Home Network: How to configure a home wireless network

How to configure a home wireless network

Configuration of a home wireless network occurs at two points. The first point is the router which is the central location for most configuration issues. Initial router configuration is done by connecting the product via an Ethernet cable to a normal PC. For most routers, typing the default web address of 192.168.0.1 into a web browser will load the router software interface. Afterwards the correct login details must be entered to be able to access the router. When purchasing a router the default username and password are similar to admin and password. Once logged on all of the different functions of the router can be accessed. If the router has an integrated broadband modem, for example, Internet connection settings can be entered here. Users can be added or removed. A firewall can be enabled if the router supports one. Of high importance is security, which should be enabled and configured on all routers.

Once the initial router configuration has been setup and saved it can be installed and accessed wirelessly if required. The next step is to setup each users computer so they can access the network. This is normally done by entering the correct details into any supplied software, or configuring the Wireless Connection in the Network Connections window. Either way typical required details are: user MAC address, username and password, network SSID, security methods used, security key and connection speed.