How to Configure a Broadband Router

A wireless broadband router.

A broadband router is a networking device that allows computer users share vital resources, including printers, file servers and Internet connectivity. Though there are standard and wireless models available, wireless models are the most popular, as the price difference between the two types are extremely narrow. Though each different brand (and different models of the same brand) has different features, configuring and installing them is virtually the same.

Instructions

1. 

   Determine if your situation requires a router with wireless capabilities. If there are users with laptops, or if your home or workspace isn't hardwired for networking, then a wireless router is the best bet. No matter which brand or model router you use, the configuration will be pretty much the same, including enabling wireless security.

2. 

   Power down your DSL or cable modem and connect the LAN port on the back of router (it will be labeled Internet, WAN or LAN) with an Ethernet RJ-45 cable. Then power on the modem, wait 45 seconds and power on the router.

3. 

   Connect a computer to one of the open ports on the back of the router using an Ethernet RJ-45 cable. Virtually every router is configured using standard Web browser software (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari or Netscape), so if there is a CD included with the router, don't use it, as it usually installs unnecessary files on your computer.

4. 

   Consult the documentation to find out the default Web address that is used to access the router's main configuration page. Most Linksys models use 192.168.1.1, while Belkin routers require entering 192.168.2.1 in the address bar. The same goes for the password for the router; Linksys uses "admin" for the login name, while Belkin uses a blank field. If you don't have the documentation, visit the website of the manufacturer, and find it by looking under "FAQ," "Support" or by entering "default settings" in the search field.

5. 

   Keep the router's default settings as far as TCP/IP and DHCP goes, so each computer on the network is "plug and play," and doesn't require any configuration of the network settings. Connect each computer to the router using Ethernet RJ-45 cables. If you are planning on enabling wireless connectivity, see Step 6.

6. 

   Open the main configuration page on your router to access the wireless settings. Each model of broadband router has a different page, but they all contain the same functionality. Open the wireless tab and enable security, as hosting an unsecured wireless network is just begging for trouble. Change the wireless network's default name to something that makes sense for your situation, and make sure you save all changes before navigating to another page.

7. 

   Connect wirelessly to the network using a laptop computer. Find your wireless network by pulling down on the "Airport" icon on the top right corner of the screen on a Mac, or by opening "Network Components" and selecting "Network Adapters" in Windows computers.

Tips & Warnings

• If your router has an unknown password or has to be reset, use a pen to hold in the reset button on the back of the unit for 45 seconds, then allow the router to reboot. If there is a power surge, power on the modem, the router and any computers on the network in that order, then wait 45 seconds between each.

• A lost password will require resetting the router to its original factory settings, and also it will be required to be reconfigured. Make your wireless password a nonobvious one and keep it recorded in a safe place.

Resources

• Wi-Fi Alliance
• Belkin
• Linksys by Cisco