Wireless Router Installation Problems
When the installation of a wireless router fails, many people assume that the router or other hardware in their system is bad. However, problems with installing wireless routers are often caused by human error. They may also be caused by a software problem or a hardware conflict. Whatever the cause of the problem, it's probably easier to solve than you think.
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The Facts
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There are many things that can go wrong when installing a wireless router. For example, your host computer or the other computers in your network may fail to connect to the Internet. Also, the computers may connect to the Internet, but file and printer sharing may be disabled. There are a number of different possible causes you may need to troubleshoot. Also, many wireless routers require that you install software drivers to function. If these drivers have become corrupted, you must reinstall them.
Function
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A wireless router is essential equipment for creating a wireless local area network (LAN). However, if you set it up with your other equipment improperly, the entire network will fail to function. Also, setting up a LAN with a wireless router requires that the other computers in your network have a wireless access point. Many newer model computers come with a wireless network interface card (NIC) already installed. However, if your other computers are more than five years old, especially if they're desktop computers, you will probably have to install a wireless card or adapter.
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Ethernet Cable Connection
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Disconnect the Ethernet cable that runs from your modem to the Ethernet port on the back of the host computer. Connect the cable between the modem and the port on the back of the router marked "Internet."
Router Settings
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Many wireless routers must be programmed with your Internet username and password to connect to the Internet. If the password that's stored in the router is incorrect, this will disable your Internet connection. Other wireless router settings, such as your firewall settings, permissions and port forwarding can cause the router to stop working if set improperly. Since the right settings for your router depend on the model and your network setup, you must consult the router's documentation to correct them. If you've lost your user manual, you can probably download it from the manufacturer's website.
Prevention/Solution
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Every router has an IP address. You can find this address by checking your router's documentation or visiting the manufacturer's website. On the host computer, type the IP address in a web browser window and press "Enter" to open your wireless router's firmware. Typically there is a tab marked "Setup" where you can change your Internet username and password. Navigate the firmware to alter the wireless router's other settings to see if the changes solve the problem. If the changes don't work, turn off your broadband modem and disconnect the wireless router from the power. Wait at least 30 seconds, then turn the modem back on. Wait another minute, and plug the router back in. You can also reset the settings on many routers by pushing a pen in a depressed button on the back and holding it for about 30 seconds. Also, try adjusting the antenna and removing any obstacles that might be blocking the signal.
Tips
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It may be easiest to adjust your router's settings by adding an Ethernet cable from the router to the host computer, at least temporarily as you adjust the settings.
If you own a Linksys router, your settings can be accessed by opening a browser window, entering the URL http://192.168.1.1/, and pressing "Enter."
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