................45
Configure WPA™/WPA2™-Enterprise ..................................47
Using the D-Link Connection Manager ..........................47
Configure 802.1x (RADIUS)..............................................48
Troubleshooting ................................................... 49
Wireless Basics ................................................... 54
Networking Basics ................................................ 59
Check your IP address ......................................................59
Statically Assign an IP address .........................................60
Technical Specifications ......................................... 61
Table of Contents

3D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
•D-LinkDWA-556WirelessN™PCIExpressDesktopAdapter
•ManualandWarrantyonCD
•D-LinkWirelessConnectionManageronCD
System Requirements
•A desktop computer with an available 64-bit PCI Express slot
•Windows®2000 (Service Pack 4) or XP (Service Pack 2), or Vista
•300MHzprocessorandatleast64MBofRAM
•Adraft802.11nor802.11gaccesspoint(forInfrastructuremode),oranotherdraft
802.11n or 802.11g wireless adapter (for Ad Hoc networking mode).
Product Overview
Package Contents

4D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
Introduction
The D-Link Wireless N™ Desktop Adapter (DWA-556) is a Draft 802.11n client device that delivers unrivaled wireless performance
for your desktop computer. With the DWA-556, 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™ technology, the DWA-556 provides a faster wireless connection and superior reception than 802.11g*.
TheDWA-556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™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 Wireless N™ DWA-556 is a powerful 64-bit desktop adapter that installs quickly and easily into desktop computers. Like
all D-Link wireless adapters, the DWA-556 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-556 features robust security to help protect the wireless network from intruders, complying with the latest wireless
networking security protocols, including WEP encryption and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) support for WPA2-PSK. The DWA-
556 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 draft 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-556 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
•Faster Wireless Networking* - Enable wireless connectivity on your Desktop PC computer with the
DWA-556. With the performance of D-Link’s Wireless N™line of wireless products, the DWA-556 delivers an unsurpassed
wireless experience. 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-556 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802.1x**andWPA - With the DWA-556 in your Desktop PC you can securely connect to a
wireless network using 802.1x for wireless authentication, as well as WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) providing you a
much higher level of security for your data and communication than has previously been available.
•Total Performance - Upgrade your computer with the latest draft 802.11n technology.
•Total Wireless Protection - Connect to secure wireless networks using WEP and WPA.
•Total Connection - Get reception throughout your home by connecting to a Wireless N™Router.
•Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11g and draft 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.
** Available as a driver upgrade in the near future from support.dlink.com.
Features

6D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 1 - Product Overview
Hardware Overview
LEDs
ACTLED
A solid light indicates that wireless is
ready. This LED blinks during wireless
data transmission.

7D-Link DWA-556 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 device manager
before installing your D-Link adapter. Also, if you have previously installed another wireless adapter, please make sure any software
is uninstalled.
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’ve installed a different manufacture’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®XP users may use the built-in wireless
utility for all adapters.
Toremoveanyoldsoftware:
Windows®Vistausers:ClickStart > Control Panel > ProgramsandFeatures.
Windows®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-556 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-556 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-556 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 degrade 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-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Note: Cancel
Turn on the computer and Insert the D-Link DWA-556 Driver CD in the CD-ROM drive. The step-by-step instructions that follow are
shown in Windows®XP. The steps and screens are similar for the 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:\DWA556.
exe” (where D: represents the drive letter of your CD-ROM drive).
AdapterInstallation
Click InstallDrivers

12D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
The InstallShield Wizard window will appear.
Click Next to continue.
Bydefaultsetupwillinstalltothedefaultlocation:C:\Program Files\D-
Link\DWA-556,whereC:representsthedriveletterofyourharddrive.
To install to a different location click Browse and specify the location.
Click Next.
Select the Program Files folder location.
Click Next
Click Next
Click Next

13D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Click Finish
Click Next
TheD-LinkCongurationWizardwillnowappear.
If you are using Windows®XP (SP2), you will have the option to use either the
D-Link utility or the built-in Windows®Wireless utility.
Click Finish to continue.

14D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
TheWirelessConnectionWizardwillnowappear.
If you want to manually connect to a wireless network, refer to page 15.
The following instructions will connect you to a wireless network using
Wi-Fi®Protected Setup (WPS).
Insert the adapter into an available PCIe port on your computer.
If the Found New Hardware Wizard appears, click Cancel.
Click Next
Click Next

15D-Link DWA-556 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 2
minutes to establish connectivity.
When this screen appears, you have successfully connected to your
wireless network. Click Next to complete your setup.
Click Next
Push Button Configuration (PBC)

16D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
To manually connect to your wireless network, select Manually connect
to a wireless network and then click Next.
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.
Click Next
Manual Connect

17D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 2 - Installation
Click Finish to continue. If you are prompted to reboot your computer,
select Yes, I want to restart my computer now.
Click Finish
When this screen appears, you are successfully connected to your wireless
network. Click Finish to complete your setup.
Click the Scan button to display a list of wireless networks (site survey).
Click on the network name (SSID) and click Next.
Click Next
Click Finish

18D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
Configuration
This section will show you how to configure your new D-Link wireless adapter using the D-Link Utility as well as the Windows®XP
Zero Configuration Utility and Vista WLAN Auto Configuration.
D-LinkWirelessConnectionManager
The D-Link DWA-556 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. Double-clicking on the Wireless Connection Manager icon on your
desktop will start the Configuration.
If you are using Windows®XP, please skip to page 30 or Windows®Vista skip to page 28.
Double-click the Wireless Connection
Manager icon on your desktop.

19D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
Wireless Networks
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:
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.
WPSButton:

20D-Link DWA-556 User Manual
Section 3 - Configuration
Wi-Fi®Protected Setup (WPS)
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) System is designed for easy setup of
security-enabled Wi-Fi networks. It is recommended to have the access
point or wireless router nearby during setup.
For more information on WPS, visit the Wi-Fi Alliance website at www.
wi-fi.org.
“Push Button Configuration” (PBC) is a virtual button in the utility
that connects you to other WPS-enabled devices. A connection can be
established by clicking on the virtual button, then pushing the physical
button on the access point or wireless router within 120 seconds. Refer
to page 15.
“Personal Identification Number” (PIN) is a unique number generated
randomly by the wireless adapter’s utility. Entering this number in the
utility of the WPS-enabled wireless router or access point connects you
with the intended wireless network. Refer to the next page for more
information.