How to Set Up a New WIFI Router? – Overview
Most people think setting up a new WIFI router is too technical, especially if it is one of the generic or older models.
However, anyone can easily set up a router in a few steps and start using the new network immediately.
While the setup process may vary depending on the model, the basic principles remain the same for all routers out there.
In this short guide, you will learn how to set up a new Google WIFI router and a generic router. You will see how easy it is to set up a router even if you don’t have the user manual with you during the setup.
Setting Up A New Google WIFI Router
Google WIFI routers -also known as Nest Routers- are the easiest and most intuitive home routers to set up. All you need is the Google Home app and you will be able to not only set it up but also manage it using a smartphone or tablet.
Requirements
1. Google WIFI Router
Make sure the router is plugged into a power outlet and that the light indicator is flashing white. This shows that the router is in its factory setting and ready to be set up. You may have to give it a few minutes to boot up before you start the setup process.
2. Android or Apple Device
You will need an android or apple smartphone or tablet to set up the Google router using the Google Home app. The android device should be running Android version 6.0 (Marshmallow) or higher, while the apple device should be running iOS 12.0 or higher.
3. Google Home App
Download the Google Home app from the Android Marketplace or Appstore if you don’t have it on your device already.
You will use the Google Home app to set up your Google router and other compatible smart devices on your home network such as smart speakers and Android TV. You can also use the app to manage the router and other smart devices.
4. Internet Modem/Router (From Your ISP)
You need to connect the Google router to an internet modem using an ethernet cable.
Set-Up Process
We’ll assume at this point that you have already unboxed and plugged your Google router into an outlet.
Connect the router to your internet modem using the ethernet cable that comes in the box. The cable should go into the WAN port on the router and into any open slot on the WIFI modem.
Next, launch your Google Home app to start the setup process.
Tap on the + button on the top left side of the app home screen and select “set up device” then “new device”.
Select a home if you have already set up multiple homes on your app for other devices.
Choose the Nest WIFI router from the list of devices on the next screen. The app will ask you to scan the QR code printed at the bottom of your Google Nest WIFI router.
Scan the QR code using your smart device’s camera. You may need to turn on flash if you are in a dark room.
Make sure the printed QR code is properly aligned between the square. You can choose to continue without scanning and use the setup key printed next to the QR code on the router instead.
Next, you will be asked to select a room for your new WIFI router. Select the correct room for your router if you have set up multiple rooms on your Home app.
Next, you will be asked to create your WIFI login credentials (WIFI name/USSID and password). Create a unique username and strong password for your WIFI network.
The router will take a few moments to create your new WIFI network. Tap “No” on the final screen if you don’t want to add additional WIFI routers to your mesh network to complete the set-up process.
Setting Up A Generic WIFI Router
All WIFI routers can be set up easily provided you know their IP address and have a computer with you for the setup. Here is how to set up any WIFI router regardless of the model or manufacturer.
Unbox the router and note down its IP address and admin login details usually printed at the bottom.
Plug the router into a power outlet and wait for the light indicators to stabilize. Give it a minute or two to be certain that it is ready to be set up.
Connect the router using an ethernet cable to your computer and launch a web browser.
Type the router’s IP address on the browser and press enter on your computer to access the administrative console.
Login with the credentials you noted down earlier.
Locate the WIFI or network section and change the network name and WIFI password.
Lastly, connect the router to your modem using the ethernet cable and you will be able to use the new network.
Setting up WIFI routers is easily, provided you have the required devices and IP addresses for generic routers. Most manufacturers print the login details at the bottom of the router for easy setup.
See Also
