Setting up a wireless network is quite easy if you follow the step by step instructions that come with the router. We’ll take you through the process of preparing for and setting up a wireless network in your home.

Step 1

The first thing you need to do is to go out and buy your equipment. You can do this at a store near you or you can do it online. You’ll find when you are shopping that these come in three different types – 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g. If you want one that is compatible with all the wireless networking technologies, you should choose the 802.11g.

Step 2

The wireless router is the device that converts the signal from the Internet connection so that any computer or laptop can wirelessly connect to it. There are many brands available and you’ll find the most popular ones below. Most of the newer computers and laptops come with networking capabilities in which case you will only need a router. In some cases though, you will also need a network adapter. Please make sure the wireless network adapter and the wireless router that you buy are the same brand – this way, you are sure that there won’t be any compatibility problems when you attach them. The network adapter is the device that connects your wireless router to your computer and it comes with instructions on how to connect it.

Step 3

Disconnect your modem from the computer. You need to unplug the modem cable from the back of your computer. So while the modem is connected to the Internet, it is not connected to your computer. Once you’ve done this, connect your modem to your router. So the modem network cable now goes into the port at the back of the router which says ‘Internet’. Please note that in some routers, this could also be labeled WAN or WLAN. Make sure the router is connected to a power source.

Step 4

The router comes with a cable. Plug this into an open network port at the back of the router (one that does not say Internet, WAN or WLAN) and connect the other end to your computer (the same port that the modem cable was connected to, called the Ethernet port.)

Step 5

Switch on your computer and go to Internet Explorer and type in the address that is given below, depending on your brand of router. Each one has its own default username and password so you’ll have to fill that in. The ones for the main brands are given below.

(If your Ethernet connection is not enabled, you may need to go to your Control Panel in Windows>View available Options>Double Click on LAN connection).

Step 6

Think of a unique SSID or in simple language, the network name for your wireless. Make sure it has nothing to do with any of your names. Think of an uncommon password as well. Remember that if you are not password-protected, any Tom, Dick or Harry passing by can connect to the Internet through your signal if he is within range. You should also check to see that you are WEP or WPA protected.

Step 7

Now connect the other computers or laptops. When you switch them on, if they have a wireless card installed in them, they will pick up the signal (you’ll see the name of your network) and will prompt you for the Password. Once you enter it, you’re connected!

Note: Some wireless routers come with slightly different instructions so it would be advisable to follow their instructions when you set it up.

Online Router Configuration:

If you don’t know how to alter your router settings, then the links below may help you. First, identify the manufacturer of your router. There will be a logo somewhere on it to indicate who makes it.

Next, open up your internet browser (such as Firefox or Internet Explorer) and, depending on the router, go to the link below. So, if your router for example is made my netgear, go to http://192.168.0.1 (note: no “www”) and type “admin” for the username and “admin” for the password. If this doesn’t work, another standard default password is “password” (imaginative, huh?). Another alternative username is “Administrator” or even “username”. Give all these combinations a try. If you still can’t log in, contact your internet service provider or the manufacturer of your router.

Linksys

For Linksys, go to http://192.168.1.1. Their username – admin and so is their password.

D-Link

For D-Link, go to http://192.168.0.1.Their username – admin.

Netgear

For Netgear, go to http://192.168.0.1 . Their username – admin and so is their password.

3Com

For 3Com, go to http://192.168.1.1. Their username – admin and so is their password.