How do I make my router a WiFi extender?

Repurpose Your Old Router as a WiFi Extender

Extend the reach of your home Wi-Fi network and eliminate dead zones with an inexpensive solution. By using an older router as a WiFi extender, you can boost the signal strength and coverage of your primary router.

Materials Required

• Older router with working Ethernet ports
• Ethernet cable (long enough to reach the desired extension location)

Steps:

1. Prepare Your Old Router:

Reset your old router to its factory settings. This ensures a clean slate for configuration as an extender.

2. Connect the Ethernet Cable:

Run an Ethernet cable from an available LAN port on your primary router to the desired location where you want to extend the Wi-Fi signal.

3. Connect to the Old Router:

Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into a LAN port on your old router.

4. Configure the Old Router as an Access Point:

Log into the web interface of the old router using its default IP address (typically 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).

Navigate to the “Network” or “Wireless” settings.

Change the “Mode” or “Operation Mode” to “Access Point” or “Wireless Access Point.”

5. Set the Wi-Fi Settings:

Configure the SSID (network name) and password for the extended network. Ensure that they match the SSID and password of your primary router for seamless roaming.

Set the wireless channel to a different value than your primary router to avoid interference.

6. Save Settings and Reboot:

Save the changes and reboot both the primary and old routers to complete the setup.

Benefits of Using an Old Router as an Extender:

• Cost-effective: Utilizes an existing router, eliminating the need to purchase a separate extender.
• Improved Coverage: Extends the range of your Wi-Fi network, eliminating dead zones.
• Reliable Performance: Connects via Ethernet for stable and consistent connectivity.
• Easy Setup: Simple and straightforward configuration process.
• No Additional Wiring: Leverages existing Ethernet infrastructure, avoiding the need for additional wiring.

By following these steps, you can repurpose your old router as a WiFi extender, effectively boosting your network coverage and improving your overall Wi-Fi experience.