subject: Wireless Router Setup [print this page] You can use a wireless network to surf the web while you're sitting on your couch or in your yard. Plus, it's easier to install than you think.
This article explains how to set up a wireless router or Wi-Fi router for home computer networks. The exact names of configuration settings on a network router vary depending on the model and whether it is wired or wireless. However, this general procedure will guide you through the process for the common kinds of home network equipment.
First you need to choose a convenient location to begin installing your router. This does not need to be the permanent location of the device. At the beginning, its better to choose a location where it's easiest to work with the router and worry about final placement later.
1. Choose your wireless equipment
The first step is to make sure that you have the equipment you need.
Youll need:
Broadband Internet connection
Wireless router
A computer with built-in Wi-Fi networking support or a wireless network adapter
A Wireless router converts the signals coming across your Internet connection into a wireless broadcast. Make sure you have a wireless router, and not a wireless access point.
Wireless Network adapters wirelessly connect your computer to your wireless router. Make sure that you have one adapter for every computer on your network.
2. Connect your wireless router
During setup you'll be temporarily disconnected from the Internet.
First, locate your cable modem or DSL modem and unplug it to turn it off.
Then, connect your wireless router to your modem. Your modem should stay connected directly to the Internet. Later, after you've connected everything, your computer will wirelessly connect to your router, and the router will send communications through your modem to the Internet.
Next, connect your router to your modem:
The ports on your router may be labelled differently, so check the documentation that came with your equipment for additional assistance.
If currently your computer is connected directly to your modem: Unplug the network cable from the back of your computer, and plug it into the port labelled Internet, WAN, or WLAN on the back of your router.
If currently you do not have a computer connected to the Internet: Plug one end of a network cable (included with your router) into your modem, and plug the other end of the network cable into the Internet, WAN, or WLAN port on your wireless router.
In case if currently your computer is connected to a router: Unplug the network cable connected to the Internet, WAN, or WLAN port from your current router, and plug this end of the cable into the Internet, WAN, or WLAN port on your wireless router. Then, unplug any other network cables, and plug them into the available ports on your wireless router. You no longer need your original router, because your new wireless router replaces it.
Now, plug in and turn on your cable or DSL modem. Wait for a few minutes to give it time to connect to the Internet, and then plug in and turn on your wireless router. After a minute, the Internet, WAN, or WLAN light on your wireless router should lit, indicating that it has successfully connected to your modem.
3. Configure your wireless router
Using the network cable that came with your wireless router, you should temporarily connect your computer to one of the open network ports on your wireless router (any port that isn't labelled Internet, WAN, or WLAN). If you need to, turn your computer on. It should automatically connect to your router.
Next, open Internet Explorer and type in the address of the router to configure it.
You might be prompted for a password and also the address and password you use will vary depending on what type of router you have.
Internet Explorer will show your router's configuration page. Most of the default settings should be fine, but you should configure three things:
Your wireless network name, known as the SSID. This name identifies your network. You should choose something unique that none of your neighbours will be using.
Wireless encryption (WEP) or Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), which help protect your wireless network. For most routers, you will provide a passphrase that your router uses to generate several keys. Make sure your passphrase is unique and long (you don't need to memorize it).
Your administrative password, which controls your wireless network. Just like any other password, it should not be a word that you can find in the dictionary, and it should be a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Be sure you can remember this password, because you'll need it if you ever have to change your router's settings.
After each configuration setting, be sure to click Save Settings, Apply, or OK to save your changes.
Now, you should disconnect the network cable from your computer.
4. Connect your computers to the wireless network
You can connect multiple computers, printers, and many other peripheral devices, such as an Xbox 360, PS3, cell phone, iPod touch, or iPad, to your network. Before you connect them to your network, make sure that the computer or device you want to add.
A specialized wireless network support group can deal with difficult wireless network issues and security settings and save a lot of time, money and efforts. They will also help you with wireless router troubleshooting and assist in wireless router installation. Engaging an IT support provider allows for pre-empting of critical issues as well as giving the quick fix solutions for faster internet speeds. Rather than struggling with complicated wireless and network issues, talk to a network support group and seek browse the internet worry free.
