A new Linksys router is easiest to set up when you connect the modem first, then the router, then create your own Wi-Fi and admin credentials. Most Linksys Smart Wi-Fi models can use the Linksys app, while older models can still use the browser setup page.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you are setting up a Linksys home router from scratch, including Smart Wi-Fi models and older Linksys routers with a web interface.
Set up with the Linksys app
This is the simplest route for most current Linksys routers.
- Confirm the modem is online before adding the router, unless you have a combined modem/router gateway.
- Plug the Linksys router into power and wait about a minute.
- Connect an Ethernet cable from the modem to the router Internet or WAN port. This port is often a different color.
- Install the Linksys app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app, sign in or create a Linksys account, and choose Set up a new router.
- Connect your phone to the temporary Wi-Fi network printed on the router label, or follow the app Bluetooth prompts if supported.
- Create a new Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, and router admin password.
- Wait for the app to confirm the router is online, then reconnect household devices to the new Wi-Fi.
Set up through the web interface
Use this if you prefer a browser or the router does not support app setup.
- Connect the modem to the router Internet/WAN port.
- Connect a computer to the router by Ethernet, or join the default Wi-Fi shown on the label.
- Open 192.168.1.1 or myrouter.local in a browser.
- Use the setup wizard if it appears. If not, log in with the label defaults and open Setup or Connectivity.
- Confirm the internet connection type, then set the Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, and admin password.
- Save settings and wait through any reboot.
- Reconnect devices using the new network details.
More control
Reuse old Wi-Fi details for easier reconnects
If the new SSID and password exactly match your old router, many TVs, smart devices, and laptops reconnect automatically.
Update firmware right away
Check Connectivity > Router Firmware Update in the web interface or router settings in the app. New hardware can sit on a shelf with old firmware.
Enable guest access
Guest Access keeps visitors and less-trusted devices off your main network while still giving them internet.
Placement matters after setup
A central, open, elevated spot usually improves coverage more than a settings tweak. Avoid closets, corners, and spaces behind large metal objects.
Sources
- Linksys Support – How to set up your Linksys router for the first time (2025)
- Linksys Support – Using the Linksys app to set up your router (2025)
- Linksys Support – Log in to the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router web interface (2025)