Linksys EA-Series

How to use a router as an access point

How can I use this new router as an access point? If you have a large area to cover with your wireless signal, or if part of your home has weak signals due to interference, you can use this router to extend the range of your old router’s wireless network.

To set up your new router as an access point:

1.Use a network cable to connect this router’s Internet port to the Ethernet or LAN port on the router that is connected to your modem.

2.Log into Linksys Smart Wi-Fi. (See “How to connect to Linksys Smart Wi- Fi” on page 7.

3.Under Router Settings, click Connectivity, then click the Internet Settings tab.

4.Click IPv4.

5.For Type of Internet Connection, select Bridge Mode.

6.Click Obtain an IPv4 address automatically, then click OK. The new router’s LAN IP address will be changed and obtained from the router that is connected to your modem.

How can I use my old router as an access point? If you have a large area to cover with your wireless signal, or if part of your home has weak signals due to interference, you can use your old router to extend the range of your wireless network. This is a complex process, so this procedure assumes that you have some networking knowledge.

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Check the documentation for your old router. Some brands of routers include either a switch on the outside of the case or a software option to convert it to an access point. If either of these options is available, follow your old router’s instructions to convert it to an access point.

You need to take note of your new router’s settings, then apply some of those settings to the old router so it can work as an access point.

Setting Up: Advanced

To view your new router’s settings:

1.Make sure that your new router is connected to the Internet.

2.Log into Linksys Smart Wi-Fi. (See “How to connect to Linksys Smart Wi- Fi” on page 7.

3.Under Router Settings, click Wireless, then take note of the Network name (SSID), Password, Security mode, and Channel.

4.Under Router Settings, click Connectivity, then click the Local Network tab. Take note of the DHCP server’s IP address range (192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.149 by default)

To use your old router as an access point:

1.With your computer connected to your old router, log into its browser- based administration utility.

NOTE

Save your changes after finishing each step below.

2.Open the setup page for the local network (LAN).

3.In the Router IP address field, enter an unused IP address for the LAN network of your new router.

For example, if your new router has an IP address of 192.168.1.1, you should choose an IP address on the 192.168.1.0 network. You can choose any address within the range of 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.1.254. You should exclude addresses in the range that will be used by the DHCP Server of your new router (192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.149). A safe choice might be 192.168.1.250. Take note of this address, because this will be the address that you will use to manage your old router in the future.

4.In the Subnet Mask field, enter 255.255.255.0 or, if available, select that subnet mask from a drop-down list.

5.Disable the DHCP server on your old router. (Because your old router will be operating as an access point instead of a router, you don’t want it to distribute IP addresses. There should be only one active DHCP server on your network, and that should be your new router.)

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Linksys EA6900 manual How to use a router as an access point, To view your new router’s settings
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EA6900 specifications

The Linksys EA6900 is a dual-band wireless router that stands out for its impressive performance and advanced features tailored to meet the demands of modern households. Designed to deliver reliable connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously, it supports the latest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) technology, enabling faster speeds and improved coverage compared to older routers.

One of the main features of the EA6900 is its dual-band capability, which operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This allows users to connect to the less congested 5 GHz band for activities that require higher bandwidth, such as streaming HD video or online gaming, while still having the 2.4 GHz band available for basic activities like browsing and email.

The router provides a maximum throughput of up to 1900 Mbps, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications. The beamforming technology further enhances the signal strength and reliability by focusing the wireless signal directly toward connected devices rather than broadcasting it in all directions. This results in better performance and coverage throughout the home, eliminating dead zones and improving connectivity in challenging locations.

The Linksys EA6900 also features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing wired connections for devices such as gaming consoles, PCs, and smart TVs, which benefit from stable and high-speed connections. Additionally, it comes equipped with a USB 3.0 port for sharing files and media across the network, allowing users to connect external storage devices for easy access to data.

Another key characteristic of the EA6900 is its user-friendly interface, facilitated by the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi app. This application allows users to manage their network settings remotely, including monitoring connected devices, setting parental controls, and prioritizing bandwidth for specific applications or devices.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys EA6900, featuring WPA2 encryption and a built-in firewall to protect the network from unauthorized access and threats. The router also supports IPv6, ensuring compatibility with the latest internet protocols.

In summary, the Linksys EA6900 is a robust and versatile router that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for households with multiple devices requiring reliable connectivity. With its dual-band capability, impressive speed, and enhanced security measures, it provides users with the performance they need for today’s connected lifestyle.
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