Crap WiFi Range
Crap WiFi Range
I realized I misread your request. You believed a separate device was intended as the central hub for your LAN, connected to the ISP modem, but you're suggesting the Dlink unit was actually an alternative ISP modem. That explains why it still caused issues. I’d advise a setup more aligned with your original idea. A reliable router should connect the APs smoothly, handling multiple clients without extra complications when linked to the ISP modem.
Set all APs to identical settings—SSID, access key, frequency band, and Wi-Fi standard. This ensures wireless devices automatically select the strongest signal. Previously, they competed for bandwidth. With multiple APs, lowering signal strength instead of boosting it can reduce interference and improve coverage.
I've attempted this before, watched numerous videos, and even had a certified networking expert assist, but the APs keep clashing and the entire network collapses.
I can attempt that to see how likely it is to succeed, especially after spending 2-3 years working this way and feeling frustrated. Regarding your router upgrade, you might want to consider a model that supports enterprise-grade performance and stability. Your current TP-Link Archer A7 seems to be a decent choice, but if you need more robust features, look into options like the TP-Link Archer C7 or a higher-end model from a reputable brand.
They should work together smoothly if set up correctly. If not, it might be due to differing AP configurations (like passwords or bands) or possibly multiple DCHP servers in the network. Your current setup likely isn't the issue unless it's unusual for your situation.
This part is correct. You need identical parameters, the same SSID, and the same key. Avoid assigning all APs to the same channel in a decentralized setup, as this leads to significant interference. Without a centralized controller, devices must independently search for the best AP based on signal strength. In a scenario like a 80x16ft trailer with three APs on 2.4GHz, placing the left side on channel 1, middle on 6, and right on 11 helps reduce interference using the same SSID. Adjusting each AP's power to minimize overlap ensures seamless switching—once a device loses signal on one channel, it automatically moves to the next. The challenge arises when devices behave differently; a controller helps manage this by intelligently selecting the optimal AP for each client.
You're right about the overall concept, though the current setup has some limitations. The channels are close enough for decent performance, but penetration through walls is still a challenge. Switching between APs works fine, but I'm not satisfied with the current setup. I was considering Ubiquiti for a controller that could unify the network and enable smooth transitions. The main concern is whether this solution is genuinely effective or just a marketing claim, since the APs I see are quite powerful on their own. If needed, a larger AP like the XG base station or a full Cisco-style setup with extensive control equipment might be necessary.
They need to be on separate networks. Adjusting all APs to the identical SSID and password would definitely help improve performance. The next action is to reduce the signal strength on each AP so they only cover a minimal area, though this requires significant effort. Simply attempt to match all APs with the same SSID and password to observe any changes. Additionally, based on your required bandwidth, limiting to 802.11g and/or a narrower channel width might be advantageous.
I attempted to maintain the same SSIDs and passwords, but they caused conflicts. This led to an unstable connection that frequently dropped throughout the day. Many of my access points operate on different channels, though some overlap; however, they’re spaced too far apart to be visible together on a network analyzer. The reduced signal strength and narrow channel widths aren’t helping much, since these APs can’t penetrate my single wall effectively, and even if they could, the signal quality would remain poor. Additionally, I’m located near a large field where the entire spectrum is available for my routers, as neighbors are about 300–400 meters away.