How to Connect Router to Modem – Getting Started
Connecting a router to a modem enables you to access the internet from a couple of devices in your home and gives you additional security against threat actors and other 3rd parties.
A modem and router can be correctly installed using a coaxial cable, two Ethernet cables, and power cords that come as standard with both devices.
When you open a router box for the first time, the various cords and ports can be a bit daunting. Even the instruction manual might be in a foreign language. Fortunately, you’re not the only one who encounters struggles when setting up a wireless router.
As a result, we have come up with an article to help you connect your router to a modem. Afterward, you can link your favorite gadgets to the router and browse the web wirelessly.
The Setup Process
- Attach the correct cables internet cables to the wall. If you have cable or fiber internet, you will have to connect a coaxial cable to the wall for internet to pass through. If you have DSL internet, you will need to attach a phone line to a wall socket for your phone.
How to Connect Router to Modem
- Connect the other internet cable to your modem; basically, connect the other end of the cable to the correct port on your modem. This allows your modem to access the web.
- Connect the modem’s power cable to the modem. First, you need to find the AC adapter port on the back of the modem and connect the AC power cable to it.
- Next, connect the modem’s power cable to a nearby power outlet.
- This will switch on your modem. If your modem doesn’t switch on, immediately find the power button on the modem and toggle it to switch the modem on.
- Attach a LAN cable to the port labeled ‘Ethernet or ‘LAN on your modem. This port is used to connect devices such as routers or computers to the modem.
How to Connect Router to Modem
- Connect the other end of the LAN cable to the router. This side of the LAN cable should be connected to the port labeled ‘Internet,’ ‘WAN,’ or something similar. The port will most likely be situated next to four colored ‘LAN’ ports on the back of the router.
How to Connect Router to Modem
- Connect the router’s power cable to the router. Again you need to find the AC adapter port on the back of the router and connect the AC power cable to it.
- Connect the router’s power cable to a nearby power outlet; your router will most probably power up on its own. Then, give it a couple of minutes to boot up fully.
- Next, connect the second LAN cable to your router. You need to find one of the ports labeled ‘LAN’ on the router and connect the cable here.
- Connect the other end of the LAN cable to your desktop or laptop. Next, locate the LAN port on your PC and connect the Ethernet cable here.
- Confirm that the indicator lights on both the modem and router are active. This shows that both devices have been correctly connected. Note that how the indicator lights illuminate differs from one modem and router brand to the other. Consult your instruction manual or the manufacturer’s website for more info.
- Open a browser on your computer. If you are properly hooked up to the web, you should be able to browse the web using the browser you’ve just opened.
- Next, enter the router’s IP address in the search bar. This will connect you to the router’s web interface. A router’s default IP address depends on the make and model of the router. If you can’t find the IP address on the back of the router, check the manual.
- Enter the default username and passcode. Again the default username should be on the back of the router, and if you can’t find them check the instruction manual.
- Update the router’s firmware; when you have a new router, you’ll most likely need to update its firmware. Check for this option on the web interface to update the router. The process of updating a router’s firmware varies from one brand to the other.
How to Connect Router to Modem
Note: When you’re done connecting your router to a modem ensure you place it in an open place free from distractions. Why? To boost the WiFi connection in your home. For dead zones or ‘hard to reach’ areas, you can buy a WiFi extender or use an old router as a repeater.
Final Thought
To sum it all up, since you’ve already connected and set up your modem and wireless router plus any additional access points, you can start to connect your devices. Connecting a router to your modem means you can access the internet without ugly cables or cords.
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