ASUS RT-N53 Dual Band Wireless-N600 Router User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your ASUS RT-N53 Dual Band Wireless-N600 Router. The RT-N53 offers dual-band connectivity (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for flexible network management and enhanced performance. It supports up to four wireless networks on the 2.4GHz band and one on the 5GHz band, with features like parental controls and intuitive network management.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your product package. If any item is missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

• ASUS RT-N53 Dual Band Wireless-N600 Router
• Base Stand
• RJ-45 Cable (Ethernet Cable)
• AC Adaptor
• Quick Installation Guide
• ASUS VIP Registration Form

3. Product Overview

The ASUS RT-N53 router is designed for efficient home and small office networking.

Key Features:

• Concurrent Dual Band: Provides two 300Mbps Wireless-N networks simultaneously (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for optimal wireless performance.
• Guest Network Access: Supports up to four separate wireless networks on the 2.4GHz band with customizable security and access restrictions.
• Parental Controls: Robust features to manage internet access times and website filtering for each network.
• Ai Radar: Features two internal antennas with omnidirectional coverage for optimal connectivity.
• Fast Ethernet: Equipped with 10/100 LAN connections for reliable wired connectivity.
• EZ UI Plug-n-Surf Installation: Designed for easy, CD-free setup.
• ASUSWRT Interface: Intuitive graphical user interface for network customization and management.
• Wall Mount Support: Designed for flexible placement (mounting kit sold separately).

Router Components:

Figure 1: Front View of ASUS RT-N53 Router. This image displays the front panel of the ASUS RT-N53 router, featuring its distinctive black diamond pattern and illuminated status indicators for power, wireless bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz), and internet activity.

Figure 2: Side View with Ports. This image shows the side of the ASUS RT-N53 router, highlighting the various ports including the yellow LAN ports, blue WAN port, power input, and the On/Off button. A reset button is also visible at the top.

Figure 3: Detailed View of Rear Ports. A closer look at the rear panel of the ASUS RT-N53 router, detailing the four yellow LAN ports, the single blue WAN port, the DC power input, and the power switch. The reset button is located above the LAN ports.

Figure 4: Back View with Product Information. This image displays the back of the ASUS RT-N53 router, showing the product label with model number, serial number, and regulatory compliance information. Mounting slots are also visible.

4. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your ASUS RT-N53 router for the first time. The setup process is designed to be quick and does not require a CD.

1. Connect the Hardware:
   • Connect your modem to the router's blue WAN port using an Ethernet cable.
   • Connect the AC adaptor to the router's power input and plug it into a power outlet.
   • Press the On/Off button to power on the router.
   • Wait for the power and WAN indicator lights to stabilize.
2. Connect to the Router:
   • Wireless Connection: On your computer or mobile device, search for available Wi-Fi networks. Select the default ASUS network (SSID) for either 2.4GHz or 5GHz. The default network name and password can usually be found on a label on the router.
   • Wired Connection: Connect your computer directly to one of the router's yellow LAN ports using an Ethernet cable.
3. Run the Setup Wizard:
   • Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
   • Type router.asus.com or 192.168.1.1 into the address bar and press Enter.
   • The ASUSWRT setup wizard will launch automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your internet connection, set up your Wi-Fi network name (SSID), and create a strong password.
4. Complete Setup: Once the wizard is complete, the router will restart. Your network should now be operational.

5. Operating Instructions

The ASUS RT-N53 router offers various features accessible through its web-based management interface (ASUSWRT).

Accessing the Web Interface:

To access the router's settings, open a web browser and navigate to router.asus.com or 192.168.1.1. Enter your administrator username and password (created during initial setup).

Managing Wireless Networks (Multi-SSID):

The RT-N53 supports multiple SSIDs, allowing you to create separate wireless networks for different purposes (e.g., main network, guest network).

• Navigate to the "Guest Network" section in the ASUSWRT interface.
• You can enable up to four guest networks on the 2.4GHz band and one on the 5GHz band.
• Customize each guest network's name (SSID), security settings, and access privileges (e.g., restrict access to local network resources).

Parental Controls:

Utilize parental controls to manage internet access for specific devices or users.

• In the ASUSWRT interface, locate the "Parental Control" section.
• You can set time schedules for internet access for specific devices or block access to certain websites by URL keyword filtering.

Quality of Service (QoS):

The EZQoS feature allows you to prioritize network traffic for specific applications or devices, ensuring smoother performance for critical tasks like gaming or video streaming.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and security for your router.

• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the ASUS support website for firmware updates. Updating your router's firmware can improve performance, add new features, and enhance security. Instructions for updating are typically found within the ASUSWRT interface under "Administration" > "Firmware Upgrade".
• Regular Reboots: Rebooting your router every few weeks can help clear its memory and resolve minor performance issues. Simply unplug the power adapter, wait 10-15 seconds, and then plug it back in.
• Secure Passwords: Regularly change your Wi-Fi and router administration passwords to strong, unique combinations.
• Physical Placement: Ensure the router is placed in an open area, away from obstructions and other electronic devices that may cause interference.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your router, try the following troubleshooting steps.

• No Internet Connection:
  • Check all cable connections (modem to router WAN port, router to computer LAN port).
  • Reboot your modem and router. Unplug both devices, wait 30 seconds, then plug in the modem first, wait for it to fully start, then plug in the router.
  • Verify your internet service provider (ISP) connection is active.
  • Access the ASUSWRT interface and check the WAN status.
• Slow Wireless Speed:
  • Ensure your devices are connected to the appropriate band (5GHz for faster speeds, 2.4GHz for wider coverage).
  • Move the router to a central location, away from obstacles and interference sources (e.g., microwaves, cordless phones).
  • Check for firmware updates.
  • Adjust wireless channel settings in the ASUSWRT interface to avoid interference from neighboring networks.
• Cannot Access Router Settings:
  • Ensure your device is connected to the router (wired or wireless).
  • Verify you are typing the correct address (router.asus.com or 192.168.1.1).
  • Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, or use a different browser.
  • If you forgot your password, you may need to perform a factory reset (see below).
• Factory Reset:
  • With the router powered on, press and hold the "Reset" button (usually a small pinhole button on the back) for about 5-10 seconds until the power LED starts blinking.
  • Release the button. The router will reboot with factory default settings. You will need to re-run the setup wizard.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and further assistance, please visit the official ASUS support website or contact your local ASUS customer service. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy for support inquiries.

ASUS Official Website: www.asus.com

10. Legal Disclaimer

Actual data throughput and Wi-Fi coverage will vary from network conditions and environmental factors, including the volume of network traffic, building material and construction, and network overhead, resulting in lower actual data throughput and wireless coverage.

© 2012 ASUS Computer International. All Rights Reserved. ASUS is a registered trademark of ASUSTeK Computer. All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. Product may not be exactly as shown in images.