How to set up a router as a repeater (TP-Link, Mercusys and others)

An old router sitting in a drawer can extend the Wi-Fi at home or in the office. There are three ways to do it, and the result depends a lot on which one you use. Option names vary by brand and model (TP-Link, Mercusys and others), but the logic is the same.

Method	How it works	Result
Wired access point	The second router gets internet over an Ethernet cable	Best: full speed at the new spot
Repeater (range extender) mode	The second router rebroadcasts the wireless signal	Easy, but speed usually drops
WDS bridging	The routers link over Wi-Fi in bridge mode	An alternative when there’s no repeater mode

In this article

1. Before you start
2. Option 1: wired access point (recommended)
3. Option 2: repeater (range extender) mode
4. Option 3: WDS bridging
5. FAQ

Before you start

1. Note the main router’s network name (SSID), password and channel.
2. Factory reset the router you’ll use as the repeater (hold the Reset button for about 10 seconds).
3. Connect your computer to it with a cable and open the admin page at the address on its label (for example, 192.168.0.1, or the maker’s address such as tplinkwifi.net).

Option 1: wired access point (recommended)

1. On the second router, turn on Access Point mode if it has one. If not: turn off DHCP and change its LAN IP to a free address on the main network (for example, 192.168.0.2).
2. Set up Wi-Fi with the same name and password as the main network so devices switch between them automatically.
3. Run a cable from a LAN port on the main router to a LAN port on the second one.

Option 2: repeater (range extender) mode

1. In the admin page, look for Operation Mode and choose Repeater or Range Extender.
2. Scan for networks, select the main one and enter its password.
3. Save and restart. Place the repeater halfway, where it still gets a good signal from the main router.

Option 3: WDS bridging

For models without a repeater mode:

1. Change the second router’s LAN IP to a free address on the main network (for example, 192.168.0.2) and log back in at the new IP.
2. Under Wireless, set the same channel as the main router.
3. Turn on WDS bridging, click Survey, choose the main network and enter the password.
4. Turn off the DHCP server on the second router and save.

FAQ

Where should I put the repeater?

Halfway between the router and the dead zone — where the main network’s signal is still good. Too far away, it just repeats a weak signal.

Can I use the same network name?

Yes. With the same name and password, devices switch between points on their own. If you prefer control, use different names.

Is a mesh system a better buy?

For large homes, yes — see how to improve your Wi-Fi signal. But an old router used as a wired access point is often the cheapest, most effective option.