A router is a network device that sends data packets between computer networks. Let’s understand this with a very common example. Suppose you search for www.xyz.com in your web browser. This is a request sent by your system to an XYZ server to serve that web page. The request is just to stream. Instead of being sent directly to XYZ’s servers, these packets are received through a series of network devices called routers and forwarded to the correct path to reach the destination server.
Steps to Set up a Router
Step 1: Check your internet connection.
Prior to beginning the setup of the router, you must check your internet connection and collect the requisite documentation. If your router is linked to an existing modem or ISP gateway, you presumably already know whether your internet is operational, but it never hurts to double-check.
Step 2: Select your router location.
- Pay close attention to any included paperwork as you unpack the router. Watch out for any stickers or pieces of paper that may include important setup details, such as the router’s web interface address or the default login and password.
- You should install antennas if they are distinct from the main router device. The connectors on the back or sides of the router are typically attached by screwing them on. In other instances, the antennas of the router will already be there and will only need to be extended and placed.
- After it has been assembled and unloaded, you must choose a location to install the router. Instead of at one end of the network, the optimal router position will be in the middle.
- Business wireless routers work best in open office areas because they provide consistent coverage. However, finding an open area can be tricky as you have to connect your router to your ISP’s Internet gateway, which is usually connected to a cable running along an exterior wall.
- Since radio waves go out and down as they travel through your home, a higher position, like up on a shelf, is ideal. Additionally, you’ll want to stay away from any potential obstructions like walls made of concrete, brick, or metal. Furthermore, avoid using the microwave because it emits frequencies that are similar to those used by your wireless signal. Pay close attention to any included paperwork as you unpack the router. Watch out for any stickers or pieces of paper that may include important setup details, such as the router’s web interface address or the default login and password.
Step 3: Connect to the power
The router’s indicator lights ought to turn on after you turn it on. There should be a light that is visible when the router is correctly plugged in and turned on, though some will blink or change color during the setup process to indicate particular features and changes. After plugging the router in, give it a few minutes to start up, since this could take some time.
Step 4: Connect to the Internet
- Select a mesh router or connect the routers with cables. You can use a CAT5e or CAT6 cable to connect your router to the Ethernet port of your ISP gateway to avoid the “long-distance” problem when connecting your router.
- Another option is to run an Ethernet cable through your office wall to a central location of your choice on your router.
- Another option is to install a mesh network through a router. Multiple Wi-Fi transmitters can be placed in your home or office and connected to the network thanks to the mesh network. Mesh networks require routers with this built-in feature, unlike extenders that can be used with any wireless router.
- Whichever option you choose, use a standard Ethernet cable to connect to a WAN (Wide Area Network) or Internet port on your router. Internet ports are usually distinguished from other ports by a distinctive color.
- When you connect the wire, keep an eye on the router’s LED indications. A new light or color change should appear to show that an active internet connection has been made. Check the connection again to make sure you’re plugged into the right port and that the Ethernet cable you’re using is in excellent functioning condition if there isn’t a confirmation indicator light.
- By connecting your laptop to one of the device ports on the router’s rear, you can finally verify that the connection is active. Just like you did while verifying an active internet connection, you should be able to easily open a wired connection.
Step 5: Configure the Wi-Fi router gateway
ISPs sometimes provide clients with a gateway that has a built-in router. These hybrid devices are typically not designed for enterprise situations and lack additional ports, security features, and other configuration options that allow you to add services and scale your network as your business grows. If your gateway includes a built-in router, you should configure your gateway to turn off the router and forward all network traffic to the new router along with the WAN IP address your ISP assigns to your account.
Step 6: Connect your router and gateway.
Turn off the gateway first. If your Ethernet cable is already connected to your gateway’s LAN (Local Area Network) port, remove the cable and connect it to the WAN port on your router instead. Reboot the gateway and wait a while for it to start. Wait a few more minutes after plugging in the router and turning it on.
Step 7: Use the App or Web Dashboard
If your router manufacturer provides a mobile app, the easiest way is to use it to continue setting up your router. If you don’t have the app or want to use your router’s web-based dashboard, connect your router to your computer with an Ethernet cable. If not, enter 192.168.1.1, which is a common router address, into your browser’s search box. You may be able to find your router’s IP address printed on the back of your device.
Step 8: Create a username and password
You should be logged into the router using the default admin name and password. This information is usually found on the router itself or in the documentation that came with it. Then enter the required information. After logging in, you will need to create a new username and password. Typical defaults are ‘admin’ and ‘password1234’, which are obviously insecure. Please change it as soon as possible.
Step 9: Update your router’s firmware
You may need to update your router’s “firmware” or control software. Please update your firmware as soon as possible, as it may contain bug fixes or additional security measures. Many routers don’t automatically download new firmware, but some do. You may need to use the app or browser interface to check for updates.
Step 10: Create a Wi-Fi password for your network
Most routers also come with a pre-configured Wi-Fi username and password, as well as a pre-assigned administrator username and password. You won’t be asked to update your WiFi login and password, but be prepared to do so soon.
Step 11: Use automatic configuration tools if possible
If your router’s auto-install option is available, use it to set it up. For example, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which automatically distributes IP addresses to devices, can manage IP addresses through auto-configuration. These addresses can always be changed later.
Step 12: Set security
- Set up network security options.
- Set up extra network security features as necessary to protect your systems from hackers. There is a checklist in this list of Wi-Fi home network security recommendations.
- Many router manufacturers offer security features to protect the user and network privacy. To protect yourself from malicious traffic, you can log into your web dashboard and enable additional security features such as firewalls, web filters, and access control.
- You can also set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your privacy.