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Enable WiFi on your modem or laptop

To access your WiFi network, you need to make sure this function is enabled on your modem and/or laptop.

Note:  Your modem settings may appear slightly different from the images below, but the steps will be the same.

1.  Connect a device, such as a computer or tablet, to the internet using an Ethernet cable connected to your modem.

2.  Open a web browser and type http://192.168.0.1 into the web address field.

3.  Sign in to the modem's settings interface (Modem GUI) using your Admin Username and Admin Password. Note that these are different from your wireless network name (SSID) and WiFi password (security key).

Find the Admin Username & Password on the modem sticker
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modem label - admin username and password

You can find the Admin Username and Password printed on the sticker attached to the side, back or bottom of the modem.

CAUTION! Do not remove your modem sticker. It includes your default Admin Username and Admin Password, which cannot be retrieved if lost. Your modem could become unusable without them. 

Admin Password and WiFi Password: What's the difference?
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The modem sticker shows you TWO important sets of login credentials. How do you use each one?

SSID and Key/Wireless Password: Used to access and connect to your WiFi network

  • SSID is the name that will show up on your devices in the list of wireless networks (may have two for dual-band modem/routers) 
  • Key/Wireless Password is the password you will enter on your devices to connect securely to your network
  • These default settings can also be customized in the modem settings or through the app

Admin Username and Admin Password: Used to log in to your modem settings portal

  • Access secure settings such as firmware updates, WiFi security, schedules, and more
  • When connected to your home network, go to http://192.168.0.1 to access the portal (also called the GUI)
  • These default settings can also be customized in the modem settings
modem label - login credentials
Log into the modem interface with the Administrator Username and Password

4. Select the Wireless Setup icon in the main menu.

Wireless setup menu in the modem GUI

5. Select Enable for the wireless radio.

6. Select Apply to save your changes.

7. Next, select SSID Setup in the left side menu.

8. Select the network (SSID) that you are using.

9. Select Broadcast SSID.

10. Select Apply to save your changes.

11. After the wireless light on your modem turns green, you can connect devices to your WiFi network.

illustration of a modem with the WiFi light

The specific instructions for how to turn WiFi on and off can vary by make and model of laptop, but there are generally two steps to enable WiFi on your computer. If you can't find your answer here, refer to your computer's user guide or support center. 

Step 1: Turn on WiFi with a switch or function key

Step 2: Turn on WiFi in the computer settings

Switch or button

Some laptops have a WiFi button that can be switched on or off. The location of the button varies, but most frequently it's found on the front edge or just above the keyboard. When enabled, the button is typically illuminated in blue or green.

Function key

Another way to enable WiFi is by pressing the "Fn" key and one of the function keys (F1-F12) at the same time to toggle wireless on and off. The specific key to use will vary by computer. Look for a small wireless icon as shown in the below example image of an F12 key. This key sometimes also has an orange LED on it that will turn on when WiFi is enabled.

Settings

After verifying that your WiFi button is switched on, consult the user manual to enable WiFi in the computer's settings. You will often find this is in a section called "Network Settings" or just "Wireless Settings." Once this is turned on, try connecting your device to WiFi.

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