Connecting a PC to a router

It may seem counterintuitive, but when you're first setting up your wireless network, you may have to connect an Ethernet cable from your main PC to your wireless router.

Before your router can connect to your PC via wireless signals, the router has to be properly configured for wireless operation. However, you can't configure the router wirelessly if the wireless operation has yet to be configured (a nice Catch-22.) So you have to initially connect your PC to the router using an Ethernet cable, which provides a direct connection to the router. Thus connected, you can work your way through the router's wireless configuration routine. This routine should also involve the configuration of your network's wireless security.

Once the router is configured, you can disconnect the Ethernet cable and connect your PC to the router wirelessly. You shouldn't have to use the Ethernet connection again, unless you need to change the main configuration.

Note that some wireless router manufacturers do let you configure the router without first connecting your PC via Ethernet. In some instances, you may be able to establish a basic wireless connection this way, but not enable any wireless security. A physical (Ethernet) connection is required to set the necessary encryption. In any case, make sure you follow the setup instructions provided by your router's manufacturer.

Michael Miller is a writer and commentator on technology and digital lifestyle topics.