Connecting to the Router
Acquire an Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables, also known as RJ-45, CAT5, or CAT6 cables, have a square plug with a clip on each end. You'll use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to your router. The cable connecting your modem and your router is an Ethernet cable, but don't use that one, as it is important where it is. Polyethylene outdoor Ethernet cables are more resistant to damage from extreme temperatures than regular Ethernet cables, as they are manufactured to sustain atmosphere and weather variations.
Make sure your router is online. Your router should be connected to your modem, which should be connected to a Cable or Ethernet port in your wall, and you should see a constant light on the front of the router and/or modem. If you just have a modem, simply make sure that it's attached to the Cable or Ethernet port in your wall.
Locate Ethernet ports on your computer and router. Ethernet ports are square, and they usually have an icon depicting a series of connected boxes near them. On your router, Ethernet ports will typically say "LAN" (Local Area Network) above them. If you're just connecting to a modem, the port you need will usually say "Internet" or "WAN" above it.
Plug your Ethernet cable into your computer and your router. As long as your router is online, doing so will connect your computer to the Internet almost immediately.
Configuring Ethernet Settings on Windows
Open the Start menu. To do so, either click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen, or press the ⊞ Win key.
Click ⚙️ Settings. It's in the bottom-left side of the Start window.
Click Network & Internet. It's in the top row of options here.
Click Ethernet. This option is on the left side of the window.
Verify that the Ethernet is working. You should see your Internet's network name at the top of this page with "Connected" written below it; this indicates that your Ethernet connection is live. If your Ethernet isn't working, try using a different port on the router or a different Ethernet cable.
Configuring Ethernet Settings on Mac
Open the Apple Menu. To do so, click the apple-shaped icon in the top-left corner of the screen.
Click System Preferences. You'll see this option in the Apple Menu drop-down window.
Click Network. This will open the Network window.
Select the "Ethernet" connection. It's in the left-hand pane.
Click Advanced. It's in the lower-right area of the window.
Click the TCP/IP tab. This tab is near the top of the Advanced window.
Make sure the "Configure IPv4" box says "Using DHCP". If it doesn't, click the box to the right of "Configure IPv4" at the top of the screen and select Using DHCP.
Click Renew DHCP Lease. It's on the right side of the page. This will ensure that you're able to access the Internet while connected to Ethernet.
Click OK. It's in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Your Ethernet connection should now be live.
Comments
0 comment