NETGEAR Powerline 500 + N300 WiFi and 1 Port Starter Kit (XWNB5201) Instruction Manual

Introduction

The NETGEAR Powerline 500 + N300 WiFi and 1 Port Starter Kit (XWNB5201) is designed to extend your home network's internet connection using your existing electrical wiring. This kit allows you to create a high-speed WiFi N access point at any power outlet, providing reliable internet access for tablets, smartphones, laptops, and other devices across walls and floors. It's ideal for enhancing connectivity in areas where Wi-Fi signals are weak or unreliable.

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Powerline kit, ensuring optimal performance and a seamless networking experience.

Package Contents

The NETGEAR Powerline 500 + N300 WiFi and 1 Port Starter Kit (XWNB5201) includes the following items:

• One (1) Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point (XWN5001)
• One (1) Powerline 500 Nano (XAV5201)
• Two (2) 2 m (6.5 ft) Ethernet cables
• CD and documentation

Setup Instructions

Setting up your NETGEAR Powerline kit is a simple plug-and-play process. No complex configuration or software installation is typically required.

Initial Connection

1. Connect the Powerline 500 Nano (XAV5201) to your Router:

   Plug the Powerline 500 Nano adapter into a power outlet near your internet router or gateway. Use one of the provided Ethernet cables to connect the adapter's Ethernet port to an available LAN port on your router.

   

   Image: The Powerline 500 Nano adapter (XAV5201) plugged into a wall outlet, with an Ethernet cable connecting it to the router. The LED indicators are lit, showing power and network activity.

2. Connect the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point (XWN5001):

   Plug the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point into a power outlet in the area where you need extended Wi-Fi coverage. Ensure it's in the same electrical circuit as the Nano adapter for optimal performance.

   

   Image: The Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point (XWN5001) showing its front face with LED indicators for power, Powerline connection, and Wi-Fi status.
3. Verify Connection:

   Once both adapters are plugged in, the Powerline LED on both units should light up, indicating a successful connection. The WiFi LED on the Access Point should also be lit.

Securing Your Network (Push-and-Secure)

To secure your Powerline network connection and prevent unauthorized access, use the Push-and-Secure button:

1. Press the Push-and-Secure button on one Powerline adapter for 2 seconds.
2. Within 2 minutes, press the Push-and-Secure button on the other Powerline adapter for 2 seconds.
3. The Powerline LED on both adapters will blink during the pairing process and then turn solid green when a secure connection is established.

Automatic Wireless Setup (WPS)

For quick and secure wireless network connection with any client (WPS-enabled devices):

1. Press the Push 'N' Connect button (WPS button) on the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point.
2. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your wireless device (e.g., laptop, smartphone).
3. Your device will automatically connect to the extended Wi-Fi network.

Operating Your Powerline Kit

The NETGEAR Powerline kit operates by transmitting network data over your home's electrical wiring. This provides a stable and fast connection without the need for new network cables.

LED Indicators

• Power LED: Indicates the power status of the adapter.
• Powerline LED: Indicates the status of the Powerline connection. A solid light means a good connection.
• WiFi LED (on Access Point): Indicates the status of the Wi-Fi network broadcast.
• Pick-a-Plug LED: This LED indicates the connection strength at any electrical outlet, helping you choose the best outlet for optimal Powerline performance.

Connecting Devices

• Wired Devices: Use an Ethernet cable to connect devices like gaming consoles, Smart TVs, or desktop PCs directly to the Ethernet port on the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point (XWN5001) or the Powerline 500 Nano (XAV5201).
• Wireless Devices: Connect Wi-Fi enabled devices (tablets, smartphones, laptops) to the Wi-Fi network broadcast by the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point. The network name (SSID) and password can be found on the product label or configured via the NETGEAR Genie utility.

Key Features

• Extend WiFi Access: Extends Wi-Fi coverage to any part of your home using powerline technology, overcoming walls and floors.
• Pick-A-Plug LED Indicator: Provides an at-a-glance indication of which electrical outlet performs best for Powerline connectivity.
• Plug-and-Play Setup: Sets up in minutes without the need to configure or install software.
• Convenient Mini-Design: Compact and elegant design that blends in nicely with any surrounding.
• Secure Connection: Secures the Powerline network connection with the touch of a button, eliminating the need to remember passwords.
• Energy-Saving: Automatically powers down when not connected or not in use, contributing to energy efficiency.
• Universal Compatibility: Works with any Homeplug AV adapter.
• Ethernet Port: Extra Ethernet port for optimum wired connection for devices like gaming consoles or Smart TVs.

Technical Specifications

System Requirements

To use the NETGEAR Powerline 500 + N300 WiFi and 1 Port Starter Kit (XWNB5201), ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• RJ-45 Ethernet Port to connect via Ethernet cable.
• 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n Wireless interface to connect wirelessly to XWN5001.
• Microsoft Windows 7, Vista, XP or Mac OS X to install software utility (optional, for advanced configuration).

Compatible Powerline Products

This kit is compatible with other HomePlug AV adapters, including:

• Powerline 100 Mini (XAVB1201)
• Powerline 200 Mini (XAVB1301)
• Powerline 200 Nano PassThru (XAVB1601)
• Powerline 200 Nano (XAVB2101)
• Universal WiFi Range Extender – Powerline Edition (XAVNB2001)
• Powerline 500 Nano (XAVB5101)
• Add Powerline 500 Adapter (XAVB5201)
• Powerline 500 PassThru 2-port (XAVB5602)
• Powerline Music Extender (XAUB2511)

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Powerline kit, consider the following:

• No Powerline Connection: Ensure both adapters are plugged directly into wall outlets, not power strips or surge protectors. Check the Powerline LED status. If it's off or blinking, try a different outlet.
• Weak Signal: Use the Pick-a-Plug LED to find a better electrical outlet for the Powerline 500 WiFi Access Point. A green light indicates the best connection.
• Wi-Fi Issues: Verify the WiFi LED on the Access Point is lit. If not, ensure the Wi-Fi function is enabled (check via NETGEAR Genie utility if applicable). Try resetting the Access Point.
• Slow Speeds: Ensure your internet service provider (ISP) plan offers sufficient speed. Powerline performance can be affected by electrical interference or the quality of your home's electrical wiring.
• Resetting Adapters: If issues persist, perform a factory reset on the adapters. Refer to the included documentation for specific instructions on how to perform a factory reset.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your NETGEAR Powerline kit:

• Placement: Plug adapters directly into wall outlets. Avoid power strips, surge protectors, or extension cords, as these can interfere with Powerline signal quality.
• Cleaning: Keep the devices clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Energy Saving: The devices feature automatic power down when not connected or not in use, contributing to energy efficiency. No specific user action is required for this feature.

Official Product Videos

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance with your NETGEAR Powerline 500 + N300 WiFi and 1 Port Starter Kit (XWNB5201), please visit the official NETGEAR support website or contact their customer service. Refer to the documentation included in your package for specific warranty terms and contact details.

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