Connecting Two PCs With a Router

Networking PCs with current systems is generally not a problem. Much of the process is automated and can be done from the manufacturer’s installation CD or downloadable software. The physical steps to establish connections are shown below.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Make sure power is off on the PCs, the router and a cable or DSL modem. If installing a new router, wait to connect its power until you finish the next three steps.

2. 
   Ethernet Connection on Back of PC

   Connect one end of an Ethernet Category Five or Category Six cable to one of the PC’s Ethernet network adapter on the back of the PC. This will work for a wired router.

3. 
   Router with Cables Connected

   Connect the other end to one of the router’s Ethernet ports.

4. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the second PC.

5. Connect the router power adapter to the router and plug the other end into an outlet. Power on both the router and the PCs.

6. Ensure both PCs are configured to get an IP address automatically from the router. If not, do this through the "Properties" connection in the Network folder on each PC.

7. Follow Step 1 for a wireless router. It may be easier to run the router’s setup CD or express wizard software, which is generally available for newer routers. Linksys, for example, has a downloadable EasyLink Advisor program that walks the user through the process (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Fine-tuning the setup once the basic connection is established is easiest to do through the router’s Web access. Just type http://192.168.1.1, the router’s default IP address, into a Web browser to open the configuration screen.
• For security, change the router’s default login password.
• With wireless routers, change the default name of the wireless connection on each PC and ensure that the highest possible encryption method is being used.
• To connect both PCs to the Internet through the router, use either an Ethernet cable from the router to the Internet modem or a USB cable if this is the way the modem works. The Ethernet connection on a wired router is usually the furthest from the power connection and may be labeled “WAN” (Wide Area Network).
• Most routers will have an Uplink port as well that will allow more devices such as a hub or switch to be added.
• To avoid possible electrical damage to equipment, shut down power before connecting or disconnecting cables.
• Plug the router into a power strip with surge protection. PCs should either have surge protection as well.

Resources

• How Routers Work
• EasyLink Advisor