HOME NETWORKING CLASS SUPPORT PAGE

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS [ISP] WIDE AREA NETWORK [WAN]

MODEMS  [modulator demodulator]

Provides the interface between the above services and your home network [or single computer] typically via an Ethernet or USB connector   In some ways similar to a radio

ROUTERS 

Allows multiple computers to share resources and to share the connection to the internet.   Every computer can see and use the storage devices on other computers.  Allows file back-up to old computers and allows new computers to read 

Brands - Linksys & Netgear (most supported) [Wired or Wireless]

NETWORK PERIPHERALS  (devices connected to router)

WINDOWS NETWORK CONFIGURATION 

Start > Programs > Accessories > Communications

Network Connections     
Network Setup Wizard
Wireless Network Setup Wizard  - copy passord

Start > Settings > Control Panel

Security Center
Windows Firewall

My Network Places  (Should appear on desktop after network setup)

NETWORK HARDWARE SETUP AND TESTING  [Using your web browser]

Logon Router > http://192.168.1.1  EXAMPLE LOGIN

Change the default administrative password 
Change the default SSID    Service Set Identifier  
Turn off SSID broadcast
Enable Encryption  WEP  WPA (better)
Change Shared Key

 

BASIC NETWORK TESTING (advanced users) 

You’ll save time, if before you call Tech Support, you can determine if a problem is with your computer, your modem, your ISP, or if the problem is on the Internet. 

To test from outside your own network go to www.traceroute.org

Logon Modem > http://192.168.100.1   

Print Modem  'Status' 'Signal Address' pages for future reference

Open a DOS window 

Start > Programs > Accessories > MS-DOS Prompt 
[Type any of the follow commands in the black window] 

ipconfig  or winipcfg - show basic connectivity
ping  -  example ping google.com 
tracert {/? at the end of command lists options. ex ping /? }