Instruction: Answer the following questions, write your answers on the space provided. 

 _____ 1. What is the primary function of a router in a network?

a. Store files for network users

b. Assign IP addresses and forward data between networks

c. Provide power to connected devices

d. Convert digital signals into analog signals -

_____ 1. 2. Which type of network does a WiFi connection belong to?
a. Wired Network
b. Cellular Network
c. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
d. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

______3. What security protocol is recommended for protecting a WiFi network?
a. WEP
b. WPA2 or WPA3
c. HTTP
d. FTP

______4. Which of the following can interfere with a WiFi signal?
a. Microwave ovens
b. Walls and furniture
c. Other electronic devices
d. All of the above

______5. What does a router use to send and receive wireless signals?

a. Ethernet cables

b. Fiber optic cables

c. Radio waves

d. Infrared light 

At the end of the lesson, the student must be able to;

1. Explain the function and step-by-step setup process of a router and WiFi network using appropriate technical terms. 

2. Show awareness and appreciation of the importance of a properly configured WiFi network in ensuring reliable and secure daily internet use. 

3. Perform the setup and configuration of a router and WiFi network independently, following standard procedures and safety practices 

How Routers works?

•              A router is a networking device that directs data packets between different computer networks. It plays a crucial role in managing internet traffic and ensuring devices within a network can communicate effectively. Routers connect to modems to access the internet and distribute the connection to multiple devices through wired or wireless connections.

 A modem connects a network to the internet by translating digital data from a service provider. A router, on the other hand, distributes this internet connection to various devices within a network and manages data traffic. While a modem establishes the internet connection, a router ensures multiple devices can use that connection efficiently.

1. Accessing the Router's Web Interface

• Connect to the router via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

• Open a web browser and enter the router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

• Log in using the admin credentials (default username/password is usually found on the router or in its manual).

2. Configuring the SSID (Network Name)

• Navigate to Wireless Settings or Wi-Fi Settings.

• Locate the SSID (Service Set Identifier) field.

• Enter a unique and recognizable name for your Wi-Fi network.

• If your router supports dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), configure SSIDs for both band

3. Setting Up Wi-Fi Security and Password

• Go to Wireless Security or Security Settings.

• Choose WPA2-PSK (AES) or WPA3 (if available) for the best security.

• Enter a strong Wi-Fi password (minimum 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).

4 Additional Security Settings

• Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup): It can be a security risk.

• Enable MAC Address Filtering: Allows only approved devices to connect.

• Hide SSID (Optional): Prevents the network name from being publicly visible.

• Reduce Wi-Fi Range (Optional): Minimizes exposure to unauthorized access.

5. Save and Restart the Router

• Click Save or Apply Changes.

• Restart the router to apply new settings.

• Reconnect devices using the updated SSID and password.

 1. Check Signal Strength

• Wi-Fi Indicator: Look at the Wi-Fi signal bars on your device (phone, laptop).

• Full bars → Strong signal

• One or two bars → Weak signal

• Use a Wi-Fi Analyzer App (e.g., NetSpot, WiFi Analyzer) to check signal strength in decibels (dBm):

• -30 dBm to -50 dBm → Excellent

• -50 dBm to -70 dBm → Good

• Below -70 dBm → Weak

2. Test Internet Speed

• Use Speedtest.net or Fast.com to measure download/upload speeds.

• Compare with your subscribed internet plan.

3. Identify Interference & Obstructions

• Physical Barriers: Walls, floors, and furniture can weaken signals.

• Electronic Interference: Devices like microwaves, cordless phones, and Bluetooth gadgets can disrupt Wi-Fi.

• Neighboring Networks: Overlapping Wi-Fi channels from other routers can slow your connection.

4. Check Router Placement

• Place your router in a central, open location, away from walls and metal objects.

• Elevate the router and keep it away from large electronics.

5. Detect Overloaded Network

• • • Too many connected devices can slow down Wi-Fi.

    • Check the router’s admin panel for a list of connected devices.

       Action                                Purpose                          How It Works 

Reboot (Restart)                Refreshes the router            Turns off and back on without changing settings 

Reset (Factory Reset)       Restore factory settings        Erases all configurations, including Wi-Fi name. password, and settings 

1. Check Your Router’s Current Firmware Version

1. Log into your router:

   • Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1).

   • Log in using your admin username and password.

2. Navigate to Firmware Update or System Settings.

3. Note the current firmware version and compare it with the latest version on the manufacturer’s website.

2. Download the Latest Firmware

 Automatic Update (If Supported)

• Some routers have an auto-update feature in the settings.

• Simply click "Check for Updates" and install if available.

 Manual Update (If Required)

1. Visit the official website of your router’s manufacturer (e.g., TP-Link, ASUS, Netgear).

2. Search for your router model and download the latest firmware file.

3. Install the Firmware Update

1. Go to the router’s web interface and open Firmware Update.

2. Click Upload and select the downloaded firmware file.

3. Click Upgrade and wait for the update to complete.

4. Do not turn off the router during the update!

4. Restart and Reconfigure (If Needed)

• After updating, reboot the router to apply changes.

• Check if all settings (SSID, password, security settings) remain unchanged.

• Test your internet speed and connectivity.

Activity: Do it Yourself: Wi-Fi Setup Challenge

Instruction:

1. Watch an interactive tutorial video or read a step-by-step guide on setting up a router. 

2. Take notes on the essential steps needed for proper configuration. 

3. Use a router setup simulation tool (Oracle VirtualBox or interactive software) that mimics a real router configuration interface. 

Note: If a simulation tool is unavailable, students can complete a drag-and-drop exercise that requires placing setup steps in the correct order. 

In this simulation, the student will: 

         1.Connect the router to the modem. 

      2.Login to the router’s admin panel. 

      3.Setup the WiFi network name (SSID) and password. 

      4.Enable security settings (WPA2 encrycption) 

      5.Check connectivity and troubleshoot basic issues.
 

After completing the activity, you will submit a reflection journal (written or video format) answering: 

1.What challenges did you face in setting up the router individually? 

      2.What did you learn from this activity? 

      3.How would you help someone else set up their WiFi in the future? 

For video submitting, create a 1-2 minutes video explanation about setting up a router, make it precise and send it via email.