Setting Wireless Router

Using a wireless router makes computing life much more enjoyable. Here are some simple steps for setting up your wireless router.

Select the correct wireless router for your needs.

There are basically (3) wireless networking technologies on the market today; 802.11a, 802.11b, and 801.22g. So what are the differences between these wireless technologies?

802.11a wireless protocol is the oldest version of wireless networking technologies currently available. 802.11b wireless protocol (11Mbs) is by far the most common wireless technology in use today. If you select this wireless protocol, you will be fine. 802.11g is the best wireless technology on the market and all new computers with built-in wireless cards utilize this protocol. 802.11b wireless protocol was superceded by backwards compatible 802.11g (54Mbs). If you have the option, I would strongly recommend purchasing 802.11g cards for your computers as well to get the maximum benefits of this wireless network technology.

Connecting your wireless router

The first step will be to power down your DSL or cable modem. Next, connect the wireless router to your modem. I have both modem and wireless router setting side by side on my desk.

Included with the wireless router, you should have a short cable. This is your network cable. Plug the network cable into the wireless router in the port labeled INTERNET, WAN OR WLAN. This designation varies depending on the brand of wireless router you purchased. Once you have connected the network cable to your wireless router, connect the other end of the cable into your modem. Your modem will only have one port available. Allow a few moments for the Internet connection to synchronize with the modem.

It is now time to configure your wireless router. Temporarily disconnect the network cable from the router and modem. Once you have completed this, connect the network cable to any port on the wireless router not labeled as INTERNET, WAN OR WLAN. Next, connect the other end of the network cable to your computer. On your computer, open up an Internet browser and enter the address which corresponds to your specific make of wireless router.

ROUTER ADDRESS USERNAME PASSWORD

3Com 192.168.1.1 admin admin

Linksys 192.168.1.1 admin admin

Microsoft Broadband 192.168.2.1 admin admin

Netgear 192.168.0.1 admin password

Protecting your network. By leaving your network "open", anyone within range of your wireless router signal will be able to access your network. using your Internet access for free and degrading your access quality. It is a good rule of thumb to secure access to networks and computers whenever possible.

To secure your network, select the WEP tab or option. WEP stands for Wireless Encryption. Disconnect the network cable from your computer, and reconnect as before. One end of the network cable goes into the port on the wireless router marked INTERNET, WAN, or WLAN, and the other end connects to your DSL or cable modem.

Right click on the icon and select "View Available Wireless Networks".

Once your network is visible, click on it.

If you have WEP protected your wireless network, you will be prompted to enter your password or passphrase. If you have chosen to leave your network unprotected, you will be cautioned that you are attempting to access an unsecured network. Select your network and press "Connect".