Setup of a router
Purchase
If you want to operate several devices on the connection or need WLAN, you have to purchase a router. Please make sure to purchase a NAT-enabled router! The following devices will not work:
- DSL-Modem
- Switch
- Hotspot
- Access Point
- Router in modem mode (while inexpensive, older Fritz!Box devices are sometimes fixed in DSL modem mode and can't be configured to work with our network)
The router also requires a gigabit WAN port in order to be able to use the full bandwidth of the dormitory network.
The following routers have stood the test of time: list
Setup
In order to set up the router, you have to connect to the router's own network. Many routers propagate a Wi-Fi when connected to a power supply. Other routers require you to connect directly with a LAN cable. While neither connection offers internet they can be used to configure the router. Please read the user manual of your router to know how you will have to connect. Keywords like „WAN“, „Static IP“ or „cascaded router“ are of interest.
Once connected, you will have to open up the panel of the router. This is done by opening a web-browser and entering the address of the router/local gateway (not the accommodation gateway!). For newer routers the manufacturer usually provides a web address to make it easier:
Manufacturer | Web address | Possible ip-address |
---|---|---|
TP-Link | http://tplinkwifi.net | 192.168.0.1 |
FritzBox | http://fritz.box | 192.168.178.1 |
Telecom | http://speedport.ip | 192.168.2.1 |
The password to the login is usually on the bottom side of the router.
Now you can enter the network configuration (IP address, subnet mask, etc). Please pay attention to a correct configuration! Incorrect configurations can lead to your connection being recognized as an intruder and blocked.
For some models there are instructions here.
For your safety and the safety of all tenants, please ensure that the router system is regularly updated, that a password is set for access to the router and that effective Wi-Fi encryption is activated (WPA2 or WPA3). It is also recommended to give your Wi-Fi a unique name to avoid confusion with other tenants.