How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router – Getting Started

Since the merger happened between Bright House Networks and Time Warner Cable, Charter Communications continues to expand its services across America.

Now using the brand name Spectrum, one of the services you can get from the company is internet connectivity.

The service is available across 44 states, with the widest coverage in California, New York, and Texas.

Whether you were in the market for a new internet service provider and decided to settle for Spectrum internet or are looking to get your home connected for the first time, you can choose to undertake a DIY project or hire a technician.

If you do not want people in your home, installing the service on your own is relatively easy.

Spectrum is one of the few home internet providers that offer easy to install packages for clients who prefer DIY router setup.

Spectrum wifi router DIY setup guide

The Spectrum comes with an easy-to-follow guidelines manual as part of the kit.

When ordering your Spectrum kit, it is best to go for the self-install kit. This is specifically packed to help in router setup DIY projects.

Once the kit arrives, the first thing you need to do is ensure every component is inside the package.

The self-install kit should come with:

  • Wifi router
  • Ethernet cable
  • Modem
  • Power cables (2)
  • Coaxial cable
  • Welcome guide and instructions
How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router
How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router

How to set up a Spectrum wifi router

Connect the modem

Get the coax cable and connect one end to the cable outlet and the other end of the cable to the modem. Connect the modem to a power source using the power cable.

Ensure the power source is near where you intend to make the modem's location. It will take about 2 to 5 minutes for the modem to connect to the network.

The blinking light on the front of the modem will stabilize to indicate that the connection to the network is successful.

Connect the modem to the wifi router

Connect the Ethernet cable to the modem and connect the opposite end to the router internet port.

Check to ensure the router cable is connected to a power supply. It will take a few minutes for the wifi status light to turn blue. This indicates that your wifi router is successfully connected.

Connect a device to the wireless network

Once the process is successful, you can connect a device to the network to set up your account.

Go to wifi settings on the connected device and select your SSID/network name. The network name is indicated on a sticker placed on the back of the router.

Remember to change the network name and password for improved security. To change the name and password:

  • Connect the device to the network using the default username and password.
  • Enter the IP address on a browser
  • Sign in to the account using the default login details on the router
  • Create a new username and password for your network.
  • Save the changes and not down the changes for reference purposes.
How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router
How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router

Activate internet equipment

The self-help kit comes with an activation website where you can complete activating the Spectrum service.

If you are unable to reach a connection to use the site, you can call 877. 309.5869 for a representative from the company to complete your activation process.

What to do when the self-install process fails

While following the steps above is more likely to give you positive results, sometimes the connection fails even after following the prompts.

If you are unsuccessful in the self-install process, you can contact Spectrum support for further assistance.

They will send a technician to your location to find the issue. Note that this service is charged.

Part of what they check for includes:

  • A fault with the wifi router, modem, or wiring cables.
  • The cause of the failed installation process.
  • Possible errors during the installation process.

If the installation was unsuccessful due to faulty equipment, the company will replace it and not charge you for the installation service.

Self-installation vs. professional installation

While it is relatively easy to set up a Spectrum wifi router, it is essential to consider whether it makes sense to troubleshoot the service by yourself instead of having a professional do it.

If you feel comfortable with troubleshooting, you can easily set up the network with the steps highlighted in this post.

If not, you can always consider contacting Spectrum to send a technician to get the job done.

The installation fee charged by Spectrum comes at an average cost of $49.95 and may take up to 3 hours for them to send a technician your way.

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How to Set Up Spectrum wifi Router