D-Link DIR-601 Wireless-N 150 Home Router

1. Introduction

The D-Link DIR-601 Wireless-N 150 Home Router provides high-performance wireless connectivity for your home network. It allows you to share a broadband Internet connection, files, and media across multiple computers and devices with improved speed and coverage compared to previous-generation Wireless G technology. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your DIR-601 router.

Figure 1: D-Link DIR-601 Wireless-N 150 Home Router. This image shows the router from an angled perspective, highlighting its compact black design and the single external antenna.

2. Key Features

• Wireless N Connectivity: Offers superior wireless performance, clarity, and coverage for faster file transfers and extended range.
• Single-Band Wireless N: Operates on a single frequency band for reliable wireless communication.
• Intelligent QoS Technology: Prioritizes both wired and wireless Internet traffic for enhanced gaming and Voice over IP (VoIP) experiences.
• Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS): Enables secure and simple one-button setup for wireless devices.
• UPnP-Enabled: Capable of streaming audio and video to compatible Universal Plug and Play devices.
• Robust Security: Features WPA and WPA2 encryption, along with dual active firewalls (SPI and NAT) to prevent unauthorized access.
• Fast Ethernet Ports: Includes four 10/100 Fast Ethernet LAN ports for high-speed wired connectivity.
• Energy Efficient (D-Link Green): Designed to conserve energy by automatically powering down unused ports, budgeting power output, and offering wireless LAN scheduling.

3. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• D-Link DIR-601 Wireless-N 150 Home Router
• CAT5 Ethernet Cable
• Power Adapter (5V==1.2A)
• Installation Wizard CD-ROM
• Operating Instructions (this manual)
• Vertical Stand (optional, for vertical placement)

If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your retailer or D-Link customer support.

4. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your D-Link DIR-601 router and establish an Internet connection.

4.1. Physical Connection

1. Power Off Devices: Turn off your computer and your cable or DSL modem.
2. Connect Modem to Router: Connect one end of the provided Ethernet cable to the Internet port (WAN) on the back of your DIR-601 router. Connect the other end to the Ethernet port on your cable or DSL modem.
3. Connect Computer to Router: Connect a second Ethernet cable (not included, or use the provided one if not connecting to modem) from your computer's Ethernet port to any of the LAN ports (1-4) on the back of the DIR-601 router.
4. Connect Power Adapter: Plug the power adapter into the power port (5V==1.2A) on the back of the router, then plug the other end into a wall outlet or power strip.
5. Power On Devices:
   • First, power on your cable or DSL modem and wait for its indicator lights to stabilize (usually indicating an active Internet connection).
   • Next, power on your DIR-601 router. Wait for the Power LED on the front of the router to turn solid.
   • Finally, power on your computer.

Figure 2: Rear view of the D-Link DIR-601 router. This image clearly displays the four yellow LAN ports, the blue Internet (WAN) port, the power input, and the reset button, essential for physical setup.

4.2. Initial Configuration (Using Web Browser)

After physical setup, you can configure your router using a web browser. The Installation Wizard CD-ROM can also guide Windows users through this process.

1. Access Router Interface: Open a web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox) on the computer connected to the router. In the address bar, type http://192.168.0.1 and press Enter.
2. Login: A login window will appear. The default username is admin and the password field should be left blank. Click Log In.
3. Run Setup Wizard: Upon successful login, you will likely be prompted to run the Setup Wizard. It is recommended to follow the wizard to configure your Internet connection and basic wireless settings.
4. Internet Connection Setup: The wizard will guide you through setting up your Internet connection type (e.g., DHCP, Static IP, PPPoE). Most home users with cable or DSL modems will use DHCP (Dynamic IP Address).
5. Wireless Network Setup:
   • Wireless Network Name (SSID): Choose a unique name for your wireless network.
   • Security Mode: Select WPA2-PSK (recommended for best security).
   • Pre-Shared Key (PSK) / Network Key: Enter a strong password (at least 8 characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols) for your wireless network. Remember this password as you will need it to connect wireless devices.
6. Save Settings: After completing the wizard, save your settings. The router may reboot.

5. Operating Your Router

Once the initial setup is complete, you can manage and optimize your network through the router's web-based interface.

5.1. Wireless Security

It is crucial to secure your wireless network to prevent unauthorized access. The DIR-601 supports WPA and WPA2 encryption.

• Changing Wireless Settings: Log in to the router's web interface (http://192.168.0.1). Navigate to the Setup > Wireless Settings section. Here you can change your SSID, security mode, and wireless password.
• Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS): For WPS-enabled devices, you can use the push-button feature on the router (or the WPS option in the web interface) to quickly and securely connect devices without manually entering the password.

