User Guide

Linksys EA6500
Linksys EA6500 Contents

Contents

Product Overview Setting Up: Advanced

EA6500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 How to manually set up your router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
How to manually set up your Internet connection 16
How to get the most out of your dual-band router . . . . . . . . 16
Setting Up: Basics How to control access to your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
How to create a home network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 How to improve security using the built-in firewall 19
What is a network? 4 How to clone a MAC address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
How to set up a home network 4
Where to find more help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How to install your router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering
How to configure your router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 How to set up port forwarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
How to connect to Cisco Connect Cloud 6 How to set up port forwarding for a single port 22
How to connect directly to your router 6 How to set up port forwarding for multiple ports 23
How to improve your wireless connection speed 6 How to set up port forwarding for a range of ports 23
How to change your network’s name and password 7
How to set up port range triggering for online gaming . . . . . 24
How to change your router password 8
How to change your router’s time zone 8 How to configure your Xbox for online gaming . . . . . . . . . . 25
How to test your Internet connection speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
How to connect devices to your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
How to connect a computer to your network 9
Maintaining and Monitoring
How to connect a USB printer 9 How to back up and restore your router configuration . . . . . 27
How to connect other devices 10
How to view device details 11
How to upgrade the router’s firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
How to remove a device from the network 12 How to check the status of your router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
How to disable the Ethernet port status lights 29
How to set up parental controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
How to test your Internet connection 29
How to set parental controls 13
How to configure your guest network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
How to back up your router configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

i
Linksys EA6500 Contents

Troubleshooting
During setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Your router was not successfully set up 31
Windows XP Service Pack update 31
Your Internet cable is not plugged in message 32
Cannot access your router message 32
After setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
The Internet appears to be unavailable 34
All other troubleshooting has been unsuccessful 34

Specifications
Linksys EA6500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

ii
Linksys EA6500 Product Overview

Product Overview Features

802.11AC technology
Built with leading 802.11AC wireless technology, your router offers maximum
speed and range to create an ultra-powerful network designed for home
theater performance. Connect your computers, Internet-ready TVs, game
EA6500 consoles, smartphones and other Wi-Fi devices at blazingly fast transfer rates
for an unrivaled experience.

The power of dual band

Double your network bandwidth with simultaneous dual-band N (2.4 and
5 GHz). The dual-band feature is designed to avoid interference and optimize
throughput for smoother and faster HD video streaming, file transfers, and
wireless gaming.

SpeedBoost
Higher quality antenna technology helps maintain high speeds across greater
distances throughout your home.

Advanced security
Keep Wi-Fi freeloaders and Internet threats at bay with WPA2 encryption and
SPI firewall to help keep your network protected.

Benefits of gigabit
Package contents Use the four Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) ports for quick file sharing (up to
10× faster than standard Ethernet) between other Gigabit-enabled devices like
In addition to your router, your router package includes: computers and servers.
•• Network (Ethernet) cable
Built-in USB port and DLNA media server
•• AC power adapter
The USB storage port lets you add an external USB drive to your network and
•• Setup CD containing router setup software and documentation share files at home or over the Internet. It also features a built-in DLNA media
server for seamless streaming of your video and media files to an Xbox 360,
PS3, or other DLNA-compatible device. You can also connect a USB printer and
share it across your network.

1
Linksys EA6500 Product Overview

Home theater ready Top view

Bring the ultimate entertainment experience to your home by connecting
computers, Internet-ready TVs, game consoles, media players, and more to
your wireless network and the Internet. Simultaneous dual-band N and QoS
traffic prioritization technology delivers maximum speed and performance so
you can enjoy fast downloads, smooth video and music streaming, and reliable
gaming and VoIP.

Quick to install
Cisco Connect software helps you easily set up your router.

IPv6 enabled Indicator light

Supports the latest Internet protocol technology to future-proof your network.

Easy to manage
Cisco Connect software helps you customize your settings and quickly add
multiple devices to your network: •• Indicator light—Stays on steadily while power is connected and
following a successful Wi-Fi Protected Setup connection. Pulses slowly
Separate guest network during bootup, during firmware upgrades, and during a Wi‑Fi Protected
Create a separate, password-protected network for guests. Setup connection. Flashes quickly when there is a Wi‑Fi Protected Setup
error.
Parental controls
Limit access time and websites with parental controls.
Back view

Wi-Fi Protected Setup button Internet port Power switch

Ethernet ports USB ports Power port

Reset button

•• Wi-Fi Protected Setup™ button—Press this button to easily configure

wireless security on Wi-Fi Protected Setup-enabled network devices.
For more information, see “How to set up wireless security using Wi‑Fi
Protected Setup” on page 38.
2
Linksys EA6500 Product Overview

•• Ethernet ports—Connect Ethernet cables (also called network cables) •• Green network activity indicator—On Ethernet ports, turns on when a
to these Gigabit (10/100/1000) ports, color coded blue, and to wired cable connects the port to another Gigabit Ethernet port. On the Internet
Ethernet network devices on your network. port, turns on while connected to a modem.
•• Yellow network activity indicator—Flashes to indicate network activity
NOTE over that port.
For best performance, use CAT5E or higher rated cables on the
Ethernet ports.

•• Internet port—Connect an Ethernet cable (also called a network or

Internet cable) to this port, color coded yellow, and to your modem.
•• USB ports—To easily share disk storage with other users on your
network or on the Internet, connect a USB drive to one of these ports.
For more information, see “Using an External Drive” on page 43. You can
also connect a USB printer and share it across your network. For more
information, see “How to connect a USB printer” on page 9.
•• Reset button—Press and hold this button for 5-15 seconds (until the
port lights flash at the same time) to reset the router to its factory defaults.
You can also restore the defaults using the browser-based utility. For
more information, see “How to restore factory defaults” on page 56.
•• Power port—Connect the included AC power adapter to this port.
•• Power switch—Press the top of this switch to turn on your router.

CAUTION
Use only the adapter that came with your router.

