How to Cascade a Router to Increase Network Range or Add Wireless N Capability

A video in my "fun with routers" series, depicting the process of "cascading" or interconnecting routers, where a main router is connected to other routers and uses them as additional transmitters. No special firmware is needed for this mod and is almost universally supported by all routers. Most routers can support up to 4 or more cascaded routers. This mod is specially useful for those who have a classic wireless g router that they like but would like to add wireless N capability, or those that would like to increase their wireless network footprint by installing transmitters in different corners of a building. Please ask any questions as comments, i will NOT answer private messages

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• ddwrt
• network
• cascade
• slave
• interconect
• router
• d-link
• netgear
• tenda
• wireless
• footprint
• wifi
• range
• radius
• wap
• wep

[D0M1N8R1x]

Also should mention that if you spend the extra money for another dd-wrt router you can set them up with WDS (wireless distribution system). WDS has compatibility issues between different firmware so by sticking with DD-WRT you can enjoy WDS which means the second router in the backyard shack will continue streaming that youtube video as you walk out of the house to the back yard patio. (yes streaming meaning no interruption switching access points.)

[Guacatechs]

@D0M1N8R1x  good point, but this tutorial is not DD-WRT specific.

[D0M1N8R1x]

Even better Set router into access point mode. Then it acts simply as a level 2 device with your router IP to access settings. Then your crappy router hardware will be fully dedicated to its purpose only with no layer 3-7 processing overhead. Administration is also eased since you dont need to configure 2 hardware firewalls or any other service. Your wireless N should actually run faster since the router processor is nearly fully dedicated for it with no background services.

[Guacatechs]

@D0M1N8R1x many routers do not have this option, it is a better option for those who use DDWRT. This tutorial is not DDWRT specific and is meant to instruct people who are using stock firmwares.

[Guacatechs]

Glad you found it useful.

[22lml]

thanks!!!

worked with wrt54g - wrt120n

[samuraicrunch]

Hi!; I just bought a new E1000 router  and want to know if i have to run the cd first or i just need to open the setup on my computer?

As you, my main router is G only and the E1000 is N, I should get the N wirelesss with the new wireless right? Also the E1000 have the option of creating a "guest" wireless network , does this work with the cascading?

[TheSlimHim]

Watched this, thought hmmm ill try that but first ill see if DDWRT supports either of my routers yet, doubt it. It does now!!! So happy!!!!