How to Connect Cable Internet to a Wireless Router

Connecting cable Internet to a wireless router is generally not a difficult task. Different brands of cable modems will operate in the same way, just like most wireless routers operate in the same way. There may be some differences in the light indicators on different routers, or the locations of the ports and wiring, but these differences have a small bearing on how to connect the devices.

Two ports you may see on the back of your modem.

Step

Turn off all of your equipment. For your modem and router, this is as simple as unplugging the power cords from the back of your devices. If it is easier, unplugging the respective cords from the power outlet will work just as well. If you are planning to use any other devices, such as a computer or a gaming system, power those down as well.

A typical Ethernet cord. Usually comes in yellow, grey or blue.

Step

Take one end of the Ethernet cord and plug it into the back of the modem. There will be only one spot where it can fit. Ensure the cord is secure in the jack. It is similar to a telephone cord, and should make a "click" sound when plugged in correctly.

An example of the back of a router.

Step

Plug the other end of the Ethernet cord into the wireless router. Unlike a modem, a wireless router will have multiple places where an Ethernet cable could be plugged in. Choosing the correct spot is vital to ensuring everything will function properly. Most routers have five different ports. They should all be labeled. The Ethernet cord does not go into any port labeled with a number, or a word and a number, such as "LAN 1" or "LAN 2." The port to use will usually be labeled "WAN," or "Internet." On some routers, this port will be spaced away from the other four ports. On other routers, it may be one color, usually yellow, while each of the other four will be the same color as each other, but a different color from the first, such as blue.

Step

Plug the cable modem back in and turn it on. Wait until the lights turn on. You may not see all of the lights flashing, but as long as all of the necessary lights turn solid, the modem will be working fine.

Step

Finally, plug the power cord for the wireless router back in. If you are planning to add wireless devices, you can power them back on after the router has been on for a full two minutes.