I personally used many routers and I am always looking to better my home/office network. Today, a router hooked up to a well managed home network can connect all sorts of devices. In my house I currently have 2 desktops & 1 laptop at times, and PSP’s WII’s and XBOX. You don’t have to be a techie to agree that an always-on data stream is a network’s lifeblood, and a router is definitely the heart which pumps life throughout the system. The typical setup may not be quiet as extreme as mine but the fundamentals of setting up a router on a home network are the same. Most of all, anyone can setup their own network and make it secure from hackers and wireless signal snoops.

Step 1 – Pick your Router. Many options out there. I was looking for something with QoS Prioritization Technology, wired and wireless traffic are analyzed and separated into multiple data streams. These streams are then categorized by sensitivity to delay, so applications like VoIP, Video Streaming, and Online Gaming are given priority over Web browsing. I was also looking for a G and B band but also capable of running the newer N wireless technology. So again, Dlink has them , Belkin and Linksys are the major players for home routers, but there are others as well.

Step 2 – Setup. Typically the instructions only help you so much, CD included in the purchase or printed material in the box etc, but do try to follow them, at least for starters. If you have cable its easy plug and play business. If you have DSL or FIOS then you will likely need some kind of on the phone assistance from your provider, unless you have already that connection information needed from them. Like the connection type POE on the modem , id and password etc.
Some ip address which will give you direct router access if connected via laptop and a network cable or from a pc in your house are the following. 192.168.0.1 & 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.2.1. A lot of times the ip address is also written on the bottom of the device itself.

Step 3 – Change the network name immediately. Both the default local name and for your wireless SSID (service set identifier) NOTE- do not use your address such as 1123 My home, drive etc. Not to sharp !! use something easy for you to identify with. Then set security both for your device changes and wireless access (choose WEP or WPA) do not use names of kids or family alone, use them in conjuction with a number or #$%^ or combination of all.

Step 4 – Ensure your firmware is up to date with any manufacturer release.( back up your router settings wisely on a local computer, both your local configuration and wireless setup)

Step 5- Ensure all settings on the router are working for you. Check firewall settings, only change certain router defaults, I do not reccomend changing from default unless you are skilled about what you are about to change. Typically Forums are a big help in this or send me an email contact@tech-support-forum.com. I will try to assist.

Enjoy!!