How to Build a WiFi Extender from Old Routers

Introduction

More and more of our devices rely on WiFi to connect to the internet - phones, tablets, smart home devices, and more. But sometimes our WiFi doesn't reach as far as we need it to. WiFi range extenders can help fill in WiFi dead zones, but they can be expensive to buy. Luckily, you can make your own WiFi extender from an old router you have lying around.

In this guide, I'll walk through the full process of building a WiFi extender from an old router. We'll cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right router to optimizing placement. With just a bit of technical know-how, you can expand your home's WiFi coverage for just the cost of an old router!

What You'll Need

To build your own WiFi extender, you'll need:

• An old router - This will serve as the extender. Nearly any router should work, as long as it supports wireless bridging/repeating.

• Ethernet cable - To connect your main router to the extender router. You'll need a cable long enough to run between the two locations.

• A computer - For configuring the router settings. I'll provide Windows instructions, but the process is similar on Mac.

• Patience - Configuring the router can take some trial-and-error. But the payoff of expanded WiFi is worth it!

Optional:

• Power outlet - If there's no outlet near where you want to place the extender, you may need an extension cord.

Choosing the Right Router

The key to a successful WiFi extender is choosing a router that will work as a wireless repeater or bridge. Here are the key things to look for:

• Wireless bridging/repeating support - This allows the router to connect to your existing WiFi and rebroadcast the signal.

• Same WiFi band as your main router - For example, if your main router uses 2.4GHz, choose a 2.4GHz extender router.

• DD-WRT support - DD-WRT is custom firmware that makes router configuration easier. Install it if you can.

Avoid routers that only allow use as an access point (connecting wired devices only). Look up your router model online to check capabilities before getting started.

Setting Up the Extender Router

With your router chosen, it's time to set it up. Here are the steps:

1. Update Firmware

See if there are any firmware updates available for your extender router and install them. Updates often add new functionality.

2. Install Custom Firmware (Optional)

As mentioned before, DD-WRT or other custom firmware can make configuration much easier. If available for your model, install it.

3. Place Router and Connect

Place the extender router halfway between your main router and the WiFi dead zone, and plug it in. Connect it to your main router via ethernet cable.

4. Access Router Settings

On a computer, access your extender router's admin settings page. The address is usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

5. Configure Wireless Bridging

Look for "Wireless Bridging", "Wireless Repeater" or similar options in the admin dashboard. Enable this, and select your main router's WiFi network.

6. Assign Different WiFi Network Name

Give your extended network a different SSID (name) from the main one, like "MyNetwork_EXT". This avoids confusion between the two.

7. Save Settings and Reboot

Save your changes and reboot the extender router. The process is now complete!

Optimizing Placement

WiFi range depends heavily on physical placement. Here are some tips for getting the strongest extended signal:

• Place the extender halfway between router and dead zone.

• Elevation helps - try placing extender router higher up if possible.

• Avoid obstacles like thick walls, metal objects, etc. which degrade WiFi.

• Point extender router's antennas towards main router.

• Experiment with locations - move it around to find the sweet spot!

Troubleshooting Issues

Here are some common issues and fixes:

Can't access extender router admin: Make sure your computer is connecting to the extender's own WiFi signal.

No extended network visible: Reboot both routers and redo bridge configuration. Double check WiFi network name/password.

Slow speeds: Try an ethernet-only connection to extender - if still slow, the issue is router-to-router connection. Optimize placement or upgrade main router.

Unstable connection: Upgrade outdated extender router firmware or replace router entirely if very old.

With a bit of tinkering, you should be able to build a fast and stable extended WiFi network with an old router! Enjoy the expanded connectivity.