Home Network Setup Checklist

Equipment Planning

Assess internet speed requirements for householdChoose appropriate internet service provider (ISP)Select modem compatible with ISP serviceChoose router with adequate coverage and speedPlan for mesh network system if neededConsider separate modem and router vs combo unitPurchase ethernet cables (Cat6 or better)Plan for network switch if more ports needed

Router Configuration

Connect modem to router properlyAccess router admin panel via web browserChange default admin username and passwordUpdate router firmware to latest versionConfigure wireless network name (SSID)Set strong WiFi password (WPA3 encryption)Disable WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)Enable automatic firmware updates

Network Security

Change default router login credentialsEnable WPA3 security (or WPA2 if WPA3 unavailable)Create strong, unique WiFi passwordDisable remote management unless neededTurn off unnecessary services (Telnet, SSH)Enable firewall protectionDisable guest network if not neededSet up MAC address filtering if desired

WiFi Optimization

Choose optimal WiFi channel (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz)Enable both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bandsSet appropriate transmit power levelsPosition router in central, elevated locationMinimize interference from other devicesConfigure Quality of Service (QoS) settingsSet up separate networks for IoT devicesTest WiFi coverage throughout home

Wired Network Setup

Run ethernet cables to key locationsInstall wall jacks for permanent connectionsSet up network switch for additional portsConfigure static IP addresses if neededTest wired connection speedsLabel all network cables and portsPlan for future expansion needsConsider Power over Ethernet (PoE) requirements

Device Configuration

Connect all devices to networkUpdate device network driversConfigure automatic IP assignment (DHCP)Set up network sharing and permissionsConfigure printer network accessSet up network attached storage (NAS) if desiredConfigure smart home devicesTest connectivity on all devices

Network Monitoring

Set up network monitoring toolsConfigure bandwidth usage alertsMonitor connected devices regularlySet up parental controls if neededConfigure access time restrictionsMonitor for unauthorized accessSet up network usage reportsPlan for regular security audits

Backup and Recovery

Document network configuration settingsSave router configuration backupCreate network diagram with device locationsDocument all passwords and settingsPlan for equipment failure scenariosSet up automatic configuration backupsTest network recovery proceduresKeep spare ethernet cables available

Performance Optimization

Test internet speed at multiple locationsOptimize router placement for coverageConfigure channel width settingsSet up load balancing if multiple connectionsMonitor network congestion patternsOptimize streaming and gaming settingsConfigure traffic prioritizationPlan for bandwidth upgrades if needed

Maintenance Schedule

Monthly: Check for firmware updatesQuarterly: Review connected devices and remove unusedAnnually: Change WiFi passwords and review securityAs needed: Restart router and modem for performanceRegular: Monitor network performance and usageOngoing: Keep documentation updated with changes