Netgear WG111 USB Adapter
Manufacturer: NetGear Inc. Part number: WG111
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Netgear WG111 is one of the best all-around wireless USB adapters we've seen.
Read more
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CNET editors' review
Netgear WG111 USB Adapter price range: $40.98 - $59.99
- Reviewed by: Stephanie Bruzzese
- Edited by: Allen Fear
- Reviewed on: 01/26/2005
- Released on: 10/25/2004
The good: Speedy throughput; simple installation; plug-and-play support lets you easily share one adapter among many PCs.
The bad: External installation makes it susceptible to breakage.
The bottom line: The Netgear WG111 is one of the best all-around wireless USB adapters we've seen.
The Netgear WG111 features the same pack-of-gum size and shape as many wireless USB adapters. The WG111's diminutive design makes it extremely easy to put the adapter in a pocket or a purse--though we wish it also included a convenient keychain hole as some USB flash drives do. Another gripe: this and all stick-shaped USB adapters jut out of your system's case, where you might accidentally bump them, making them awkward to use in tight spaces. If you'll be installing the WG111 in a desktop that offers USB ports only on its back panel, you can use the handy USB cable to attach the adapter to your system. Not only does this save you the pain of reaching behind your computer each time you want to connect and disconnect the device, it also lets you adjust the adapter's position to achieve optimal signal strength. If you don't want the device dangling around, Netgear bundles a plastic cradle for the WG111 that you can stick on your wall, desk, or elsewhere with the included Velcro tape. A removable cap protects the WG111's USB connector, but you'll have to be careful not to lose this tiny detachable piece.
After following the WG111's clear installation guide, we had the device installed and plugged into our laptop's USB port in a couple of minutes. We then used Netgear's intuitive wireless utility to take advantage of the adapter's features. For example, we created and saved different configuration profiles for our home and office networks, associating the correct security settings with the corresponding network name, or SSID. Profiles save you the hassle of having to type in encryption keys in order to connect to a secure network. The Netgear WG111 supports both WEPand WPA security schemes. Another utility trait that we particularly like is the Network tab. Clicking the tab automatically triggers the utility to list the vital signs of each network in the area, including SSID, channel, MAC address, security capabilities, and signal strength on a percentage scale of 0 to 100.
The Netgear WG111's speedy data throughput in CNET Labs' benchmarks made a good impression on us. With its 44.4Mbps maximum throughput, the device is far and away the fastest USB Wi-Fi adapter we've tested, beating its closest competitor, the Hawking HWU54D Hi-Gain USB adapter, by 21.3Mbps. In our Labs' long-range throughput tests, the WG111 earned a less remarkable 6.2Mbps score at 200 feet, which is still nothing to scoff at. For more details on how we test networking devices, see the CNET Labs site.
The WG111 ships with a lengthy three-year warranty that includes toll-free telephone support available around the clock seven days a week. The company's support Web site is nothing special, listing the standard firmware updates, documentation downloads, and thin FAQ info, as do the sites of most manufacturers. However, the site also offers a fairly unusual and definitely helpful user forum.
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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Throughput in Mbps |
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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Throughput in Mbps at 200 feet |
User reviews
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Great little workhorse -- but dump the utility
by PSP747 on April 2, 2005
Pros: Strong throughput, reliable
Cons: Utility doesn't add much
Summary: This little dynamo has great throughput, and the cable gives you a lot of flexibility with a desktop. With the rebates that seem to be common, the price is great ...
Summary: This little dynamo has great throughput, and the cable gives you a lot of flexibility with a desktop. With the rebates that seem to be common, the price is great too.
However the utility adds nothing to the product and doesn't do anything useful that windows doesn't already do for you automatically.
The instructions direct you to install the CD first, then plug in the adapter. However, to load the driver without the useless and annoying utility, do just the opposite: plug in the adapter to the computer, then when it asks for the CD, insert it and the driver will load without the utility.21 out of 23 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Free High Speed Internet.
by DCizzle on June 5, 2005
Pros: I'm always on... Even when sleeping.
