Can I use the Ethernet ports when my router is a network extender?

bb12jo

Honorable
Sep 11, 2013
53
0
10,640
Hi! I have some computers that are a good distance away from my modem and running an ethernet cable is not viable. I want to use my router as a network extender and then use the ports on the network extender so I can plug in my computer without the need for a WiFi adapter. I have this router: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833320158 . I am tired of WiFi adapters not working with some operating systems so I wanted ethernet so it works without any drivers needing to be installed. How can I accomplish this with my router? Thanks in advance!
 
Solution
The technique is called 'wireless bridging' and it's totally common. You'll need to wireless devices (one normal and one that supports bridging). The one that supports bridging will be the remote location. If the router you have doesn't support it, and you need to buy a second one anyway, just make sure that bridging is in the description and you'll be set.

Another alternative is to use powerline networking (ethernet over mains). Depending on a bunch of different variables, the performance can be better than wireless bridging.

adamwinn

Distinguished
Dec 31, 2007
245
0
18,860
The technique is called 'wireless bridging' and it's totally common. You'll need to wireless devices (one normal and one that supports bridging). The one that supports bridging will be the remote location. If the router you have doesn't support it, and you need to buy a second one anyway, just make sure that bridging is in the description and you'll be set.

Another alternative is to use powerline networking (ethernet over mains). Depending on a bunch of different variables, the performance can be better than wireless bridging.
 
Solution