How to Hook up a Wireless Router
Wireless routers are one of the most useful additions to any computer network. Working with radio waves is much simpler than having to deal with long cables connecting each machine to a wall or switch enclosure. Computer placement becomes easier, and moving them is no longer a nightmare of cable tangles.
First: Finding the appropriate spot
Because wireless routers need to communicate via radio waves and there is range limit, router placement is the most critical step for a well-performing network. The ideal spot is roughly in a central point regarding all the computers that are expected to connect to that specific router. An additional constraint is the availability of power, because wireless routers do not connect to computers with cables but, nevertheless, need a power supply to work.
Second: Connecting computers
After the wireless router is safely installed in a central location and properly connected to the power supply, it is time to connect computers to the new network. Some routers need additional configuration, either directly from a wireless link or, for security reasons, with a dedicated Ethernet cable used only in these special occasions. Each computer is configured to search for wireless networks, and a new one appears. Because the router was placed in a good spot, the new network has a strong signal and is quickly found. Using the security credentials set when configuring the router, the computers are allowed into the network and ready for work.
Third: Security
It is advisable to set up strong network passwords to avoid unwanted connections from unknown computers. If passwords are changed, it is necessary to change them on all the computers of that network, or they could get locked out.