Can I use a wireless router without installing the router software?

Question

I.e. D-link's software. Can I just use network magic to setup my network and not use any of the software or drivers that came with the router?

I can't access the routers configuration pages. The dlink software will not work (error: incorrect router-- but the CD came with the router). I have the internet connection working through a USB cable to the cable modem.

192.168.0.1 leads to a blank page.

I have a dlink router. I have no way to access it's control panel (192.168.0.1 won't work for me), and have no way to setup the network. The dlink CD is giving errors that the router is incorrect.

That's my problem here... I need the router to be able to notice the internet connection and share it with the other computers in my house. Currently the only thing that can "see" my internet connection is the USB cable going from the PC to the cable modem.

SUCCESS!!! Thanks, all.

Answer 1

I'm not sure why you think you have to install any software or drivers for your router.

All routers have the configuration settings built into the router's firmware. There's nothing to install. For example, on a D-Link router, you would type in 192.168.0.1 in your browser window to get to the router's homepage. On this page, you can set what you need on the router.

The PC only has to worry about the connection. In this case, that's the network card (NIC) that you are installing. If you are using a wireless card, then yes you have to install the drivers that come with it, just like you would have to for any hardware you install. The "software" that comes with wireless cards manages the connection. Sometimes you can use the built-in utility that Windows XP has, but some cards aren't compatible with it. Find out from the manufacturer's website before you buy if this is a big concern to you...

Answer 2

Hook up to it with a CAT5 cable for the initial setup. Don't use wireless for the initial setup.

Open a command prompt and type: IPCONFIG /ALL and press Enter. Make note of the Default Gateway address.

Open a browser window and type http:// where is the setting noted above. You should get a logon prompt. The ID and password will be in the quickstart guide.

The docs should be on the CD. Look for a .pdf file.

If your cable modem only has a USB connection, you need to get a cable modem with an Ethernet (RJ-45) port. You can't use the router with a USB connection.

Disconnect the USB connection to your PC and follow the instructions above.

Answer 3

I never used that program, but im still thinking you need to use the software. The thing is , you need to configure that router. For example you need to put the settings for your internet in there. Without that information , it will not work. But if that network magic does allow you to configure your routers settings you may be OK

Answer 4

bostonian is right. you have to have a hard wired cat 5 connection to the router to get to that routers web page to configure it. i have a Netgear at home and the wireless was turned off by default. once you get in there and turn the wireless on, then you can use a wireless connection.

Answer 5

Generally you can, as long as you know the default settings, just go to the routers configuration pages through your browser.