If you’re setting up a router for the first time at home or office and you don’t know how to use a router. Here’s what you need to do with a complete step-by-step guide. The following steps will guide you in simple steps to setup a router easily without hiring someone to install it.
Before you get started
Check your Internet connection
The configuration of the router might be challenging if you have no reliable Internet connection. The easiest method is to connect your computer to the modem or portal device of your Internet service provider (ISP). You will be ready to configure the router if your computer detects an internet connection.
Gather documentation
This is another procedure that saves your time while you’re setting up. Look for stickers at the bottom or back of the router or pieces of paper such as a default router username and password, containing essential information for the settings.
Check for an app
Several router providers offer both mobile and managerial applications or an online dashboard. You may not have to connect the router to a computer to set it up if you are using a Smartphone application. Discover the documentation if an application is accessible with your router.
Install and extend antennas
If the router has antennas separately in the box, you will have to install them if they are not connected to the router. You should also extend the antennas before starting the setup process.
Router setup steps
Step 1: Decide where to place the router
A wireless router should be installed in an open area of the office to ensure even coverage. However, since you need to connect to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) a broadband gateway, that is normally attached to a wire close to the external wall, you cannot always find a spot open.
Step 2: Connect to the Internet
Choose a mesh router or connect the router to a wire.
When connecting a router to an ISP gateway’s Ethernet port, you can use a CAT5e or CAT6 cable to overcome the “long-distance” problem. Another alternative is to run Ethernet cables through your office walls to the router’s chosen central location.
Another alternative is to use a router to create a mesh network. A mesh network allows you to connect several Wi-Fi transmitters to one network in your home or office. Mesh networks, unlike extenders, which may be used with any wireless router, require a router that has this feature built-in.
You will need a standard Ethernet cable connected to the WAN or the Internet port of your router, irrespective of which option you choose. The Internet port is usually distinguished from other ports by its color.
Check the router’s LED lights
The LED lights on your router indicate whether you’ve established a working Internet connection. If you don’t see any lights indicating a connection, double-check that you’ve plugged the cable into the right port.
Test the connection with a device
Connect your laptop computer to one of the device ports at the router back to confirm that the connection works. If everything goes properly, you should be able to start a wired connection in the same way you confirmed an active Internet connection.
Step 3: Configure the wireless router gateway
ISPs may give clients gateways with built-in routers in some situations. These hybrid devices are typically not designed for business contexts, and they lack extra ports, security, and other features that allow you to add services and expand networks as your company expands.
You need to set your gateway to disable the router, send the WAN IP address — your Internet Provider’s unique Internet Protocol address to your account — together with all network traffic to your new router.
If you skip this step, you risk encountering conflicts that prohibit your devices from functioning properly. You might need to ask your ISP for assistance with this step.
Step 4: Connect gateway to router
Turn off the gateway first. If you are already using an Ethernet cable with the LAN port of the gateway, disconnect it and connect it to the WAN port of your router, disconnect it and connect it to your router’s WAN port. Restart the gateway and let it a few minutes to boot up. Wait a few minutes after plugging in the router’s power supply and turning it on.
Step 5: Use app or web dashboard
If the router manufacturer has given one, using a mobile app to continue router setup is the simplest option. If there is no app or if you prefer using the web-based dashboard of the router connect the router with a computer over an Ethernet connection.
In the browser search bar, you can type a common router IP address 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, if you can find the IP address at the back of the device.
Step 6: Create a username and password
To configure this, you will need to log in with the default router admin name and password. You can also get this information on the router or in a user manual that comes with it.
Fill in the information you need afterward. After logging in, you should create a new username and password immediately. The defaults are usually “admin” and password “1234“, which are plainly insecure—so make sure to alter them as soon as possible.
Step 7: Update the router’s firmware
The “firmware,” or software that controls your router, may need to be updated. Update it as quickly as feasible, as the new firmware may contain bug fixes or additional security features.
Some routers may automatically download fresh firmware, but many do not. You may want to check your updates using the app or browser interface.
Step 8: Create a Wi-Fi password
Pre-assigned admin usernames and passwords are standard on most routers. It will be good if you change and update your Wi-Fi login and password, but even if you don’t, plan to do it as soon as possible.
Step 9: Use auto-configuration tools where possible
If your router has auto-install capabilities, use them to complete the process. For example, you should be able to manage the IP address automatically by using the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which distributes IP addresses to devices. You can always change these addresses afterward.
Step 10: Set up security
To protect network and user privacy, several router manufacturers include security features. By accessing the web dashboard and allowing further security actions such as firewall, web filtering, and access limits, you can protect against harmful traffic. You can use virtual private networks (VPNs) for adding privacy.
Conclusion
If you are installing the router at home or office for the first time, and you’re not well aware of how to use a router. This article will help how to use the router step by step with a complete and simple guide. Still, if you’re confused or got stuck while setting up a router, you can simply write us an email with your questions or queries.
