Linksys E-Series

Setting Up: Basics

Setting Up: Basics

How to create a home network

What is a network?

A network is any group of devices that can communicate with each other. A home network can also include Internet access, which requires a router like this one.

A typical home network may include multiple computers, a printer, a modem, and a router. A large home network may also have a switch, additional routers, access points, and many Internet-capable media devices such as TVs, game consoles, and web cameras.

••Modem—Connects a computer or a router to your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

••Router—Connects your wireless and wired network devices to each other and to the modem (and to your ISP).

••Switch—Allows you to connect several wired network devices to your home network. Your router has a built-in network switch (the Ethernet ports). If you have more wired network devices than available Ethernet ports on your router, you will need an additional switch to consolidate the wired connections.

How to set up a home network

1.Purchase the proper equipment. For a network that includes Internet access, you’ll need:

••Computers with an Ethernet port or wireless networking capabilities

••A modem for connecting to your ISP (typically supplied by your ISP)

••A router to connect your computers with each other and to the modem

••Internet service to your home, provided by an ISP (Internet Service Provider)

2.Make sure that your modem is working. Your ISP can help you set up your modem and verify that it’s working correctly.

3.Set up your router. See “How to set up your router” on page 10.

4.To connect a computer or other network device to the network, see “How to connect a computer to your network” on page 13 and “How to connect other devices” on page 15.

Where to find more help

In addition to this User Guide, you can find help at these locations:

••Linksys.com/support (documentation, downloads, FAQs, technical support, live chat, forums)

••Setup CD (Troubleshooting Guide, legal and regulatory notices)

••Cisco Connect help (run Cisco Connect, then click Learn More where available)

••Browser-based utility context-sensitive help (open the utility, then click Help in the right-side column.)

How to set up your router

The easiest and fastest way to set up your router is to run the Cisco Connect setup software. You can find Cisco Connect on the CD that came with your router or download it from the router’s support site at Linksys.com/support. Cisco Connect shows you how to connect your router to your home network, step by step. To get started, see “How to start Cisco Connect” below.

If you are an advanced user, you can set up your router manually using the browser-based utility. To get started, see “How to open the browser-based utility” on page 21.

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Linksys E4200V2 manual Setting Up Basics, How to create a home network, Where to find more help, How to set up your router

E-4200, E4200V2, E4200 specifications

The Linksys E4200 series, including the E4200, E4200V2, and E-4200 models, is a renowned line of dual-band wireless routers designed to deliver high-performance connectivity for both home and small office environments. These routers are well-regarded for their distinct features, advanced technologies, and user-friendly characteristics that cater to various networking needs.

One of the main features of the Linksys E4200 series is its dual-band capability, operating on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. This dual-band functionality allows users to optimize their wireless connections, enabling devices that require higher bandwidth, such as gaming consoles and streaming devices, to connect via the 5GHz band for reduced interference and improved speeds. Conversely, standard devices can conveniently operate on the 2.4GHz band.

The E4200 series also boasts Linksys' advanced N600 technology, which delivers combined wireless speeds of up to 600 Mbps. This high-speed performance is crucial for households with multiple devices streaming content, participating in video calls, or engaging in online gaming simultaneously. With four Gigabit Ethernet ports, users can connect wired devices with blazing fast speeds, enhancing the overall network performance.

In terms of range, the E4200 series incorporates multiple external antennas and the MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, which enhances signal strength and coverage throughout larger spaces. This ensures that users can enjoy strong connections even in remote areas of their homes or offices.

Another significant characteristic of the Linksys E4200 series is its ease of setup and management. The installation process is streamlined with a user-friendly web-based interface and Linksys Smart Setup, allowing users to get their network up and running in minutes. Furthermore, users can easily manage their network through the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi app, which provides control over connected devices, parental controls, and guest access settings.

Security features also play a crucial role in Linksys E4200 routers, offering WPA2 encryption, a built-in firewall, and the ability to manage guest networks, thus ensuring that users maintain secure connections while sharing their internet with visitors.

In summary, the Linksys E4200 series routers stand out for their dual-band performance, high-speed capabilities, extended range, and robust security features. Whether for streaming, gaming, or everyday browsing, these routers provide a reliable solution for modern networking demands.