Networking – use the Belkin router as a repeater

routerwireless-networking

I've got a brand new, unopened Belkin N600 DB router (yay 50% off sale), and I can't seem to figure out if I can use it as a repeater. As far as I can tell, it doesn't support DD-WRT or Tomato, but I'm wondering if there may be some way to rig it up to repeat Wifi. Also, I really need to know before I open it, because, being a bit tight on money at the moment, I'll probably sell it if I can't use it as a repeater.

Finally, two caveats:

  • I can't use the other wireless router for anything other than broadcasting straight from the modem (parents are paranoid about anything technological).
  • I can't run ethernet to the second router due to the layout of the house.

Thanks so much for the help everyone–if I'm being vague, tell me!

EDIT: Also, the manual here is pretty useless on this topic as far as I can tell.

Best Answer

Try this aricle: How to set up a Wireless Bridge between two Belkin routers. Belkin routers had this capability since the software settings changed to bridging.

How to set up a Wireless Bridge between two Belkin routers

Setting up a Wireless Bridge allows you to expand the range of the wireless network broadcasted by your main wireless router. This article will describe the steps needed to do so.

Before proceeding, make sure of the following:

  • Wireless Bridge mode must be supported by your routers.
  • The channel must be identical on both the router and the access point.

Setting up wireless bridge

Step 1: Connect your computer to the LAN or wired port of the main router.

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Step 2: Launch a web browser like Internet Explorer.

Step 3: Enter 192.168.2.1 as the router's default IP address in the Address bar, then press Enter.

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NOTE: If the default IP address doesn't work, check your router's IP address. For instructions, click here.

QUICK TIP: You may also enter http://router in the Address bar to access the router's web-based setup page.

You will then be directed to the router's web-based setup page similar to the one below. If you want to change or configure any settings, you will need to log in with your router's administrator password by clicking on Login at the top right corner of the page.

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Step 4: Enter your router's password then click Submit.

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NOTE: If you haven't set up a password for your router, leave the field blank then click Submit.

Step 5: Take note of the LAN/WLAN MAC address under the LAN Settings section.

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Step 6: Click Wireless Bridging under Wireless.

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Step 7: Tick the Enable Wireless Bridging checkbox.

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Step 8: Tick the Enable ONLY specific Access Points to connect checkbox.

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Step 9: Enter the LAN/WLAN MAC address that you took note of earlier in the AP1 fields.

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Step 10: Click Apply Changes.

Step 11: Repeat steps 1–8 on the second Belkin router.

NOTE: The Wireless Distribution System (WDS) feature is not completely specified in Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) or Wi-Fi™ standards. Therefore, interoperability between 802.11 products of different vendors is not guaranteed.

You should have successfully set up Wireless Bridge between your two (2) Belkin routers now.

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