Turn your old router into a wireless bridge effortlessly with OpenWrt firmware, wireless networking and connectivity.
What is a wireless bridge?
A wireless bridge is a connection that connects different local area networks (LANs) using Wi-Fi, creating a single, larger network where all devices can communicate and access the Internet. The bridge eliminates the need to install long Ethernet links by using wireless signals to connect LANs instead of physical wires, saving money and effort.
This setting is useful for extending network coverage to locations where wiring is challenging or for connecting remote LANs.
How to turn an old router into a wireless bridge?
Initial setup
Connect your old router to your main router.
Plug your computer into the old router using a cable and turn off Wi-Fi.
Download OpenWrt firmware
Go to openwrt.org and find your router model.
Download the firmware files for your router.
Install the OpenWrt firmware
Follow the instructions on the OpenWrt website to install the firmware on your router.
Set up a wireless bridge
Install a software called luci-proto-relay on your router.
Set the old router to have a fixed IP address and stop sharing IP addresses.
Connect the old router to the Wi-Fi network of the main router.
To build a bridge, connect the wired and Wi-Fi connections to the old router.
Complete setup
Make sure the two connections are in the same network area.
Save the changes and apply them.
Disconnect the cable between the old router and the main router.
How to use another router as an extender?
Update the old router’s software first.
Then plug one end of the Ethernet cable into a slot on the main router and the other end into a separate slot on the second router.
Now you need to access the settings of the other router. You can generally do this by entering a special address and login information.
Find the wireless settings and look for something called “AP Mode”. This effectively turns the second router into a repeater, increasing Wi-Fi range.
How to set up a router as a repeater?
First, make sure your main router is turned on and sending a Wi-Fi signal.
Then update the software on your old router.
Then go to the settings of your old router. You can usually do this by typing a special web address into your browser or using an app.
Look for “Repeater Mode” or “Wireless Bridge Mode” in the old router’s menu.
Select your main router’s Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password.
Save the changes.
Disclaimer: The above information is for general information purposes only. All information on the website is provided in good faith, however we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, as to the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the website.
Categories: General
Source: HIS Education