WiFi issues occurring across several routers Multiple devices experiencing connection drops or unstable signals
WiFi issues occurring across several routers Multiple devices experiencing connection drops or unstable signals
I recently adjusted my home network setup. Previously, I had three routers for broader coverage using three different SSIDs. Now they’re all combined into one SSID for ease. My main router is an ASUS RT-N66U managing DHCP, and two Dlink routers (DIR-655) act as extenders without DHCP. The problem is that devices connected via Wi-Fi are losing signal or connecting intermittently. For instance, my Google Nest Max works fine for hours but drops unexpectedly when reconnected. Same happens with my Wemo smart switches and cell phones. I’m unsure what’s causing this. Should I manually assign IP addresses to each device? Is the issue due to devices switching routers based on signal strength and changing IPs? Devices connected via Ethernet remain stable. Thanks!
Unless you're using a mesh Wi-Fi setup, the gadgets won't choose the strongest signal; they'll settle on one and stay connected until it disappears. I used the Deco X20 for this purpose and it performs exceptionally well. Begin by ensuring your routers operate on different channels, keeping them as far apart as feasible—avoid common ones like 1/2/3 and opt for 1/5/9 instead. Another approach is to switch to separate SSIDs (especially for DIR-655 models) and rely on them only when the primary one isn't nearby. Relying on three non-mesh routers isn't advisable, as you lose control and often end up with the undesired device.
I have them on channels 2, 5, and 9 as I recall. I’m not keen on switching back to separate SSIDS since my Nest cameras won’t connect if they’re on different ones. Would the Deco X20s function by just swapping the satellite routers and keeping the same SSID? Just expanding the existing network wouldn’t be enough—I haven’t tried mesh yet and don’t know much about it.
A lot of information exists about mesh networking. You might need to read more. Mesh networks are much superior to repeaters.
These days are quicker and manage more connections. Slightly more expensive, though.
Make sure to link it through Ethernet; it's unlikely to affect the outcome if the SSID changes.