How to Connect a Wireless Laptop to a Qwest Router

All modern laptops contain wireless Internet cards. Usually, they are internal devices, but you can use an external USB wireless card. In addition, laptops will typically have an Ethernet port. A Qwest router is available with Ethernet, USB and some wireless connectivity. If your specific router has an antenna and a "Wireless" indicator light, then you can use wireless Internet. Connecting a wireless laptop to a Qwest router will allow you to use the Internet outside your home within range of the modem as well as inside in any room. This gives you the freedom to use the laptop without the need for cables or cords.

Instructions

Qwest Router Setup

1. Plug in the Ethernet cord. This cable is like an oversized phone cord. Insert one end into the Ethernet port on the Qwest router and plug the other end into your laptop Ethernet port. You need a connection to the router before you can turn on the wireless.

2. Open an Internet browser. Enter the IP address "192.168.0.1" and press the "Enter" button. Select the "Setup/Configuration" link. Click the "Advanced Setup" on the left side.

3. Select the "Begin Advanced Setup" button. In the left side options, click "Wireless Settings."

4. Press the "On" circle option next to "Wireless." Under the "Security" tab, select "WEP." Press the "Next" button.

5. Insert a 10 character "Key" in the first box. This must be a combination of numbers as well as letters. You can use the default settings and click the "Next" tab. Remember the key for later use.

6. Press the "Save and Restart" link in the left column. Wait approximately 10 minutes while the Qwest router reboots.

Windows

1. Click on the "Start Menu" icon. Select the "Control Panel" option. In Windows XP, select "Network Connections," then "Wireless Network Connections." With Windows Vista, click on "Network and Sharing Center."

2. Connect to an available network. In XP, select the "Refresh Network List" link. The Qwest network will appear in the main window. With Vista, press the "Connect to a Network" tab on the left. Select the two arrows in the main window to refresh the available network list. Enter the "Key" if applicable.

3. Select the Qwest router connection. Typically, this network is "Actiontec." Press the "Connect" button for both Windows operating systems. Restart Windows.

Mac OS

1. Press the "Apple" menu button. Select "System Preference" button, then click the "Network" tab.

2. Turn on the Apple Airport wireless device. Select this option above the "TCP/IP" button. Click on the "SSID" option in the "Airport" configuration menu.

3. Enter the "Key" in the "Password" box. Add "0x" (Zero x) before inserting the "Key." The setup is complete.

References

• Qwest FAQs
• OS Wireless Setup