Many users face the problem of weak Wi-Fi signal in separate rooms or areas of the house. But instead of buying new equipment, you can use the old router by turning it into a signal amplifier. This was told by technical experts of the WHICH portal? by providing a simple step -by -step instruction.
First of all, you need to reset the old router to the factory settings. It is usually enough to hold the reset button on the back of the device for 30 seconds. It is also worth writing out the IP addresses of both router-the main and old. This information is usually indicated on the stickers on the device body.
Next is the basic setting steps:
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Connect the old router to your computer via an Ethernet cable.
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Open the browser and enter the old router IP address, log in to its system.
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Turn off the DHCP server in LAN settings-this prevents IP addresses.
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Set a static IP address of an old router-it should be on the same subnet as the main one (for example, 192.168.1.2, if the main one is 192.168.1.1).
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Set the same SSID and password Wi-Fi as the main router. This will allow the devices to automatically switch between access points.
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Save the changes, then connect both routers through the LAN ports of the Ethernet cable.
You can then install an old router in the area where the signal is weak. It will act as a access point, amplifying the signal and at the same time providing additional ports to connect the devices through the cable.
Experts remind that such a configuration not only improves Wi-Fi covers, but also allows the use of LAN ports of the old router to connect TVs, computers or consoles.
By the way, it is worth remembering that in 2025 many outdated devices, including some smartphones, laptops and routers, will no longer receive updates. This can make them vulnerable to attacks or even completely disabled. Before using the old equipment, check that it is still supported.
