Compare AP and Router modes to understand their differences.
Compare AP and Router modes to understand their differences.
I receive internet via coaxial service, using an ISP router/modem setup with disabled router features. My Wi-Fi is powered by the AC1900 Nighthawk (R6900). Since I'm in AP mode, I need to apply QOS settings, which aren't available in router mode. I've heard AP mode is typically used for offices with servers and Ethernet ports, but I'm curious if switching to router mode on my Nighthawk works without issues. Could you explain the advantages and disadvantages of AP versus router modes? I wonder if I accidentally turned AP on before and forgot about it.
If it's functioning as a modem, set it up as a regular router using the ac1900. Enable NAT on your ISP router or modem, then disable it if you don't need native IP addressing.
Standard operation uses NAT. Change to bridged if another device handles routing/firewall.
The modem operates in NAT mode, which means all devices share a single IP address. This setup aligns with your understanding of the configuration steps. Regarding NAT security, it's still possible to maintain security measures even after this change.
If you didn’t configure the ISP box as bridged and set the AC1900 as a router, it would likely function as a regular router without the advanced features of a bridge. This could affect how devices connect and share network traffic.
Ensure both routers operate from separate IP ranges—for instance, your ISP box provides addresses like 192.168.1.xxx while your personal router uses 192.168.2.xxx. Using the same range for both causes the built-in DHCP servers to clash, potentially crashing the network. Devices passing through either firewall must still navigate additional layers, making port forwarding more complex. Install portforwarding rules on each router for devices routed through multiple networks. Ideally, keep one router dedicated solely to troubleshooting. For expanding Wi-Fi coverage, consider alternative methods beyond chaining routers.