If you’ve chosen your wireless router properly, you should be starting with devices that provide simple setup options, such as a mobile app or an online dashboard. Because each wireless router is unique, the setup and configuration of wireless Router will differ from router to router. The following are the essential steps that should be followed when installing a wireless router.
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need.
Make sure your Internet connection is working: The wireless router setup process could be frustrating if you don’t have a good internet connection. The simplest technique is to connect a computer to your Internet service provider’s modem or gateway equipment (ISP). You’re ready to set up the router if your computer detects an Internet connection.
Assemble documentation: Here’s another obvious step that will save you time and stress while you’re setting up. Keep an eye out for stickers or scraps of paper that may include vital setup information, such as the default login and password for the Wireless router.
Look for an app: For both setup and management, many wireless router manufacturers provide mobile apps or an online dashboard. You may not need to connect the wireless router to a computer to configure it if you use a smartphone app. To see if an app is available, look through the documentation that came with your wireless router.
Steps to Setup a Wireless Router:
- Choose a location for the wireless router.
A wireless router should be installed in an open area of the office or home to ensure even coverage. However, because you must connect the wireless router to a broadband gateway from your ISP (Internet service provider), which is normally tied to a cable near an outside wall, it’s not always easy to find a space out in the open.
- Establish an Internet connection
Choose a mesh router or connect the router to a wire.
When connecting a router to an ISP gateway’s Ethernet port, you can use a CAT5e or CAT6 cable to overcome the “long-distance” problem. Another alternative is to run Ethernet cables through your office walls to the router’s chosen central location.
Another alternative is to use a router to create a mesh network. A mesh network allows you to connect several Wi-Fi transmitters to one network in your home or office. Mesh networks, unlike extenders, which may be used with any wireless router, require a router that has this feature built-in.
Examine the LED lights on the router: The LED lights on your Wireless router indicate whether you’ve successfully established an active Internet connection. If you don’t see any lights indicating a connection, double-check that you’ve plugged the cable into the right port.
Use a device to test the connection: Plug a laptop or a desktop computer into one of the device ports on the back of the wireless router to confirm that it has a working connection. If everything goes properly, you should be able to start a wired connection in the same way you confirmed an active Internet connection.
- Connect the gateway to the wireless router.
Turn off the gateway first. If an Ethernet cable is already connected to the gateway’s local-area network (LAN) port, disconnect it and connect it to your router’s WAN port. Restart the gateway and let it a few minutes to boot up. Wait a few minutes after plugging in the router’s power supply and turning it on.
- Use an app or an online dashboard to track your progress.
If the wireless router is manufacturer-supplied, the simplest approach to continue with wireless router configuration is to use a mobile app. Connect the router to a computer through an Ethernet connection if there is no app or if you prefer to use the router’s web-based dashboard.
If the router’s IP address is not printed on the back of the device, type 192.168.1.1, a common router address, into the browser search bar.
- Make a username and password
You’ll need to log in using the default admin name and password to set up the wireless router. This information is usually stated on the wireless router or in a user manual that comes with it.
After that, fill in the relevant information. You should immediately create a new username and password once you’ve logged in. The defaults are usually “admin” and “password1234”, which are plainly insecure, so make sure to alter them as soon as possible.
- Update the firmware on the wireless router.
The firmware or software that controls your wireless router, may need to be updated. Update it as quickly as feasible, as the new firmware may contain bug fixes or additional security features.
Some wireless routers may automatically download fresh firmware, but many do not. You may need to use the app or the browser interface to check for updates.
- Make a password for your wireless network.
Pre-assigned admin usernames and passwords are standard on most wireless routers, as are pre-assigned wireless usernames and passwords. You’ll most likely be requested to update your wireless login and password, but even if you don’t, plan to do it as soon as possible.
- Set up a security system
To protect network and user privacy, several wireless router manufacturers include security features. You may protect yourself from harmful traffic by logging into the web dashboard and enabling additional security measures such as firewalls, web filtering, and access limits. For added anonymity, virtual private networks (VPNs) can be used.
And then you’re on your way!
After you’ve connected and configured your wireless router, as well as any additional wireless routers and access points, you can begin connecting devices to the internet, without the use of unsightly cords or cables.
Given that you already have the hardware, it would be worthwhile to investigate the additional alternatives that your new network provides. With DD-WRT, you can take advantage of expanded.
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SAMMY MWANGI the editor of Autohomegadgets.com. He is an Electronics Technician enthusiast and a Sales Manager in one of the leading ICT companies in Africa. When he is not working, he loves to travel and explore nature. He is a Robot fanatic too.