This wikiHow teaches you how to directly connect your computer to an internet router using an Ethernet cable, as well as configure Ethernet settings on Windows and Mac.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Connect to the router
Step 1. Get an Ethernet cable
Ethernet cables, also known as RJ-45 cables, have a square connector at each end. You will use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the router.
The cable connecting the modem and the router is an Ethernet cable
Step 2. Make sure the router is online
The router must be connected to the modem, which must be connected to a Cable or Ethernet port on the wall, and you should see a steady light on the front of the router or modem.
If you only have one modem, just make sure it's plugged into the Cable or Ethernet port on the wall
Step 3. Locate the Ethernet ports on your computer and router
Ethernet ports are square and usually have an icon next to it that represents a series of connected equipment.
- On the router, it will normally say "LAN" (Local Area Network) above the Ethernet ports.
- If you are only connecting to a modem, the port you need will generally say "Internet" or "WAN" above.
Step 4. Plug the Ethernet cable into your computer and router
As long as the router is online, your computer will almost immediately connect to the internet when you do.
Method 2 of 3: Configure Ethernet Settings in Windows
Step 1. Open the "Start" menu
To do this, click on the Windows logo in the lower left corner of the screen or press the ⊞ Win key.
Step 2. Click ⚙️
It's in the lower left of the "Start" window.
Step 3. Click Network and Internet
It's in the top row of options.
Step 4. Click Ethernet
This option is on the left side of the window.
Step 5. Verify that Ethernet is working
You should see the name of your Internet network at the top of this page with the word "Connected" written underneath. This indicates that the Ethernet connection is active.
If your Ethernet isn't working, try using a different port on the router or another Ethernet cable
Method 3 of 3: Configure Ethernet Settings on Mac
Step 1. Open the Apple menu
To do this, click on the apple-shaped icon in the upper left corner of the screen.
Step 2. Click System Preferences
You will see this option in the drop-down window of the Apple menu.
Step 3. Click Network
This will open the "Network" window.
Step 4. Select the "Ethernet" connection
It's in the left panel.
Step 5. Click Advanced
It's in the lower-right part of the window.
Step 6. Click on the TCP / IP tab
This tab is near the top of the "Advanced" window.
Step 7. Make sure the "Configure IPv4" box says "Use DHCP"
If not, click the box to the right of "Configure IPv4" at the top of the screen and select Use DHCP.
Step 8. Click Renew DHCP Lease
It's on the right side of the page. This will ensure that you can access the Internet while connected to Ethernet.
Step 9. Click OK
It's in the lower-right corner of the screen. Your Ethernet connection should now be active.