Port activity indicators

Yellow network Green network

activity indicator activity indicator

Network or Internet port

3
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

Setting Up: Basics

How to create a home network 2. Make sure that your modem is working. Your ISP can help you set up your
modem and verify that it’s working correctly.
3. Set up your router. See “How to install your router” on page 5.
What is a network? 4. To connect a computer or other network device to the network, see “How
to connect a computer to your network” on page 9 and “How to connect
A network is any group of devices that can communicate with each other. A other devices” on page 10.
home network can also include Internet access, which requires a router like
this one.
A typical home network may include multiple computers, a printer, a modem, Where to find more help
and a router. A large home network may also have a switch, additional routers,
In addition to this User Guide, you can find help at these locations:
access points, and many Internet-capable media devices such as TVs, game
consoles, and web cameras. •• Linksys.com/support (documentation, downloads, FAQs, technical
support, live chat, forums)
•• Modem—Connects a computer or a router to your ISP (Internet Service
Provider). Your ISP may have provided one. The modem is a device that •• Cisco Connect Cloud help (connect to Cisco Connect Cloud, then click
connects to a phone jack or your cable TV outlet. Help at the top of the screen)
•• Router—Connects your wireless and wired network devices to each
other and to the modem (and to your ISP).
•• Switch—Allows you to connect several wired network devices to your
home network. Your router has a built-in network switch (the Ethernet
ports). If you have more wired network devices than available Ethernet
ports on your router, you will need an additional switch to consolidate
the wired connections.

How to set up a home network

1. Purchase the proper equipment. For a network that includes Internet
access, you’ll need:
•• Computers with an Ethernet port or wireless networking capabilities
•• A modem for connecting to your ISP (typically supplied by your ISP)
•• A router to connect your computers with each other and to the modem
•• Internet service to your home, provided by an ISP (Internet Service
Provider)

4
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

How to install your router TIP:

Print this page, then record your router and account settings in
The easiest and fastest way to install your router is to run the Setup software on
the table below as a reference. Store your notes in a safe place.
the CD that came with your router or download it from the router’s support site
Setup also saves your setup information as a file to your computer
at Linksys.com/support. Setup shows you how to connect your router to your
desktop.
home network, step by step.

NOTE: Network Name (SSID)

If you lose your setup CD, you can download the software from
Linksys.com/support. Network Password

Router Password
To install your router:
Guest Network Name
1. Insert the CD into your CD or DVD drive.
2. Click Set up your Linksys Router. Guest Network
Password
If you do not see this:
Cisco Connect Cloud
•• For Windows, click Start, Computer, then double-click the CD drive Username
and the Setup icon.
Cisco Connect Cloud
•• For Mac, double-click the CD icon on your desktop, then double-click Password
the Setup icon.
Use Cisco Connect Cloud to easily manage your router’s settings, such as:
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your router setup.
•• Change your router’s name and password
•• Set up guest access
•• Configure parental controls
•• Connect devices to your network
•• Test your Internet connection speed

Your Cisco Connect Cloud account can also be used to manage multiple
Linksys routers from anywhere in the world.

5
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

How to configure your router 3. Click the Administration tab, then deselect Allow remote access to
Cisco Connect Cloud.
You can change router settings to make your network more secure or to work
better with a device or game. Being able to adjust the settings while you’re
away from home can help make router administration easier. You can configure
your router from anywhere in the world by using Cisco Connect Cloud, but you
can also configure your router directly from your home network.

How to connect to Cisco Connect Cloud

To connect to Cisco Connect Cloud:

4. Click OK.
1. Open your computer’s web browser.
2. Go to www.ciscoconnectcloud.com and log into your account.
How to connect directly to your router
You can configure your router by directly accessing it on your home network
instead of through the Internet-based Cisco Connect Cloud.

To connect to your router while you are on your home network:

1. Open your computer’s web browser.
2. Go to myrouter.local and log into your router using the router password
you created when you installed your router.

If you can’t remember your password, click Forgot your password? and
follow the on-screen instructions to recover it.

How to disable remote access

If you want to configure your router only while you are on your home network,
you should disable remote access.

To disable remote access:

How to improve your wireless connection speed
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud.
Follow these tips to improve your network’s wireless connection speed:
2. Under Router Settings, click Connectivity.
•• Make sure that your router is in a good location:

6
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

•• For the widest coverage area, install your router near the center of How to change your network’s name and password
your home, and near the ceiling, if possible.
You can change the name (SSID) and password of your network, but if you do so,
•• Avoid placing the router on or near metal objects (such as file cabinets
all wireless devices connected to your router will lose their Internet connection
and metal furniture), reflective surfaces (such as glass or mirrors), or
until you reconnect them using the new network name and password.
masonry walls.
•• Any obstruction can weaken the wireless signal (even non-metallic To change your router’s name and password:
objects), so the fewer obstructions between the router and the
wireless device, the better. 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
•• Place the router in a location away from other electronics, motors, and
fluorescent lighting. 2. Under My Router, click Wireless.

•• Many environmental variables can affect the router’s performance, so

if your wireless signal is weak, place the router in several locations and
test the signal strength to determine the ideal position.
•• If possible, upgrade wireless network interfaces (such as wireless
network cards in computers) from older wireless standards to 802.11n. If
a wirelessly networked device uses an older standard, the performance
of the entire wireless network may be slower.

3. Click the Wireless tab, then click Edit.

•• To change the network name, type a new name in the Network name
(SSID) box.
•• To change the network password, type a new password in the
Password box.

7
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

4. Click OK to apply your changes. How to change your router’s time zone
TIP Your router’s time zone should be set to your local time zone.
If you have a dual-band router, each band (2.4 GHz and the 5 GHz)
can have a separate network name and password. To set your router’s time zone:
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
How to change your router password 2. Click Connectivity under Router Settings.
Your router’s password was set when you ran the router’s setup software, but 3. Click the Basic tab, then select your time zone in the Time Zone drop-
you can change it at any time. You need the router password to change router down list and click OK.
settings.

To change your router password

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
2. Click Connectivity under Router Settings.
3. Click the Basic tab.
4. Under Router Password, type the new password, then click OK.

How to test your Internet connection

speed
To test your Internet connection speed:
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
2. Click Speed Test under Router Settings. The Internet speed test screen
opens.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the test.

