How to setup a wireless network?
In this article, we'll guide you through the stages of getting wireless internet access in your home. In this way, you'll be able to set up a secure wireless network via your new router. Read on to find out how to connect your smart phones, laptop computer and tablet devices to the internet through your cable modem and wireless router.
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Choosing a broadband service
Size of bandwidth
The biggest factor is to determine how much bandwidth you'll use. Most users are not dependent on upload, but rather, download speed. If you download a lot of films and music, then you'll need an unlimited download allowance.
If on the other hand you only use your internet connection to check emails and browse a few web sites a month, then you will be able to get away a 'Pay as you go' deal. A broadband deal will generally consist of a bandwidth allowance, Wi-Fi networking package and a DSL cable modem.
Users who administer websites or use file sharing services may need to consider a more expensive connection that has a good upload speed.
Best wireless router
Look out for a broadband package that gives you the best modem and wireless router. The version 802.11n is the latest and fastest wireless router standard. This allows the largest possible bandwidth for not only your internet usage, but also your internal network usage.
Advantages of having the best router
Choosing a package that offers the best quality router will be beneficial if you enjoy streaming media to your laptops and tablet devices from your main personal computer.
Setting up the network
Network set up Once you have chosen your internet broadband provider, they will send you a package and it is up to you to get the network working. Generally, the phone socket will plug into the wireless router ADSL socket. This device will then in turn distribute the connection to each device on your personal network. Tip You may need to connect the router via Ethernet to access the settings page for the first time. This is generally accessed through the address 192.168.1.1 Security system When you are setting up your network you will be prompted to choose a security system. If your laptops, phones and tablets are compatible with WPA, choose this option. It is the most secure encryption standard and allows the user to choose an easy to remember password rather than the 26 character hexadecimal code required for WEP security. Running a computer Wi-Fi network requires each of the devices on your network to have a wireless network adaptor. Make sure that you have this hardware in place before setting up your network.