Connecting Two Routers Using Separate Modems

Alex L

Honorable
Nov 11, 2013
2
0
10,510
I've been looking around but can't seem to find a good answer. What I'm trying to do is find a way to use two separate routers each with their own modem/internet package. I want one connection to be broadcast so that they show up as a single network and have the devices connect to whichever has the stronger signal. It's a large house and one router only covers about half of it and I don't want to run a cable across the whole house to wire the two together. So is it possible to do this or do I need to start drilling holes and routing a cable through the walls? Thanks in advance!
(Both routers are N routers and both modems docsis 3.0)
 
Solution
Most cable ISPs will only allow one IP address per residential line, you would have to check with your ISP. And if you did have two accounts, you would have two different networks, not one large one as you envision.

I think that it would be a waste of money though.

If all you want is better wireless coverage throughout your house use one or multiple wireless APs (or routers configured as APs) that attach to the main router with a CAT5e cable. If a cable is just out of the question, then one of the newest powerline adapter sets like the Zyxel PLA5205kit will do a good job (although not near as good as a cable).

Since you already have an extra router, all you need to do is turn off the DHCP server, use the same security type and...

RealBeast

Titan
Moderator
Most cable ISPs will only allow one IP address per residential line, you would have to check with your ISP. And if you did have two accounts, you would have two different networks, not one large one as you envision.

I think that it would be a waste of money though.

If all you want is better wireless coverage throughout your house use one or multiple wireless APs (or routers configured as APs) that attach to the main router with a CAT5e cable. If a cable is just out of the question, then one of the newest powerline adapter sets like the Zyxel PLA5205kit will do a good job (although not near as good as a cable).

Since you already have an extra router, all you need to do is turn off the DHCP server, use the same security type and passkey as the main router, same SSID, a different wireless channel (choosing from 1, 6, and 11), give the AP router a static address and enter that address in the main router static route table (or use address reservation if your router supports it).

What shape is your house, and is it two stories, have a basement?
 
Solution

kgrevemberg

Distinguished
May 2, 2013
670
0
19,160
I used to work for a cable company. If someone wanted two modems in one house they would indeed need to pay for two accounts. I would be able to run both modems off of one physical line to the house but it would still be billed two full internet charges.
 

Alex L

Honorable
Nov 11, 2013
2
0
10,510
I had never seen those powerline adapters before and they will be perfect for what i'm trying to do and I do currently have two internet accounts for all the devices throughout the house (Large two story home with 4 computers throughout the house) Thank you for the response it is greatly appreciated and will save me over $60 a month since I can cancel that other account :)