How to Change Your WEP & SSID
All wireless networks require a network router. Many companies produce these routers, each with its own settings menu that can be accessed through a default IP address assigned to the router. Once you gain access to the router menu, you can change your network settings, including the SSID (service set identifier) and the WEP (wired equivalent privacy) security key. The SSID is your network name, while WEP refers to the network security encryption. Adding a WEP key to your network can help block uninvited computers from using your bandwidth.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Skip to Step 3 if you know your WEP key. Otherwise, connect your computer to the wireless router using an Ethernet cable. There will be a list of numbered ports on the back of the router; pick any of them and plug the end of the Ethernet cable into it.
-
2
Connect the other end of the cable into the Ethernet port on your PC. You will need this to bypass the network security.
-
-
3
Open a web browser and type in your router manufacturer's default IP address. Each manufacturer uses a different one, so check the company website for the IP address you need. It will look something like "http://192.168.1.1" or "http://192.168.1.2", depending on the router.
-
4
Enter the default username and password. Again, check the manufacturer website, as these are different for each company. Often the Admin name will be simply "admin" and the password will also be "admin" (or will just be left blank).
-
5
Navigate to the "Setup" or "Basic Wireless Settings" section of the menu. Here you should find the SSID option. It will most likely be named something like "Wireless Network Name (SSID)". Type a new SSID in the blank to change your network name.
-
6
Navigate to the "Security" or "Wireless Security" section of the menu. Here you should see the WEP options listed. Change the WEP security key by entering a new one in the key field.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit network image by Allyson Ricketts from Fotolia.com
