Learn the steps to configure a wireless router

Setting up new devices can be a tricky thing for some people; technology just isn’t their thing. At first it seems like a very difficult task, especially if the last time you did it you struggled to get it to work… but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Whether it got damaged and you bought a new one, moved house or just want to beef up security, we’ll give you the steps to set up a wireless router.

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To make things more complicated, each router is different, and the specific steps to configure it depend on each model. This guide applies to most routers on the market today, although it may also help if you are trying to set up a used router.

Quick note: this tutorial assumes that you are setting up a wireless router to function as the primary router in your home. Let’s assume that you already have a modem, either cable, fiber or DSL, which is configured and working properly. Finally, let’s assume that you have a laptop with an Ethernet port, or that you are setting up a wireless router with a desktop computer. With these caveats in mind, let’s get started!

Step 1: connect your router to your modem

Don’t plug your router into the power outlet just yet. Instead, the first thing you’re going to do is connect your modem to the WAN port, with an Ethernet cable.

Not sure which WAN port? Most non-enterprise routers have a group of Ethernet ports, several of which are called LAN (local area network) ports and another called a WAN (wide area network) port. The WAN port looks the same as the LAN ports, but often has a different color and is separate from them.

In the photo above, for example, the WAN port is yellow and labeled “Internet”. Sometimes it will be labeled “WAN”. This port is intended to connect your router to the modem and the outside world from there. LAN ports are designed to connect to local devices such as your computer or TV.

Connect an Ethernet cable to your modem and the other end to your router’s WAN port. Then connect your router’s power adapter to the wall.

Step 2: Download the application and get connected

Give your router a minute to boot up and create a network. In the meantime (if another connection option is available), download the application associated with your modem manufacturer. Today’s modems can usually be configured using a mobile app that will automatically guide you through the setup process. This is the most effective method, but you must be sure to choose the right app.

Linksys has its own configuration and management app. Netgear uses the Nighthawk app. Google has its own configuration application. Instructions on which app to use should be in your manual.

Now connect to your wifi network. This is usually a simple process: go to the settings on your phone or computer, and choose the wifi/Network option (Google simply has you scan a QR code, so this process may vary a bit).

Look for your router name here: your router should have a default SSID name printed on the back, along with the default network key. Use the key to log in to the network.

Once logged in, launch the router’s management application to begin setup.

Alternate method: If your router does not have an application, manually connect a computer to the router with an Ethernet cable. Once connected, go to the configuration page. This is basically a website hosted on your device, and is a traditional way to configure settings.

How you find it can vary, but it almost always means typing 192.168.1.1 in the address bar of your preferred browser and then pressing Enter.

If you find a page, move on and skip to the next step. However, if that address doesn’t work, your router may use a completely different address. This can vary, so please consult your router’s official documentation if the 192.168.1.1 address does not work.

Alternatively, you can refer to our list of default router IP addresses and passwords.

Step 3: Create a username and password, or find the existing one

Your router application should automatically guide you through the setup procedures, so answer its questions and complete the forms as needed. For most new routers, you will be asked to create an application name (again, this is called an SSID) and a password. Make sure this password is unique and secure, as anyone who has it can do all sorts of nasty things on your network.

WPA2 encryption is currently the security standard and you should always choose it if you have an option for your security protocol. Make sure you also choose a long password, which is different from the admin password you set up earlier and ideally does not include dictionary words or an easy-to-guess name (such as your pet’s name). Then, store it in a safe place.

However, a used router may already have a password and must be reset. Most routers have a recessed reset button on the back. Holding down the “reset” button with a paper clip for at least 30 seconds will do the trick.

Leave the power on and wait for the router to reset. You should use the default settings when it resets, which means that the default username and password will now grant you access to the settings.

Step 4: Continue configuring your router

The router application should also allow you to configure other settings such as parental controls, automatic updates and more. You can adjust these settings and more from the app, but pay attention to the tutorial and everything it shows you.

You should learn about guest access, monitoring activity and more. When you’re done, the app will do the network configuration and finish setting up your network. Now you can explore the application at your leisure for more information.

Optional: mesh router configuration

A growing number of routers are “mesh routers” these days, such as Google’s Wifi router. Mesh routers use a group of Wifi devices that all work together, usually two or three of them. One device connects to your modem and acts as a traditional router.

The other devices act more like automatic repeaters that connect to the first device and provide a secondary source for the signal. This can greatly extend the range of the router and allow users to get rid of dead zones or ensure that a particularly large home or property has full coverage.

This also means you need to go a step further and place secondary devices in your home. Here are some tips to help you place mesh routers the right way:

• Try to set up additional routers in open spaces where they can transmit the network as freely as possible - remember, they don’t have to be connected to the modem with these access points! However, the routers will need access to a power outlet.

• Set the additional router points far apart, but not too far apart. All routers need to work together. On average, it takes a distance of about two rooms away from the original router.

• You can also choose to place your access points in particularly important areas of your home. For example, if you have a play space where you use wifi, you may want to make sure one of the satellite models is placed there for maximum effect.

• You can usually easily connect additional routers with the router app on your phone (Google, for example, you simply need to bring your phone close to the router to add it). You must connect them to expand your network, so don’t forget this part.

And that’s it!

With these steps, your router should be ready to use - start connecting your devices and enjoy!

Of course, there is a lot more you can configure, if you dig deeper into the settings. Configuring port forwarding can be useful, and true advanced users should consider replacing their firmware with DD-WRT to gain access to all sorts of settings that would not otherwise be offered. However, for most users, working with wifi and secure access to administrative settings is an excellent place to start.