Networking 101: Router Setup Basics

Router Setup
Setting up a router is easy if you understand the key connection between the router and your home network. Easily set up a router in minutes but take the additional time to customize some important settings.

What is the connection between a router and a modem?

A modem translates the commercial signal from your Internet service provider (ISP) into a residential Internet signal. The modem makes it possible for your router to take an ISP address in the wide area network (WAN) and use it to manage a local area network (LAN). With just a modem, you can only connect one device at a time. A router is a DHCP server that dynamically assigns IP addresses to your devices, connecting them all to the WAN of the Internet simultaneously.

How are router settings accessed?

Some newer routers come with software that makes router access easy. Linksys, for instance, now comes with Cisco Connect software that makes it a little more user-friendly to customize your router. For all routers old and new, use a web browser to access the router through its default IP address. For most routers, this is either 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

What functionality is provided by a router?

A router is a converged device that provides the services of a wireless access point, DHCP server and network switch. Some routers have USB ports for network storage and dual bands for more powerful wireless networking. Most routers have a suite of security settings, such as encryption and a firewall.

What are some key security settings in the wireless router?

The first thing to do when your router is connected is make sure your network is secure. In the wireless networking settings, set an encryption and choose a strong wireless password. Make sure the firewall is active, and change the default administrator username and password information.
Router setup is a basic part of home networking. Even if you have to take the time to learn a few key concepts, it is worth it because a router offers so much flexibility and customization to your entire network, keeping it safe, secure and connected.

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