Installing a router is the first step in creating a strong home network. How to choose the right router? After you buy a router, how do you set it up? Follow this guide to get a router with the right configuration for a secure wireless (Wi-Fi) network.
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Method 1 of 3: Router Installation
Step 1. Get a wireless router
There are various factors in determining the best router for you, including distance, interference, transfer speed, and security.
- One of the most important factors to consider when buying a router is the distance between the router and the wirelessly connected device. More expensive routers generally have more antennas, thus creating a more stable connection for longer distances.
- Another factor to consider is the amount of signal interference. Some devices operating in the 2.4 GHz band such as microwaves and cordless phones can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal. Newer routers can operate in the 5 GHz band, which is much more spacious and therefore less susceptible to interference. The downside is that the 5 GHz signal doesn't transmit as far as 2.4 GHz.
- Transfer speed is another factor to consider. The new router claims to be capable of transferring data up to 450 Mbps. While this is helpful when you are moving data between two computers over a network, the internet speed will generally not increase, as this is already set by your ISP. There are three main router speeds available: 802.11g (54 Mbps) 802.11n (300 Mbps), and 802.11ac (450 Mbps). It is important to note that this speed is almost impossible to achieve except in a clean room free of signal interference.
- Finally, make sure that the router you buy has the latest form of wireless encryption, namely WPA2. This shape is pretty standard for new routers, but it's worth considering if you're buying an older or used router. Older encryption algorithms were much less secure; WEP keys can be hacked in just a few minutes.
Step 2. Connect the router to your modem
After purchasing a router, you must connect it to the modem. This router has ports on the back labeled WAN/WLAN/Internet. Connect this port to the modem using a standard Ethernet cable.
Make sure that the router has the proper power and can turn on
Step 3. Connect the router to a computer via an Ethernet cable
This step is not always necessary but can be very useful for setting up the wireless router before connecting to the wireless device. Connecting a computer via a physical cable is effective for changing wireless settings without losing connection to the router.
For optimal efficiency when setting up your router, plug it into your computer while you adjust settings. Once you have finished configuring your router, you can move it to where it will be installed
Method 2 of 3: Configuring the Router
Step 1. Install the router software
Not every router comes with software, but if yours does, attach it to a computer that is connected to the router via an Ethernet cable. Using the bundled software makes setting up the router much more convenient than having to open the configuration menu.
- In the software, specify the name of the wireless network and the type of security you want to use. Choose WPA2 for the most secure network. Choose a password and continue.
- Most software can automatically detect internet settings. This is the information required by the router to translate and transfer the internet connection to all connected devices wirelessly.
Step 2. Go to the router configuration page
If your router does not have installation software, you will need to open the router configuration page through a web browser. Open your browser of choice and enter the router's web address. The address is usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Read the documentation that came with the router for the exact address.
You will be asked to enter your username and password to continue configuring the router. This information is also provided in the router documentation. By default, username: admin and password: password or admin. You can find specific router sign-in information at PortFoward.com
Step 3. Enter the Internet connection information
This information includes the IP address and DNS information of the internet service provider. Most routers will automatically fill this field. If not, contact your ISP to ask what information to enter.
Step 4. Adjust the Wireless settings
Most routers display the Wireless settings section above the router menu. From this section you can enable or disable the wireless signal, change the network name, and set up encryption.
- To set the network name, select the SSID field. This is the name that will be displayed on the device to detect the network. If you live in an area with a lot of general traffic, avoid entering any identity in the SSID, as anyone with a wireless device can see it.
- Make sure to set the encryption to the latest version of the router. Usually the type of encryption used is WPA2. WPA2 operates with a single password. You can enter any password. Strong passwords contain upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.
Step 5. Apply settings
Make sure you click the Apply or Save Changes button in the router configuration after you are done changing the settings. The router will process it for a moment, and the new settings will take effect.
Step 6. Place the router
For the best signal, place the router in a central location. Note that any obstacles such as walls and doors will degrade the signal. If there are multiple floors, you can use multiple routers to ensure all floors are covered.
Remember that the router must be physically connected to the modem. The options for locating the router may be limited
Method 3 of 3: Connecting to a Router
Step 1. Connect the device to the network
After the router broadcasts a wireless signal, you can test its connection by scanning for wireless networks using a Wi-Fi device, such as another computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.
Scan for new networks. On Windows, click the network icon in the System Tray in the lower-right corner of the desktop. Select Connect to a Network and look for the SSID. On a Mac, click the AirPort icon in the menu bar that looks like 3 curved lines. Select your SSID from the list of available networks
Step 2. Enter the password
If you enable WPA2 encryption, you must enter a password to connect to the network. If you are using a personal computer, you can disable hidden characters so that it is easier for you to type your password.
Step 3. Test the connection
Once connected to the network, wait for your IP address to be assigned. Open a web browser and try to open a website you don't normally visit (this is to make sure you don't load the site from memory).
