Are you tired of Wi-Fi dead zones in your home? Those frustrating areas where your signal drops or disappears completely can make working, streaming, or browsing impossible. The good news is you probably already have the solution sitting in a closet – your old router! Learning how to setup router as access point can transform your unused equipment into a powerful Wi-Fi extender that eliminates dead zones without spending a dime.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about converting your old router into a wireless access point. We’ll cover different methods for various router brands, troubleshooting tips, and answer the most common questions users have about the process.
Key Takeaways
- An access point extends your existing Wi-Fi network to eliminate dead zones in your home
- Most old routers can be converted into access points using either built-in AP mode or manual configuration
- You’ll need an Ethernet cable to connect the access point to your main router
- The process involves disabling DHCP and setting a static IP address on most routers
- Different brands (TP-Link, ASUS, Netgear, Linksys) have slightly different setup procedures
- Proper placement of your access point is crucial for optimal coverage and performance
What Is an Access Point and Why Should You Use One?
An access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network (WLAN) in your home. Think of it as a bridge that connects your wireless devices to your wired network. When you setup router as access point, you’re essentially turning your router into a dedicated Wi-Fi broadcaster that extends your existing network coverage.
Unlike Wi-Fi extenders that simply rebroadcast an existing signal (which can cut your speed in half), my wireless access point router creates a new, strong connection point. This means you get full-speed internet throughout your home, not just in areas close to your main router.
Access points are perfect for:
- Large homes with multiple floors
- Homes with thick walls that block Wi-Fi signals
- Outdoor areas like patios or garages
- Home offices or entertainment rooms that need reliable connections
The best part? You likely already have everything you need to get started!
What You’ll Need Before Starting?
Before diving into the wireless router access point setup process, gather these essential items:
Required Equipment:
- An old wireless router (almost any router will work)
- An Ethernet cable (Cat 5e or Cat 6 is recommended)
- Your main router (the one currently providing internet)
- A computer or smartphone for configuration
Compatibility Check: Most routers manufactured in the last 10 years can work as access points. However, some very old or ISP-specific routers might have limitations. If your router is less than 8 years old, you’re probably good to go!
Network Information:
- Your main router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
- Your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password
- Admin credentials for both routers (default is often admin/admin or admin/password)
Having this information ready will make the setup process much smoother and faster.
How to Setup Router as Access Point: Step-by-Step Guide?
There are two main methods to setup router as access point. The first method uses built-in AP mode and is the easiest, while the second method works for any router, even those without dedicated AP mode.
Method 1: Using Built-in AP Mode (Easiest Method)
Many modern routers have a dedicated “Access Point Mode” that automates most of the configuration:
- Connect to your old router – Plug it into power and connect your computer to it via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable
- Access the admin interface – Open a web browser and enter the router’s IP address (check the manual or try 192.168.1.1)
- Log in – Use the admin username and password
- Find AP Mode – Look for settings like “Operation Mode,” “AP Mode,” or “Access Point” in the admin panel
- Enable AP Mode – Select Access Point mode and save the changes
- Connect to main router – Use an Ethernet cable to connect from a LAN port on your main router to the WAN port on your AP router
- Restart both devices – Wait for them to fully reboot
Your router should now be working as an access point! You can connect devices to it using the same Wi-Fi name and password as your main network.
Method 2: Manual Configuration (Universal Method)
If your router doesn’t have AP mode, you can configure router as access point manually:
- Reset the old router – Press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds to restore factory settings
- Connect and access admin panel – Connect your computer to the router and log in to the admin interface
- Change the IP address – Navigate to LAN settings and change the IP address to something different from your main router (e.g., if main is 192.168.1.1, set this to 192.168.1.2)
- Disable DHCP server – Find the DHCP settings and turn off the DHCP server
- Configure Wi-Fi settings – Set the same network name (SSID) and password as your main router
- Save and restart – Apply the changes and let the router restart
- Connect to main network – Use an Ethernet cable from a LAN port on your main router to a LAN port on your AP router (NOT the WAN port)
Your old router is now functioning as an access point, extending your Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home!
How to Make Old Router Access Point for Different Brands?
While the basic process is similar across brands, each manufacturer has their own interface and specific steps. Here’s how to make old router access point for popular brands:
TP-Link Router Setup
TP-Link makes it easy to setup router as access point with their dedicated AP mode:
- Connect to your TP-Link router’s admin panel at tplinkwifi.net or 192.168.0.1
- Log in with admin credentials
- Go to Advanced > Operation Mode > Access Point
- Click Save and wait for the router to reboot
- Connect an Ethernet cable from your main router’s LAN port to the TP-Link’s WAN port
- The TP-Link router will automatically get an IP address from your main network
For older TP-Link models without AP mode, use the manual configuration method above.
