Configuration and Settings of Linksys Routers
The default private IP Linksys assigns to all routers from their range is 192.168.1.1. Along with it, you will need to figure out the username and password for the admin panel. Again, when they dispatch them from the factory, Linksys uses the same login details for all their routers. Both the username and password should be “admin”. Check if that is the case for your device by looking at the label on the back of the router. Have in mind that some Internet Service Providers change both the default gateway IP and logins when they set up networks for their clients. To be on the safe side, give your ISP a call to make sure that is not the case.
Once you have that information, you can easily access the admin panel by typing the gateway IP in the address bar of your internet browser. Use the username and password you have to log into the account.
Popular Linksys Models
Linksys is one of the world’s biggest manufacturers specializing in wireless routers. As such, their model range is quite impressive. They offer two main types of routers – Mesh routers and non-mesh routers. Among all the various devices, the following stand out:
- Linksys WRT3200ACM
- Linksys EA6350-4B
- Linksys MR 7350
- Linksys WRT32XB
- Linksys Velop tri-band WHW0303
Linksys Velop tri-band WHW0303 is a slick, stylish addition to every household. This $300 range router comes with a Tri-band interface and MU-MIMO support that allows you to connect quite a few devices. Thanks to the Velop node, you can expand its capacity almost to infinity. The Linksys Velop tri-band WHW0303 is ideal for modern smart homes that rely on fast, stable internet connection throughout the whole property.
A good choice for an entry-level Linksys router would be EA6350-4B. This model costs less than $80 and has the benefit of being very easy to set up through the Linksys app. Another benefit is the Alexa Wi-Fi controls that are available with the software it comes with. The EA6350-4B will satisfy the basic needs of any small-to-medium household or even a small office.
About Linksys
Linksys Holdings Inc. is a US brand and a global leader in networking solutions for the past 35 years. Based in Irvine, California, they are global leaders in the manufacturing of wireless routers, mesh Wi-Fi systems, Wi-Fi extenders, access points, network switches, and Wi-Fi networking.
The company was an independent entity from its establishment in 1988 until 2003, when Linksys was acquired by Cisco Systems. Cisco sold it to Belkin in 2013 and Foxconn acquired Linksys in 2018.
Linksys has always been at the forefront of innovation in the field of wireless routers. A fresh example of this came during the global COVID-19 pandemic when they introduced HomeWRK – a two-note, mesh-enabled Wi-Fi 6 router that offers two separate connections – one for home, and one for business use. Needless to say, the HomeWRK became all the range during the work-from-home years of the pandemic and contributed to Foxconn’s revenue rising to the astonishing $175 billion in 2021 alone.
Two Frequent Issues with Linksys Routers
One common issue with Linksys routers is the MAC Address restrictions. The majority of the newer models have the so-called MAC address filtering feature. By default, it is switched off. Network administrators such as your ISP and yourself can enable that feature. As a result, only devices in the white list of MAC address numbers can use the Linksys router wireless. If you can’t use the internet, log into the admin panel. In the Network settings menu find the MAC address filtering feature and switch it off to resolve that issue.
Loose or disconnected cables are another issue plaguing Linksys router users. Make sure that all power strips are switched on and that the router is receiving electricity from the outlet. If not, your Wi-Fi network may keep disappearing and reappearing, making internet use a nuisance. The same goes for the Ethernet cable. Plug off the Ethernet cable and plug it back in. If everything is fine with it, it should make a clicking sound when reconnected.