Are you tired of dealing with dead spots and weak WiFi signals in your home or office? Do you have an old router collecting dust in a corner? If so, you’re in luck! You can repurpose that old router to extend your WiFi coverage, providing a stronger and more reliable connection to all your devices. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of turning your old router into a WiFi extender.
Why Repurpose an Old Router as a WiFi Extender?
Before we dive into the tutorial, let’s discuss the benefits of repurposing an old router as a WiFi extender.
Save money: Instead of purchasing a brand-new WiFi extender, you can utilize an old router that’s no longer in use. This can help you save money and reduce electronic waste.
Improve WiFi coverage: By converting your old router into a WiFi extender, you can extend the range of your wireless network, eliminating dead spots and providing a stronger signal to hard-to-reach areas.
Reduce network congestion: If you have a large number of devices connected to your network, it can lead to congestion and slow speeds. By creating a separate network for your extender, you can reduce congestion and improve overall network performance.
Prerequisites and Hardware Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
A compatible router: Not all routers can be used as WiFi extenders. You’ll need a router that supports wireless repeating or bridging mode. Check your router’s documentation or manufacturer’s website to see if it’s compatible.
A computer or mobile device: You’ll need a device to configure the old router and access its settings.
An Ethernet cable: You’ll need an Ethernet cable to connect the old router to your new router or modem.
A power source: Make sure you have a power source available for the old router.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Turn Your Old Router into a WiFi Extender
Now that you have all the necessary hardware and prerequisites, let’s get started!
Step 1: Reset the Old Router
Important: Before you begin, reset the old router to its factory settings. This will erase all customized settings and configurations. To reset, press and hold the small button on the back or bottom of the router (usually labeled “Reset”) for 10-15 seconds. Release the button and wait for the router to reboot.
Step 2: Connect to the Old Router
Connect your computer or mobile device to the old router using an Ethernet cable. Open a web browser and type the router’s IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Log in to the router’s administrative interface using the default admin credentials (usually “admin” for both username and password).
Step 3: Configure the Old Router
Once you’re logged in, navigate to the Wireless Settings or Wireless Repeating section. The exact steps may vary depending on the router model and firmware version. Look for options like “Wireless Repeater” or “Range Extender” mode. Enable this feature and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Set the Operation Mode
In the operation mode section, select “Repeater” or “Access Point” mode. This will allow the old router to act as a WiFi extender.
Step 5: Configure the WiFi Settings
Set the WiFi settings on the old router to match the settings on your main router. This includes the:
- SSID (Network Name): Set the same SSID as your main router.
- Channel: Set the same channel as your main router.
- Encryption: Set the same encryption method as your main router (WPA2, WPA, WEP, etc.).
Step 6: Connect the Old Router to the Main Router
Use an Ethernet cable to connect the old router to your main router or modem. This will create a wired connection between the two devices.
Step 7: Place the Old Router
Place the old router in a location that’s central to the area where you want to extend your WiFi coverage. Make sure it’s plugged into a power source and the Ethernet cable is securely connected to the main router.
Step 8: Test Your WiFi Extender
Connect a device to the old router’s WiFi network and test the connection. You should see an improvement in WiFi signal strength and coverage in the surrounding area.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues during the setup process or after configuring your WiFi extender, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
Issue: Weak Signal Strength
- Check the placement of the old router and move it to a more central location.
- Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the old router and the main router.
- Restart both routers and try again.
Issue: No Internet Connection
- Check the IP address and subnet mask of the old router to ensure they match the settings on your main router.
- Ensure the old router is set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
- Restart both routers and try again.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you’ve successfully repurposed your old router as a WiFi extender, extending your WiFi coverage and improving network performance. This is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to eliminate dead spots and weak signals in your home or office.
Remember to always refer to your router’s documentation and manufacturer’s website for specific instructions and settings, as they may vary depending on the model and firmware version. Happy networking!
What is the main purpose of turning an old router into a WiFi extender?
The primary intention of repurposing an old router into a WiFi extender is to breathe new life into an otherwise redundant device. Typically, when people upgrade their routers, the old ones are discarded and left to waste. By turning it into a WiFi extender, you can make the most out of your old router, extending the coverage area of your network and eliminating dead zones.
This approach is also eco-friendly, as it reduces electronic waste. Moreover, it’s a cost-effective solution, as you won’t need to invest in a new WiFi extender. You can simply utilize the old router to improve your WiFi network’s performance, reliability, and coverage.
Do I need to be tech-savvy to configure an old router as a WiFi extender?
While some technical knowledge is helpful, you don’t need to be an expert to configure an old router as a WiFi extender. The process typically involves accessing the router’s settings, changing the wireless mode, and configuring the network settings. You can find step-by-step instructions online, specific to your router model, to guide you through the process.
If you’re still unsure, consider enlisting the help of a tech-savvy friend or family member. Alternatively, you can consult the router’s user manual or contact the manufacturer’s support team for assistance. Remember, it’s a relatively straightforward process, and the benefits of having a functional WiFi extender will be well worth the effort.
Will my old router be compatible with my current WiFi network?
Most modern routers are compatible with each other, regardless of the brand or model. However, to ensure seamless integration, make sure that your old router and current router are using the same wireless frequency band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). Additionally, they should be using the same WiFi standard, such as 802.11n or 802.11ac.
If your old router is an older model, it might not support the latest WiFi standards. In such cases, you might need to configure the old router to use the same standard as your current router. This might affect the overall performance, but it will still enable you to use the old router as a WiFi extender.
How many devices can I connect to my WiFi network using the old router as an extender?
The number of devices you can connect to your WiFi network using the old router as an extender depends on the router’s capabilities and the number of devices already connected to your main router. Typically, most routers can support up to 20-25 devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart home devices.
However, keep in mind that the more devices you connect, the more it will impact the overall network performance. To avoid congestion, consider limiting the number of devices connected to the old router or upgrading to a more powerful model.
Will using an old router as a WiFi extender affect my network’s speed and performance?
Yes, using an old router as a WiFi extender can affect your network’s speed and performance. The old router’s wireless capabilities and processor might not be as robust as your current router, leading to slower speeds and increased latency.
However, the impact on performance will depend on various factors, such as the age and model of the old router, the number of devices connected, and the type of internet activity. If you experience significant performance drops, consider upgrading to a more powerful router or using a wired Ethernet connection for devices that require high-speed internet.
Can I use multiple old routers as WiFi extenders to cover a larger area?
Yes, you can use multiple old routers as WiFi extenders to cover a larger area. This approach is particularly useful for large homes, offices, or spaces with multiple floors or obstacles that interfere with WiFi signals.
Simply configure each old router as a WiFi extender, ensuring they’re connected to your main router via Ethernet cables. You can place each extender in a strategic location to ensure seamless coverage throughout the area. This approach can help eliminate dead zones and provide a more reliable internet connection.
Is it safe to use an old router as a WiFi extender, considering security concerns?
Using an old router as a WiFi extender can pose some security risks if not configured properly. Since the old router will be connected to your main network, it’s essential to ensure that it’s updated with the latest firmware and that you’ve changed the default administrator password.
Additionally, consider enabling WPA2 encryption, setting up a guest network, and configuring a firewall to minimize potential security threats. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of using an old router as a WiFi extender while maintaining a secure network.