How to Configure the Linksys WRT54

Straight out of the box, you can plug in a Linksys WRT54 wireless router and have full functionality. However, you may wish to configure certain settings to make your wireless network more personalized or more secure. Linksys routers are configured using a web-based interface accessible through any common web browser. Configuration is fairly straightforward and user-friendly.

Instructions

1. Launch your web browser of choice, and navigate to your Linksys WRT54 router. The default address to access these routers is http://192.168.1.1/. Type the address into your browser's address bar and you should see the configuration page appear. By default you will be on the Basic Setup screen.

2. Change the name of the router if you wish. By default they are named "linksys" or "WRT54G". You can make the name whatever you wish. If you have multiple routers, it is a good idea to number them, such as "Router1", "Router2", etc.

3. Click on "Wireless Settings" to access the wireless configuration page. On the basic setup screen, you can change the SSID. This is the name that is broadcast out, and the name you will see when searching for wireless signals on your computer. You can make this name whatever you wish. Then click on the "Security" sub-tab. Here you can choose to enable wireless security, which means only those people to whom you supply a pass key or pass phrase will be able to use your wireless network.

4. Click on "Security" now near the top of the screen, beside "Wireless". Here you will be able to choose a password for the router itself. This will prevent anyone else from changing your router configuration without your knowledge.