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When you first install a simple wifi router in your home, why do you have to logon to a website to configure it?
Why is it you can't configure it with just your own computer?
I've seen a number of books or articles on this. I know you have to do it, but I wasn't sure why.
Second question: does every wifi router come with an installation CDROM that must be used? and is it required?
It may look like a website, but it us actually the configuration interface in your router. It is accessed via a web browser, typically by typing in the IP address of the router, typically 192.168.1.1.
Many devices have web interfaces built in, including cable modems, networked and wireless printers.
Most will come with a CD, but it is not needed, and counter to the instructions you do not 'have' to use it.
Power up your router, connect a PC with an ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports on the router.
Hold the Windows Key and hit "R"
type in "cmd" in the dialogue box that opens, and hit enter.
type in "ipconfig" and hit enter.
This should give you a display similiar to this:
Next open a browser, and in the address bar type in the IP address of the default gateway, in my case 192.168.1.1, and hit enter.
This will prompt your for a login username and password, which is included in your documentation, and may even be on a sticker on the router.
Power up your router, connect a PC with an ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports on the router.
Hold the Windows Key and hit "R"
type in "cmd" in the dialogue box that opens, and hit enter.
type in "ipconfig" and hit enter.
This should give you a display similiar to this:
Next open a browser, and in the address bar type in the IP address of the default gateway, in my case 192.168.1.1, and hit enter.
This will prompt your for a login username and password, which is included in your documentation, and may even be on a sticker on the router.
Thanks. Couldn't you skip the cmd/ipconfig steps, since already knew the URL?
It may look like a website, but it us actually the configuration interface in your router. It is accessed via a web browser, typically by typing in the IP address of the router, typically 192.168.1.1.
Couldn't that URL be accessed without being on the internet?
Thanks. Couldn't you skip the cmd/ipconfig steps, since already knew the URL?
What is on the CD, even if it's not necessary?
Yes, you only need to do the IPCONFIG command if you do not know the routers address. From the CD's that I have used, most help you logon and configure the router using a step-by-step process.
Quote:
Originally Posted by robertpasa
Couldn't that URL be accessed without being on the internet?
Yes. Any computer connected to the router can access the routers configuration page even without internet access.
Couldn't that URL be accessed without being on the internet?
I'm answering because I saw the question in a different light.
Using the browser doesn't mean that you are automatically connected to the Internet. It is just the program you use to talk to the router.
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