In our increasingly connected world, having a reliable WiFi connection is more essential than ever. However, many homes and offices face challenges with dead zones and weak signals. If you’re experiencing poor WiFi coverage, you might be considering purchasing a WiFi extender. But what if I told you that you could repurpose your old router to serve as a WiFi extender? In this guide, we will take you through the process of transforming your unused router into a robust WiFi extender, improving your network coverage without spending a dime.
Understanding the Basics of WiFi Extenders and Routers
Before embarking on the journey of converting your old router into a WiFi extender, it’s essential to grasp the basics of networking.
What is a WiFi Extender?
A WiFi extender, also known as a repeater, is a device that extends the coverage area of your wireless network. It works by receiving your existing WiFi signal, amplifying it, and then transmitting a stronger signal over a wider area. This effectively eliminates dead spots in your home or office.
What is a Router?
A router is a networking device that routes data packets between devices on a local network and the internet. It connects multiple devices to the network and can also include built-in switches, firewalls, and other networking features. While many modern routers come with advanced capabilities, older models can still function well when repurposed.
Why Use an Old Router as a WiFi Extender?
There are several compelling reasons to consider repurposing your old router:
- Cost-Effective: Instead of spending money on a commercial WiFi extender, you can breathe new life into a device you already own.
- Environmental Impact: Reusing an old device contributes to reducing electronic waste.
Prepping Your Old Router for Transformation
Before delving into the setup, ensure your old router is in functional condition. Clean it, update the firmware, and reset it to factory settings to ensure optimal performance.
Gathering Necessary Equipment
You will need the following equipment:
- Your old router
- A computer or mobile device for configuration
- Ethernet cable (optional, but recommended for initial setup)
Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Your Router into a WiFi Extender
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the setup process.
Step 1: Access the Router’s Settings
- Connect the Old Router: Use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the old router, or connect via WiFi if the signal is strong enough.
- Find the IP Address: Typically, the default IP address for most routers is
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1. You can find it in the user manual or by searching online for your router model. - Log In to the Router: Open a web browser, input the IP address in the address bar, and press Enter. You will be prompted to enter the router’s username and password, usually found on a sticker on the router or in the manual. Common credentials are “admin/admin” or “admin/password.”
Step 2: Change the Router Settings
After logging in, you’ll need to adjust some settings to enable the WiFi extender function.
Disable DHCP
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) assigns IP addresses to devices on your network. Since your old router will act as an extender, you need to disable DHCP:
- Navigate to the Network Settings or LAN Settings.
- Find the DHCP settings and turn off the DHCP server.
Important: This step will prevent IP address conflicts between your primary router and the old router.
Set a Static IP Address
- Assign a unique static IP address to the old router. This IP should fall within the range of the primary router’s IP addresses but shouldn’t conflict with the existing devices. For example, if your primary router’s IP is
192.168.1.1, you could set the old router’s IP to192.168.1.2. - Input this static IP under the LAN settings.
Configure WiFi Settings
- In the settings menu, go to the Wireless Settings.
- Set the SSID (network name) to be the same as your primary router’s name. If you want to differentiate, you can give it a distinct name.
- Ensure that the security settings (WPA/WPA2) match your primary router. This ensures that connected devices can seamlessly transition between the two routers.
Step 3: Connect the Routers
Decide how you want to connect your old router to the primary router:
Wireless Connection
- Place your old router about halfway between your primary router and the area with weak WiFi.
- Go to the old router’s wireless settings and find the option for Wireless Repeater Mode (or similar).
- Scan for your primary router’s WiFi network and connect to it.
Wired Connection (Recommended)
- Use an Ethernet cable to connect a LAN port on your primary router to a LAN port on your old router.
- This method provides a more stable connection for extending your network.
Final Steps: Testing Your New Setup
Once you’ve completed the settings and connections:
- Power Cycle Both Routers: Unplug both routers and wait for about 10 seconds before plugging them back in. This ensures that changes take effect.
- Test the Coverage: Use a WiFi-enabled device to walk through your home or office and test the signal strength. You should notice enhanced coverage in previously weak areas.
Maintaining Your WiFi Extender Setup
After successfully converting your old router into a WiFi extender, keeping it running smoothly is essential.
Regular Firmware Updates
Check for firmware updates for both your primary and secondary routers regularly. Updated firmware improves security and performance.
Monitor Network Performance
Utilize network monitoring tools or apps to keep track of your network’s performance. If you notice issues, consider revisiting the router settings or repositioning the extenders for optimal coverage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
In case you encounter problems during or after the setup, consider these common troubleshooting tips:
- Connection Issues: Ensure that the extended network’s SSID and password are correct. Verify that both routers are on the same subnet.
- Weak Signal: Reposition the old router or reduce interference by keeping it away from metal objects and thick walls.
