Can you install a wireless router without a desktop computer

Most modern devices connect wirelessly —even desktops now ship with Wi-Fi connectivity. But there will be times when you need a wired connection, like testing your internet speed or improving your video stream quality. Are you connecting a computer to your router to test your internet connection?

Discover your current speeds by running our internet speed test and compare the results to your plan. Run the Speed Test. You can connect a computer to a router using a wired or wireless connection, depending on the model. For instance, most laptops support Wi-Fi connections, but thin-and-light models like the MacBook Air may not have an Ethernet port for wired connectivity. In that case, you will need a USB adapter. Desktops always have an Ethernet port—sometimes two in configurations designed for gaming and workstations.

Wi-Fi is more common now in desktops than in recent years, thanks to Wi-Fi 5. Manufacturers typically bundle at least one with the router but double-check that you have all the cables listed on the parts list. Part 1: Connect your router to the modem. Part 2: Connect your computer to the router. Is your internet plan up to speed with your wired connections? If not, you may need a better plan. Search by zip code Search Providers. Chances are, you already completed this step.

Connect your router to your modem using an Ethernet cable. It typically has a different color than the other Ethernet ports. Be sure that you properly secure the wireless gateway to the internet connection entering your home.

The connection type depends on the internet you have. For example, cable internet comes into your house via a coaxial cable, whereas connecting to DSL requires you to connect your modem to a filter, which then plugs into any phone jack. We provide more information about cable types below. Step 1: Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on your computer. If your computer does not have an Ethernet port, you will need a USB adapter.

Here are two examples:. Platforms like Windows and macOS should automatically connect to the local network—no logins required. Instead, it adds shared devices to your network, like printers, external hard drives, and network attached storage NAS devices. Ethernet cables are the primary type of cable used in computer networking.

Specific instructions for how to connect a non-wireless computer to a wireless network are going to vary based upon the particular brand of wireless USB adapter that you purchase, but will follow these general steps.

Step 2: Unpack the adapter, assemble it and read the included instructions. If not, you will need to continue to the next step and install the drivers from the included installation CD. Step 3: Insert the installation CD into the disc drive on your computer, then follow the on-screen prompts. Usually you will not be connecting the adapter itself until specifically instructed to do so by the installation wizard.

Again, these are very generic instructions, as each individual adapter will be slightly different. To check internet status, simply connect to your modem or ISP gateway using an Ethernet cable, and plug it directly into your laptop or desktop PC. If you don't have an Ethernet port on your laptop, you'll want to get an Ethernet adapter.

If your computer is getting an internet connection, you're in good shape to set up the router. Also, some ISP gateways offer combined modem and router functions.

This should be explained in whatever instructions came with the gateway device. As you unpack the router, pay attention to any documentation that's included. Keep an eye out specifically for any stickers or slips of paper that may include vital setup information, like the address for the router's web interface, or the default username and password.

If antennas are separate from the main router unit, you'll want to install them. This is usually done by screwing them on to the connectors on the back or sides of the router. In other cases, the router's antennas will be built in, and only need to be extended and positioned. Once it is unpacked and assembled, you'll need to find a place to install the router. The ideal router position will be in a central location, rather than at one end of the home. This will give you a faster, more stable connection than any available wifi technology.

Installing a universal wifi internet adapter without wps. If it is, then you have a successfully connected your desktop computer to wifi using your smartphone. The first thing that you have to do is, connect your cell phone and pc using a usb cable. The good thing about pc builds is that they have access to a lot more usb ports when compared to mobile devices like laptops.

Go to network connections control panel on computer with internet access. How to connect wifi with desktop computer. Open your browser on the computer without. Right click on the network connection that has internet access select the sharing tab check the box that says allow other network users.