I can't get my router to connect

Maybe, your netbook isn't configured or capable of the a,b,g or n mode, which the router is working on.
That's the usual when the X pops up in red.
My advise, use a RJ45 LAN cable, connect to the router, login as the administartor, change the wireless network settings to something your netbook is capable of handling.
Logging into the router?
Go through the manual, it has the details in it.
Changing the network type, first figure out what networks are detected and run on what frequencies, and then change to that type in the router.