How to Configure D-Link DSL

D-Link is a Taiwan-based manufacturer of computer and networking equipment. It produces connectivity and networking devices, including routers, switches and a large number of wireless (also known as Wi-Fi) units. One of its more popular offerings for the home and home-office segment is its line of DSL modems with a built-in router.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• DSL service
• Ethernet RJ-45 cable

1. 
    
   DSL uses standard phone lines

   Attach the D-Link unit to the phone jack using the included RJ-11 phone cord. If it is missing, damaged or not long enough, simply substitute a standard phone cord. The jack this attaches to is the one that is designated for DSL connectivity.

2. 
    
   DSL modems connect to wall jacks using RJ-11 phone cables.

   Connect the A/C cable to the router and plug into an outlet or power strip. If the router has previously been configured, then reset it by holding in the "Reset" button with a pen for 45 seconds while the router is powered on. However, if the router is new out of the box, then don't bother resetting it and proceed directly to Step 3.

3. 
    
   Web-based configuration pages make it simple to change router settings.

   Attach a computer to one of the numbered ports on the back of the unit, using an Ethernet RJ-45 cable. Launch a Web browser, and enter 192.168.0.1 in the address bar and press the "Return" or "Enter" key. Enter "admin" in the User Name field, and leave the password field blank, and you will be able to configure the D-Link using the Web-based wizard.

4. 
    
   Record your password in a secure location in case you need to reference it in the future.

   Create a new password and enter it in the field when prompted, and record it for future reference. Then select the WAN tab on the configuration page, double-click on the PPPoe link and select "Dynamic PPPoE." This is the setting that most DSL services require.

5. 
    
   Your DSL service will provide you with your user name and password, usually via snail mail.

   Enter your user name and password in the appropriate fields. In most instances, your user name is your primary email address, but some ISPs use only the first part, so check with your provider if your user name is [e-mail] or simply dsluser without the @dslnetwork.com part of the email address. The password field here is case sensitive, so confirm that you have entered it correctly.

6. 
    
   It's a crowded field of wireless networks out there, so make sure you choose the correct network.

   Open the admin page and change the following settings from their defaults to the settings that are pertinent for your situation:
   Time zone: Change this to your current time zone.
   Router name: Give your router a name that differentiates it from any other devices on the network.
   If your D-Link DSL router has wireless capabilities, then change the following:
   Wireless network name: Give your network a name that will allow you to connect to it in the event there are multiple networks within range.
   Wireless security: Give your network a secure password, unless you plan on allowing guests (and whoever else is within range) to have free access.

7. 
    
   You can always reset your router to its factory defaults by using the Reset button on the back of the unit.

   Select "Apply" to save your changes. Connect a computer to the router using an Ethernet RJ-45 cable or wirelessly, and launch a Web page to test your connectivity.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the router's TCP/IP and DHCP settings at the default, which allows any user to connect to the network without tweaking his or her network settings. Give your network a secure password, and keep it recorded in a safe place.
• Changing the settings on the D-Link without hitting "Apply" before closing your browser will mean none of the settings you change have been saved. Forgetting either the wireless network or admin password will most likely mean that you have to reset the router. Use a pen to hold in the "Reset" button on the back of the unit for 45 seconds, while the router is plugged in.

Resources

• D-Link