Things You'll Need:
- Linksys router
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Step 1
Set up your Linksys router by connecting it to an electrical outlet, Internet modem and your computer. Follow the instruction manual for your specific router to properly set up your router and network.
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Step 2
Go to the Linksys router configuration page (see Resources) using a web browser on the computer connected to the router. Leave the "User Name" field blank and type in "admin" for the password to gain access to the configuration page.
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Step 3
Click on the black "Wireless" tab and select "Wireless Security." The "Security Mode" drop-down menu will display the available encryption methods. The main encryption methods are Wired Equivalent Privacy (WPA) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). While WPA is a newer and more secure form of encryption; older devices may not be compatible with this encryption method. Select your preferred encryption method to continue.
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Step 4
Select WEP from the drop-down menu to encrypt your network through Wired Equivalent Privacy. Choose a unique pass-phrase and type it in the appropriate field. After you type in a pass-phrase, click the "Generate" button to create four unique 10- or 26-character keys that can be used to access your network. Select the length of the key by choosing "64 bit 10 hex digits" for a 10-character key or "128-bit 26 hex digits" for a 26-character key. Select the key you plan to use by choosing 1, 2, 3 or 4 under the "Default Transmit Key" field. Write down your pass-phrase and encryption key to access the Internet. Store this information in a secure place.
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Step 5
Select WPA or WPA2 from the drop-down menu to encrypt your network through Wi-Fi Protected Access encryption. Enter a pass-phrase into the appropriate field and choose an encryption algorithm from the drop-down menu. TKIP encryption is usually associated with WPA while AES encryption is used for WPA2. With WPA or WPA2 encryption, the password you enter is the password you use to access your network. The router automatically generates uniquely encrypted keys for all data transmitted. Write down your pass-phrase for future reference and keep it in a safe place.
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Step 6
Click "Save Settings" to confirm your network's encryption. Click "Continue" on the following screen to be redirected back to the Linksys router configuration page. It is not necessary to log out of the system; you can simply close to window to exit the configuration menu.
