How do I Install a Wireless Router With a DSL Modem?

Digital Subscriber Line is a common form of broadband internet service with connections made over a standard telephone line. A DSL connection uses a DSL modem to communicate with your Internet Service Provider. The connection from your DSL modem can be split to several wired or wireless devices using a wireless router. Although routers are produced by several different companies, the basic installation procedure is relatively the same.

Things You'll Need

• DSL Modem
• Phone cable
• Wireless router
• 2 Ethernet cables

Instructions

1. Connect the DSL modem to a phone outlet using a standard phone cable. Do not connect the power cable.

2. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the back of your DSL modem. Connect the opposite end to the "Internet" or "WAN" port on your wireless modem.

3. Plug the modem's power cable into an electrical outlet and wait for the modem to establish an Internet connection. Most modems have a light that displays the connection status.

4. Plug the router's power cable into an electrical socket and turn on the device. The "Internet" or "WAN" light turns on when a connection is established with the DSL modem's Internet connection.

5. Connect the second Ethernet cable to one of the numbered ports on the router. Connect the opposite end to the Ethernet port on your computer.

6. Open a Web browser. Enter the web address of your router to access the router settings panel. The default web address will vary based on your router brand, though most use "192.168.1.1," "192.168.0.1" or a similar number. Check your user manual or router website if the common addresses do not work.

7. Enter your router's default username and password. In most cases the username and password are both "admin," but this varies based on router model and brand. Check your user manual or router website if necessary.

8. Locate the Service Set Identifier (SSID) field. Enter a name for your router in this field. The name is used to identify your router when searching for wireless connections.

9. Click "Save" or "Apply" to confirm the changes to your settings.

Tips & Warnings

• The router settings panel includes advanced options including port forwarding, security encryption and connection and error logs, as well as setting any additional parameters required by your internet service provider. 

References

• Velocity Guide: How To Install A Wireless Router To A DSL Modem
• Microsoft: 5 Steps: How to Set Up Your Home Wireless Network