Terms to Know
It would be nearly impossible to show you exactly how to set up a router and a network because there are many variationsin the process that are dependent on the brand of router your choose and the modem you use. Additionally, if you are creating a wired home network, the size of your house, location of computers, and location of outlets will play a role in how it is set up. Your existing hardware will also play a factor.
Don't worry! The router you choose should come with clear directions as to how to install it, and generally this is a very easy process. Since the modem is usually installed by your ISP, you probably will not have to install that device.
You can become more comfortable with the process and be ready to read any setup instruction guides if you are familiar with a few key terms.
Wireless Adapter
Wireless Adapter for Card SlotIf you want to create a wireless home network with your desktop or laptop, or use your laptop to surf the Internet at a public WiFi hotspot, you will need to check your computer to see if it iswireless-ready.
Most new laptops and some desktop computers are preloaded with wireless transmitters that will allow you to use the computer on a wireless network. If your laptop or desktop is not wireless-enabled and you want it to be part of a wireless network, you can buy a wireless adapter that plugs into the USB port or the card slot.
Wireless Adapter for Card SlotIf you want to create a wireless home network with your desktop or laptop, or use your laptop to surf the Internet at a public WiFi hotspot, you will need to check your computer to see if it iswireless-ready. Most new laptops and some desktop computers are preloaded with wireless transmitters that will allow you to use the computer on a wireless network. If your laptop or desktop is not wireless-enabled and you want it to be part of a wireless network, you can buy a wireless adapter that plugs into the USB port or the card slot.
Firewall
If you have a DSL or cable modem, you will need a firewall for your home network. A firewall acts as a filter and monitors the information that is being sent over the network. Luckily, most routers offer firewall protection, so it is a good idea to choose one with this feature.
If you have a DSL or cable modem, you will need a firewall for your home network. A firewall acts as a filter and monitors the information that is being sent over the network. Luckily, most routers offer firewall protection, so it is a good idea to choose one with this feature.
SSID
A Service Set Identifier, commonly called the SSID, is the name of a wireless network. It is a series of alphanumeric characters (numbers and letter) that you can set when you create your wireless network. It is the network's name and how you, or other users of the network, will identify it. You will want to change the default SSID, but avoid using a name that someone might guess.
A Service Set Identifier, commonly called the SSID, is the name of a wireless network. It is a series of alphanumeric characters (numbers and letter) that you can set when you create your wireless network. It is the network's name and how you, or other users of the network, will identify it. You will want to change the default SSID, but avoid using a name that someone might guess.
Encryption passphrase
An encryption passphrase is a series of words that is used to control access to the network. It very important that you remember this information once you set it while you are installing your router.
An encryption passphrase is a series of words that is used to control access to the network. It very important that you remember this information once you set it while you are installing your router.
Domain
A specific name for a network of computers.
A specific name for a network of computers.
Encryption
Encryption is the process of changing your information so that it is not readable to anyone without the encryption key. Basically, it takes your data and codes it so that it is not viewable by unauthorized people. You have to have the encryption key to decode the data. Encryption enhances security on your home network.
On wireless networks, it is very important to encrypt your data so that other people can not use you wireless signal and view your information. There are many types of encryption, but WEP, or the Wireless Encryption Protocol, is the type of encryption used in wireless networks.
Encryption is the process of changing your information so that it is not readable to anyone without the encryption key. Basically, it takes your data and codes it so that it is not viewable by unauthorized people. You have to have the encryption key to decode the data. Encryption enhances security on your home network.
On wireless networks, it is very important to encrypt your data so that other people can not use you wireless signal and view your information. There are many types of encryption, but WEP, or the Wireless Encryption Protocol, is the type of encryption used in wireless networks.
