Easy Setup for Routers

Set up a wireless router quickly.

Few computer owners have the time or desire to learn the fundamentals of wireless networking. However, many own notebook computers and want to connect to the Internet wirelessly. To make the setup process as simple as possible, many routers include software that configures your network automatically. Routers also have Web-based setup screens that you can access through a browser. Rather than hiring someone to configure your wireless network, use the tools included with your router to complete the setup process with minimum effort.

Physical Connection

A router requires at least two cables: a power cable connecting it to a wall outlet and an Ethernet cable connecting it to a broadband modem. A router has a dedicated Ethernet port for a broadband modem. This port has a label such as "Internet" or "WAN." A router may also have additional Ethernet ports for computers. When you connect a computer to one of the router's Ethernet ports, it should connect to the Internet automatically. Further configuration isn't necessary.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup

Your router may include a software disc that sets your network up automatically. This allows you to connect all of your computers to the router by inserting the disc and following the on-screen prompts that appear. This process uses a technology called Wi-Fi Protected Setup. To complete the setup process, you may need to type a PIN number affixed to the bottom of the router or connect a USB storage device to the router and computer.

Web-Based Setup

A router gives you the ability to connect via a Web browser and access its functions. You can connect to your router's Web-based interface by opening a browser and typing the router's IP address. A typical IP address for a wireless router is "192.168.0.1." Refer to the router manual for the appropriate IP address. Your browser subsequently displays a login prompt. The default login credentials for a wireless router vary by manufacturer; refer to the router's instruction manual to learn the user name and password. After logging in, you can change the router's settings by clicking links as you would on a typical Web page.

Printers

Many printers with Internal wireless adapters support Wi-Fi Protected Setup, or WPS. Typically, a printer with WPS support has a button that you can press to begin the setup process. You can then press the WPS button on the router to add the printer to your network automatically. If the printer lacks a WPS button, you can complete the setup process by enabling WPS on the printer and entering the PIN number that appears on the bottom of the router.

References

• Cisco: Linksys E-Series Routers User Guide
• Netgear: N600 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router WNDR3700 Setup Manual
• Belkin: Surf N300 Wireless N Router User Manual