Two routers on the same network? Same SSID?

[Kelemvor]

Howdy,

I'm adding a second router to my home network in a specific location where I have a couple devices that need really strong signal. I'm wondering what the best way to handle the setup of the new router.

My main router will handle DHCP and all that so this is going to just be running as an AP. Can I set it up with the same SSID and password as my regular router, but maybe specify a different channel, and will devices just pick the strongest signal based on where they are or can that lead to problems?

Not sure what the best way to handle that is.

Thanks,
Kel

 

[frowertr]

Are you running a hardline from the second AP back to the first router/AP? This would be ideal instead of running the second AP in repeating mode.

Yes, set the SSID on both the same. Make sure you are are non-overlapping channels on both APs. I'd also lower the power on both to as low as possible. It will force your clients to "roam" and pickup the higher signal AP a bit easier.

 

[Kelemvor]

I have my main router go to a switch and a line from the switch goes to where I will put the 2nd router.

I'll try it out tonight and see what I can make work.

 

[frowertr]

Yup that should work! If the 2nd AP is an actual router then connect the patch cable from the main switch to one of the regular switch ports on the 2nd router. In other words, don't hook that cable into the 2nd router/AP's WAN port. You just want it to basically act as a switch here and not do any routing. Bypassing it's WAN port makes this easier.

 

[JackMDS]

Like this...

Using Wireless Routers (or Modem/Wireless Router) as a Switch with an Access Point - http://www.ezlan.net/router_AP.html

Same SSID, same Password, both are optional as you need.

But one should be Ch1, and the other Ch11.

 

[razel]

Agree with Jack. Although frowertr has the right idea, you actually do not want your second router repeat, you want to add it as an access point on a non-overlapping channel.

 

[RadiclDreamer]

Like this...

Using Wireless Routers (or Modem/Wireless Router) as a Switch with an Access Point - http://www.ezlan.net/router_AP.html

Same SSID, same Password, both are optional as you need.

But one should be Ch1, and the other Ch11.

Well, technically you should have them on 1,6, or 11. These are the only non overlapping channels in 802.11 2.4ghz. If you have them both on the same channel you end up with interference.

 

[JackMDS]

Well, technically you should have them on 1,6, or 11. These are the only non overlapping channels in 802.11 2.4ghz. If you have them both on the same channel you end up with interference.

Ch 1 &11 provide the Widest gap to prevent self interferences.

In addition, in lack of more info, there is a good chance that somewhere around there are few other WIFIs sources that are left on the Default Ch 6. Thus, CH1 and Ch1 &11 makes the most Functional sense.