Configure router as Access Point IP address assignment and network settings
Configure router as Access Point IP address assignment and network settings
Main Router A uses the IP range from 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.1.254. Router B has a default IP of 10.0.0.138. Since DHCP is disabled, you won’t get an automatic assignment. You’ll need to manually set Router B’s IP to a free address within that range—like 192.168.1.200—and then update its settings in Router A. The default gateway for Router B should be configured separately, likely pointing to the ISP’s gateway or another network.
Unless you require the AP to function beyond your local LAN (unlikely), a gateway isn’t necessary. In practice, the IP on router B is meant for maintenance only and shouldn’t hinder its AP role. However, placing it in the 192.168.1.0/24 range makes sense. Setting the DHCP pool on router A to 192.168.1.2-240 will give you unused addresses (241–254) that you can manage independently without constantly logging in. If you need true AP functionality and must rely on routing, things get more complex.
On the main router, no interaction is required. On the slave router: turn off the DHCP server. Gateway is set to 192.168.1.1 (the main router's IP). Slave router IP should be configured manually at something like 192.168.1.255 (if possible) and operate in access point or repeater mode.
You should avoid assigning the static IP 192.168.1.255 within a /24 subnet. Verify your router's model in the user guide for setup instructions. Typically, routers operate as switches rather than gateways, so disable DHCP and restrict ports—often only LAN on four interfaces. Some devices like ASUS and TP-Link warn against using AP mode with static addresses. Adjust your DHCP range, reserving 10-20 addresses, and consider limiting the range (e.g., 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.1.150) or extending lease times to 8-24 hours. This allows controlled use of static IPs without conflicts.
I used roughly the same router years ago, try this: https://www.tp-link.com/nl-be/support/faq/1384/ Pay attention to step 7, don't use that single blue(?) ethernet port but only use the grouped LAN ports (for uplink and devices).
Great! It looks like you nearly got it right. You should be fine, Ty!
Today's routers often come with an AP mode that lets you just click a button and everything functions smoothly. Back when I lived at my parents' place, I built a complicated network by adding a wireless modem, an Asus router, a TP-Link router, and a few unmanaged switches. Two years ago, I switched to Unifi equipment—a Fortigate firewall, two Unifi switches, and two Unifi APs—and it improved significantly. Managing is now much simpler. Since moving out, I’ve set up my own Fortigate and Unifi gear, using one controller and a tunnel between the sites. It’s not necessary, but definitely enjoyable to configure.