8
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

How to connect devices to your network •• Your printer supports the WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption standard.
•• If your wireless printer supports WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), you should
Your Linksys router is the nerve center of your home network. Your router safely use WPS to connect it to your network. See “How to set up wireless
opens the Internet to your network, and all of your computers and network security using Wi‑Fi Protected Setup” on page 39.
devices rely on your router to pass files, media, and network commands in an
organized, error-free way. Whether connected wirelessly or with cables, each
part of your network needs the router in order to work reliably with the other To connect a USB printer to your network through the router’s USB port:
parts of your network. For EA3500 EA4500
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
How to connect a computer to your network 2. Click Device List, then click Add a Device.

To connect a computer to your network:

1. At the computer you want to connect, enter your network’s connection
information into your wireless manager.
2. After that computer connects to your network, log into Cisco Connect
Cloud, then click Device List to confirm that your router recognizes
the new computer. You can use the Device List to monitor all network-
attached devices.

TIP
You can use the Device List to detect and disconnect unauthorized
users on your network.
3. Under Select the type of device to add to your network, click USB Printer.
The Add a USB printer screen opens.
How to connect a USB printer
When you install a printer that requires a cable, you can:
•• Follow the printer’s instructions for setting it up, then follow your
computer’s operating system instructions to share the printer with your
network.
- OR -
•• If your router is a Linksys EA3500 or EA4500, you can connect a USB
printer to the router’s USB port to make the printer available to any
networked computer.
When you set up a wireless printer, you need to make sure that:
•• Your printer has been completely set up except for being connected to
the network.
9
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

4. Follow the on-screen instructions for downloading and installing the How to manually connect a network device
VUSB (virtual USB) software for your computer.
5. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud, then click Device List to confirm that your To manually connect a device to your network:
router recognizes the new printer.
1. Follow the device’s instructions to connect it to your network. Use the
connection information available in Cisco Connect Cloud or saved to
To connect a wireless printer to your network:
your computer desktop.
1. Follow the printer’s instructions to connect it to your network. Use the 2. After the device connects to your network, log into Cisco Connect Cloud,
connection information available in Cisco Connect Cloud or saved to then click Device List to confirm that your router recognizes the new
your computer desktop. device.
2. After that printer connects to your network, log into Cisco Connect
Cloud, then click Device List to confirm that your router recognizes the How to connect a network device using Wi-Fi Protected Setup
new printer.
To connect a device using Wi-Fi Protected Setup™:

How to connect other devices 1. Plug in and turn on the network device. If the device does not support
Wi-Fi Protected Setup, follow its instructions for a standard network
Many other types of wireless network devices can connect to your home installation.
network, including: 2. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
•• Game consoles page 6.
•• Internet-capable TVs and media players 3. Under Wireless, click the Wi-Fi Protected Setup tab.
•• Digital music players 4. Use one of the following methods to complete the setup:
•• If the device has a Wi-Fi Protected Setup button, press that button,
•• Smart phones
then click the Wi-Fi Protected Setup button in Cisco Connect Cloud
Because of the wide variety of devices and methods of connecting, you must or press the button on the back of your router.
manually enter network information into the devices for a successful network
connection.

TIP
For more instructions on connecting a game console to your
network, see also:
• “How to optimize your router for gaming and voice” on page 30
• “How to set up port forwarding” on page 22
• “How to set up port range triggering for online gaming” on page
24

10
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

•• If the device has a Wi-Fi Protected Setup PIN, type that number into How to view device details
the Device PIN box in Cisco Connect Cloud, then click Register.
You can use Cisco Connect Cloud to view any network device’s network
infomation.

To view network device details:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
2. Under My Apps, click Device List. The Device List screen opens.
•• If the device’s own setup asks for the router’s Wi-Fi Protected Setup
PIN, enter the number that appears under Router PIN in Cisco Connect
Cloud.

3. Click the i in the lower-right corner of the device.

11
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

Information about the device appears on the screen. How to remove a device from the network
You can remove a networked device in several ways:
•• Unplug its network cable (if attached)
•• Turn off its wireless connection (if active)
•• Remove it using Cisco Connect Cloud

To remove a connected device by using Cisco Connect Cloud:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
2. Under My Apps, click Device List. The Device List screen opens.

4. Click OK.

3. Click the x in the upper-right corner of the device you want to disconnect.

12
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

How to set up parental controls 3. To turn on parental controls, click the Enable parental controls button
so that ON is displayed.
With your router, you can use parental controls to:
TIP
•• Set the times that Internet access is allowed.
It’s not necessary to set parental controls over each computer
•• Block websites that you specify or based on their content. on your home network. You can set the controls on only those
•• Set the above restrictions for specific computers. computers that children can access.

4. To select a computer to apply parental controls to, click the name of the
TIP
computer in the Restrict Internet access on list.
When someone tries to open a blocked website, a window opens
asking for the parental controls password. Enter the password to 5. To block Internet access on the selected computer(s), under Block
view the blocked content. Internet access:
•• Click Never to allow Internet access.
•• Click Always to always block Internet access.
How to set parental controls •• Click Specific Times to set the times when Internet access is allowed.
•• Click Edit to change the Internet access schedule.
To set parental controls:
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 6.
2. Under My Apps, click Parental Controls. The Parental Controls screen
opens.

13
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

6. To block specific websites:

How to configure your guest network
a. Under Block specific sites, click Add.
You can use your router’s guest network to provide your guests with access
to the Internet, while restricting their access to other resources on your local
network. To prevent unauthorized users from using your Internet access, your
guest network requires that a password be entered for Internet access. The
guest network is enabled by default.

_ X

File Edit View Go Shortcuts Options Help

X http://mynetwork/guest/login

Enter the Guest Password

for Internet Access:

Login

Done

web browser
- guest
access
login
http://mynetwork/guest/log- Linksys
E4200

in

Enter
the
for InternetGuest
Password
Access:

Login

b. Type the web address (URL) of the website to block, then click OK.

TIP
It’s easier to copy and paste a web address than it is to type it in.
Copy the address from your browser’s web address box, then paste Local Network

it into an available box in the Block Specific Sites screen of Cisco Guest Network

Connect Cloud. Local Access and Guest Access Diagram

7. Click OK to apply your changes.

Your wireless network’s guest network and password were set when you ran
the router’s setup software, but you can change them at any time.

