1. Product Overview
The Linksys E2000 Advanced Wireless-N Router is designed to provide reliable wireless connectivity for your home network. It features Wireless-N technology for extended range and speed, Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections, and a selectable dual-band (2.4 or 5GHz) operation to optimize network performance.
Figure 1: Front view of the Linksys E2000 Advanced Wireless-N Router. This image displays the router's sleek black and silver design with indicator lights on the front panel.
2. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to set up your Linksys E2000 router:
- Connect the Router: Plug the power adapter into the router's power port and then into a wall outlet. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your modem's Ethernet port and the other end to the Internet (WAN) port on the back of the router.
- Connect a Computer: Connect a second Ethernet cable from your computer's Ethernet port to any of the numbered LAN ports (1-4) on the back of the router. Alternatively, you can connect wirelessly using the default Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password found on the router's label.
- Run Cisco Connect Software: Insert the included Cisco Connect CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process. This software will guide you through configuring your network name, password, and other basic settings.
- Access Router Settings: For advanced configurations, open a web browser and navigate to the router's default IP address (usually 192.168.1.1). Enter the default username and password (often "admin" and "admin" or blank).
Figure 2: Rear panel of the Linksys E2000 router, highlighting the Internet (WAN) port, four Gigabit Ethernet (LAN) ports, power input, and reset button.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Wireless Connectivity
- Dual-Band Operation: The E2000 supports selectable 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless bands. The 2.4 GHz band offers wider coverage and better penetration through walls, while the 5 GHz band provides higher speeds and less interference for devices in closer proximity. You can configure separate SSIDs for each band or use a single SSID for seamless band steering.
- Wireless-N Technology: This router utilizes Wireless-N technology to enhance wireless range and reduce dead spots within your network.
3.2 Wired Connectivity
- Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The four LAN ports on the router support Gigabit speeds (10/100/1000 Mbps) and Auto-Crossover (MDI/MDI-X), allowing for high-speed wired connections to devices like computers, gaming consoles, and network-attached storage (NAS) without the need for special crossover cables.
3.3 Guest Access
- The Guest Access feature allows visitors to connect to the Internet without accessing your private network resources (computers, files, etc.). This feature is primarily managed through the Cisco Connect software.
4. Maintenance
- Regular Reboots: To maintain optimal performance, it is recommended to periodically reboot the router. This can be done by unplugging the power adapter for 10-15 seconds and then plugging it back in.
- Firmware Updates: Check the Linksys support website for the latest firmware updates. Keeping your router's firmware up-to-date ensures you have the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements.
- Physical Cleaning: Keep the router in a well-ventilated area and periodically clean dust from its vents to prevent overheating.
5. Troubleshooting
- Slow Wireless Speed or Disconnections (802.11g devices): Some older 802.11g devices may experience slow speeds or frequent disconnections. Experiment with different wireless settings (2.4GHz or 5GHz, auto and fixed channels) in the router's web interface. Ensure device drivers are updated.
- Guest Access Configuration Issues: The Guest Access feature is primarily managed via the Cisco Connect software. If you customize the router's configuration (e.g., change IP address) using the browser-based utility, the Cisco Connect software may not function correctly for guest settings.
- Inability to Obtain IP Address: If a device cannot obtain an IP address wirelessly, try reinstalling or updating the network driver on the client device. Rebooting the router may also resolve this.
- Remote Desktop (RDP) Connection Issues: If you are unable to connect to your PC via RDP from outside your home, ensure that the necessary RDP service ports are correctly forwarded in the router's web interface.
- No Internal DNS Server for Local LAN: The router relies on your ISP's DNS or an external DNS server. If your ISP's connection is lost, DNS for LAN devices may also be lost unless a separate DNS server is configured on your local LAN.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | E2000 |
| Brand | Linksys |
| Wireless Standard | 802.11a/b/g/n |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz selectable) |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 x Gigabit Ethernet (LAN), 1 x Gigabit Ethernet (WAN) |
| Antenna Type | Fixed |
| Special Feature | WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) |
| Product Dimensions | 10.87 x 8.46 x 2.64 inches |
| Item Weight | 1 pound |
7. Official Product Video
Watch this official video from Linksys by Cisco for an overview of the E-Series Routers, including the E2000 model.
Video 1: An official Linksys by Cisco video showcasing the E-Series Routers, highlighting their design and features.
8. Support and Warranty
For technical assistance or further information, please refer to the official Linksys support channels. The product is typically covered by a manufacturer's warranty, details of which can be found in the product packaging or on the official Linksys website. Keep your original box and packing for any warranty claims.
- Online Support: Visit the Linksys Support Website for FAQs, downloads, and community forums.
- Contact Support: Contact Linksys customer service via phone or online chat for direct assistance.
