Computer and Software Support


Router wireless setup 

There is numerous brands of wireless routers and the setup procedure may vary because of it. Below is just a general procedure that may work for all routers or only for some. For instructions on a particular step, click on the hyperlink

  1. Connect the cable modem directly to the computer without the router.
  2. Make sure your cable or DSL modem works and you can connect to the internet without the router attached.
  3. Once you verify internet connection connect the modem to the modem connector on the router.
  4. Connect an Ethernet cable to the router and connect it to the computer. (This step is just to setup the router. You will be removing it later)
  5. Unplug the power to the cable or DSL modem
  6. Unplug the power to the router.
  7. Turn the computer off
  8. Leave the computer off for two minutes.
  9. Plug the power to the cable or DSL modem
  10. Wait till the modem lights stop flashing and then plug the power back into the router.
  11. Turn the computer on.
  12. Make sure you can access the internet
  13. Use the CD that came with the router or
  14. Open Internet Explorer
  15. Type the address of the Default Gateway in the address bar (Default Gateway is the router)
  16. Press Enter
   
  • The page will ask you to enter the username and password. This varies depending on the manufacturer of the router. The website for the manufacturer will have the information to sign in with. I would change the password once you get in.
  • Change the name of the SSID. (The default SSID is the name you see when your system detects a wireless signal is available. If two routers by the same make is in range, you will see two identical names listed and you won't know which one is yours. By changing the SSID you will know which one is yours) For added security, you can make the SSID not broadcasted. You would have to enter it manually when you want to connect to it.
  • Change the name of the router (for added security) I would leave the name of the router there but add some numbers at the end.
  • Follow the procedures pertaining to your router to create a WEP key.
  • Follow the procedures pertaining to your router to turn on MAC filtering
  • Disconnect the cable
  • Reboot the computer
  • When you see your available wireless signal sign into it. You will have to enter your WEP key .

    • NOTE: This is only a general procedure. For more information, consult your router's manual.