How to Set Up a Wi-Fi Connection at Home

A Wi-Fi connection enables a user to eliminate the need for wires and cables that come with the usual cable DSL connection. Setting up a Wi-Fi at home will give you the advantage of connecting to the Internet using a laptop or a Wi-Fi capable desktop computer. Although it may seem like a difficult task, setting up a Wi-Fi connection at home is rather easy.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Purchase a wireless router from any local computer store. Turn on the router as well as the laptop or desktop computer. Using the Ethernet cable that comes with the router, attach one end to the "Internet" port found at the back of the router, and the other end to the modem. Using another Ethernet cable, attach one end to any of the WAN or WLAN ports of the router and the other end to the LAN port of your computer.
   • 2
     Use the router's software disc to install the router to your computer. Follow the instructions displayed on your computer screen as you install. Configure the router by opening a web browser and typing 192.168.1.1 and pressing the "ENTER" key. Set up the security settings including the WEP or WPA key. Close all windows and restart your computer.
   • 3
     Make sure that the wireless connection switch of your laptop or desktop computer is enabled. In laptops, the switch can be found usually just above or below the keyboard. This depends on the model and brand of the laptop you are using.
   • 4
     To avoid IP address conflict, set the IP configuration to DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). Click on the "Start" menu, load the Control Panel and click on the "Network Connections" icon. Right click on "Local Area Connection" and select "Properties." On the "General" tab, choose "Internet Protocol TCP/IP" and click "Properties." Select "Obtain IP address automatically" and finally click "OK."
   • 5
     Click on the "Start" Menu and load the Control Panel. Go to "My Network Places" and then "Network Connections." Right click on the "Wireless Network Connections" and click "View Available Wireless Networks." Upon clicking, all available wireless connections within range will be shown.
   • 6
     Click on the network to establish connection. If the network is secure, you will be prompted to provide the password. If not, you will be connected to the network automatically.