How to Use a Wireless Router As a Signal Booster
By Jedadiah Casey
Wireless routers for home and small business markets feature integrated four-port switches. Wireless routers that feature integrated switches can be converted to wireless access points, which can then be used as a signal booster for the overall wireless network. Wireless routers are converted into access points by disabling the router's internal Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server. This forces the router to act as both an access point and network bridge when it is connected to another router on the network.
Connect an Ethernet cable between a computer and one of the router's "LAN" ports.
Log into the router's Web interface by typing its address into the address bar of a Web browser. Common addresses are "192.168.0.1," "192.168.1.1," "192.168.1.254" and "192.168.2.1."
Enter the router's username and password, if prompted.
Locate the DHCP server settings, which are typically located under a "LAN Setup" or similar category.
Disable the DHCP server function and save the settings.
Locate and configure the appropriate wireless settings in the Web-based setup, such as the SSID and encryption password.
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the computer, and connect it to the "LAN" port of another router. This links the two routers together and expands the wireless signal coverage area.
Writer Bio
Jedadiah Casey started writing professionally in 2007, with articles published in "The Flagler Times" newspaper. He has more than 20 years of experience with computers and networking. Casey holds a Bachelor of Science in information systems from the University of Central Florida, as well as professional industry certifications.