How to Install a Router to Use With Optimum Online

Routers give Internet access to multiple devices.

Many households today have more than one piece of equipment that uses an Internet connection. Televisions, gaming systems, laptops and desktops can all benefit from high-speed Internet. Cablevision's Optimum Online provides an Internet connection through your cable line directly to a modem. Unfortunately, a cable modem can only service one piece of equipment at a time. Your router will take your high-speed Internet and share it equally with multiple devices. Setting up a router isn't as difficult as it may seem.

Things You'll Need

• Cable modem
• Router
• Ethernet cords (1 for each device connecting to the Internet)

Instructions

1. Turn off your computer completely. For Windows users, click on "Start" and choose "Turn Off Computer." For Mac users, click on the Apple in the top left and choose "Shut Down." Be sure that your computer is completely off and not just in stand-by mode.

2. Unplug your Optimum Online cable modem from the electrical outlet. The power must be fully disconnected; simply using an "On/Off" button will not guarantee the same results.

3. Unplug the Ethernet cord, which looks like a large phone cord, from the back of your computer. The other end will remain plugged into your cable modem.

4. Connect the electrical supply for the router. Most routers have adapters with the small connection going into the back of the router and the opposite end plugging into the outlet. When connecting electrical devices, it is best to use a surge protector.

5. Insert the end of the Ethernet cord that was just unplugged from your computer (and still attached to the modem) into the port on the back of the router labeled "Internet" or "WAN." This is separate from the other three or four connections for Ethernet cables, which have labels by number or "LAN."

6. Plug a second Ethernet cord (usually included with the router) into the back of the router in one of the three or four Ethernet ports grouped together. It doesn't matter what number is used. Make sure to click it fully into place.

7. Connect the opposite end of the cord you just connected to the router (in the numbered port) to the Ethernet port in your computer.

8. Turn on the devices in this order, waiting at least 30 seconds between each: modem, router and computer. Waiting gives the device time to power on and establish a connection fully and for the lights to stabilize.

Tips & Warnings

• Complete the wireless device setup after your first wired connection is established. Consult your router owner's manual for additional connection assistance.

• Optimum Online does not provide technical support for your router. You will need to contact your router's manufacturer.

References

• Optimum Online: About Us
• Optimum Online: Customer Support, Connecting Multiple Computers

Resources

• LinksysByCisco: Routers
• Netgear: Routers and Gateways
• D-Link: Home Networking Routers