Unusual WiFi signals
Unusual WiFi signals
We’ve faced several WiFi challenges in the house over time. Recently, we experienced intermittent drops and slow speeds, especially with devices connected via Ethernet performing well. Previously, I used a DrayTek 2760 as both router and AP for the living area, while an Ethernet connection linked to the old TalkTalk router served as a dedicated AP for me. After my illness, I purchased a TP Link Archer C50 from Amazon for its affordability and solid reviews. Since we have a VDSL2 connection, I opted to keep the DrayTek for general internet use, routing Ethernet traffic through the C50, which now reliably covers all areas. However, when using only the C50 for WiFi, the network suddenly loses signal for a few seconds before reconnecting. All my devices—phone, laptop, Fire TV, NOW TV, and IP Cam—disconnect simultaneously. On my phone, I encounter an authentication error during reconnection. It seems to be affecting only the WiFi connection, even though I’m familiar with network setup. Could this issue stem from the DrayTek acting as a modem while still impacting other devices? Is there a simpler explanation I haven’t considered?
The DrayTek 2760 functions as a central hub. It combines modem, router capabilities, and some versions include wireless access points. When you link an additional wireless router, you must either switch the DrayTek to bridge mode (disabling DHCP/NAT and making it a basic modem) or change the C50 to access point mode (shifting routing/DHCP/NAT tasks to the upstream DrayTek). If both remain set to defaults, double NAT may occur. Initially, if you set up a fresh network with identical SSID using the C50, your configurations—such as security settings—could have been altered. Clients on the previous network might attempt to apply the same parameters to the new one, leading to conflicts. Simply discard the network and reconnect your devices. Use WiFi Analyzer to perform a wireless scan. Capture screenshots of the 'Networks' section (masking MAC addresses) and the 'Analyze' pages (cover both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands). Also note your SSID.