How to Connect to Internet Wireless AP Through Ethernet LAN

Wireless routers broadcast network signals to computers without cables.

Adding a wireless access point (AP) to an existing Ethernet LAN will enable you to grow your network exponentially without the high cost of cabling and computer layouts. Having wireless devices on your network will allow users to move around to the most convenient and productive location for them. Ethernet networks are limited by the length of the cable and it's proximity to the network router. The longer the Ethernet cable, the slower the connection to that particular device. Wireless networks also have distance limitations, however, they are three to four times that of cabled networks.

Things You'll Need

• Two Ethernet cables
• Wireless router

Instructions

1. Find an empty Ethernet port on your wired LAN.

2. Plug your spare Ethernet cable into this port.

3. Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into your wireless router. Now your wireless AP has Internet access.

4. Plug a second Ethernet cable into the wireless router. This cable will also be connected to a computer for quick wireless configuration.

5. Browse to "192.168.0.1" or "192.168.1.1" depending on the brand of your router. This will give you access to your router's configuration page.

6. Create an "Admin" password. This password protects the integrity of your router. Other users won't be able to change your settings.

7. Choose "Wireless" from the menu option. Create a password for wireless devices that access the network.

8. Choose a security protocol type--WEP, WPA or WPA2. If your wireless device(s) was manufactured after 2006, choosing WPA2 is your best option.

9. Create a password" and click "Save."

10. Choose the "SSID" field to name your wireless AP. Save changes before disconnecting the Ethernet cable from your computer and wireless router. Leave the Ethernet cable that connects the wireless AP to the Ethernet LAN.

Tips & Warnings

• Locate your wireless AP in a centralized area for your wireless devices.

• If you are using older wireless devices, it is okay to use the WEP or WPA security protocols.

• The "Admin" and "SSID" passwords should be different to avoid users changing the configuration information on your wireless AP.

References

• Microsoft: Secure Wireless Access Point Configuration
• Microsoft: Set up a wireless network