How to Build a DIY WiFi Extender from Scratch for Better Reception

Having weak WiFi signal in parts of your home can be frustrating. But you don't have to spend money on an expensive WiFi extender. With a little time and effort, you can build your own DIY WiFi extender from scratch using basic materials. This will help boost your WiFi signal to eliminate dead zones in your home.

What You Will Need

Building a DIFi WiFi extender requires just a few common materials:

• Old wireless router: This will act as the extender. Any old router should work as long as it supports wireless N or AC.

• Ethernet cable: You'll need an Ethernet cable to connect the router to your primary router. The cable length will depend on where you want to place the extender.

• Power adapter: You'll need the power adapter for your old wireless router. If you don't have it, make sure to get one with the right specifications.

• Tools: Basic tools like a screwdriver, drill, hammer, and wrench can be handy for opening up the router case and mounting the extender.

How It Works

A DIY WiFi extender works by receiving the existing WiFi signal from your primary wireless router, amplifying it, and then rebroadcasting the boosted signal. This effectively increases the range and coverage of your home's WiFi network.

The extender connects to your main router via an Ethernet cable. This gives the extender access to your router's internet connection and WiFi network. The extender then broadcasts that network under the same WiFi network name and password.

Devices will automatically switch between the main router signal and extended signal as you move around the house. This provides seamless roaming without network interruptions.

Steps to Build the Extender

Building the WiFi extender involves just a few main steps:

1. Choose Location

First, determine the optimal location to install the extender. It should be in an area midway between your main router and the WiFi dead zone. The extender needs to be able to receive a strong signal from the router to amplify.

2. Prepare Extender Router

Open up the case on your spare wireless router that will act as the extender. Unplug any unnecessary antennas and cables to simplify the setup.

You may also want to mount the router on a wall or shelf using screws for a clean, permanent installation.

3. Connect Ethernet Cable

Run an Ethernet cable from your primary wireless router to the DIY WiFi extender's Ethernet port. This will feed the internet connection to the extender.

Use the shortest cable length possible for a solid connection. If needed, drill small holes in walls for threading the cable between rooms.

4. Configure Extender

Access the extender router's admin interface and configure it for extender mode. Disable DHCP and NAT functionality so it acts as an access point only.

Name the extended WiFi network the same SSID and password as your primary network for seamless roaming.

5. Power On and Test

Plug in your DIY WiFi extender and power it on. Use a WiFi analyzer app on your phone to check the extended signal strength. Move around the house to verify there are no dead zones.

Enjoy the expanded WiFi coverage! Adjust the extender's placement if needed to optimize the signal reach.

Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some troubleshooting tips in case your DIY extender isn't working properly:

• Check that the extender router is in access point mode, not router mode. It should have DHCP disabled.

• Try an Ethernet cable shorter than 50 feet for a robust wired backhaul connection.

• Change the channel on the extender to avoid interference with your main router's signal.

• Adjust the extender's antennas for optimal directional coverage.

• Update the router and extender's firmware to the latest available version.

Conclusion

Building your own WiFi extender is an easy, affordable way to fill WiFi dead zones in your home. With just a little DIY effort, you can take an old router and transform it into an effective range booster. Position it halfway between your main router and weak signal areas for the best reception. Enjoy seamless roaming without network dropouts. With this homemade WiFi extender, you can say goodbye to WiFi woes!