14
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Basics

To set up guest access to your network: 3. Click OK to apply your changes.

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
TIP
page 6.
The first time your guest tries to access the Internet through a web
2. Under My Apps, click Guest Access. Your guest network, which was set browser, they will see the Guest access screen. To continue, they
up during your router installation, is displayed. must enter the password you provided in the Password field, then
click LOGIN.

How to back up your router configuration

When you are done setting up your router, you should back up its settings so
•• To turn guess access on or off, click the Allow guest access button. that you can restore them later, if necessary. For instructions, see “How to back
up and restore your router configuration” on page 27.
•• To change the guest network password, click in the box next to Guest
network password, then type the new password.
To back up your router configuration:
•• To change the number of simultaneous guest network users you want
to allow, click the drop-down box under Total guests allowed, then 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
click the number that you want. page 6.
2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
TIP 3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
To keep your guest network secure, click Change to change the
guest password when the guest no longer needs access to the 4. Under Router configuration, click Backup.
account.

15
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

Setting Up: Advanced

How to manually set up your router 3. Go to myrouter.local and log into your router using the default router
password, admin.
Although running your router’s setup software is the easiest way to set up and 4. Under Router Settings, click Connectivity. The Connectivity page opens.
maintain your router, advanced users may want to manually configure their
5. Click the Basic tab.
router. Be careful when changing settings using this method.
6. Next to Type of Internet Connection, click Edit.
To manually set up your router: 7. Select your ISP’s Internet connection type from the drop-down list.
Complete the Optional Settings only if required by your ISP.
1. Connect your router’s power adapter to a power outlet.
2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the computer and to an available numbered TIP
Ethernet (blue) port on the back of your router. For field descriptions, click Help at the top of the screen.
3. Open a web browser on the computer and go to myrouter.local.
8. Click OK.
4. Enter admin as the user name, then enter the default password (admin).
The main menu opens.
5. After you finish changing settings, click Save and close the browser How to get the most out of your dual-
window.
band router
TIP
I bought a dual band router, but I’m not sure that I’m getting the most
For descriptions of the settings, click Help at the top of the screen.
out of it. What should I check? Of the many reasons for owning a dual-band
router, the most common is to ensure available bandwidth for streaming high-
definition video. At the same time, owners want to make sure that their video
How to manually set up your Internet connection streams won’t be interrupted by other wireless network traffic. To get the most
out of your dual-band router, you can:
Running Setup configures your router’s Internet connection. However, for
some ISPs (Internet Service Providers), especially those outside of the United •• Upgrade your wireless clients
States, you may need to manually configure your router’s Internet connection. •• Split your traffic

How to configure basic Internet connection settings Upgrade your wireless clients
If you have network adapters that support only legacy wireless network
To manually configure your router’s Internet connection: standards such as 802.11b, you should consider upgrading them with
1. Use an Ethernet cable to connect an Ethernet port on your router to the Wireless-N (802.11n) network adapters. Wireless-B (802.11b) devices can slow
Ethernet port on your computer. your entire wireless network. For the best performance, all of your wireless
devices should support Wireless-N. You can then select Wireless-N Only as your
2. Open your computer’s web browser.
Network Mode below.

16
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

3. Click the Wireless tab, then click Edit next to the network band you want
NOTE
to modify. Change any of the settings below:
If you select Wireless-N Only, you may need to temporarily change
your network settings to Mixed to provide access to guests without a. Enabled—Unselect this checkbox to disable the network band.
Wireless-N networking. b. Network mode—Your choice depends upon the clients that will
connect to your network. If all of your devices are Wireless-N capable,
Split your traffic you can select Wireless-N Only for either or both bands.
On the 5 GHz band, you can select:
The best way to improve your multimedia wireless performance is to split your
wireless traffic between your router’s two bands (ranges of radio frequencies). •• Mixed (default), which accepts connections from 802.11a or
Your router supports the 2.4 GHz band and the 5 GHz band, and handles the 802.11n clients
two bands as two separate wireless networks to help manage the traffic. •• Wireless-A Only (802.11a only)

The most common way to split wireless traffic is to use the 2.4 GHz band for •• Wireless-N Only (802.11n only)
basic Internet tasks such as web browsing, email, and downloads, and use On the 2.4 GHz band, you can select:
the 5.0 GHz band for streaming multimedia. There are several reasons for this •• Mixed
approach:
•• Wireless-B/G Only
•• Although the 2.4 GHz band may be more crowded with wireless traffic •• Wireless-B only
from your neighbors, it’s fine for basic Internet traffic that is not time-
•• Wireless-G Only
sensitive (such as e-mail).
•• Wireless-N Only
•• Even though you are connected to your own wireless network, you are
still sharing “air time” with nearby networks. c. Security mode—You can set up different security options for the
5 GHz and 2.4 GHz networks. If the security mode you select requires
•• The 5 GHz band is much less crowded than the 2.4 GHz band, so it’s ideal a passphrase, a Passphrase field appears, and you must enter a
for streaming multimedia. passphrase. You can select:
•• The 5 GHz band has more available channels, so it is more likely that you •• None (no security)
will have your own, interference-free channel for your wireless network. •• WEP
By default, your dual-band router uses the same network name on both the •• WPA Personal
2.4 GHz band and the 5 GHz band. If you are connecting to your router with •• WPA Enterprise
a computer that has a dual-band wireless network adapter, you might not be •• WPA2 Personal
able to determine which band you’re using. The easiest way to segment your •• WPA2 Enterprise
traffic is to rename one of your wireless networks. With a separate, descriptive •• WPA2/WPA Mixed Personal
name, it will be easy to connect to the right network.
•• WPA2/WPA Mixed Enterprise

To reconfigure your wireless network: TIP

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on Wireless-N networks should use the WP2-Personal security
page 11. mode for best performance.
2. Under Router Settings, click Wireless. The Wireless page opens.
d. Network name (SSID)—You can provide a unique SSID for each band
of your wireless network. The name must not exceed 32 characters.

