Several home computer networks utilize only one WiFi router but in some situations, adding a second router comes with its advantage.
Connecting two routers is a terrific technique to extend your WiFi network coverage so your internet can reach every corner of your house or office.
Moreover, having a second router gives you the option of operating on a distinct subnetwork within the space. This ensures the free flow of the internet to some devices without slowing down the connection to others.
Two routers are usually bridged together using an ethernet cable that connects to the WAN port of each router. You can connect your routers wirelessly if you don’t want to connect your routers using this conventional method.
However, the wireless connection of routers is a bit more technical, and it requires careful setup. This article will direct and guide you to connect your two routers with little or no complications.
This article will explore the IP address method of connecting your two routers without using an ethernet cable.
Connecting Two WiFi Routers wirelessly Using IP Address
We will connect the two routers without using the ethernet cable with this method. Before you consider using this method to connect your routers, you must have ticked these two boxes below:
- The two routers should support either AP Client Mode or WDS Bridge Mode (Both routers should support the same feature)
- Ensure you have access to the routers; settings when you need to configure them.
After you successfully tick these boxes, you can decide which routers will be the primary and secondary routers.
We assume that both the routers are the same in this case, so both of them can serve either purpose. You can connect the two routers wirelessly with the steps below:
Step 1
Identifying The Routers IP Addresses
The default IP address for most routers is 192.168.0.1. Ensure you check the back of the router to be sure or consult the router’s manual. You can also gain access to the router’s IP address through WiFi.
Step 2
Configuration Of Routers
Both routers need configuration for the connection to be successful, and configuration should be done consecutively. You should set the first router’s operating mode to Access Point mode(AP) while setting the second router to Client mode. You can configure the first router through the following process:
- Set the router’s operation or working mode to the Access Point
- Change the wired network into wireless. In the router’s Operation Mode menu, you can select the Access Points option.
- Navigate to the wireless settings. You’ll need to modify the channel, wireless name, and password here.
- Change the wireless network name to any name you desire.
- Choose the region supported by your network provider.
- Select the channel of your choice. It would be best if you considered selecting the one with low interference. The channel usually ranges from 1-13, and you can determine the best with a wireless analyzer.
- Jump to the wireless option and select wireless security.
- Choose WPA/WPA2– Personal (Recommended) option and set up a wireless password of your choice. Save the changes and keep the router powered.
After successfully configuring the first router with these steps, ensure that you document the changes you’ve made so far as you’ll be needing them in the latter stage of the connection.
The next step is the configuration of the second router. The second router configuration is needed to change its operating mode to Client Mode and reset its IP address to default.
Go to the operating mode on the secondary router and select client mode. However, if you want to reset the IP address to default, follow the steps below:
- Access the secondary router. The login details are usually at the back of the router
- Once you’ve logged in, choose network and select LAN
- Input the default IP Address of the router.
- Click on the save button and restart the router for the changes to effect.
The second router is now configured and set to Client Mode.
Step 3
Connecting The Routers
After successfully connecting the two routers, the last step is connecting them through a wireless scan. To scan wirelessly, go to wireless settings on the second router and click on the Survey (This option varies among different routers).
The Survey tab will scan all the wireless devices available on your network. Once you complete the scan, you will find all the listed devices on your network.
Recall the name you choose for the first router? Find and click on it to connect, enter the password accordingly and save. Reboot the routers for the changes to be applied.
The two routers are now successfully connected wirelessly.
How Do I Extend My WiFi Range?
The traditional method of extending the WiFi range is adding a second router. However, the practice is less common now that Mesh WiFi has been introduced. A Mesh WiFi comprises one central router and a series of wireless access points placed at every corner of the home/office.
Moreover, it is not certain that adding a second router will work wirelessly with the existing router.
Can I Setup A WiFi Router Without A Computer
A computer is not necessary when installing a WiFi router, and you can access the router device through a Smartphone, tablet, or another WiFi.
