How To Install Wireless Internet

Installing your own wireless Internet can be fairly easy if you have basic troubleshooting skills. When you purchase a computer at a big-box retailer, it is common for them to try to sell you services such as virus updates or wireless Internet router configuration. The profit margin on computer hardware is extremely low. One of the ways big-box stores increase their overall gross profit margin is by selling you extra services and accessories. Installing your own wireless Internet can save you money and give you the satisfaction of completing a project on your own.

Materials:

• Wireless Internet router 
• Internet modem 
• Computer hardware with a wireless Internet card

1. Hook up your Internet modem. If you have a DSL connection, you will need to connect the DSL modem to a working telephone line. Your Internet modem will come with a special cable, which connects one end to your phone line using an RJ-11 plug. Plug the other end into your Internet modem. After the connection is made, you will need to plug in the AC wall transformer as well. The steps are the same if you have a cable modem, with the exception that it will be installed to your cable TV line with a coaxial cable.
2. Connect your modem to your wireless Internet router. You will need an Ethernet cord, which will usually come with your router. Verify that it is a straight style Ethernet cord, and not an Ethernet crossover cable. Plug one end of the Ethernet cord into your DSL/Cable modem. Plug the other end of the Ethernet cord into your wireless router. If you have multiple ports on your router, make sure you choose the port meant for Internet connectivity. 
3. Install all necessary security updates. Follow the instructions provided by your wireless router maker. Each wireless router will have slightly different installation steps. Install all the encryption features (such as WEP/WPA security), so that other unauthorized users cannot access your network. You will have to give your router a unique name, administrative password, and access password. The administrative password is used to make updates to your router configuration. The access password will be used to provide each individual laptop with access to the Internet.
4. Connect your computer to your wireless Internet router. Your windows operating system computer can automatically detect connect to wireless Internet routers. When you turn on your laptop, a prompt will ask you if you want to connect to the Internet. Follow the prompts and enter the router name, and security key for your wireless Internet router.