Two homes are using identical internet plans! How can we increase access points further?
Two homes are using identical internet plans! How can we increase access points further?
Two houses share the same internet plan. The current setup is:
Router (house 1) → Switch (house 1) → Access Point 1 and Access Point 2 in house 2 via LAN cable.
House 2 plans to add two additional APs on upper floors. The best approach is to connect extra cables directly to the switch, rather than modifying the router or switch. I need to understand the optimal alternative so that APs 3 and 4 connect to AP 2 in house 2, not to the router/switch in house 1, while ensuring stability and maximum bandwidth.
The options are:
Option 1: AP 2 → AP 3 → AP 4 (APs linked sequentially via LAN)
Option 2: AP 2 → AP 3 & AP 4 (APs 3 and 4 connected to AP 2 via LAN)
Option 3: AP 2 → Switch 2 → AP 3 & AP 4 (similar to Option 2, but through a switch between AP 2 and APs 3+4)
Regarding the internet plan of 100MB, should AP 2 have a 1GB LAN port to maintain stable data flow between APs 3 and 4? Or would it not matter if AP 2 also has a 100Mb port? Thank you.
It will indeed be quite a challenge to locate new APs that operate at 100mbps, as most devices now require 1gbit. Previous technologies used 100mbps but lacked support for modern Wi-Fi standards. Unless you're transferring files between devices within the same household, it doesn't really matter because the total internet speed remains limited to 100mbps.
There is no breach, all parties agree. The house 2 owner only needs a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout the floors and prefers fewer cables outside the house. If understood correctly, there is an option 4 where the setup should appear this way?
The discussion addresses network configuration possibilities, noting that models are not mentioned but certain options seem impractical due to cost and port limitations. Some models offer a single pass-through port, which remains costly. Another option would involve a mesh setup with wireless connections between APs, potentially using existing LAN ports on AP2. The response emphasizes trust among participants and highlights concerns about legal, safety, and privacy issues.
I never intended this to be a personal statement, just general information that could help in discussions. In my area, internet costs are high and sharing plans is typical. Cables are handled with care using wire loom tubes to protect the Ethernet cables from weather conditions.
I support your view on the mesh option, but it’s only worthwhile if you don’t want full plan speeds throughout every floor or room. For example, if a plan offers 100Mbps, it’s acceptable to get less than half on the second floor. However, if you need maximum speed across most areas, I recommend the suggested setup—switching connections between houses and adding more access points.
Regarding your concern about security and privacy, I’d like to explain further. Routers and access points are generally secure, and connecting to one router doesn’t expose data from another. However, if you’re worried about risks in public places like cafés, companies, or schools, using the same Wi-Fi can be risky. People often connect to the same network without realizing it. To protect privacy, consider using strong passwords, enabling encryption, and keeping devices updated. If you need more specific advice on safeguarding connections, feel free to ask.
Lan was never designed for strong security. Initially, you only have one router, and even with two, restrictions remain limited. The first thing you notice is that your device will automatically use "private" network settings. This allows sharing files and printers but also leaves your machine vulnerable to others who might try to compromise it. Even with a secure setup and a robust firewall, changing hardware can still be risky. Placing a switch in the path to copy all data to another port is relatively easy, enabling someone to view your information. While traffic encryption helps, determined attackers can still find ways to breach it. The biggest concern lies with the account owner. If misconduct occurs, authorities may intervene, and people posting illegal content often rely on public Wi-Fi networks.
the main concern is just about sending files within the network, right? I think telling people to share only with certain devices could help. the second part is about being able to access someone’s personal info without being there, from inside the network. i’m not looking for detailed steps, just a simple idea of what’s possible.
The simplest method to address the security concern is employing three routers.
The configuration described ensures each household maintains its own network, preventing direct visibility between them.
As long as no external servers are hosted, a double NAT arrangement remains unnecessary.
There’s little to adjust except the LAN IP assignments.