How to Transform a Spare Wi-Fi Router into a Range Extender or Booster

Improving your Wi-Fi network coverage can be as simple as repurposing a spare router. This process allows you to extend the range of your Wi-Fi network without the need for additional hardware. Follow this comprehensive guide to turn your spare router into a reliable range extender or booster.

Using Wireless Repeater Mode

Ensure your spare router supports Wireless Repeater or Range Extender mode. This feature allows your router to act as a signal booster for your existing network.

Method 1: Wireless Repeater Mode

Check Compatibility

Verify that your spare router has the necessary firmware updates to support wireless repeater mode. Some routers may not have this feature.

Connect to the Spare Router

Connect the spare router to a power source.

Connect your computer to the spare router via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

Access Router Settings

Open your web browser and enter the router's IP address, typically found on the router itself or in the user manual. Commonly used addresses include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Log in using the admin credentials provided.

Configure Wireless Settings

Navigate to the Wireless settings section.

Set the SSID network name to match your main router's SSID for seamless roaming, or give it a different name for separate identification.

Set the Wi-Fi password to match your main router or create a new one if desired.

Enable Repeater Mode

Look for a setting called Wireless Repeater or Range Extender.

Adjust IP Address

Change the IP address of the spare router to avoid conflicts. For example, if your main router's IP is 192.168.1.1, set the spare router to 192.168.1.2. Ensure the subnet mask is the same (usually 255.255.255.0).

Save Settings and Reboot

Save your settings and reboot the router.

Position the Router

Place the spare router within the range of your main router but closer to the area needing better coverage. Ensure it is connected to a power source and turned on.

Using a Wired Connection (Ethernet Backhaul)

For a more stable and secure connection, you can use a wired connection. This method is particularly useful if your spare router has an Ethernet port and you can run a cable.

Method 2: Wired Connection (Ethernet Backhaul)

Connect the Routers

Connect the LAN port of your main router to the LAN port of the spare router using an Ethernet cable.

Access Router Settings

Login to the spare router as described above.

Disable DHCP

Find the DHCP settings and disable DHCP on the spare router to avoid IP conflicts.

Set IP Address

Set a static IP address for the spare router within the same subnet as the main router. For example, if your main router's IP is 192.168.1.1, set the spare router to 192.168.1.2.

Configure Wireless Settings

Set the SSID and password to match your main router's settings or create a different SSID.

Save Settings and Reboot

Save your changes and reboot the spare router.

Position the Router

Place the spare router in the desired location to extend coverage. Ensure it is connected to a power source and turned on.

Final Steps

Test the Connection

Once both routers are configured, test the signal strength in the areas that needed boosting to ensure coverage has improved.

Adjust Settings if Necessary

If you encounter any issues, revisit the settings and ensure everything is configured correctly. This includes checking the antenna placement for optimal signal strength.

By following these steps, you can effectively transform your spare Wi-Fi router into a reliable range extender or booster, enhancing your network coverage and performance.

Conclusion

Repurposing a spare router is a cost-effective solution for extending your Wi-Fi network. Choose the method that best fits your needs and follow the steps carefully for the best results.