Yes, it is feasible to divide WAN ports and incorporate a second router while keeping the current network stable.
Yes, it is feasible to divide WAN ports and incorporate a second router while keeping the current network stable.
Hello everyone, I’m seeking some guidance on whether it’s feasible to divide a WAN port into two distinct networks. My goal is to finish installing the router and VPN setup described in Louis Rossmann’s recent FUTO tutorial, but I already have a network running that I don’t wish to interfere with—especially since there are several “smart” devices on the Wi-Fi that aren’t mine and would complicate things significantly. I don’t need or want any communication from these devices to my new PFSense-based network.
I recall setting this up many years ago, over six months or more, as it kept malfunctioning and became frustrating. The current configuration appears to be: a Telstra modem/router/AP all in one setup, using WIFI disabled for DHCP and DNS. I disabled the router and AP functions and used it only as a modem, which stopped the landline from working. I spent six months trying to disable as many Telstra settings as possible, but each change caused the landline to fail. Eventually, I just turned off WIFI.
My ASUS AX router is set up normally with its own DHCP and DNS, using a separate IP range. Most devices connect via Ethernet to the ASUS, while some are linked through the Telstra via USB or other means. My main worries involve smart devices like Eufy cameras and smart power outlets/fans that connect to the Wi-Fi on the ASUS. I’d prefer to use the ASUS as a WAN AP in the Louis Rossmann guide, but I’m concerned it would require reconfiguring all those “smart” gadgets—something I’ve already struggled with.
I’m considering using an old PC as the PFSense router and a cheap AP, setting up the network completely separately from existing ones. However, I’m unsure how to do this without affecting the devices I don’t want to touch. Also, I’d like to connect my home office network so I can access files on my work PC or the Synology NAS from home. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
You're working with an ISP gateway and likely can't change its settings directly. It probably doesn't support VLANs, which are meant for LANs. For connecting routers, be aware that linking more than one can lead to double NAT, and adding a third router will cause triple NAT for everything connected to it. You might try setting up a guest network to separate the traffic.
You're considering transferring your network settings to Telstra's Smart Gateway and switching to WIFI. If that doesn't work, you might need to reconfigure everything to connect via Telstra's network and then set up pfSense for your devices. It's understandable to feel anxious about troubleshooting technical issues after years of support experience.