Hi this is my first post, I'm running Fedora Core 5 and have just started using linux. I also just moved into my new dorm at school. At first I had problems registering my computer on their server so I could use the internet. I called the tech help line, they asked me which version of windows I was running, told them linux, and they told me I was basically screwed and that I would never access the university network until I bought Windows (at a student discounted rate of $200). However, I eventually figured it out myself, proved them wrong, and spent the $200 dollars on better things, like beer.

Anywho, on to the question. I'm connected right now directly to the ethernet port in my dorm room. I want to use this router that my friend gave me. It's a Linksys model BEFSR41. He lost the power supply for the router, so I dug up an old phone charger or somthing and the thing actually plugs into it and turns it on. So I plugged one cord into the WAN slot and plugged the other end into the ethernet port on the wall and used another cord to connect my computer to the "1" slot. No internets. On another computer, I went to the lynksis website and got instructions for the router and of course, there are only instructions for setup in windows. I did notice that the "DIAG" light on my router stays solid red, instead of blinking and eventually turning off like the site says it should. I have also tried "activating" my connection in the system ---> administration ---> networking menu. I don't have the error message right in front of me now, but if you want it, i'll do it again. Do I have to make a new connection setting or somthing for going through a router? My brother was trying to help me too so he somehow obtained an "admin number" for me to type into my web browser to somehow get to the router, however this failed as well.

Thats about all I can think of to say right now. Anyone who has taken the time to read my noob ramblings has my thanks.

The good news is that there should be no issues with your router and Linux... It should be 'plug-and-play'.
What you may have is a small configuration issue. The Linksys configuration process is similar for all OS's as it is browser based. If there is no login required at your dorm connection, it should be easy. First thing I would try is reseting the router to defalt config by pushing in the little indented reset button on the faceplate (it may also be on the back of your model) for around 10 seconds until the LEDS light up.
If that doesn't fix it, via a browser on your computer (which is plugged into the router) and go to 192.168.1.1 no login, but try to find out the password. From there you may be able to configure additional settings as necessary.
Thirdly, try to confirm if the cables are okay.
Worst case, your routers firmware may be fsked up
Post your findings and we'll take it from there.

Oh, and btw, way to go for making those Windows losers look dumb.
cheers

grunty

If your school allows access based on mac id you may have to use the clone mac option on the router. Just wonder around the router access (address noted above) and you should find it. The default login id is blank (empty) with a password of admin.

Lazlow

IT that just knows windoze is really not IT. Good job smacking them.

Make sure that the voltage output and current of the power supply matches the router. Even though the connector matches it could be suppling AC instead of a DC voltage. If the voltage is to low or the power supply can not source enough current then it will not operate correctly. If the voltage is to high then you could of damaged the unit. The linksys website isn't working at the moment but check the manual to see if it mentions power requirements.

Can you access the router via a web browser? I would reset the unit back to its default configuration. I believe there is a reset button on the bottom or back of the unit. The default IP address is 192.168.1.1 and the password is admin. If you can not access the router manualy configure the IP address of your PC so you do not have to rely on the router's DHCP server configuration.

I looked at the on line manaul and the power specifications are 9 VAC at 1 amp. I would say a safe range would be ~7-12 VAC.

you guys were right, turned out to be a problem with the power supply. Thanks a lot, I'll probably be back with more questions later.