5.2. Advanced Features

• Quality of Service (QoS): The Intelligent QoS technology prioritizes network traffic. Access this feature under Advanced > QoS Engine to configure rules for applications like gaming or VoIP to ensure smooth performance.
• Firewall Settings: The router includes dual active firewalls (SPI and NAT). These can be configured under Advanced > Firewall Settings to enhance network protection.
• Virtual Server (Port Forwarding): If you need to allow external access to specific services on your local network (e.g., a game server or security camera), configure Virtual Servers under Advanced > Virtual Server.
• UPnP: Universal Plug and Play allows devices on your network to automatically discover and communicate with each other. Manage UPnP settings under Advanced > Advanced Network.

5.3. Changing Router Login Password

For security, it is highly recommended to change the default administrator password for accessing the router's web interface.

1. Log in to the router's web interface.
2. Navigate to Tools > Admin.
3. Enter a new password for the 'admin' user and confirm it. You may also change the 'user' password if desired.
4. Click Save Settings.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your D-Link DIR-601 router.

• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the D-Link support website for new firmware versions. Firmware updates can improve performance, add features, and fix bugs. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware update carefully.
• Regular Reboot: Occasionally rebooting your router (by unplugging the power for 10-15 seconds and plugging it back in) can resolve minor performance issues and refresh network connections.
• Physical Environment: Place the router in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and obstructions that could block wireless signals. Keep it clean and free of dust.
• Password Management: Regularly review and update your wireless network password and router login password, especially if you suspect unauthorized access.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your DIR-601 router.

7.1. No Internet Connection

• Check Cables: Ensure all Ethernet cables are securely connected to the correct ports (modem to router's Internet port, computer to router's LAN port).
• Power Cycle: Power off your modem, router, and computer. Power on the modem first, wait for it to stabilize, then power on the router, and finally your computer.
• Modem Status: Check the indicator lights on your modem to ensure it has an active Internet connection.
• Router Status: Verify that the Internet LED on the DIR-601 is lit, indicating a connection to the modem.
• ISP Issues: Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to confirm there are no service outages in your area.

7.2. Cannot Access Router's Web Interface

• IP Address: Ensure you are typing http://192.168.0.1 correctly in your browser's address bar.
• Wired Connection: Try accessing the interface from a computer connected directly to one of the router's LAN ports with an Ethernet cable.
• IP Settings: Ensure your computer's network adapter is set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
• Firewall/Antivirus: Temporarily disable any software firewalls or antivirus programs on your computer that might be blocking access.
• Reset Router: If all else fails, perform a factory reset by pressing and holding the Reset button on the back of the router for about 10 seconds. Warning: This will erase all your custom settings, and you will need to reconfigure the router from scratch.

7.3. Poor Wireless Signal or Speed

• Router Placement: Position the router in a central location, away from walls, large metal objects, and other electronic devices that may cause interference (e.g., cordless phones, microwaves).
• Interference: Change the wireless channel in the router's settings (Setup > Wireless Settings > Manual Wireless Setup). Experiment with channels 1, 6, or 11, as these are often less congested.
• Distance: Reduce the distance between your wireless devices and the router.
• Obstacles: Walls, floors, and ceilings can significantly degrade wireless signals.
• Outdated Drivers: Ensure your computer's wireless adapter drivers are up to date.

7.4. Configuring as a Wireless Access Point (Advanced)

If you wish to use the DIR-601 as a Wireless Access Point (WAP) with another router, follow these steps. This configuration disables the DIR-601's routing functions.

1. Initial Connection: Plug the power into the DIR-601. Connect one of your computers directly to a LAN port on the DIR-601 using an Ethernet cable. Ensure your computer's IP address is set to obtain automatically (DHCP).
2. Access Router Interface: Open a web browser and enter http://192.168.0.1. Log in with username admin and a blank password.
3. Disable UPnP: Click on Advanced, then Advanced Network. Uncheck the Enable UPnP checkbox. Click Save Settings.
4. Disable DHCP: Click on Setup, then Network Settings. Uncheck the Enable DHCP Server checkbox. Click Save Settings.
5. Change LAN IP Address: Under Router Settings, enter an available IP address on your existing network (e.g., if your main router is 192.168.1.1, you might set the DIR-601 to 192.168.1.250). Ensure the subnet mask matches your main network. Click Save Settings. Use this new IP address to access the DIR-601's configuration utility in the future.
6. Disconnect Computer: Close the browser. Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the DIR-601 and reconnect your computer to your main network.
7. Connect to Main Router: Connect an Ethernet cable from one of the LAN ports (1-4) of the DIR-601 to a LAN port on your main router. Do not plug anything into the Internet (WAN) port of the D-Link router.
8. Wireless Configuration: You can now use the remaining LAN ports on the DIR-601 for wired devices. To configure wireless settings (SSID, password) for the access point, access its web interface using the new LAN IP address you assigned in step 5.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

D-Link provides a 1-Year Limited Warranty for the DIR-601 router. For warranty claims or technical assistance, please refer to the following:

• D-Link Support Website: Visit the official D-Link support website for FAQs, troubleshooting guides, firmware downloads, and contact information.
• Technical Support: Contact D-Link technical support directly for personalized assistance. Contact details are typically available on the D-Link website or in the product packaging.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.