Set Up a Wireless Network

• Step 1 Buy a wireless router

  A wireless router is the basis of any wireless network. In essence, a wireless router exchanges signals with your laptop and other wireless devices to connect them to the internet.

  When checking router standards, be ready for a little technical jargon, like 802.11g and 802.11n. Bottom line: just check that your computer and other devices can work with the new router. Many companies use the last letter of the router standard in their model names; for example: a router with an “n” on the end usually designates the 802.11n standard.

  Finally, make sure the router’s cable is compatible with your modem. Most wireless routers now use either an Ethernet or USB cable.

• Step 2 Plug in the wireless router

  The process for plugging a wireless router into your wireless network varies depending on the model, but here's the usual routine:

  1. Turn off your modem and unplug your computer from it.
  2. Plug your router into a power outlet and connect it to your modem with the cable that came with the wireless router.
  3. Turn on your modem and wait about 30 seconds, until the lights on the modem indicate it’s connected to the internet.
  4. Turn on the wireless router. Lights indicating it is operating should come on within about a minute.

• Step 3 Access the wireless router

  Plug your computer into the router — usually with the cable formerly connected your computer to the modem. Then turn on your computer and launch your browser.

  Two methods are common for accessing the wireless router for the first time:

  Through your modem. When you access your router through your modem, the router manufacturer supplies a user name and website to use for configuring your router. The web address for the router may appear as a series of numbers and periods like this: http://192.168.1.1. Open your browser and enter this address into the browser's address window. With most routers, a page then displays that asks for the default username and password the manufacturer provided (check the printed or online documentation.

  Using a CD. If your router came with an installation CD, insert the CD, launch the installation program and follow the onscreen instructions.
  
  Now you're ready to configure your wireless network.
  

• Step 4 Configure your wireless network

  Change the wireless network name to something you recognize, like "My house." Then change the password, sometimes called the network key.

  Most manufacturers recommend configuring your router with security to prevent someone nearby from using your network or snooping into your computers on the network. Brace yourself for a bit of high-tech talk when setting up security for your network. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) was the standard security protocol of wireless routers for many years, but was vulnerable to hackers. WPA or WPA2 (Wi-fi Protected Access) are now standard with wireless routers and are more secure than the older WEP. Older devices may only support WEP, but using WEP is better than nothing. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the wireless router to set up the security.

  Your wireless network should now be active. Access the wireless network with a laptop computer by clicking on the "View available networks" icon in the lower right corner of your Windows-based machine. For Apple OS X computers, click the "Airport" icon in the upper right corner of the screen. Either way, navigate to your network and join it by entering the password you created for your network.

• Step 5 Maximize signal strength

  If the signal for your wireless network is weak, the problem could be your router’s location. Dense walls, concrete, and electronic devices can weaken your signal. Move the router to a more centralized location and check the signal to see if it gets stronger.

  If moving the router doesn’t work, exchange your router for one with a stronger signal designed to broadcast to a larger area.

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