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ssjk1's avatar
ssjk1
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Can I add second router as access point to extend wireless range

I need to eliminate dead spots in my house.  Netgear has an option for configuring a router in  Access Point (AP) mode linked to the original router and modem.  

Will this work with cox internet?  If not, how can I extend the range in my older house - adding ethernet to all rooms is not an option and the wireless in many rooms is not usable as is.

  • Tecknowhelp's avatar
    Tecknowhelp

    You should be good as long as the router has AP mode. If your older router is capable of dd-WRT firmware, that might be a option to add a AP mode, but that comes with a learning curve. If you want it really easy, get one that is specifically labeled as a AP(Access Point) and it will come pre-configured in AP mode. You will just have to set up the wireless name and stuff.

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  • Tecknowhelp's avatar
    Tecknowhelp
    Valued Contributor II

    What model modem or router do you have now? As long as you have something to work as a router, you should be able to connect a AP to it with a ethernet.  

    If you can't run ethernet from the router to the AP, then you would need a wireless repeater, and not a AP. Wireless repeating is also known as WDS. When using WDS, its helpful to have the router and AP be the same model, however there are some down falls. By repeating the wireless signal, you make it stronger, but the traffic going over it is slower. About half as slow. Also, some devices can have problems roaming from the router to the repeater. 

    If you are looking for a non-DIY solution, I think Cox has a service now where they come in and set up multiple MoCA AP that connect to the main router via coaxial. I forget what it's called, and I think it's only available in some area, but its something you might want to look into.

    If you prefer DIY, then I would suggest a MoCA adapter between the main router and the AP. You would need to make sure the coaxial wiring in the house is A+  and that the AP is configured on a different channel then the router, but it should work just the same. 

  • ssjk1's avatar
    ssjk1
    New Contributor

    thanks for the response.  My primary router is the Arris modem/router suppled by Cox.  I have ethernet to the desired location for the AP.  I currently have an older Netgear router I was planning to use but it does not have an AP mode and I don't have the skills to set it up (I tried to follow a few articles but no go).  So I am planning to buy a new router (likely some $20 Netgear model) with that capability as a set up option.  

    Just wanted to confirm that the issue is my skills with an old router, not something within the Cox set up or equipment that makes it impossible.  Thanks again

  • Tecknowhelp's avatar
    Tecknowhelp
    Valued Contributor II

    You should be good as long as the router has AP mode. If your older router is capable of dd-WRT firmware, that might be a option to add a AP mode, but that comes with a learning curve. If you want it really easy, get one that is specifically labeled as a AP(Access Point) and it will come pre-configured in AP mode. You will just have to set up the wireless name and stuff.