How to Configure a Public IP Cisco Router

Cisco Systems, which purchased the Linksys brand of routers in 2003, is the default manufacturer of routers for the SOHO market. Available virtually everywhere computer or office equipment is sold, Linksys Cisco routers are renowned for their low price, plug-and-play setup and low maintenance. While there are constant tweaks to the base models as wireless speeds increase, there are new and improved models hitting the store shelves on a regular basis. No matter which model of Linksys router you buy, the basic setup principles are virtually the same.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with either wireless capability or an Ethernet cable

1. 
    
   Free Wi-Fi is an asset

   Connect a computer to the router, either using an Ethernet cable or by connecting wirelessly. To connect wirelessly, you will need to connect to the network named "linksys." Then open your Web browser and enter 192.168.1.1 in the address bar and hit "Enter."

2. 
    
   The initial user name/password prompt

   Put in a user name and password. For new Linksys routers, this is "admin" for both the user name and password.

3. 
    
   The main setup page

   Use the default local IP address and subnet mask that the router supplies (unless your ISP specifies otherwise) and enable the "DHCP Server" option. Set the time zone to your local time and then select "Save Settings."

4. 
    
   Users can log on if they're within range of the network

   Change the name of the network from linksys to something that makes more sense. If you're a commercial establishment that offers free Wi-Fi, then use a name that easily differentiates it from any other Wi-Fi network that is within range. This is accomplished under the Wireless tab.

5. 
    
   Both Macs and Windows machines can easily connect wirelessly

   Click on the "Security" tab and change the user name and password that will allow users to administer the router itself. As mentioned in Step 2, the default is "admin"/"admin." Make the names and passwords secure, as you don't want any users to reconfigure the settings on the router.

6. 
    
   Configuring port forwarding

   Decide what applications and ports you plan on blocking. This can include FTP software, peer-to-peer file sharing programs, email or streaming Internet content. This will prevent the wireless network from becoming bogged down from users downloading large files or streaming content, as well as discourage users from illegally downloading copyrighted content, such as movies, music or bootleg software. The settings for blocking/opening ports are found under the Applications and Gaming tab.

7. Configure any other settings/restrictions. This can include blocking certain websites, setting time restrictions and limiting the number of users who can connect simultaneously.

Tips & Warnings

• You can reset your router to factory defaults by powering it on and holding in the "Reset" button on the back for 30 seconds.
• Keep the router itself located in a secure area to avoid theft and tampering.

Resources

• Linksys by Cisco