Having a wireless router makes using the internet a lot more convenient. With a wireless network, you can share files from one computer to another, use your laptop anywhere in the house or office, and much more. All you have to do is set it up. If you have never set up a router before, you may be surprised at how straightforward the process is. Before you start, it is important to realize that it may take about an hour or so to go through the whole installation process, so plan accordingly. Most of the time, routers come with a step by step setup guide. By reading this overview of the setup process, you will be prepared to set up most common types of home networking equipment.
Setup Software or Manual Installation
Many routers come with and installation software cd. If you plan to use the installation disc, you should begin by putting the cd into your computer. Don't plug the router in or turn it on until the step by step guide prompts you to do so. The installation cd is one of the easiest ways to set up your router, especially if you don't consider yourself to be very tech savvy. Sometimes people prefer to install routers manually. This may also be necessary if the router did not come with installation software.
Choose your Location
Start by setting your router in an accessible location. By placing your router on a table or open floor space, it is a lot easier to work with the router. Once you have finished setting it up, you can move the router to a new location. It is important that you have access to a power source, a computer, and the internet modem. Begin by connecting your router to the modem and then plugging it into your power source. Once the router has booted up, you can proceed to the next step.
Connect your Computer
Although wireless routers are designed so that computers can connect wirelessly, the most reliable way to set up your router is over a wired connection. This is the best way to ensure maximum reliability of the equipment that you are using.
Log In
When you begin the installation process, it is necessary to log into the router's home page. If it doesn't come up automatically, you can usually find it by opening your computer's web browser and then entering the IP address (http://192.168.1.1, http://192.168.0.1, or http://192.168.2.1) into the address bar. Routers should provide this information in the documentation that comes in the package.
Once you reach the router's home page, log in using the default username and password. You will be given an opportunity to set the name of your network, choose your level of security, and set a password for the network. For more advanced users, there are additional ways to customize and configure your router.
Verify the Connection
Once you have completed the setup process, verify that the connection is working correctly by disconnecting your computer from the router. Reconnect wirelessly by clicking on the internet network icon and searching for available networks. If it is working correctly, you can connect to the internet with other computers and devices through the wireless network that you have created.
About Author: Jared Jacobs has professional and personal interests in technology. As an employee of Dell, he has to stay up to date on the latest innovations in large enterprise solutions and consumer electronics buying trends. Personally, he loves making additions to his media rooms and experimenting with surround sound equipment. He's also a big Rockets and Texans fan.