17
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

e. Password—You can provide a unique password for each band of

your wireless network.
How to control access to your network
f. Channel width—We recommend that you keep the default (Auto) Why would I need to control access to my wireless network? If you used
setting for each band. In Auto mode, the router and the network the Setup CD to install your router, your wireless network is already secure. By
clients automatically switch to the 40 MHz mode if: default, Setup enables industry-standard WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) security
•• Your wireless clients support the 40  MHz mode (sometimes using WPA2/WPA mixed mode. If you set up your wireless network manually
called Bonded mode) in which two 20 MHz channels are bonded and have not enabled wireless security, your wireless network will be an “open”
together for better performance. network that almost anyone nearby with a Wi-Fi-enabled device could access.
•• There is no adjacent interference. What is MAC filtering? If you choose not to use the built-in security features
With more available channels and less chance of interference on the of your router, you can still control access to your wireless network using
5 GHz band, you have the option to force the 40 MHz mode. MAC filtering. Every network device has a unique, 12-digit MAC (Media
Access Control) address. Using MAC filtering, you can allow only known MAC
On the 2.4 GHz band, you can select: addresses (known devices) onto your network. You can also exclude specific
•• Auto (20 MHz or 40 Mhz) MAC addresses or deny them access to your wireless network.
•• 20 MHz Only Example: Because each MAC filtering configuration is unique, the following
On the 5 GHz band, you can select: procedure uses the simplified example of setting up MAC filtering to allow one
wireless device access to the network.
•• Auto (20 MHz or 40 Mhz)
•• 20 MHz Only
TIP
•• 40 MHz Only You can also use MAC filtering to prevent specific PCs from
g. Channel—Choose the operating channel for each band. Your accessing your network by selecting Deny. However, it’s easier
router will automatically select the channel with the least amount to select Allow to permit only known devices than to exclude
of interference if you leave the default Auto setting. We recommend unknown devices.
keeping the default settings for both bands.
h. SSID broadcast—When wireless clients look for wireless networks to To set up MAC filtering to allow one wireless device access to your
connect to, they detect the SSID (wireless network name) broadcast network:
by the router. In other words, anyone within range of your network
can see your network name. To broadcast your router’s SSID, keep the 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
default setting (Enabled). If you do not want to broadcast the router’s page 11.
SSID, unselect the SSID broadcast checkbox. We recommend 2. Under Router Settings, click Wireless. The Wireless page opens.
keeping the default setting (Enabled) for both bands.
4. To save your changes, click OK.

18
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

3. Click the MAC Filtering tab. How to improve security using the built-in firewall
Why would I need to change my security settings? By default, the firewall
settings in your router have been optimized for most home environments, so
no changes are needed. The SPI (Stateful Packet Inspection) firewall is enabled
by default. In addition, anonymous Internet requests and IDENT requests are
filtered by default. All web filters are disabled, because enabling them may
cause problems for sites that depend on ActiveX controls, Java, or cookies.

General firewall settings

To change your firewall settings:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
4. Select MAC Filters, then select Allow access for ONLY the listed MAC
2. Under Router Settings, click Security. The Security page opens.
addresses.
3. Click the Firewall tab.

5. Click Add MAC Address, then enter the MAC address into the MAC Filter
List and click Save.

4. Modify each setting that you want to change.

TIP
For more descriptions of each setting, click Help at the top of the
screen.

19
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

•• Firewall: SPI Firewall Protection—This helps protect your local

network from Internet threats. This option is enabled by default.
How to clone a MAC address
On some router models, this setting is separated into IPv6 and IPv4 On any home network, each network device has a unique MAC (Media Access
options so that each can be handled separately. Control) address. Some ISPs register the MAC address of the device (usually a
router or a computer) connected directly to the modem. If your computer’s
CAUTION MAC address is registered with your ISP and you do not want to re-register
To help protect your network, you should keep this option enabled. the MAC address, then you can clone the address (assign the registered MAC
address of your previous device to your new router). If you want to use the
•• VPN Passthrough: MAC address from an old router that you are replacing with your new router,
•• IPSec Passthrough— you should first determine the MAC address of your old router, then manually
•• PPTP Passthrough— enter it into your new router.
•• L2TP Passthrough—
NOTE
•• Internet filters: For many ISPs that provide dynamic IP addresses automatically, the
•• Filter anonymous Internet requests—This filter blocks Internet stored MAC address in the modem is reset each time you reset the
requests from unknown sources such as ping requests. This option modem. If you are installing this router for the first time, reset your
is enabled by default. modem before connecting the router to your modem. To reset your
•• Filter multicast—Multicasting allows a single transmission modem, disconnect power for about one minute, then reconnect
to simultaneously reach specific recipients within your local power.
network. Select this option to block multicasting. This option is
disabled by default.
To clone a MAC address from your computer:
•• Filter Internet NAT Redirection—This filter prevents a local
computer from using a URL or Internet IP address to access the 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
local server. Select this option to enable the filter. This option is page 11.
disabled by default. On some router models, this setting applies 2. Under Router Settings, click Connectivity. The Connectivity page opens.
to IPv4 Internet only.
3. Click the Internet Settings tab.
•• Filter IDENT (Port 133)—This filter prevents port 133 from being
scanned by devices from the Internet. This option is enabled by
default.
5. Click Save to save your changes.

20
Linksys EA6500 Setting Up: Advanced

4. Under MAC Address Clone, click Enabled.

5. Enter the 12-digit MAC address of your old router, then click Save.

21
Linksys EA6500 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

How to set up port forwarding 3. Under Router Settings, click Security.

4. Click the Apps and Gaming tab.
Why would I use port forwarding? Port forwarding is a feature that forwards
5. Click Single Port Forwarding. The Single Port Forwarding screen opens.
inbound traffic from the Internet on a specific port or ports to a specific device
or port on your local network. You can set up port forwarding for:
•• A single port (see “How to set up port forwarding for a single port” below)
•• Multiple ports (see “How to set up port forwarding for multiple ports” on
page 23)
•• A range of ports (see “How to set up port forwarding for a range of ports”
on page 23)

How to set up port forwarding for a single port 6. Click Add a new Single Port Forwarding.
Why would I use port forwarding for a single port? Single port forwarding
is a feature that forwards inbound traffic from the Internet on a specific port to
a single device on your local network. An example of single port forwarding
would be to forward inbound web requests, typically on port 80, to a web
server.
7. In the Application name field, enter a descriptive name.
TIP 8. In the External Port field, type the external port number (not always
See the device’s documentation for port and protocol information. required).
9. In the Internal Port field, type the internal port number (not always
required).
To set up single port forwarding:
10. In the Protocol drop-down list, select TCP, UDP, or Both (default).
1. Follow your device’s instructions for configuring it with a static IP address
or use DHCP reservation to assign it a permanent address (see “How to 11. In the Device IP# field, enter the last three digits of the IP address you
set up the DHCP server on your router” on page 27). have reserved for the computer you want to forward Internet traffic to.
The rest of the IP address has already been completed for you.
2. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11. 12. Select Enabled, then click Save. If you don’t want to use port forwarding
but want to keep the information in the table, unselect the checkbox.

