How to Install a New Router

Every wireless device in your home connects to your router, and if you’re like many people today, it takes only an hour or two without Wi-Fi to leave you feeling some anxiety at being disconnected. Get your connections up and running by installing a new router, using this simple guide.

While this basic process should help you get any new router online, it is worth noting that each model will be a little different. Many new models have a streamlined setup process that combines or skips some of these steps, or that lets you manage your setup entirely through a smartphone app. When in doubt, follow the directions that came with the router. But if you want a general walk-through of setting up your home network, these steps should get you fully connected.

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1. Check Your Internet Connection

If you’re connecting your router to an existing modem or ISP gateway, then you probably already have a good idea of whether or not your internet is working, but it’s always worth checking. A bad connection can make for a long and frustrating attempt at router installation when there may be nothing wrong with the router itself.

If you’re installing your router as part of moving into a new home or apartment, it’s all the more important to make sure you have an active internet connection, since you are likely to be setting up your router alongside a newly installed or activated internet service.

To check internet status, simply connect to your modem or ISP gateway using an Ethernet cable, and plug it directly into your laptop or desktop PC. (If you don’t have an Ethernet port on your laptop, you’ll want to get an Ethernet adapter.) If your computer is getting an internet connection, you’re in good shape to set up the router.

Also, some ISP gateways offer combined modem and router functions. In this case, you’ll want to make sure the modem/router combo is set to bridge mode. This should be explained in whatever instructions came with the gateway device.

2. Place the Router

As you unpack the router, pay attention to any documentation that’s included. Keep an eye out specifically for any stickers or slips of paper that may include vital setup information, like the address for the router’s web interface, or the default username and password.

If antennas are separate from the main router unit, you’ll want to install them. This is usually done by screwing them on to the connectors on the back or sides of the router. In other cases, the router’s antennas will be built in, and only need to be extended and positioned.

Once it is unpacked and assembled, you’ll need to find a place to install the router. The ideal router position will be in a central location, rather than at one end of the home. Since routers broadcast in all directions, you’ll want to put it roughly in the middle of your home to get the best coverage and signal strength.

A higher position — such as upon a shelf — is preferred, since radio waves move out and down as they propagate through your home. You’ll also want to avoid potential interference from metal objects, brick or concrete walls. And stay away from the microwave, since it puts out the same frequencies that your wireless signal uses.

3. Connect to Power

Once it is powered on, you should see the router’s indicator lights activate. Some will blink or change color during the setup process, indicating certain functions and changes, but there should be a light that shows when the router is properly plugged in and turned on. Wait a minute or two after plugging in the router, as it may take a few moments for it to get up and running.

4. Connect to Your Internet Source

Next, you’ll want to connect your router to your internet source, be it a cable or DSL modem or a similar ISP gateway. For this, you’ll use a basic Ethernet cable, plugged into the router’s WAN or internet port. This port is usually distinguished from others on the device with a different color, or it may be physically separated from the rest of the ports with a space.