ASUS Router Setup
ASUS routers have excellent AP mode support:
- Connect to your ASUS router at router.asus.com or 192.168.1.1
- Log in to the admin panel
- Go to Administration > Operation Mode
- Select “Access Point (AP) Mode”
- Click Save and wait for the reboot
- Connect from your main router’s LAN port to the ASUS router’s WAN port
You can also use the ASUS Router app to enable AP mode on supported models.
Netgear Router Setup
Netgear routers have a straightforward AP mode setup:
- Access your Netgear router at 192.168.1.1 or routerlogin.net
- Log in with your admin credentials
- Go to Advanced > Advanced Setup > Wireless AP
- Select “Enable AP Mode”
- Click Apply and wait for the router to restart
- Connect an Ethernet cable from your main router to the Netgear’s WAN port
Some Netgear models might place the AP mode under Settings > Setup > Wireless AP.
Linksys Router Setup
Linksys routers offer AP mode functionality:
- Connect to your Linksys router at 192.168.1.1 or linksyssmartwifi.com
- Log in to the admin interface
- Go to Connectivity > Internet Settings
- Click “Edit” next to your connection type
- Select “Bridge Mode” (this is Linksys’ version of AP mode)
- Save settings and wait for the reboot
- Connect from your main router’s LAN port to the Linksys router’s WAN port
For older Linksys models, you may need to use the manual configuration method.
Connecting Access Point to Router: Best Practices
Properly connecting access point to router is crucial for optimal performance. Follow these best practices:
Physical Connection Guidelines
Always use LAN-to-LAN or LAN-to-WAN connections:
- If using AP mode: Connect main router LAN port to AP router WAN port
- If using manual setup: Connect main router LAN port to AP router LAN port
Cable Quality Matters:
- Use Cat 5e or Cat 6 Ethernet cables for best performance
- Keep cable runs under 100 meters (328 feet)
- Avoid running cables near power lines or interference sources
IP Address Management
When adding access point to router, proper IP addressing prevents conflicts:
- Choose a static IP for your access point that’s outside your main router’s DHCP range
- For example, if your main router uses 192.168.1.100-150 for DHCP, set your AP to 192.168.1.2
- Document the IP address for future access to the AP’s admin panel
Optimal Placement
The location of your access point dramatically affects performance:
- Place the access point centrally in the area you want to cover
- Avoid corners, closets, or enclosed spaces
- Keep it elevated (shelf or wall mount works well)
- Position it away from metal objects, microwaves, and cordless phones
- Ensure it’s within range of your main router for the Ethernet connection
Remember, the goal is to create a seamless roaming experience where devices automatically switch between your main router and access point without dropping connections.
Wireless Router Access Point Settings Explained
Understanding the key wireless router access point settings helps you optimize performance and troubleshoot issues:
DHCP Server Settings
The DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server assigns IP addresses to devices on your network. When configuring router as access point:
- Disable DHCP on the access point router to avoid conflicts with your main router
- Your main router should handle all IP address assignments
- This prevents IP conflicts and ensures proper network communication
IP Address Configuration
Proper IP addressing is essential for network communication:
- Set a static IP address on your access point that’s on the same subnet as your main router
- For example: Main router at 192.168.1.1, AP at 192.168.1.2
- Set the subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 (most common)
- Set the gateway to your main router’s IP address (192.168.1.1)
Wi-Fi Settings Optimization
For the best wireless performance:
- Use the same SSID and password as your main router for seamless roaming
- Set different channels to avoid interference (main router on channel 1, AP on channel 6)
- Use the same security mode (WPA2 or WPA3) on both routers
- Enable band steering if available for automatic 2.4GHz/5GHz selection
- Adjust transmit power based on coverage needs (higher for larger areas)
These settings ensure your devices can move between your main router and access point without losing connection or requiring manual network selection.