Conclusion
Transforming your old router into a WiFi extender is an ideal solution for enhancing your network coverage without additional costs. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can efficiently utilize your unused equipment, thus creating a seamless internet experience throughout your home or office. With a bit of effort, you will reap the benefits of improved connectivity without the hassle of purchasing new hardware. Enjoy your new network coverage!
What are the benefits of using an old router as a WiFi extender?
Using an old router as a WiFi extender can significantly enhance your home network’s performance without requiring a new investment. By repurposing the device, you can broaden your WiFi coverage, especially in areas of your home that previously had weak signals. This can lead to better connectivity for multiple devices, allowing for smoother streaming, gaming, and browsing experiences.
Additionally, utilizing an old router as an extender is an environmentally friendly choice. It helps reduce electronic waste by giving a second life to a device that might otherwise be discarded. This not only saves you money but also contributes to sustainability efforts by recycling technology that is still functional.
How do I set up my old router as a WiFi extender?
Setting up your old router as a WiFi extender typically involves accessing the router’s configuration settings through a web browser. Connect your computer to the old router via Ethernet or WiFi, then enter the router’s IP address in the browser’s address bar. From there, log in using its admin credentials, which are usually found on the router or in the user manual.
Once logged in, look for options such as “Wireless Settings” or “Repeater Mode” in the settings menu. You will need to input the main router’s SSID (network name) and password to allow the old router to connect to it. Make sure to save the settings and restart the router. Following these steps should establish a connection and extend your WiFi coverage effectively.
Can any old router be used as a WiFi extender?
Not all old routers are capable of functioning as WiFi extenders. To determine if your specific model can be repurposed, you should check if it supports features like “Repeater Mode” or “WDS (Wireless Distribution System).” The presence of these features in the router’s firmware is crucial for extending the existing WiFi network.
If your old router lacks these capabilities, there are alternative methods to repurpose it. For example, many routers can serve as a basic access point by connecting them via Ethernet to your main router, which will also boost WiFi coverage. Always refer to the manufacturer’s documentation or website for specific capabilities and instructions tailored to your router model.
What should I do if my old router cannot connect to my main router?
If your old router fails to connect to the main router after following the setup process, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, ensure both routers are updated with the latest firmware available. Outdated firmware can prevent the devices from communicating properly. Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to update your specific router model.
If the firmware is up to date, double-check the network settings for both routers. Make sure that the SSID and password entered for the main router are accurate. Additionally, check the distance between the routers, as being too far apart can cause connectivity issues. If necessary, adjust their positions or try using a shorter Ethernet cable for a direct connection.
Will using an old router as an extender reduce my internet speed?
Using an old router as a WiFi extender can potentially decrease your internet speed, especially if the router is an older model with outdated hardware. The router that acts as an extender may struggle to process data as quickly as newer models, leading to slower speeds in the extended coverage area.
However, the impact on speed largely depends on the quality of both the router being used as an extender and the connection method. If the old router connects wirelessly, the speed might be significantly lower than if it were connected via an Ethernet cable. For the best results, consider placing the old router within a reasonable distance from the main router and using a wired connection if possible.
Can I use my old router to extend WiFi to multiple locations?
Yes, it is possible to extend WiFi to multiple locations using more than one old router. You can set up each old router in different areas of your home or office to create a mesh-like network. By strategically placing the routers, you can fill in coverage gaps and ensure strong WiFi signals in all desired locations.
To achieve this, you’ll need to configure each router properly, ensuring they all communicate with the main router. This may involve using different channels for each repeater to prevent interference among them. This setup can lead to an efficient and comprehensive WiFi network throughout your space.
What security measures should I take when using an old router?
Security is a crucial consideration when repurposing an old router as a WiFi extender. First, ensure the old router’s firmware is updated to the latest version, as manufacturers often release updates that patch known vulnerabilities. Without proper updates, your network could be susceptible to attacks.
Moreover, change the default username and password of the old router to something more secure. Use WPA3 encryption if available, or at least WPA2, to protect your network from unauthorized access. Regularly monitor connected devices to ensure no unfamiliar devices are accessing your network, and consider setting up a guest network if you frequently have visitors.
What should I do if I experience connection drops with my old router?
If you find that your old router frequently drops connections or becomes unresponsive, there are a few steps to address the issue. First, check the router’s placement; ensure it’s not located near devices that may cause interference, such as microwaves or cordless phones, and try to position it in an open space for better range.
If the connection drops persist, try changing the WiFi channel through the router’s settings. Router congestion can occur if multiple nearby networks are operating on the same channel. Changing the channel can improve stability. Additionally, performing a factory reset on the old router may help if configuration issues are to blame. Always remember to back up your settings before resetting.