If you’ve got a hankering for some advanced features when it comes to your network, you may wonder how to set up two networks with one router. This is a feature available to some of the best routers, though the process can be on the complicated side. Why would you do this and how to achieve this feat? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Setting up two separate networks on a single primary router is a great way to enable a secondary guest network, for security purposes with connected devices.
- Start this process by heading to the wireless router’s settings page, which is accessible by inputting the router’s IP address into a web browser. Additionally, make sure the router is connected to your modem via Ethernet port.
- Look for “Guest Network” settings and follow the prompts, taking care to save your Wi-Fi network changes afterward.
Why Use One Router to Set Up Two Networks?
The main reason here is personal security. You can use one network for close friends and family and the other for guests and visitors to the network. This allows you to pile on security features to the secondary network without having to purchase a secondary router, so these guests can’t muck up with your primary network. This helps with speed, so you won’t have to wonder about the definition of a fiber network router.
Insider Tip
In some instances, routers will include a secondary guest network right out of the box, with no setup required.
Another reason is versatility, as this setup allows you to diversify your settings across both networks. In some cases, you can apply different firmware to each network, if you are wondering the definition of a DD-WRT router.
How to Setup Two WiFi Networks on One Router
The process here varies slightly depending on the make and model of your router, so we have done our best to keep these guidelines universal.
STEP 1
If you are looking to simply set up a guest network as a secondary option, keep reading. If you want to set up a proper second network using the same router that is completely unaffiliated with your current wireless network, contact your Internet service provider (ISP.)
STEP 2
Head into the settings of your router, otherwise known as the admin control panel. The process to access this settings page varies, but you should be able to do it by inputting the router’s public IP address into the address field of a standard web browser on a computer. Don’t know your static IP address? Look at the sticker on the router.
STEP 3
Cruise the settings and look for something called “Guest Network.” Follow the prompts to create the secondary network, setting the network name and password accordingly. Once you are finished, save your changes and restart the router. Your guest network should be ready to go.
F.A.Q.S
How to create a separate WiFi network for your smart devices?
Follow the steps above, as a secondary network is a great option for connecting smart devices.
Can I connect two routers to the same network with the same network name?
Yes, this can be useful to extend the range of your wireless network. Your primary router will act as the main source of Internet and your secondary router will be the bridge. This prevents you from having to create separate networks.
How to choose a router?
When choosing a primary router or a secondary router, look for one with easy network setup and fast speeds for allowing Internet access to all wireless devices. You may also look for the option for a wired connection via Ethernet cable.
STAT: Many newer routers include WDS or Wireless Distributed Services to create multiple Access Points on a single network with a single name. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.actiontec.com/blog/how-to-create-a-separate-wifi-network-for-your-smart-devices/
- https://www.wikihow.com/Create-Two-Networks-from-One-Connection
- https://support.bluos.net/hc/en-us/articles/360000220927-Can-I-connect-two-routers-to-the-same-network-with-the-same-network-name-r
- https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/how-to-connect-one-router-to-another-to-expand-the-network/
- https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Guest_Network
