How to Set Up a Wireless Network

If you’ve just ordered a new high-speed Internet package, chances are you’re probably ready to start making the most of it. One of the coolest things you can do with your new service is to cut the cord and set up a wireless network for your home. This lets you use Internet service on laptops, desktops, and all sorts of other nifty devices like DVRs and game consoles, without any wires. How futuristic!

Many Internet providers will furnish a wireless router, either for free or with an additional charge. But, if you are looking to set up your wireless network on your own, check out these handy steps:

• Make sure your devices are ready – Setting up a new wireless network without making sure your stuff is wireless-ready is like buying an awesome new cereal without checking that you have milk at home. Avoid disappointment by checking your computer and device specs to make sure they are ready. Most laptops and many desktops from the last few years come equipped with wireless ability right out of the box, but it’s always best to check.


• Buy a wireless router – There are a million options on the shelves, and they seem to change daily. With that in mind, instead of giving you specific recommendations here, I’m referring you to Cnet’s excellent, constantly updated guide to the best wireless routers on the market. Check through the reviews to find the router that best meets your needs and budget. Then buy it.

• Unbox and read over the quick start guide – Okay, now you’ve got your nifty new router and you’re ready to start get started. Open the box and unpack all the equipment, keeping an eye out for the quick start guide (Note: your router may not include one of these, if so I apologize for getting your hopes up). Take a minute to read it over, as it will give you an outline of the process of setting up your new network with specific details.


• Plug it in – As with many gadget installations, the first step to setting up your wireless router is plugging it into the wall. While it may not be the most exciting step, I assure you it is absolutely vital.


• Connect to the router wirelessly – Using one of your wireless-enabled computers, check your available wireless networks for your new network. Usually, the router will have a default name along the lines of “linksys” or “NETGEAR.” If you can’t find your new network, check your instruction booklet to see what it will be named. Once you’ve found it, go ahead and connect to it, then disconnect. Congratulations, you’re done! Just kidding.


• Connect to the router with a wire – I know this seems a little counter-intuitive, but to really do this right, you have to customize some settings and that can only be done in “wired” mode. To connect in this fashion, connect your computer to one of the router’s output ports with a standard Cat5 Ethernet cable (there was probably one packed with your router). The ports on the router you are looking for are typically marked with a number. Note: make sure you aren’t connecting to a port labeled “WAN” or “Internet.”


• Get into the configuration panel – Okay, this is where it gets a little geeky. How this typically done is by visiting a special URL in your browser and interacting with a configuration program. I’d love to be able to walk you through that, but with the myriad of routers on the market, I’ll have to refer you to your instruction manual. Don’t worry, this is usually rather painless. I’ll wait while you figure it out.


• Name your new network – You wouldn’t name your newborn child “baby,” would you? Of course not! Take some time and come up with a network name that really that expresses you. Check your instruction booklet for specifics on how to do this. Bonus points if you make it a passive-aggressive message to shame your no-good neighbors.


• Set up a password – Remember how easy it was to connect to your new network? It’s that easy for anyone near your home to do just the same. While most wireless routers will work just fine without any sort of password, that leaves your network vulnerable to all sorts of rogues (and no one like rogues). Again, you’ll have to check your instructions for specifics.


• Consider more comprehensive security measures – A password is a good place to start when it comes to protecting your network, but there are all sorts of ways to improve your security. These range from hiding your network from anyone that does not know it exists to elaborate digital moats complete with digital dragons (not true). A good place to start if you’re ready to beef up your defenses is ArsTechnica’s guide to advanced wireless security.


• Connect to the Internet – Okay, we’re almost there. Now that your router is up and running with a sweet new name and password, it’s time to connect it to the outside world. You’ll need to connect your broadband modem to your router via a Cat5 Ethernet cable. If you don’t have another cable, disconnect the one you’ve been using to configure the router and use that. Plug the wire from your modem to the router’s “WAN” or “Internet” port. Then go ahead and disconnect your modem’s power cable, let it sit for around two minutes and reconnect it. Once reconnected, it’s recommended to let everything sit for another two minutes. Sorry about all the waiting, but your devices have to become friends and even digital friendships aren’t formed instantly.


• Enjoy the future – Unplug the Cat5 Ethernet cable from your computer and router (if you haven’t already) and connect to your network wirelessly. Open up a web browser and load up your favorite website (I’m assuming this is WhiteFence) to make sure everything is working. You now have the power to check social networks in the bathroom—congratulations!

Comments

[Amanda]

My solution: have your husband set it up.