Connect your home network to the Internet

Allow me to start out by explaining what a router is. A router is used to interconnect networks and route information between these networks. In the case of a home network. The router connects your LAN local area network to the Internet.

If you DSL or Cable modem and are looking to home network more then one computer the Linksys Cable/DSL Router allows up to four connections to share the internet.

In my home I have two computers hooked up to the router and my playstation 2. When you connect your computers to the Internet through the router it will not only allow them to share the Internet but resources as well (example printer or files).

The router comes with a cd and it is easy to install. The set up wizard is self-explanatory. For me the router was PnP. I just made the proper connections and my router was ready to go. The router also has built in technology so hackers cannot see the computers on your network.

Obviously you will need a cable or DSL Internet. Furthermore, your computer or computers must have a NIC (network interface card). The router will come with one RJ45 cable also known as Ethernet cable. You place the Ethernet cable into the modem Ethernet port then from modem you plug the Ethernet cable into the routers Internet port. Then you will need a second Ethernet cable. You plug one end of the Ethernet cable to your computers NIC and the other end of the Ethernet cable to port 1 of the router. To add additional computers you will repeat the same steps.


Other little bits of information

Router works with all ISP (internet service providers)

Tech Support toll free 24/7

Includes 60 day free trial of virus and firewall updates



The back of the cable/dsl router from left to right is as follows:

Reset button - The reset button is tiny. You almost have to use a pin to press it. If the router is having problems connecting the reset button will reset the router.

Also, if you hold down the reset button for 30 seconds it will clear all the routers settings and restore the factory settings.

Internet Port – This is where you connect the Ethernet cable also known as RJ 45 cable. Looks like a larger phone cable.

Ports – there are four ports labeled 1 to 4 from left to right. These ports connect your other devices to the network. For example, I have one PC plugged into port one and Play Station two plugged into port two.

Power – self-explanatory. Plug the power adapter into this port.


The front of the cable/dsl router from left to right is as follows:

Power light – if this light is green router is getting power. Blinking light means router is doing diagnostic testing. The lights are known as LEDs. Blinking LED light means

Ethernet lights labeled 1 to 4 – For example, if light one is lit, the router is connected to the device through the corresponding port number. If the light is blinking this means data is being sent through the router. I have a PC plugged into port one when I am actively surfing the Internet the light is blinking (sending data).

Internet – when light is green this means there is a connection between the router and the cable or DSL modem.