This is not necessary if you already know the routers Username/ Password otherwise, it will need a factory reset.

If you don’t have the Username/ Password, factory reset the router.

Steps for Turning an Old Router into a Wireless Range Extender or Access Point Connect an Ethernet cable from the main Router to the extender/AP router LAN Port.

Change IP Address Sub-net to Unique Number (Only last number).

How To Turn an Old Router Into a WiFi Range Extender or Access Point (Quick Overview) While the setup menu screen will be different most all will have the basic options to use it as a wireless Extender/AP.Īn explanation of these steps, along with screenshots, are below for more detailed examples.

Keep in mind each router will have its own options and setup screen, including login passwords. Obviously, the newer the router, the better, since wireless technology has improved over the years. Router Username Password (Can be set to Default)Īny old router will work, even routers built 10-15 years ago.Ethernet Cable run from Main Router to Extender/AP Router.Things Needed to Setup a Router as a WiFi Extender or Access Point If you had set up a router before and logged into its settings with a computer to change a wireless password, you likely would not have a problem setting up an old router to extend the WiFi network. The difficulty of doing this is low to medium. This can be used in many situations, from extending wireless to a garage or boosting wireless to a room with a bad WiFi signal. Old routers can be used as an access point or WiFi extender by running an Ethernet cable and changing a few settings. Using an old router to extend a wireless signal is a low-cost way to build a better wireless network.

Router as wifi extender