Cons: 3 weeks in... None so far.
Summary: Had two people arrive at my house with laptops... Later came to find they were picking up an internet connection. Being jealous and forkin' out $65/mo with comcast... I ...
Summary: Had two people arrive at my house with laptops... Later came to find they were picking up an internet connection. Being jealous and forkin' out $65/mo with comcast... I decided to make this simple purchase and push my luck for a connection.
Ordered from newegg.com, arrived promptly. Had it hooked up within a minute... And sure enough it's picking up a signal from some where in my neighborhood!!?!! I'm in the basement as well on a desktop. My signal strength is LOW, but I stream between 1mbps and up to the full 54mbps. Even low speed is as fast as my comcast wired modem, so I'm not complaining.
It did hop signals at first... But I download the firmware update and I was instantly connected at a safe 6mbps-18mbps.
It comes with a 4-5ft USB extension cable... So I ran the wire up behind the desk and far up the wall as possible.
Simple, effective, reliable... And FREE internet.12 out of 13 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Product
by rlhammon on April 20, 2005
Pros: Powerfull TX & RX supports USA 11 Channel & Other 14 Channel
Cons: Perment mount hardware breaks male to female contact.
Summary: I have used linksys PCMCIA cards B & G both connected to the Linksys wireless route with a very low contact acording to Windows XP Pro. The Netgear WG111 connected ...
Summary: I have used linksys PCMCIA cards B & G both connected to the Linksys wireless route with a very low contact acording to Windows XP Pro. The Netgear WG111 connected with a very good contact. All test were made with same laptop from the same location all around. On a 1 to 10 scoring range Linksys ( 2 ) Netgear ( 9 ). Netgear would be getting a 10 if the perment mounting hardware was better and if the unit ran a little cooler. But cooler usally cut down on the TX & RX power, so I preferre hotter.
8 out of 8 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Don't bother if you have Vista...
by ShamaMama414 on March 9, 2007
Pros: This unit works great with XP and I have not had an issue on my two XP Home PCs
Cons: Allthough Netgears own website lists this on their Vista compatible list IT IS NOT.
Summary: I have an entire home/home biz network built on Netgears products and checked out their site to see if purchasing an adaptor for my new PC loaded with Vista ...
Summary: I have an entire home/home biz network built on Netgears products and checked out their site to see if purchasing an adaptor for my new PC loaded with Vista Home Premium would work. It indicated that they had a working driver for the WG111 but it was still considered BETA. I was not happy after buying it and having my new pc crash repeatedly when trying to install driver from them. So I decided to check it out online a bit more which never occured to me to do beforehand because I already had two that I liked and also checked their site for Vista compatibility. There are loads of really upset customers because they are now in the same boat as I am and Netgear will not say when or even IF working drivers will be produced. I will never buy anything from them again. FIrst they should have this issue solved by now Vista has been in circulation for a while now. Second, why couldn't they post HONEST info and say they are not ready and to check back? I could respect that and would have given them another chance in the future.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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my first wireless anything - easy! in use for 3 weeks now
by classic140 on April 23, 2005
Pros: no issues, just plug it in
Cons: couldn't find any
Summary: Bought this adapter to create my first home wireless network device. (MSNTV for my tv)
It is connected on the 1st floor of a 2 story home & have had ...Summary: Bought this adapter to create my first home wireless network device. (MSNTV for my tv)
It is connected on the 1st floor of a 2 story home & have had no issues at all. Even faster than I thought it would be. Since it's in the living room, I have it clipped to a beanie baby as a decoration & no one knows it's there !
Good job Netgear ! Also have Netgear Wireless router.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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easy to use for internet connection
Pros: My Dell Latitude L400 could not use any of the cardbut 802.11g adapters (linksys, netgear, d-link, etc), but with this USB adapter, I was up and running in less than 10 minutes.
