In order to access your Linksys router's configuration page, you need to enter the gateway's number in where you would normally type in a web address (by default, this is 192.168.1.1). You will have to type in a password (by default, this password is "admin". You may change it in the password settings for the router.) First of all, to even be pinged by others, you will need to disable "Block WAN Request" in the filter settings. These filter settings can be accessed by going to the "advanced" tab. Remember to apply these settings after you have selected them. Be aware, though, that a lot of protection goes down the drain when selecting such options that undo the security of your connection; this allows your computer to be seen by others. Port forwarding is also in the advanced options, in the tab to the right of the filters. Set up the ports desired there with the correct information. To find out your actual IP address instead of your router's, you will need to use WINIPCFG in the Start-Run box in Windows ME or earlier versions of Windows that use the Windows 95 Kernel, and select the appropriate adapter. With Windows XP and the NT Kernel, you will need to use "command" in that same dialog box, go to C:\Windows (cd\Windows in DOS mode) and execute ipconfig (just type in ipconfig). This will give you your IP address. Another way to figure it out from Windows XP is to go to Network Connections and find your currently established connection. Look for "status" to find out what your IP is. This may be handy for hosting servers without any serverlists available. For more information, consult your manual, Linksys, or a networking professional.

By the way, if you experience any problems with your router and your system, you can download newer firmware at their website. This will not enhance your connection speed, but correct issues that have already been resolved.