WiFi Configuration Guide

Configure your WiFi network for optimal performance and security

Accessing Your Modem Settings

Access your modem's web interface to configure WiFi settings, security options, and network preferences.

Step-by-Step Access

Connect to Your Network

Connect your device to your WiFi network using the default password provided with your modem.

• Look for your network name (SSID) in WiFi settings
• Enter the default WiFi password
• Ensure you have a stable connection

Access Modem Interface

Open your web browser and navigate to the modem's IP address.

Common IP Addresses:

• 192.168.1.1
• 192.168.0.1
• 10.0.0.1
• 192.168.1.254

Login to Modem

Use the default username and password provided with your modem documentation.

• Default username: admin
• Default password: password or admin
• Check modem documentation for specific credentials
• Change default password after first login

Finding Your Modem's IP Address

Windows

1. Open Command Prompt
2. Type: ipconfig
3. Look for "Default Gateway"
4. Use that IP address in your browser

Mac/Linux

1. Open Terminal
2. Type: netstat -nr | grep default
3. Look for the gateway IP address
4. Use that IP address in your browser

Important Security Note

Always change the default login credentials after accessing your modem for the first time to prevent unauthorized access.

WiFi Security Best Practices

Protect your WiFi network with strong security settings to prevent unauthorized access and keep your data safe.

Strong Password Requirements

Password Guidelines

• Use at least 12 characters
• Include uppercase and lowercase letters
• Add numbers and special characters
• Avoid common words or phrases
• Don't use personal information

Network Name (SSID) Security

Good SSID Practices

• Choose a unique name
• Avoid personal information
• Don't use default names
• Keep it simple but memorable
• Avoid special characters

Avoid These SSID Names

• Default names (e.g., "NETGEAR", "Linksys")
• Personal names or addresses
• Phone numbers
• "Free WiFi" or similar
• Offensive or inappropriate names

Security Protocol Selection

WPA3 (Recommended)

The latest and most secure WiFi security protocol.

• Highest level of security
• Protects against brute force attacks
• Forward secrecy protection
• Available on newer devices

WPA2 (Minimum Requirement)

Widely supported and secure protocol for most devices.

• Strong encryption (AES)
• Compatible with most devices
• Industry standard security
• Good protection against attacks

WEP (Avoid)

Outdated and insecure protocol that should not be used.

• Easily cracked by hackers
• No longer considered secure
• Should be avoided at all costs
• Not supported by modern devices

Additional Security Features

MAC Address Filtering

Allow only specific devices to connect to your network.

• Add trusted device MAC addresses
• Block unknown devices
• Provides additional security layer
• Can be complex to manage

Guest Network

Create a separate network for visitors.

• Isolates guest devices
• Separate password for guests
• Limited access to your network
• Easy to manage access

WiFi Channel Optimisation

Optimise your WiFi performance by choosing the best channel and avoiding interference from neighboring networks.

Understanding WiFi Channels

2.4GHz Band

Better range, slower speed. Use channels 1, 6, or 11 to avoid overlap.

• Channels: 1-13 (Australia)
• Better wall penetration
• Longer range coverage
• More interference from other devices
• Slower maximum speeds

5GHz Band

Faster speed, shorter range. More channels available, less interference.

• Channels: 36-165
• Faster data transfer rates
• Less interference
• Shorter range
• Better for streaming and gaming

Channel Selection Strategy

2.4GHz Channel Selection

Choose from channels 1, 6, or 11 to minimize overlap:

• Channel 1: 2.401-2.423 GHz
• Channel 6: 2.426-2.448 GHz
• Channel 11: 2.451-2.473 GHz
• These channels don't overlap with each other
• Select 20MHz channel width only (not 20/40MHz)

5GHz Channel Selection

More channels available, less interference:

• Choose channels with least interference
• Use WiFi analyzer apps to check
• Consider DFS channels (52-144) if available
• Avoid channels used by radar systems
• Select 20/40MHz channel width for less interference and better range over 80MHz or higher

WiFi Analyzer Tools

Mobile Apps

• WiFi Analyzer (Android)
• Network Analyzer (iOS)
• WiFi Scanner (Windows)
• inSSIDer (Cross-platform)

What to Look For

• Signal strength of your network
• Channels used by neighboring networks
• Congestion on specific channels
• Best channel recommendations

Performance Optimisation Tips

Modem Placement

• Central location in your home
• Elevated position (shelf or table)
• Away from walls and metal objects
• Clear of electronic interference
• Well-ventilated area

Device Management

• Limit number of connected devices
• Use 5GHz for high-bandwidth activities
• Keep devices updated
• Monitor bandwidth usage
• Restart modem regularly

Automatic Channel Selection

Many modern modems have automatic channel selection that can optimise your WiFi performance. Enable this feature in your modem settings for the best results.