How to Use a Router for Beginners: First Steps
To use a home WiFi router, plug it into your modem with an Ethernet cable, power it on, and follow the setup steps in the maker's app or a web page. Then give your network a name and a strong password, place the router in a central spot, and connect your devices. Most of the work takes one short sitting, and day-to-day use after that is mostly checking the app now and then.
NETGEAR RS700S-100NASBest overall
ASUS GT-BE98Highest combined speed
TP-Link Archer BE400Fastest 5 GHz bandWhat a router does
A router shares one internet connection with every device in your home. Your modem or gateway brings the internet in from your provider. The router then hands it out over WiFi and through Ethernet ports, and it keeps each device's traffic separate so a phone and a laptop do not get mixed up.
Two things people often confuse: a modem talks to your provider, and a router talks to your devices. Some providers supply a single box that does both, called a gateway. You can still add your own router to it, which we cover below.
One quick note. If you searched for router bits, that is a different tool entirely: a woodworking router that spins cutting bits to shape wood. This guide covers the networking kind, the one that gives your home WiFi.
What you need before you start
Gather a few things first so setup does not stall halfway through. Most routers ship with an Ethernet cable and a power adapter in the box.
- A working modem or gateway from your internet provider
- The router, its power adapter, and an Ethernet cable
- A phone or laptop to run setup
- The sticker on the router, which lists the default network name and password
- The maker's app if your router uses one, downloaded before you begin
First-time setup, step by step
The exact screens differ by brand, but the order is nearly always the same. Some routers, such as the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S, offer guided setup through a free phone app, which walks you through each step. The app needs an active internet connection to finish.
Safety note: use only the power adapter that came with the router, plug it into a dry, grounded outlet, and keep the cables out of walkways so nobody trips on them.
- Unplug the modem for a moment, then plug it back in and wait until its lights settle.
- Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the modem and the other end to the router's internet (WAN) port.
- Plug in the router and wait for its status light to show it is ready. This can take a few minutes.
- Connect your phone or laptop to the router's default WiFi name, using the password on the sticker.
- Open the app or the setup page listed in the manual and follow the prompts.
- Choose a new network name and a strong password, then let the router finish and restart if asked.
- Reconnect your devices to the new network name.
If you have a provider gateway
If your provider gave you a combined modem and router, adding your own router can create two routers in a row. That sometimes causes odd connection problems. The usual fix is to put the gateway in bridge mode, so it passes the internet through and lets your router do the routing. The NETGEAR listing notes that some gateways and modem router combos may require bridge mode.
Check your provider's help pages for the exact steps, since they vary. If you cannot find them, a support call is a reasonable shortcut.
Where to put your router
Placement affects your signal as much as the router itself. Put it in a central spot, up off the floor, with open space around it. Avoid closets, cabinets, and spots right behind a TV or next to a microwave, because walls and other electronics weaken the signal.
Coverage figures on spec sheets are best-case numbers. The NETGEAR listing says walls, floors, and interference can reduce range. The same RS700S is rated for 3,500 sq ft, while the dual-band TP-Link Archer BE230 is rated for 2,000 sq ft, so a bigger home needs a stronger rating or a mesh setup. Read more in our best router comparison.
Safety note: if you mount a router high on a wall or shelf, use a stable step stool or ladder, and have someone steady it. Do not run power cords across a doorway at head height.
Settings to change first, and everyday use
Default settings work, but a few quick changes make your network safer and easier to manage. Here is a short checklist to go through after setup.
Many routers let you do day-to-day tasks from a phone app. The Nighthawk app, for example, can manage WiFi, run speed tests, pause devices, and set up guest networks. Other makers offer similar tools, so check what yours includes.
| Setting | What to do | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Network name | Pick something that does not show your name or address | Keeps personal details out of public view |
| WiFi password | Use a long, unique passphrase | Stops neighbors and strangers from joining |
| Router admin login | Replace the default admin password | Protects the settings page itself |
| Firmware updates | Turn on automatic updates if offered | Brings security fixes without extra effort |
| Guest network | Create one for visitors | Keeps guests away from your own devices |
Understanding speed and when to upgrade
Speed figures on boxes can be confusing. A combined speed number, such as the 19 Gbps listed for the RS700S, adds every band together, so treat it as total capacity rather than what one device will get. Your real speed also cannot exceed your internet plan, as the listings from NETGEAR and TP-Link both point out.
Older devices still connect to newer routers, but you only get a newer WiFi generation, such as WiFi 7, when your devices support it. If your current router struggles with a busy home, dead spots, or many wired devices, it may be time to compare options. Count the Ethernet ports you need for consoles and PCs, and check for mesh support if you may want to add reach later.
When you are ready to shop, start with our best router page. It lays out WiFi generation, coverage, speed, and ports side by side from published specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a modem if I have a router?
Yes, in most homes. The modem connects to your internet provider, and the router shares that connection. A provider gateway can combine both in one box.
Why is my WiFi slow in some rooms?
Distance, walls, floors, and interference all weaken the signal. Try moving the router to a more central, open spot first. If rooms are still weak, a mesh setup can add reach.
Should I use WiFi or Ethernet?
Ethernet is usually steadier for a desktop PC, console, or streaming box, if you can run a cable. WiFi is fine for phones, tablets, and most laptops.
How do I reset a router if something goes wrong?
Most routers have a small reset button you hold down for several seconds with a paperclip. This erases your settings, so you will need to run setup again. Check your manual for the exact timing.