Extend Your Wi-Fi Coverage: Turn an Old Router into an Access Point

 Got dead spots in your house where the Wi-Fi doesn’t reach? Don’t spend money on a new mesh system when you can use an old router to extend your Wi-Fi instead. Here’s a simple guide to turn your spare router into an access point (AP) to get better coverage upstairs or in another area.

Terminology

  • AP (Access Point): The router used to provide Wi-Fi in a distant part of your house.

  • Main Router: The primary router connected to your internet service provider (ISP).

  • Computer: The computer or laptop connected to the AP to configure it.

Prerequisites

Connect to the main router and write down its IP address and subnet mask.

Configuring the AP Router

  1. Connect the AP to Your Computer

    • Use an Ethernet cable (RJ45) to connect your computer to the AP router.

  2. Find the Default Gateway

    • Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig to find the default gateway (if it's not present, you may need to factory reset the AP).

  3. Access the AP Settings

    • Open a web browser and type in the default gateway IP address to access the AP router's admin settings.

    • If you can’t connect, you may need to change your computer’s IP address settings from DHCP to an IP on the same network as the AP.

  4. Disable DHCP on the AP

    • Go to the AP settings and disable DHCP to prevent IP address conflicts with your main router.

  5. Set a Static IP for the AP

    • Assign the AP router a static IP address that is in the same range as your main router, but outside of its DHCP range. For example, if the main router uses 192.168.1.100 - 192.168.1.200, set the AP to 192.168.1.2.

  6. Reboot and Troubleshoot

    • After rebooting, if you can’t access the AP, change your computer’s IP to be within the AP’s network range.

Configuring Wi-Fi on the AP

  1. Set Up the SSID

    • Configure a network name (SSID) for the AP.

  2. Assign a Password

    • Set a strong password for your Wi-Fi.

  3. Use WPA/WPA2 Security

    • Choose WPA/WPA2 for secure access.

  4. Check Auto Settings

    • If available, let the router automatically configure settings like channel and bandwidth.

Connect the Main Router to the AP

  • Make sure your computer's IPv4 settings are set to automatic (DHCP).

Now, enjoy strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout your entire house!

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