Cons: Because Windows XP cannot configure this adapter, you must use Netgear's Smart Wizard for connection to wireless access point. I have not been able to set up home network for file and printer sharing due to this problem. Poor tech support due to outsour
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Rebate is a scam
by genghiskhen on July 7, 2005
Pros: It works well with my TiVo
Cons: The company is running a shady rebate scam
Summary: I purchased a NetGear WGR614 G router and 2 WG111 USB to wireless adapters on March 30 and March 31, 2005. I used them to attach my two TiVos to ...
Summary: I purchased a NetGear WGR614 G router and 2 WG111 USB to wireless adapters on March 30 and March 31, 2005. I used them to attach my two TiVos to my home network. They installed fine and are working great over 3 months later. Obtaining my advertised rebate has been another story.
I meticulously filled out the rebate form following all directions flawlessly. I even wrote my customer information in by hand TWICE on the same form as required by the instructions. The NetGear Promo Center received my rebate form on April 23, 2005 and I was told my $50 check would be mailed in 6-8 weeks. Sometime in May I checked the status of my rebate and it was rejected. I placed a telephone call to the NetGear Promo Center and my rebate was quickly accepted. In June I checked back and the website said my rebate check was mailed on June 1, expect delivery in 20 days. Twenty days? In July I checked back again and my rebate status had reverted back to ?Your rebate is valid. Please allow up to 30 days to receive your rebate.? I again contacted the NetGear Promo Center and complained. I informed them that I expect some sort of compensation for how poorly they have handled my rebate request. They replied by telling me my rebate check will be issued in the next 15 days, but they completely ignored my request for restitution.
I have already earned my $50 through effort and stress. Now it is a matter of principle. I believe that NetGear is purposely denying and stalling my rebate in hopes that I will forget or give up. I would like to file a class action lawsuit against NetGear. If you have sent a rebate to NetGear and not received it or have been given the run around like I have, and you would like to participate in a lawsuit, please contact me. To be clear: no lawsuit has been filed yet but if I can establish a pattern of stall tactics and faulty rejections, I will have one filed. It is time somebody put a stop to these shady rebate deals. I need your help.
NetGearLawsuit@comcast.net
July 7, 20053 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Weak at best...
by infinigral on April 4, 2005
Pros: Small, easy to configure, works on most computers.
Cons: Poor signal quality even when located up away from other objects in between two access points with excellent signal quality.
Summary: I was hoping these USB adapters were going to make my life easier (instead of having to install network cards in desktop computers and have a consistant installation process for ...
Summary: I was hoping these USB adapters were going to make my life easier (instead of having to install network cards in desktop computers and have a consistant installation process for laptops and desktops alike). Tried this out at one of my customer locations and advertised it as a quick fix for relocating a desktop computer without the hassle of re-routing an ethernet cable. No luck. The USB adapter was placed on top of a wall mounted picture frame during my last ditch effort to get a good signal out of it. To set the scenario for it, an access point was located on the floor above, and a second was located on the floor below it (both in close proximity to the computer being tested). The best signal strenght that came out of it was 2 bars, slow data rates, and dropped connections. I am giving them the benefit of the doubt at the moment and I'm going to try another. If I don't write another review then there was no hope. It will probably work fine if you are sitting on top of an access point (although I was having trouble even in that configuration).
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Installs correctly but cannot connect to network...
by linuxhead2 on June 30, 2007
Pros: Looks good runs hot!
Cons: Keeps scanning for network with 70% reception!