22
Linksys EA6500 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

How to set up port forwarding for multiple ports 7. Click Add a new Single Port Forwarding.

Why would I set up port forwarding for multiple ports? Port forwarding is
a feature that forwards inbound traffic from the Internet on a specific port to
a single device on your local network. Unlike a web camera that typically only
requires a single port to be forwarded, some applications require forwarding
of multiple ports. VNC (Virtual Network Computing) software that allows you to
8. In the Application name field, enter a descriptive name.
operate your computer remotely from anywhere on the Internet is an example
of an application that requires multiple ports to be forwarded. To forward to 9. Enter in the same port number for the External Port and the Internal
multiple ports, just create additional entries to forward additional ports to the Port.
same IP address. 10. In the Protocol drop-down list, select TCP, UDP, or Both (default).
Example: You want to set up your computer so you can remotely access it using 11. In the Device IP# field, enter the last three digits of the IP address you
VNC software. By default, VNC uses TCP ports 5800 and 5900. have reserved for the computer you want to forward Internet traffic to.
The rest of the IP address has already been completed for you.
To set up single port forwarding for multiple ports: 12. Select Enabled, then click Save. If you don’t want to use port forwarding
but want to keep the information in the table, unselect the checkbox.
1. Make sure that the software you want to use has been installed onto a
networked computer. NOTE
2. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on If you want to use software such as VNC on multiple computers,
page 11. you will need to reconfigure the default ports that VNC uses on
3. Set up DHCP reservation for the IP address of the computer on which each additional computer. Then, create additional port forwarding
you installed the software. (See “How to set up the DHCP server on your entries for each additional computer. See your software’s
router” on page 27). documentation for help.
4. Under Router Settings, click Security.
5. Click the Apps and Gaming tab.
How to set up port forwarding for a range of ports
6. Click Single Port Forwarding. The Single Port Forwarding screen opens.
Why would I set up port forwarding for a range of ports? Port forwarding is
a feature that forwards inbound traffic from the Internet on a range of ports to
a single device on your local network. Unlike a web camera that typically only
requires a single port to be forwarded, some applications require forwarding
to a range of ports.
Example: You want to set up your computer so you can use BitTorrent, a
popular peer-to-peer file sharing application. BitTorrent uses port 6881 by
default. If that port is busy, the requesting BitTorrent client tries the next port
in sequence. The most common configuration for home routers with a single
BitTorrent computer is to set up port forwarding using a range of ports starting
with 6881 and ending with port 6889.

23
Linksys EA6500 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

To set up port range forwarding: 11. Select Enabled, then click Save. If you don’t want to use port range
forwarding but want to keep the information in the table, unselect the
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
checkbox.
page 11.
2. Set up a DHCP reservation for the IP address of the computer on which TIPS
you installed the software. (See “How to set up the DHCP server on To use software like BitTorrent on multiple computers on your
your router” on page 27). In this example, the IP address of the desktop network, create additional entries with a unique range of ports as
computer with BitTorrent installed is 192.168.1.140. shown above. BitTorrent works only with ports between 6881 and
3. Under Router Settings, click Security. 6999.
4. Click the Apps and Gaming tab. Depending on your computer’s firewall software, you may need to
5. Click Port Range Forwarding. The Port Range Forwarding screen opens. open a range of ports in your firewall to enable software that uses
port range forwarding.

How to set up port range triggering for

online gaming
Why would I use port triggering instead of port forwarding? Port range
triggering allows the router to watch outgoing data for specific port numbers.
6. Click Add a new Port Range Forwarding. The IP address of the computer that sends the matching data is remembered
by the router, so that when the requested data returns through the router,
the data is routed back to the proper computer. An example of port range
triggering would be to enable a USB or Bluetooth headset for online chat and
gaming.

To set up port range triggering for multiple entries:

7. In the Application name field, enter a descriptive name.
8. In the Start ~ End Port fields, enter the range or ports. In this example, 1. See your device documentation for information on the ports that the
the range is 6881 to 6889. device uses.
2. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.

9. Select TCP as the protocol.

10. In the To IP Address field, enter the last 3 digits of the IP address of the
device running the software. The rest of the IP address fields already
completed. In this example, you would enter 140.

24
Linksys EA6500 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

3. Under Router Settings, click Security.

How to configure your Xbox for online
4. Click the Apps and Gaming tab.
5. Click Port Range Triggering. The Port Range Triggering screen opens. gaming
Why would I set up my Xbox for online gaming? Online gaming adds another
dimension to using your Xbox. As with other online gaming applications and
gaming consoles, you need to forward multiple ports to use your Xbox for
online gaming. The procedure for setting up your Xbox is almost identical to
setting up multiple port forwarding for VNC remote control. (See “How to set
up port forwarding for multiple ports” on page 23).

NOTE
For more information on configuring your router for online gaming,
6. Click Add a new Port Range Triggering. see “How to optimize your router for gaming and voice” on page 30.

Refer to your game console documentation to determine the ports used by

your device. The Xbox uses four ports:
•• TCP port 80
•• UDP port 88
7. In the Device or Application field, enter a descriptive name (such as
•• TCP/UDP port 53
PS3 Headset).
8. For single ports, enter the same port number in each Triggered range •• TCP/UDP port 3074
and Forwarded range field.
9. For port ranges, enter the same number ranges in each set of Triggered To set up an Xbox using multiple entries of single port forwarding:
Range and Forwarded Range fields. Applications & Gaming > Single Port Forwarding
1. Connect your Xbox 360 to your router.
2. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
3. Set up a DHCP reservation for the IP address of the Xbox. (See “How to set
up the DHCP server on your router” on page 27).
10. Select Enabled, then click Save. If you don’t want to use port range – OR –
triggering but want to keep the information in the table, unselect the Refer to your game console’s documentation to set a static IP address for
checkbox. your device.

