What is a Router?

- A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer

networks.
- A router helps you connect multiple devices to the Internet and connect the devices
to each other. Also, you can use routers to create local networks of devices. These local
networks are useful if you want to share files among devices.

Parts of a Router

Antenna

LAN Port

WAN Port Reset Button

1. Antenna - helps transmit and receive wireless signals, enabling devices to connect
to the router via Wi-Fi.
2. LAN Port (Local Area Network) - These are used to connect devices within your
local network, such as computers, printers, or smart home devices.
3. Power Connector - This is where you connect the power adapter to supply power
to the router.
4. WAN Port (Wide Area Network) - This is where you connect your router to the
internet, typically using an Ethernet cable from your modem.
5. Reset Button - is a physical button that, when pressed, restores the router to its
original factory settings.

Router Configuration
- it involves setting up various settings on a router to ensure it functions correctly within
a network.

Accessing the router

1. Open your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.) with the computer
connected to the Router.
2. Enter the IP address found in the back of your router into the Address Bar. Most
IP addresses start with 192.168. Push Enter.
3. Entering login credentials. Enter the router's username and password to access
the configuration settings. Default credentials are often found on the router or
in the manual.

Change the SSID and Password of the router.

1. Follow the steps in Accessing the Router

2. Click the Network tab. It's near the top of the page next to Status and
Management.

3. Click Advanced (for 2.4G networks) and/or 5G Advanced (for 5G networks).

You'll see this in the menu on the left side of the page. To edit both the 2.4G
and 5G networks, you'll need to click on each tab, enter your new password in
the "Passphrase" field, and repeat.

4. Enter your new password in the "Passphrase" field. This could be an

alphanumeric passphrase with at least 12 to 64 characters. If you want to
change the network name, enter the new name in the "SSID" field.
 5. Click Apply. After you edit a tab, click Apply to save your changes.

Troubleshooting Tips
1. Forgot Password
- If you forget the router's password, you can reset it to its default settings by
pressing the Reset button. This will erase all custom settings, so you'll need to
reconfigure the router afterward.

2. No Internet Connection
- Ensure all cables are securely connected to the router.
- Turn off both devices, wait for a few seconds, and then turn them back on.
- Contact your internet service provider (ISP) to see if there are any outages in your
area.

3. Creating a Strong Password

- Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or names.
- Make it at least 8-12 characters long.