After going through this lesson, you are expected to:
1. Identify the parts of a router, front, and rear panel
2. Discuss each function of the router’s LED
3. Configure the router's network name and password
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. Routers perform traffic-directing functions on the Internet. Data sent through the internet, such as a web page or email, is in the form of data packets.
WPS (Wi-fi Protected Set-up) is a network security standard to create a secure wireless home network. It was created by CISCO by year 2006.
Note: After a device is successfully added to the network by WPS function, the WPS LED will keep on for 5 minutes and then turn off.
The following parts are located on the rear panel (View from left to right).
Wi-fi: This button is used to enable/disable the Router’s wireless function WPS/RESET: This button is used for both WPS and RESET functions. To use the WPS function, press it for less than 5 seconds; to use the RESET function, press it for more than 5 seconds.
Use as a Reset button
There are two ways to reset the router’s factory default:
1 . Use the Factory Defaults function on the System Tools > Factory Defaults page in the Router’s Web-based utility.
2. Use the WPS/RESET button: With the Router powered on, press, and hold the WPS/RESET button (more than 5 seconds) until the SYS LED becomes quick-flash from slow-flash. Then release the button and wait for the ROUTER to reboot to its factory default settings.
Use as a WPS button
If you have client devices, such as wireless adapters, that support Wi-Fi Protected Setup, then you can press this button to quickly establish a connection between the Router and client devices and automatically configure wireless security for your wireless network.
Internet: This internet port is where you will connect the DSL/cable modem
4,3,2,1 (LAN): These ports (4,3,2,1) connect the Router to the local PC(s).
ON/OFF: The switch for the power.
POWER: The Power socket is where you will connect the power adapter. Please use the power adapter provided with this TL-WR840N 300Mbps Wireless N Router.
CONNECTING THE ROUTER
1. System Requirements
• Broadband Internet Access Service (DSL/Cable/Ethernet)
• One DSL/Cable Modem that has an RJ45 connector (which is not necessary if the Router is connected directly to the Internet)
• PCs with a working Ethernet Adapter and an Ethernet cable with RJ45 connectors
• TCP/IP protocol on each PC
• Web browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Apple Safari
2. Installation Environment Requirements
Place the Router in a well-ventilated place far from any heater or heating vent.
2. Avoid direct irradiation of any strong light such as sunlight.
3. Keep at least 2 inches (5cm) of clear space around the Router.
4. Operation Temperature: 00C-400C (320F-100F)
5. Operating Humidity: 10%-90% RH, Non-Condensing
3. Connect the Router
Before installing the Router, make sure your PC is connected to the Internet through the broadband service successfully. If there is any problem, please contact your ISP. After that, please install the Router according to the following steps. Don't forget to pull out the power plug and keep your hands dry.
1. Power off your PC, Cable/DSL Modem, and Router.
2. Locate an optimum location for the Router. The best place is usually at the center of your wireless network.
3. Connect the PC(s) and each Switch/Hub in your LAN to the LAN Ports on the Router. (If you have the wireless NIC and want to use the wireless function, you can skip this step.)
4. Connect the DSL/Cable Modem to the WAN port on the Router, shown in Figure 2-1.
5. Connect the power adapter to the power socket on the Router, and the other end into an electrical outlet. The Router will start to work automatically.
6. Power on your PC and Cable/DSL Modem.