25
Linksys EA6500 Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

4. Under Router Settings, click Security.

5. Click the Apps and Gaming tab.
6. Click Single Port Forwarding. The Single Port Forwarding screen opens.
7. Click Add a new Single Port Forwarding. The Xbox uses four ports, so
create four entries on this page.
8. Enter the information as shown in the image below. In the To IP Address
field, enter a 1- to 3-digit number that corresponds to the last three digits
of the IP address of the Xbox 360. The rest of the IP address is already
completed.

9. Click Save. If you don’t want to use the settings but want to keep the
information in the table, unselect the checkboxes.

26
Linksys EA6500 Maintaining and Monitoring

Maintaining and Monitoring

How to back up and restore your router To restore your router configuration:
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
configuration page 11.
Why do I need to back up my router configuration? As with any valuable 2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
data, you should back up your router configuration. Your router might contain 3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
many customized settings. Those settings would be lost if you reset your router
4. Under Router configuration, click Restore. The Restore Router
to its factory defaults, and you would need to re-enter all of them manually. If
Configuration dialog box opens.
you back up your router configuration, restoring settings is easy.

To back up your router configuration:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
4. Under Router configuration, click Backup.

5. Click Choose File to navigate to the location of your configuration file,

then select the file and click Open.
6. To restore the configuration, click Start to Restore.

You are prompted to save the file.

5. Specify a file location, then click Save.

27
Linksys EA6500 Maintaining and Monitoring

How to upgrade the router’s firmware How to check the status of your router
Why would I need to upgrade my router’s firmware? Linksys may periodically Why would I want to check the status of my router? Your router status tells
publish a firmware upgrade either to fix a problem or to add features to your you whether you have a secure Internet connection and informs you about the
router. status of your network-connected devices.

IMPORTANT To check your router status:

Do not interrupt the upgrade process. You should not turn off the
router or press the Reset button during the upgrade. Doing so may 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
permanently disable the router. page 11.
2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
TIPS 3. Click the Status tab. Detailed information about your router status is
Your router automatically checks for available updates and displayed.
installs them by default. Use the following instructions only if the
automatic firmware update has been turned off. TIP
For field descriptions, click Help at the top of the screen.

To upgrade the router’s firmware:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
2. Under Router Settings, click Connectivity.
3. Click the Basic tab.
4. Under Firmware Update, click Check for Updates.
5. If an available update is found, follow the on-screen instructions to install
it.

TIP
To have your router automatically check for updates and install
them, select Automatic under Firmware Update. 4. To view a list of connected network devices, click Devices. To view a full
report of your router status, click Report.

5. Click OK to close the screen.

28
Linksys EA6500 Maintaining and Monitoring

How to disable the Ethernet port status lights How to test your Internet connection
Why would I want to disable the Ethernet port status lights? Depending on What utilities are included in my router to test my Internet connection?
the placement of the router in a home, you might find the lights distracting. Your router includes two diagnostic tests, Ping and Traceroute, that let you
You can easily disable the lights using Cisco Connect Cloud. check network connections, including network devices and your Internet
connection.
To disable the lights:
To diagnose your Internet connection:
1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11. 1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
2. Under Router Settings, click Connectivity. page 11.
3. Click the Basic tab. 2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
4. Under Port Lights, click the ON/OFF button. 3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
4. To check whether an address can be reached:
a. Under Ping IPv4, enter an IP address or URL into the IP or host name
field.

b. Select a number of times to ping from the Number to ping drop-

down list.
c. Click Start to Ping. A window opens showing the ping test results.
You will see a response for each successful ping.

29
Linksys EA6500 Maintaining and Monitoring

NOTE
If an Internet URL fails to respond to ping, it doesn’t necessarily
mean that the site is down. For security reasons, some sites are
configured to not respond to ping requests.

5. To trace the route that packets take between your router and a specific
address:
a. Under Trace route, enter an address in the IP or host name field.

b. Click Start to Traceroute. A window opens with the test results.

30
Linksys EA6500 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting

This chapter can help you solve common setup issues and connect to the
TIP
Internet. You can find more help from our award-winning customer support at
To temporarily connect to the Internet and download the required
linksys.com/support.
Service Pack, you can use the included Ethernet cable to connect
your computer directly to your modem.
During setup
To install Service Pack 3:
1. Connect to the Microsoft Update website (update.microsoft.com/
Your router was not successfully set up windowsupdate).
2. Follow the instructions on the website or contact Microsoft if you need
If Setup did not complete, you can try the following: further help.
•• Press and hold the Reset button on your router with a paperclip or pin 3. After downloading and installing Service Pack 3, run the Setup program
for 5-15 seconds, then run the Setup program again on the router’s CD. on your router’s CD.

•• Temporarily disable your computer’s firewall (see the security software’s

instructions for help), then run the Setup program again on the router’s
CD.
•• If you have another computer, use that computer to run the Setup
program again on the router’s CD.

Windows XP Service Pack update

On Windows XP computers, Cisco Connect Cloud requires Service Pack 3 in
order to work. If the currently installed Service Pack is older than version 3, you
need to download and install Service Pack 3.

31
Linksys EA6500 Troubleshooting

Your Internet cable is not plugged in message 2. M

ake sure that your modem is connected to power and is turned on. If it
has a power switch, make sure that it is set to the ON or l position.
If you get a “Your Internet cable is not plugged in” message when trying to set
3. If your Internet service is cable, verify that the cable modem’s CABLE port
up your router, follow these troubleshooting steps.
is connected to the coaxial cable provided by your ISP.
Or, if your Internet service is DSL, make sure that the DSL phone line is
To fix the problem: connected to the modem’s DSL port.
1. Make sure that an Ethernet or Internet cable (or a cable like the one 4. If your computer was previously connected to your modem with a USB
supplied with your router) is securely connected to the yellow Internet cable, disconnect the USB cable.
port on the back of the router and to the appropriate port on your
modem. This port on the modem is usually labeled Ethernet, but may 5. Run the Setup program again on the router’s CD.
be named Internet or WAN.
Cannot access your router message
If you cannot access your router because your computer is not connected to
your network, follow these troubleshooting steps.
To access your router, you must be connected to your own network. If you
currently have wireless Internet access, the problem may be that you have
accidentally connected to a different wireless network.

