Home Networking FAQs


This article contains Frequently Asked Questions related to Home Networking.


How can I test access to the Internet from my router?

To test access to the Internet after setting up your network, open any browser and enter a URL such as If your network is set up correctly, you will be able to view the site. If you are using a wireless computer connection, you will see the router's Internet LED blink as well.


Do I need a Wireless adapter?

If your computer does not support wireless networking, you will need a wireless USB card/adapter to take advantage of BendBroadband's wireless router. To determine if your computer supports wireless networking, follow the steps below:


  1. Click the Start menu in the bottom, left-hand corner of your monitor, or find the My Computer icon on your desktop
  2. Right-click My Computer
  3. Select Manage from the list
  4. Select Device Manager on the left-hand side
  5. Click the + sign next to Network Adapters
  6. If there is any network adapter that says Wireless, you have a wireless adapter and do not need to order one

Macintosh OSX

  1. Click the Apple Menu in the top, left-hand corner of your monitor
  2. Select System Preferences from the list
  3. Click the Network icon
  4. If Airport is listed, your computer has built-in wireless and you do not need to order a wireless adapter


What is WEP Encryption for Wireless Networks?

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a security protocol for wireless networks that is easy to configure and encrypts transmitted data. WEP has three settings: Off (no security), 64-bit (weak security), 128-bit (a bit better security). WEP is not difficult to crack, and using it reduces performance slightly. If you run a network with only the default security, where WEP is turned off, any of your neighbors can immediately log on to your network and use your Internet connection.

  • For wireless devices to communicate, all of them must use the same WEP setting. (40-bit and 64-bit WEP encryption are the same thing - 40-bit devices can communicate with 64-bit devices.)

If you're very concerned about security, use WPA, which replaces WEP with a protocol that is - given current technology - virtually impossible to crack.




What is an SSID?

The SSID (Service Set Identifier) differentiates one WLAN from another, so all access points and all devices attempting to connect to a specific WLAN must use the same SSID. Simply put, the SSID is the name you establish for your wireless network.


Why would I need a Home Wi-Fi Gateway?

The Home Wi-Fi Gateway allows you to connect multiple devices from almost anywhere in your home to the Internet. This Gateway eliminates the need to have an Ethernet cable running from each device. You can create your own secure home "hotspot" to connect your PCs, PDAs, gaming consoles, and any other Wi-Fi-enabled device.


How does a Home Wi-Fi Gateway work?

The connection to your home is provided via our DOCSIS 3.0 cable Internet service and the Home Wi-Fi Gateway serves as your cable modem to receive the signal. As with other cable modems, you can plug your PC into this Gateway via Ethernet for Internet connectivity. The home Wi-Fi Gateway includes Wi-Fi antennas allowing you the option to connect your home devices through Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

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