When you first open that router box, all the different cables and connectors can seem intimidating. Even the instruction manual can be read like a foreign language. Fortunately, you’re not the only one struggling with setting up a wireless router.
We can help guide you through the process of setting up your router and connecting it to your favorite devices so you’ll be online in no time.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Connect the router to the modem
Do not plug the router into a power outlet yet. Instead, the first thing you’ll do is connect the modem to the WAN port using an Ethernet cable.
Step 1: Not sure which WAN port is? Most consumer routers have a group of Ethernet ports, several of which are called LAN (local area network) ports and others called WAN (wide area network) ports.
The WAN port looks the same as the LAN ports, but is often a different color and spaced apart from them. In the photo above, for example, the WAN port is yellow and labeled Internet. Sometimes it will be labeled as WAN. This port is intended to connect your router to the modem and the outside world from it. LAN ports are designed to connect to local devices.
Step 2: Plug one Ethernet cable into your modem and the other end into your router’s WAN port. Next, plug your router’s power adapter into the wall.
If you don’t have a cable, see our guide on how to choose the right Ethernet cable.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Download the app and connect
Give your router a minute to boot up and create a network. In the meantime (if another connection option is available), download the application associated with your modem manufacturer. Today’s modems can usually be set up using a mobile app that will automatically guide you through the setup process. It is the most effective method, but you need to make sure that you choose the right application.
Step 1: Linksys has its own setup and management app, Netgear uses the Nighthawk app, and Google has its own setup app. Instructions on which application to use should be in your manual.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Step 2: Now connect to your latent Wi-Fi network. It’s usually a simple process: go to the settings on your phone or computer and select the Wi-Fi/Network option. Look for your router name here. Your router should have a default SSID name printed on the back of the router, along with a default network key. Use the key to log in to the network. Some routers simply ask you to scan a QR code to complete this process, but if that’s not an option, these steps should be enough.
Step 3: After connecting, launch the router management app to start the setup!
Alternative method: If your router does not have the app, manually connect your computer to the router using an Ethernet cable. Once connected, go to your router’s configuration page. This page is a website located on your router and is the traditional way to configure your router settings. How to find it can vary, but it almost always means typing 192.168.1.1 into the address bar of your preferred browser and then pressing Enter.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Step 4: If you find the page, continue and move to the next step. However, if that address doesn’t work, your router may be using a completely different address. This address may vary depending on your router, so refer to your router’s official documentation if 192.168.1.1 does not work.
Alternatively, you can simply check our list of default router IP addresses and passwords.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Create a username and password or find an existing one
Your router’s app should automatically guide you through the setup process, so answer its questions and fill out the forms as needed. Most new routers will ask you to create an application name (again, this is called an SSID) and a password. Make sure this password is unique and secure because anyone with it can do all sorts of nasty things to your network.
Step 1: WPA2 encryption is currently the standard for security and you should always choose it if you have the option for your security protocol. Make sure you also choose a long password, one that is different from the admin password you set earlier. Ideally, it should not contain dictionary words or a name that is easy to guess (like your pet’s name). After that, store the password in a safe place.
Step 2: The router in use may already have a password and needs to be reset. Most routers have a recessed reset button on the back. Holding the Reset button with a paper clip for at least 30 seconds will do the trick. Leave the power on and wait for the router to rest. It should use the default settings when it reboots, which means your default username and password will now give you access to the settings.
Image used with permission of the copyright holder
Continue setting up your router
The router app should also allow you to set other settings such as parental controls, automatic updates, and more. You can later adjust these settings and more from the app, but pay attention to the instructions and everything it teaches you. You should learn more about guest access, activity tracking, and more. When finished, the application will configure the network settings and complete the network setup. Now you can explore the app at your leisure to learn more.
Some apps, like the Nighthawk app, will also sign you up for free trials of additional security filters. They should not automatically sign you up for payments and will expire naturally after 30 days without any additional charges.
Optional: Setting up mesh routers
An increasing number of routers today are “mesh routers”, such as the Google Wi-Fi router. Mesh routers use a group of Wi-Fi devices that work together – usually two or three. One device plugs into your modem and acts like a traditional router.
Other devices act more like automatic repeaters that connect to the first device and provide a secondary signal source. This functionality can significantly extend the range of the router, allow users to get rid of dead zones and provide full coverage of large houses or properties.
However, this means that you will need to take another step and install secondary devices in your home. Here are some tips to help you set up your network routers the right way:
- Try placing additional routers in open spaces where they can broadcast the network as freely as possible. Remember, you don’t have to be tethered to a modem with these access points! However, the routers will need access to the socket.
- Place additional router points further away, but not too far apart. All routers must work together. Aim for an average of about two rooms away from the source router.
- You can also choose to place router points in important zones in your home. For example, if you have a gaming area where you use Wi-Fi, you should make sure you place one of the satellite models there for maximum effect.
- Many routers offer a mobile app that makes it easy to connect additional routers and access points to your network from your phone or tablet. For example, Google Nest uses QR codes to connect a router or access point. If you fail to connect these additional pieces of hardware to the network, it means that you will miss out on the special features that they offer. Be sure to complete this step for any devices you add.
And you go!
Now that you’ve connected and configured your wireless router plus any additional routers and access points, you can start connecting devices so they can access the Internet—without any ugly wires or cables.
It may be worth exploring the additional options your new network offers now that you have the hardware. Take advantage of advanced features like setting up port forwarding and upgrading your router’s firmware with DD-WRT. You can then access advanced settings that increase the reliability and security of your Wi-Fi network.
Editor’s recommendations
Categories: GAMING
Source: newstars.edu.vn