Summary: Vista machine installation. Thought the thing was working, it just takes 10 minutes to connect. Look elsewhere. This review is for the:
NETGEAR
Wireless-G
USB 2.0
Adapter WG111v2 #3...Summary: Vista machine installation. Thought the thing was working, it just takes 10 minutes to connect. Look elsewhere. This review is for the:
NETGEAR
Wireless-G
USB 2.0
Adapter WG111v2 #3
54MBPS
2.4 Ghz 802.11g Adapter
Driver: 2/7/2007 6.1283.207.20071 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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I don't think "ugh" covers it
by Shanshu311 on February 13, 2007
Pros: Easy install with small design
Cons: Horrible signal
Summary: This device didn't work well for me. I used it to make my desktop wireless compatible for use with my Linksys router. The install was easy, but the device ...
Summary: This device didn't work well for me. I used it to make my desktop wireless compatible for use with my Linksys router. The install was easy, but the device wouldn't work most of the time.
It would search for a "signal" 75% of the time, and when it finally did work, it would run so slow I felt I had dial-up again and I had time-warped back to 1995.
I thought it was a product flaw, so I tried a new one, with the same results.
Bottom line: This device doesn't work well with desktops who have routers in another room...the signal just won't reach.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: NetGear Inc.
- Part number: WG111
- Description: NETGEAR's 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter enables 54 Mbps wireless Internet access to either your desktop or notebook PC. Its antenna technology delivers greater range so you can move extended distances without losing your connection. Setup is now made quick and easy with a Smart Wizard install assistant. High-level WEP encryption shields your network from wireless eavesdroppers without sacrificing performance. This adapter supports office roaming for notebook PC users for shared broadband Internet access and resources. Gives you untethered mobility at home, the office, the airport, and other public hotspots. NETGEAR's Wireless LAN Manager lets you create profiles that reflect specific WLAN settings for each place you travel. The WG111 simply plugs into the external USB port of your PC, eliminating the need to open up your desktop PC. Gain full mobility with your notebook, or place your desktop anywhere in your home, without the need to use unsightly Ethernet cables. 802.11g standard compliance ensures interoperability with existing 802.11b and 802.11g networks. Setup is now made quick and easy with a new Smart Wizard install assistant. This adapter's compact, pocket-sized design allows it to be easily carried anywhere.
General
- Device Type Network adapter
- Form Factor External
- Width 1.2 in
- Depth 3.7 in
- Height 0.6 in
- Networking Device Type Network adapter
- Weight 1.1 oz
- Interface (Bus) Type Hi-Speed USB
- Form factor External
Networking
- Data Link Protocol IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g
- Connectivity Technology Wireless
- Data Transfer Rate 54 Mbps
- Networking type Network adapter
- Frequency Band 2.4 GHz
- Compliant Standards IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g
- Spread Spectrum Method DSSS, OFDM
- Line Coding Format CCK, BPSK, QPSK, DBPSK, DQPSK, 16 QAM, 64 QAM
Expansion / Connectivity
- Expansion Slots Total (Free) None
- Compatible Slots None
- Connections 1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type A
- Expansion Slot(s) Total (Free) None
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included 1 x USB cable ( External ) - 5 ft
- Encryption Algorithm 40-bit WEP, 64-bit WEP, 128-bit WEP
- Microsoft Certifications Certified for Windows Vista
- Compliant Standards FCC Class B certified
Power
- Power Device None
- Power Supply / Device None
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included Drivers & Utilities
- OS Required Microsoft Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP
- System Requirements Details Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP - Pentium - HD 2 MB
- Peripheral / Interface Devices CD-ROM, USB port
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 140 °F
- Humidity Range Operating 5 - 95%
Cable(s) / Peripheral(s)
- Cable(s) Included 1 USB cable External 5 ft
Expansion / Port(s) Required
- Slot(s) Required None
- Port(s) / Connector(s) Required 1 Hi-Speed USB 4 pin USB Type A
Manufacturer info
- NetGear Inc.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse NetGear Inc. products on Shopper.com
-
- Website: http://www.netgear.com/
- Address:
4500 Great America Pkwy.
Santa Clara, CA 95054 - Phone: 408-907-8000
- Email: support@netgear.com
- Fax: 408-907-8097
