Connect gadgets to two linked local area networks.
Connect gadgets to two linked local area networks.
I'm using a Google Mesh network connected to my Nighthawk router. It's meant for low-priority devices that usually don't reach the router directly. This setup causes devices on the Nighthawk to miss those on the Mesh, and vice versa. For instance, my PC linked to the Nighthawk can't detect the printers in the Mesh, and the living room TV can't see my media server. When configuring the Mesh, it defaults to mesh mode instead of bridge mode, preventing me from setting it up as a bridge from the Nighthawk. That's why I end up with two separate networks.
Reset the Google Mesh network completely and set it up as a bridge so it gets IP addresses from your Netgear router within the same DHCP subnet. Or choose to stick with a single network. I get why you need the Nighthawk—most available models are either too expensive or lack strong admin features and wired connections.
I attempted a factory reset of the mesh, but it didn’t let me choose the bridge option—it forced me into mesh mode. Additionally, I couldn’t switch between networks; the mesh was triggered due to dead zones.
This situation isn't feasible. We need three systems with hard wiring.
Ensure each access point has a hardwired Ethernet port. Then link a physical network switch to them for additional wired connections where needed.
Mesh offers significantly reduced wireless performance compared to the Nighthawk. It's better to manage network changes than to sacrifice speed.
There’s no way to set up DNS or DHCP between the two devices for communication. Dropping either isn’t possible. Each model serves a unique purpose, and removing one would cause more disruption than simply changing networks on demand.
DNS and DHCP aren't the solution. You actually need to turn off the router completely. The device that's farther from the modem network should be set to bridged mode, enabling it to function as an AP or switch so connected devices can communicate with each other through other routers.