Using WRT45G wireless router with a pre-existing network?

Question

I am an NYU student, so I am already connected to a pre-existing network. However, I would like to have wireless internet in my room, so I bought the WRT45G router. Is it possible to do this? I don't have an actual, physical modem. There is just an internet jack in my room.

Answer 1

Yes. Simply hook up the Internet port of the WRT to the internet jack. Then plug your computer to a LAN port. Configure your WRT going to http://192.168.1.1/ (default password is "admin" unless you have changed that).
1. Set the router to "Automatic Configuration - DHCP".
2. Save Settings.
That should do it. You should be able to check the Status tab and see that the router got an IP address from your campus network.
For the security of your network and your computer I highly recommend to do the following things as well. Don't forget to save the settings for each page where you make changes.
- change the router password. You can do that on the Administration tab.
- change the SSID to something else than "linksys" on the Wireless tab.
- turn off the SSID broadcast after you have connected your computer for the first time wireless. (Wireless tab)
- turn on wireless security (on the wireless security subtab). Choose WPA2 Personal if possible (i.e. your computer allows it). Else WPA Personal. Choose TKIP or TKIP+AES depending on the setting before. Enter a pre-shared key (a stronger password or passphrase). You must enter the identical key in your computer when you connect the first time.
Without wireless security anyone can use your router and most likely is able to connect to your computer as well. Therefore: use it!