Buzz
Need more devices on your network but out of ports? Adding another router is a smart move to boost network capacity and extend wireless coverage in weak areas. Here's a simple guide to set up a second router on your existing network.
Steps to Follow
Configuring the Primary Router
Connect the modem to the primary router. Use an Ethernet cable to link the WAN port of Router 1 to the WAN/Internet port of the modem. If Router 1 serves as both modem and router, connect it to the internet cable directly.
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Network Engineer & Desktop Support
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Your internet provider sets a speed limit on your connection. Before adding a second router, consult your provider to check if it will enhance your internet speed or if they can increase your limit.
Link Router 1 to a computer. Use an Ethernet cable to connect from one of Router 1's LAN ports to the computer's Ethernet port.
- You can also connect wirelessly to the router using the Wi-Fi network name and password.
Power on the modem and Router 1. Give them a moment to boot up completely.
Launch a web browser. You'll need a web browser to access Router 1's admin interface.
Enter Router 1's IP address in the browser's address bar. Type the IP address of Router 1 into the address bar. This opens the router's admin login page. Refer to the router's manual or manufacturer's website for the default IP address of Router 1.
Login with Router 1's admin credentials. This grants access to Router 1's admin interface. Refer to the router's manual or manufacturer's website for the default username and password of Router 1.
Activate DHCP on Router 1. This enables Router 1 to allocate IP addresses within your network.
Check your network and internet connection. Visit any website (such as https://www.Mytour.com) to confirm that you're able to connect to the Internet. Ensure that your network setup allows for one LAN port to be available on Router 1.
Detach Router 1 from the computer. Disconnect the Ethernet cable linking Router 1 and the computer. Leave everything else powered on and connected.
Setting Up The Second Router
Plug in and power on the second router. Ensure there's a free power outlet nearby and position a computer close to where you intend to place the second router. Plug in the router and switch it on. In this guide, we'll call the second router 'Router 2'.
Connect a computer to Router 2. Use an Ethernet cable to link the LAN port on Router 2 to the Ethernet port on your computer.
Enter Router 2's IP address into the address bar of a web browser. This will open the admin login screen for Router 2.
- Most routers have IP addresses like 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1, or 10.0.0.1.
Login using Router 2's username and password. Utilize the default login credentials to access Router 2's admin interface, similar to how you logged in to Router 1. Refer to the user manual or manufacturer's website for the default login details.
- For many routers, both the username and password are typically 'admin.'
Deactivate DHCP on Router 2. Since Router 1 has DHCP enabled, it's necessary to disable it on Router 2 to avoid IP conflicts. Locate the DHCP settings in the admin interface and set the DHCP server to “Off.”
Assign a new IP address to Router 2. Router 2 should have a different IP address than Router 1 to prevent IP conflicts.
- In the router's admin interface under “LAN” or “Local Network,” find the box containing the current IP address.
- Replace the existing IP address with a new one. The new IP address must be on the same subnet as Router 1, with the first three sets of numbers being the same. Change the fourth number to something different from Router 1, ensuring it's not already assigned to another device.
Configure Router 2's Wi-Fi network name and password. Ensure they match Router 1's settings.
- These settings are typically found under a menu labeled “Wireless” or “Wi-Fi setup.”
- If unsure about Router 1’s SSID and password, check the device itself.
- If Router 2 is not a wireless router, skip this step.
Bringing Your Network Online
Disconnect Router 2's power. After setting up Router 2, it's wise to restart it. However, at this point, keep the power disconnected instead of immediately turning it back on.
Link the first router to the second one. Utilize an Ethernet cable to connect a LAN port on Router 1 to the initial LAN port on Router 2.
- Ensure you're not plugging it into the WAN port, as they may appear similar.
Replug Router 2 and power it on. Once the router restarts, it will use the IP address you set up. Assuming Router 1 has Internet access, Router 2 will now also be online.
Reboot the computer linked to Router 2. Whenever you connect a computer to a new network device, it's prudent to restart the computer.
Link other computers and devices. You can achieve this wirelessly or by using Ethernet cables connected to available LAN ports on either router. Router 1's DHCP server will automatically allocate each device its unique IP address within the same subnet. Enjoy the expansion of your network!
Tips
- Don't hesitate to seek assistance. Numerous helpful forums are available, and networking professionals can be hired in your vicinity.
- Record the IP addresses of your modem, routers, and all connected computers. This will aid in troubleshooting any connection issues you may encounter.
- For added security, consider obtaining a third (NAT) router. If you introduce a third router (Router 3), connect its WAN port to a LAN port on either Router 1 or 2 using an Ethernet cable. Then, activate DHCP on Router 2 and assign it to a different subnet than the rest of your network.
Warnings
- This method of configuring networking devices is highly unconventional. While it generally functions, it may lead to issues with certain operations. If network expansion is required, it's advisable to use a device such as a switch or range extender to avoid complications.
- If you permit guests to access your Wi-Fi network, they may gain easy access to files on any connected computer.
