Use it normally for general connectivity or switch to AP mode for better range and performance.
Use it normally for general connectivity or switch to AP mode for better range and performance.
without router mode I can't run dnsmasq for my nextdns filtering, but in repeater mode it supports dnscrypt. I'm trying to stick mostly to my router in AP mode since I want the lowest latency and no extra features like NAT or firewall. I have an xiaomi 4a gigabit router with custom firmware (ASUS RT-N65U).
Ensure your network has a router, and confirm it operates in router mode.
Are you asking about the device on the first floor—does it act as a modem or a router? If it’s a router, avoid putting another one in router mode because it could cause double NAT. You should switch it to AP mode instead. However… do you really need a second AP? The distance between the two routers matters; too far might create more interference rather than improvement. Also, switching between Wi-Fi networks can be less efficient if left up to clients to choose. Mesh networks often help with this problem. In short, why are you using two routers and what’s your goal?
I understand you can connect directly to your PC instead of going through a router. You're right about 5GHz being slower compared to 2.4GHz, and using 2.4GHz often leads to poor phone speeds. Prioritizing is important since you don’t use your phone much. A direct PC connection via LAN port would be better. I also noticed I ignored the issue of Wi-Fi interference, which is something to consider. RN suggests keeping the router on the shelf and using a direct PC link instead. Thanks for the advice!
I’m trying to understand your goal and the configuration… What was your intention for using the second router? Your phone’s Wi-Fi shouldn’t interfere with your PC if you can connect via a physical cable—so if a wire from your router or switch to your PC is feasible, proceed.
my room is on the first floor. the ethernet cable was installed only a few weeks ago, and at that time i was using my router in repeater mode (there was really no other option). my brother had another router and gave me this one because he wanted wifi 6, which is why i received it from him—it’s ac.
Are you all in the same area? You aim for just one router on the network. If your sibling resides with you, connect only his single Wi-Fi 6 device as the primary router. If he isn’t living there, use whatever router you have the best of. ISP internet line → modem → router → remaining equipment (TVs, PCs, switches, Wi-Fi gadgets, etc.)
Interference isn’t a major problem… but adding more routers makes the setup more complicated, can cause IP conflicts, forces devices into double NAT, and offers no real advantage unless you have a particular need. Why does your brother have his own router behind the main one? It won’t speed things up or increase bandwidth, it just gives him some network separation, which isn’t really useful for a typical home setup.