How to connect internet to laptop from modem

In this article we’re going to cover how to connect a computer (PC/laptop) directly to a modem, without needing to use a router. This is actually possible, though only by cable, and one connection only.

Here are the quick steps:

1. Get an RJ-45 ethernet cable
2. Plus one end into the ethernet port on the computer
3. Plug the other end into the modem ethernet port.
4. The computer and modem are now connected.
5. Modems can provide one wired LAN connection.

Now let’s go through these steps in illustrated form.

How To Connect a Computer To A Modem Directly

Step 1 – Grab a standard RJ-45 Ethernet cable (also known as a LAN/network cable). It looks like this:

To create your own Wi-Fi network, you'll need a wireless router. This is the device that will broadcast the Wi-Fi signal from your Internet modem throughout your house. Your Internet service provider (ISP) may offer you a wireless router for a small monthly fee. If you've never set up a Wi-Fi network before, this may be the easiest option.

If you want to buy your own router, we'd recommend spending a little more time researching different options. CNET offers a comprehensive guide on How to Buy a Router.

Some Internet modems may already have a built-in wireless router, which means you won't need to purchase a separate one.

Connect the cables

1. Once you've acquired a wireless router, you'll need to connect it to your existing Internet modem.

2. Connect an Ethernet cable from your modem to the wireless router (there is usually a short Ethernet cable included with your wireless router for this purpose).

3. Plug in the power cable for the wireless router.

4. Wait at least 30 to 60 seconds, and make sure the lights on your router are working correctly.

Configure your router

Next, you'll need to use your computer to configure your router's default settings. This includes setting a unique name and password for your wireless network.

1. Using your web browser, enter the router's default IP address into the address bar, then press Enter. Your router's instructions should include this information, but some of the most common addresses include 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1, and 192.168.2.1.

2. The router's sign-in page will appear. Again, the exact sign-in details should be included with your router's instructions, but most routers use a standard user name and password combination, such as admin and password.

3. Your router's settings page will appear. Locate and select the Network Name setting, then enter a unique network name.

4. Locate and select the Network Password setting, and choose an Encryption option. There are several types of encryption you can use, but we recommend WPA2, which is generally considered to be the most secure.

5. Enter your desired password. Make sure to use a strong password to help ensure no one else can access your network.

6. Locate and select the Save button to save your settings.

Connect!

That's it! Now you're ready to connect to your Wi-Fi network and make sure it's working. The process for connecting to a Wi-Fi network will vary slightly depending on what type of computer or device you're using, but any system will require these basic steps.

1. Locate your computer's network settings, and search for nearby Wi-Fi networks.

2. Select your network, and enter your password.

3. If the connection is successful, open your web browser and try navigating to a webpage like www.google.com. If the page loads, it means your Wi-Fi connection is working correctly.

   Can I connect laptop directly to modem?

   Plugging a computer or laptop directly into a modem is a bad idea. This is a major security risk because it bypasses security configurations that a router (or, modem/router combination) have set up by default.

   How do I connect my laptop directly to the Internet?

   In Windows 10.

   Select the Network or Wifi icon in the notification area..

   In the list of networks, choose the network that you want to connect to, and then select Connect..

   Type the security key (often called the password)..

   Follow additional instructions if there are any..

   How do I manually connect my laptop to my modem?

   How do I connect my computer to my modem via an Ethernet cable?.

   Connect the Ethernet cable to a yellow LAN port on your modem..

   Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to an Ethernet port on your computer or laptop..

   Make sure that the Ethernet light is green and flashing next to the port you have used on your modem..

   Can I connect to Internet directly through modem?

   You don't necessarily need to buy a router to connect to the Internet. It's possible to connect your computer directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Also, many modems include a built-in router, so you have the option of creating a Wi-Fi network without buying extra hardware.