September 21, 2025

Setting Up Your Ethernet Connection for Home Networking

Hi everyone, I’ve attached a diagram of my desired setup and the goals I’m trying to achieve.

What you’ll build / learn

In this tutorial, you will learn how to set up a reliable Ethernet connection between your BGW320 modem and RAX120 router, specifically for your Unraid room. This setup will enhance your home network by ensuring stable connectivity for all your devices. You will understand the importance of Ethernet runs, how to configure your devices correctly, and how to troubleshoot common issues that may arise during the setup process.

Additionally, you will learn about the role of VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) in managing your network traffic, especially for IoT devices. By the end of this guide, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to optimise your home network for better performance and security.

Finally, you will gain insights into the differences between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, which can influence your network’s speed and reliability. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about your home networking setup.

Why it matters

Setting up a robust Ethernet connection is crucial for anyone who relies on a stable internet connection for work, gaming, or streaming. Unlike Wi-Fi, which can be affected by interference and distance from the router, a wired Ethernet connection provides a direct line to your modem, resulting in faster speeds and lower latency.

Moreover, understanding how to configure your network properly can prevent common issues such as dropped connections or slow speeds. This is particularly important in households with multiple devices, where bandwidth can be a limiting factor. A well-structured network can significantly enhance the user experience across all devices.

Additionally, VLANs play a vital role in modern networking, allowing you to segment your network for better performance and security. By isolating IoT devices from your main network, you can reduce the risk of security breaches and improve overall network efficiency.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you have the following items ready: a BGW320 modem, an RAX120 router, an Ethernet cable long enough to reach from your modem to your router, and a device to access your router’s configuration settings (such as a laptop or desktop computer).

Familiarity with basic networking concepts will be beneficial, including understanding IP addresses, DHCP, and the difference between wired and wireless connections. If you’re new to networking, don’t worry; this guide will walk you through each step in detail.

Lastly, ensure that your devices are powered on and that you have access to your modem and router’s administrative interfaces. This access is crucial for configuring settings and troubleshooting any issues that may arise.

Step-by-step

Begin by connecting one end of the Ethernet cable to the LAN port on your BGW320 modem. This port is typically located on the back of the device and is usually labelled.
Next, take the other end of the Ethernet cable and connect it to the WAN (Internet) port on your RAX120 router. This port is also found on the back of the router and is distinct from the LAN ports.
Power on your RAX120 router if it isn’t already turned on. Wait for a few moments until the router fully boots up; the LED indicators will help you know when it’s ready.
Connect your computer or laptop to the RAX120 router using another Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi. If using Ethernet, plug one end into a LAN port on the router.
Open a web browser on your connected device and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar. This is typically 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, but check your router’s manual for the exact address.
Log in to the router’s administrative interface using the default credentials. These are usually found on a sticker on the router or in the user manual. Change the default password to something secure after logging in.
Once logged in, navigate to the WAN settings section. Ensure that the connection type is set to DHCP, which is the default setting for most ISPs.
Save your settings and restart the router to apply the changes. This step is crucial for ensuring that the router properly connects to the internet.
After the router restarts, check the internet connection by opening a new tab in your browser and visiting a website. If the page loads, your connection is successful.
If you plan to use VLANs, navigate to the VLAN settings in the router interface. Configure your VLANs according to your needs, ensuring that IoT devices are on a separate VLAN for security.
Test the connection on your devices to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. This includes checking both wired and wireless connections.
Finally, document your network setup for future reference. This can help you troubleshoot issues more easily and keep track of your configurations.

Best practices & security

When setting up your home network, security should be a top priority. Always change the default login credentials for your router to prevent unauthorised access. Use a strong password that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Consider enabling WPA3 encryption for your Wi-Fi network if your router supports it. This is the latest security protocol and provides better protection against potential threats compared to older standards like WPA2.

Regularly update your router’s firmware to ensure that you have the latest security patches and features. Most routers have an option to check for updates automatically, which can save you time and keep your network secure.

Common pitfalls & troubleshooting

One common issue when setting up an Ethernet connection is forgetting to configure the WAN settings on the router. If your internet connection isn’t working, double-check that the connection type is set to DHCP and that the Ethernet cable is securely connected.

Another pitfall is neglecting to change the default login credentials, which can leave your network vulnerable. Always take the time to set a strong password and keep it secure.

If you experience slow speeds, consider checking the bandwidth usage on your network. Too many devices connected simultaneously can strain your connection. Use your router’s QoS (Quality of Service) settings to prioritise traffic for critical devices.

Alternatives & trade-offs

Option	Pros	Cons
Wi-Fi	Easy to set up, no cables required	Can be slower, affected by interference
Powerline adapters	Utilises existing electrical wiring	Performance can vary based on wiring quality
Mesh Wi-Fi systems	Improves coverage in large homes	Can be more expensive

While Ethernet provides the most reliable connection, alternatives like Wi-Fi and powerline adapters can be suitable in certain situations. Wi-Fi is convenient for mobile devices but may suffer from interference and distance issues. Powerline adapters can extend your network using existing wiring, but their performance heavily depends on the quality of your home’s electrical system.

Mesh Wi-Fi systems offer a modern solution for larger homes by providing seamless coverage throughout the space. However, they can be pricier than traditional routers. Each option has its trade-offs, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and environment.

What the community says

Community feedback on home networking setups often emphasises the importance of a strong Ethernet connection for stability. Many users report significant improvements in speed and reliability after switching from Wi-Fi to wired connections, especially for gaming and streaming.

Discussions about VLANs highlight their usefulness in enhancing security, particularly for IoT devices. Users recommend isolating these devices from the main network to protect against potential vulnerabilities.

Overall, the consensus is clear: investing time in setting up a proper home network pays off in the long run, leading to a smoother and more secure online experience.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz?

A: The 2.4GHz band offers a longer range but lower speeds, making it suitable for basic tasks and devices further from the router. The 5GHz band provides faster speeds but has a shorter range, ideal for high-bandwidth activities like gaming and streaming when devices are close to the router.

Q: How do I know if my Ethernet connection is working?

A: To check if your Ethernet connection is functioning, connect your device to the router via Ethernet and try accessing the internet. If websites load quickly, your connection is working properly. You can also check the connection status in your device’s network settings.

Q: What should I do if my router isn’t connecting to the internet?

A: If your router isn’t connecting, first check the Ethernet cable connections. Ensure the cable is securely plugged into both the modem and router. Restart both devices and check the WAN settings on your router to confirm they are correct.

Q: Can I use VLANs for my home network?

A: Yes, VLANs can be beneficial for home networks, particularly for isolating IoT devices from the main network. This can enhance security and performance, allowing you to manage traffic more effectively.

Q: How often should I update my router’s firmware?

A: It’s advisable to check for firmware updates at least once every few months. Keeping your router updated ensures you have the latest security features and performance improvements.

Q: What is QoS and how can it help my network?

A: Quality of Service (QoS) is a feature that allows you to prioritise certain types of traffic on your network. By enabling QoS, you can ensure that critical applications, like video calls or gaming, receive the necessary bandwidth, improving overall performance during peak usage times.

Source

For further insights and community discussions, visit the original Reddit post at this link.