WDS issue or alternative method to boost WiFi connectivity
WDS issue or alternative method to boost WiFi connectivity
Hi, I see you're dealing with a tricky Wi-Fi issue. You mentioned using a TPLink A6 as an access point and trying to connect two PCs via Ethernet and WDS protocol. It sounds like you're unsure if the setup will function properly. Let me clarify a few points:
- WDS (Wide Area Network) typically requires both routers to support it, but not all routers do.
- The A6 router should be able to handle WDS if configured correctly, but compatibility can vary.
- If you're connecting from the ISP router to the U6+ access point and then to the A6, make sure the network settings match.
- Check if your PCs are on the same subnet and that the A6 is properly bridging or using a proper WDS-enabled setup.
You might want to test with a simpler configuration first—like just connecting directly from the ISP router to one PC via Ethernet, then see if you can extend it. If you need more help, feel free to share more details!
WDS is an older method for broadening wireless reach before repeaters and mesh networks became common. It needs both devices to support WDS, and sometimes it's limited to certain brands or firmware versions. Back in the DD-WRT era you could enable it across different manufacturers. The U6+ only functions as an access point and I haven't seen WDS support there. Check if the A6 offers wireless bridge mode instead. Remember that weak signal recognition from your clients could indicate a fragile wireless bridge connection.
Another suggestion is to turn off 5 GHz completely as it doesn’t appear to improve your Wi-Fi speed, and switch to 2.4 GHz for a broader coverage area. While this might not make a big impact, assign channel 1 to the weakest signal and channel 6 to the weaker one. Lower channels operate at slightly lower frequencies, which can help signals pass through walls marginally better. Consider using a directional antenna with a gain of 10-15 dB on the client side; this allows the Wi-Fi to focus its power into a narrower path. You might also try changing your router’s antennas to directional models and aim them toward devices with poor connections. Since your router is linked via Ethernet, it can be directed precisely where needed. Additionally, explore network filtering tools—such as privacy badger—to prevent unwanted connections from slowing down your network. Browser extensions like Privacy Badger can help. You could also experiment with virtualBox, run Linux inside it, and install Pi-Hole in the VM for enhanced protection. Other options exist, but this approach offers good reliability without heavy resource use. If you’re new to this setup, NextDNS.io is free but worth considering a paid plan for better performance. Set up an account and configure your router’s DNS to use IPv6 or IPv4 depending on your needs. On devices supporting DNS over HTTPS, adjust the settings per device. This method also works with Pi-Hole’s hosted version for Android.