How to Connect a Router to a Modem

Here’s how to connect your router to your modem with an Ethernet cable:

How Do I Connect to My Wi-Fi Router?

Locate your router’s network name and Wi-Fi network key, which you can usually find on the bottom of the router or in the manual. On your computer, go to the Wi-Fi settings and connect to the wireless network, then enter the key to access the web.

How Do I Connect My New Router to the Internet?

As long as your modem is working and getting an internet signal, you should be able to start using the web right away. If you can connect to your Wi-Fi network but you still don’t have internet access, try rebooting your router and modem. If that doesn’t work, you should troubleshoot your Wi-Fi network.

Can You Connect a Router to a Modem-Router?

If you use a modem-router combination unit to access the internet, but you want to upgrade your router, plug the new router into your modem-router with an Ethernet cable and connect to the new Wi-Fi network. You may want to add an external router if you desire advanced security features.

Configure Your Wi-Fi Router Settings

To log into your router and change the network settings, open a web browser, enter your router’s IP address in the URL bar, then enter the user name and password. Once logged into your router’s admin interface, you can set up a guest network, configure security settings, and more. At a minimum, you should change the default Wi-Fi password to decrease the likelihood of hackers infiltrating your network. If you or another person changed the default user name and password, reset your router to factory settings. Insert the straightened end of a paperclip into the hole on the router’s back and hold down the reset button inside for 10 seconds.