Troubleshooting Common Access Point Problems
Even with careful setup, you might encounter issues. Here are solutions to common problems:
Can’t Access the Admin Page After Setup
This is common when my wireless access point router is in AP mode:
- The AP gets a new IP address from your main router’s DHCP
- Check your main router’s connected devices list to find the AP’s IP
- Try accessing the default IP address (192.168.1.1 or similar)
- Reset the AP router and start over if needed
Devices Won’t Connect to the Access Point
If devices can’t see or connect to your AP:
- Verify the AP is powered on and connected to your main router
- Check that Wi-Fi is enabled and broadcasting
- Ensure you’re using the correct network name and password
- Move closer to the AP to rule out signal issues
- Restart both the AP and your device
No Internet Connection Through Access Point
When devices connect but have no internet:
- Check the Ethernet cable connection between routers
- Verify your main router has internet access
- Make sure DHCP is disabled on the AP router
- Restart both routers and your modem
- Check for IP conflicts in your network
Slow Performance or Intermittent Connection
For performance issues:
- Move the AP away from interference sources
- Try different Wi-Fi channels to reduce congestion
- Update the AP router’s firmware
- Check for outdated device drivers
- Consider reducing the number of connected devices
For more WiFi troubleshooting tips, check out our guide on WiFi Is Extremely Slow? Complete Fix Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any router as an access point?
Yes, almost any wireless router can be used as an access point. Routers from the last 10 years typically have the necessary features to work as access points. Some very old or ISP-specific routers might have limitations, but most consumer routers support either built-in AP mode or can be configured manually. The key requirements are the ability to disable DHCP and set a static IP address, which virtually all modern routers support.
What’s the difference between router mode and access point mode?
In router mode, your device handles all network functions including routing, DHCP server, NAT (Network Address Translation), firewall, and wireless access. It’s designed to be the main connection point for your internet. In access point mode, the device only provides wireless connectivity. It disables routing, DHCP, and NAT functions, essentially becoming a simple bridge between wireless devices and your existing network. Access point mode is ideal when you already have a main router and just want to extend Wi-Fi coverage.
Do I need to disable DHCP when setting up an access point?
Yes, disabling DHCP on the access point is crucial. Your network should only have one DHCP server, which is typically your main router. If you leave DHCP enabled on your access point, it will conflict with your main router and cause IP address conflicts, connection issues, and network instability. When setting up an access point, always disable its DHCP server to ensure proper network communication and avoid these conflicts.
Can I set up an access point wirelessly without Ethernet?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. You can set up a wireless bridge or use WDS (Wireless Distribution System), but these methods have significant drawbacks. Wireless connections between routers are slower, less reliable, and more prone to interference than wired connections. You’ll also experience reduced bandwidth since the signal needs to make multiple wireless hops. For best performance and reliability, always use an Ethernet cable to connect your access point to your main router.
Why won’t my devices connect to the access point?
Several factors can prevent devices from connecting to your access point. First, ensure the access point is powered on and properly connected to your main router. Check that Wi-Fi is enabled and broadcasting the correct network name. Verify you’re using the right password and that your device supports the security mode (WPA2/WPA3). Physical distance and interference can also cause connection issues. Try moving closer to the access point and restarting both the access point and your device.
How do I access my router’s admin page after setting it as AP?
After setting your router as an access point, it typically gets a new IP address from your main router’s DHCP server. To access the admin page, you’ll need to find this new IP address. Log into your main router’s admin panel and check the list of connected devices or DHCP client list. Look for your access point in the list and note its IP address. Then, use that IP address in your web browser to access the access point’s admin interface. Some routers also allow access via their original IP address even in AP mode.
What’s the difference between an access point and a mesh system?
An access point is a single device that extends your existing Wi-Fi network using a wired connection to your main router. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution for extending coverage to specific areas. A mesh system consists of multiple nodes that work together to create a seamless Wi-Fi network, with some nodes connecting wirelessly to others. Mesh systems are easier to set up (no wiring required between nodes) and offer better roaming between access points, but they’re more expensive and can be slower than wired access points due to wireless backhaul connections.
Conclusion
Learning how to setup router as access point is one of the most valuable skills for home network optimization. By repurposing your old router, you can eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones, improve coverage throughout your home, and save money on expensive mesh systems or extenders.
The process might seem technical at first, but with the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, you can transform your unused router into a powerful access point in just minutes. Whether you choose the easy built-in AP mode or the universal manual configuration method, the result is the same: better Wi-Fi coverage where you need it most.
Remember to place your access point strategically, use quality Ethernet cables, and optimize your wireless settings for the best performance. With these tips and techniques, you’ll enjoy seamless, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout your entire home without breaking the bank.
Ready to get started? Grab that old router from your closet and follow our guide to setup router as access point today. Your future self (with perfect Wi-Fi coverage everywhere) will thank you!
