FAQs

Upgrading from a USB Modem to a Router

Details

Written by Administrator

When upgrading from a USB Modem to an ethernet router (wired or wireless) there's a few things that people forget or misunderstand

I'll try to explain the differences between the modems and routers

USB Modem

A USB Modem is a dumb device. It relies totally on your PC to access the internet. Your PC holds the information needed to connect to the internet. The PC stores your ISP username and password and you must choose when to connect to the internet by clicking an icon.

If you are using Internet Explorer it can be set to dial up the connection to the internet automatically

Router

A router is different, it needs to be configured with your ISP username and password. Because its an intelligent stand alone device. Once configured you do not have to rely on your PC to go on line.

Common mistakes

A common mistake is for people to buy a router, plug it in an expect to go online as you did with the USB Modem. It doesnt work like that, it must be configured first. Each router manufacturer has a different method, but most are configured via your web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox etc)

Some routers come with an install disc. Personally I wouldnt bother using them, its easier to install it yourself via the browser.

Steps to Upgrading

Below are instructions for upgrading from a typical USB Modem (Speedtouch 330) to a Router (Netgear DG834). You can apply the same principals to different makes/models of kit.

1. Disconnect the USB Modem from the ADSL Filter and from the PC
2. Connect the Ethernet cable from the router to the PC's network card
3. Connect the RJ11 (telephone cable) to the ADSL Filter
4. Open your Web Browser
5. Type in 192.168.0.1 (exact numbers depends on make/model of router, this address is for Netgears)
6. Login to the admin page (for Netgear, username=admin, password=password)
7. Run the Setup Wizard and enter your ISP username/password (Please Note. If you are an AOL user you must use the primary/master account details as the username/password, sub-accounts will not work)

At this stage you should be able to connect to the internet and browse. If you see the dial-up dialog box appear and use Internet Explorer, do the following

1. Open up Internet Explorer
2. Click on Tools/Internet Options/Connections
3. Choose Never Dial a Connection

You should be able to browse the Internet now. Uninstall your old USB Modem sofware (e.g. Speedtouch) your USB Modem is no longer needed.

Troubleshooting

If you cannot browse to your routers configuration page, it is possibly because of one of the following:-

• Your personal firewall maybe blocking that address, try disabling the firewall

• Your network card is not enabled

• Your network card does not have the appropriate drivers loaded

• Your network card is not functioning correctly