A client has a old linksys wrt54g (version?) router and a new wrt310n router. EIther one works as a basic router providing wireless access to internet thru a dsl modem (the dsl username & pw are entered into the router). We want to continue using one of them for this purpose... and to use the second router as a wireless repeater (to try to reach a laptop in a room downstairs that gets a weak wifi signal). After being set up, the two routers should NOT be connected by an ethernet cable. (The repeater after set up should only need to be plugged into the power)
I've tried to research this, and (my understanding) is we need to use WDS. So therefore I need to UPGRADE both routers' firmware with the correct .bin files from this page:
http://www.dd-wrt.com/dd-w
(I"m assuming this path: -- v24-sp1 -- Consumer -- Linksys -- [modelname] )
(1) My research suggests that the WRT310N may NOT support WDS though... And yet there is a page there for WRT310N... I'm not sure about this! Anyone know for sure?
(2) The example of "turning a router into a repeater" given at toms' guide...
http://www.tomsnetworking.
... involves THREE devices -- a the main DHCP serving router, connected BY A WIRE to an AP, which is connected wirelessly to another AP...
That's diff from my way. Is it OK and possible to do it my way -- just using two routers, THE FIRST doing the usual DHCP & providing a signal for nearby laptops & talking to the second router with WDS... with the SECOND ROUTER talking to the first router with WDS & providing a signal for nearby laptops?
(3) I assume I need to turn on / enable WDS on both of my two routers, right?
(4) Given my particular setup, can anyone recommend one guide / diagram over another? (I've seen so many...)
thx!
This Question has been solved and asker verified All Experts Exchange premium technology solutions are available to subscription members.
Experts Exchange has been collecting answers to technology questions since 1996…3 million and counting! If you have a question, chances are we already have your answer.
If you can't find the exact answer you're looking for, ask our exclusive community of 50,000 experts. You’ll get a personalized answer from a trusted professional.
Thousands of free tech tips, tricks, how-to’s and tutorials are available in our peer reviewed articles section. See for yourself how smart our experts are, no login required.
Save solutions to your questions, answers you’ve discovered through searching plus helpful articles in your personal knowledgebase for easy future access.
Access the answers to your technology questions today.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Members of the expert community talk about why the experience at Experts Exchange is different than what you will find anywhere else.
Try it out and discover for yourself.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Join the community of experts here and help other tech pros by answering question in your area of expertise. You can earn FREE access to all Experts Exchange's premium features and resources.
Thx J
Found the answers myself -
(1) WRT310N does support WDS firmware, you just have to find the right firmware
(2) Yes you can do it with just 2 routers
(3) Yes both routers have to have the firmware
(4) I used this guide:
http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki
Business Accounts
Answer for Membership
by: JohnjcesPosted on 2008-09-04 at 22:08:43ID: 22395437
WDS is generally just for bridging the two so that a wireless LAN on either end con extend itself wirelessly.
WDS with AP is a setting I think you are seeking in order to link or bridge the two and allow them to act as access oints as well.
I know you can easily bridge them, but not certain on one acting as a wireless repeater.
If you can wire both to the wired network it is easier to do i.e. use it as a range booster.
So... I am not certain that your devices are going to do what you want, but you are on the right track to test it. You can always put it back to normal. Make sure you write down all the settings before you go changing stuff.
John