Wi-Fi router is a device that allows you to combine several computers and laptops into a single local network. Most often, this equipment is used to connect several PCs to the Internet and create an integrated home (office) network.
Physical connection
Use RJ-45 network cables to connect stationary computers to the router. Use these cables to connect the network cards of the computers to the LAN ports of the router. Connect an ISP cable to the WAN port, if available. Please note that some routers work with a DSL link. Check in advance the type of Internet connection before purchasing a router.
Configuring the router
Turn on one of the computers connected to the router and launch any web browser. In the address bar, enter 192.168.0.1 and press Enter. To enter the interface of routers of some companies, you need to use the address 192.168.1.1. You can clarify this information in the instructions for your device. After launching the web interface, enter your username and password in the appropriate fields. Typically, admin must be entered in both fields. If the router has already been configured before you, and you do not know the desired combination, reset the device settings. To do this, hold down the Reset button with a pen or pencil and hold it for 10 seconds.
After entering the router menu, go to DHCP. Activate the specified function by checking the "Enable" checkbox. Specify the values for the starting and ending IP addresses. Use the format x.y.z.10 - x.y.z.200. Click the Save button.
Reboot the router using the web interface. Alternatively, you can simply turn off the power to the device and turn it back on.
Setting up computers
Open the Network and Sharing Center on a computer connected to the router. Select the Change adapter settings menu. Find an active local area connection and go to its properties. In the "Network" tab, find the item "Internet Protocol version 4" and double-click on it.
Activate the "Obtain an IP address automatically" option. Save the settings. Wait for the LAN configuration to update. Repeat the same procedure on the second computer connected to the router.
This method has one drawback: the IP addresses of the connected computers will constantly change within the specified interval. Sometimes it is necessary to use static PC addresses for convenient work. To do this, disable the DCHP function in the router and restart the device. Now in the settings of the TCP / IPv4 protocol select the item "Use the following IP address" and specify a specific value. Save the settings. Configure the second computer in the same way.