To fix the problem on Windows computers:

1. On your Windows desktop, click or right-click the wireless icon in the
Back view of router system tray.

Windows XP Windows 7

Back view of cable modem

2. Click View Available Wireless Networks. A list of available networks
appears.

Back view of DSL modem

32
Linksys EA6500 Troubleshooting

3. Click your own network name, then click Connect. In the example To fix the problem on Mac computers:
below, the computer was connected to another wireless network named
1. In the menu bar across the top of the screen, click the AirPort icon. A list
JimsRouter. The name of the Linksys E-Series network, BronzeEagle in this
of wireless networks appears. Cisco Connect has automatically assigned
example, is shown selected.
your network a name.
In the example below, the computer was connected to another wireless
network named JimsRouter. The name of the Linksys E-Series network,
BronzeEagle in this example, is shown selected.

2. Click the wireless network name of your Linksys E-Series router

4. If you are prompted to enter a network key, type your password (Security (BronzeEagle in the example).
Key) into the Network key and Confirm network key fields, then click 3. Type your wireless network password (Security Key) into the Password
Connect. field, then click OK.

Your computer connects to the network, and you should now be able to
access the router.

33
Linksys EA6500 Troubleshooting

After setup To reboot your router using Cisco Connect Cloud:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
The Internet appears to be unavailable 2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
If the Internet has difficulty communicating with your router, the problem may 3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
appear as a “Cannot find [Internet address]” message in your web browser. If 4. Under Reboot, click Reboot.
you know that the Internet address is correct, and if you’ve tried several valid
Internet addresses with the same result, the message could mean that there’s a
problem with your ISP or modem communicating with your router.
Try the following:
•• Make sure that the network and power cables are securely connected.
•• Make sure that the power outlet that your router is connected to has
A confirmation screen opens.
power.
•• Reboot your router.
•• Contact your ISP and ask about outages in your area.
Why would I need to reboot my router? The most common method of
troubleshooting your router is to turn off your router’s power, then turn it back
on again. Your router can then reload its custom settings, and other devices
(such as the modem) will be able to “rediscover” the router and communicate
with it. This process is called rebooting.

Rebooting your router 5. Click Yes to confirm. The router reboots. While the router is rebooting, all
connected devices will lose their Internet connection.

To reboot your router using the power cord:

1. Disconnect the power cord from the router. All other troubleshooting has been unsuccessful
2. Wait 10 seconds, then reconnect the power cord. The router’s power If you’ve tried previous troubleshooting steps and your network still doesn’t
indicator flashes while it reboots. When the power indicator stops work, you may need to restore your router’s factory defaults.
flashing, your router has finished rebooting and is ready to use.
Why would I need to restore to factory defaults? When all other
troubleshooting has failed, you may want to try restoring the router to its basic
factory settings, which are the most common settings used in home networks.
Resetting the router erases your custom settings, so you must restore the
settings after. We recommend that you back up your configuration before
resetting your router to factory defaults. See “How to back up and restore your
router configuration” on page 53.

34
Linksys EA6500 Troubleshooting

To restore your router to factory defaults, you can use the Reset button on the 5. Click Yes to confirm. All settings are deleted, and your router is returned
router or use Cisco Connect Cloud. to its factory default settings.

To reset your router using the reset button:

CAUTION
Whenever you restart the router, all logs that are not saved will be
lost.

1. With your router connected to power and turned on, press and hold the
Reset button on the bottom or back of your router for 5-15 seconds.

To reset your router to factory defaults using Cisco Connect Cloud:

1. Log into Cisco Connect Cloud. (See “How to configure your router” on
page 11.
2. Under Router Settings, click Troubleshooting.
3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
4. Under Factory reset, click Reset.

A confirmation screen opens.

35
Linksys EA6500 Specifications

Specifications

Linksys EA6500 Environmental

Dimensions 10.8” x 1.58” x 7.25”
Model Name Linksys EA6500
(256 x 40 x 184 mm)
Description Dual-Band AC Router with Gigabit and 2×USB
Unit Weight 17.67 oz (501 g)
Model Number EA6500
Power 12V, 3A
Switch Port Speed 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet)
Certifications FCC, IC, CE, Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/draft ac,
Radio Frequency 2.4 and 5 GHz Windows 7, DLNA, Energy Star
# of Antennas 6 (3 per band) Operating Temp. 32 to 104°F (0 to 40°C)
Ports Power, USB (2), Internet, Ethernet (1-4) Storage Temp. -4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C)
Buttons Reset, Wi-Fi Protected Setup, Operating Humidity 10 to 80% relative humidity,
power (EU models only) non-condensing
LEDs Top panel: Power Storage Humidity 5 to 90% non-condensing
Back panel: Internet, Ethernet (1-4)
UPnP Supported NOTES
For regulatory, warranty, and safety information, see the CD that
Security Features WEP, WPA, WPA2, RADIUS
came with your router or go to Linksys.com/support.
Security Key Bits Up to 128-bit encryption
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Storage File System Support FAT, and NTFS, and HFS+
Browser Support Internet Explorer 8 or higher, Firefox 4 or Maximum performance derived from IEEE Standard 802.11
higher, Google Chrome 10 or higher, and specifications. Actual performance can vary, including lower
Safari 4 or higher wireless network capacity, data throughput rate, range and
coverage. Performance depends on many factors, conditions and
variables, including distance from the access point, volume of
network traffic, building materials and construction, operating
system used, mix of wireless products used, interference and other
adverse conditions.

36
 Visit linksys.com/support for award-winning 24/7 technical support

Cisco, the Cisco logo, and Linksys are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the United States and other countries.
A listing of Cisco’s trademarks can be found at www.cisco.com/go/trademarks. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners.

© 2012 Cisco and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

3425-0xxxx 111216MS