User's Manual

1-1
v1.0, March 2010
Chapter 1
Introduction
This chapter describes some of the key features of the NETGEAR Wireless N150 Access Point
WN604. It also includes the minimum prerequisites for installation (“System Requirements” on
page 1-5.), package contents (“What’s In the Box?” on page 1-5) and a description of the front and
back panels of the WN604 (“Hardware Description” on page 1-5).
About the NETGEAR Wireless N150 Access Point WN604
The NETGEAR Wireless N150 Access Point WN604 is the basic building block of a wireless
LAN infrastructure. It provides connectivity between Ethernet wired networks and radio-equipped
wireless notebook systems, desktop systems, print servers, and other devices.
The WN604 provides wireless connectivity to multiple wireless network devices within a fixed
range or area of coverage—interacting with a wireless network interface card (NIC) via an
antenna. Typically, an individual in-building access point provides a maximum connectivity area
of about a 500 foot radius. Consequently, the NETGEAR Wireless N150 Access Point WN604 can
support a small group of users in a range of several hundred feet. Most access points can handle
between 10 to 30 users simultaneously per radio.
The NETGEAR Wireless N150 Access Point WN604 acts as a bridge between the wired LAN and
wireless clients. Connecting multiple WN604 Wireless Access Points via a wired Ethernet
backbone can further lengthen the wireless network coverage. As a mobile computing device
moves out of the range of one access point, it moves into the range of another. As a result, wireless
clients can freely roam from one Access Point to another and still maintain seamless connection to
the network.
Key Features and Standards
The WN604 Wireless Access Point is easy-to-use and provides solid wireless and networking
support. It also offers a wide range of security options.