Setting up LAN-WAN Connection between Two Routers: TP-Link WR840N

Setting up a LAN-WAN Connection with Two Routers: TP-Link WR840N

In this article, we will discuss how to establish a LAN-WAN connection using two routers, specifically the TP-Link WR840N. This setup is useful when you want to expand your network coverage or create a separate network for guests or specific devices.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, make sure you have the following items:

• Two TP-Link WR840N routers
• Ethernet cables
• A computer or laptop

Primary Router Configuration

The primary router will be responsible for managing the DHCP server and distributing IP addresses to connected devices. In this example, the primary router has the following settings:

• IP address: 192.168.0.1
• DHCP: enabled
• Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0

Secondary Router Configuration

The secondary router will be connected to the primary router and will extend the network coverage. We will configure the secondary router to operate in client mode, which means it will obtain an IP address from the primary router's DHCP server.

Step 1: Access the Secondary Router's Web Interface

Connect the secondary router to your computer using an Ethernet cable. Open a web browser and navigate to the router's IP address (default is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Enter the username and password (default is admin for both).

Step 2: Change the Operating Mode

Under the Network section, click on the Internet tab. Change the Operation Mode to Client. Click Save to apply the changes.

Step 3: Configure the LAN Settings

Under the Network section, click on the LAN tab. Change the IP Address to an unused address within the primary router's subnet (e.g., 192.168.0.2). Leave the Subnet Mask and Default Gateway fields unchanged. Click Save to apply the changes.

Step 4: Connect the Routers

Connect the primary and secondary routers using an Ethernet cable. Plug one end of the cable into any of the LAN ports on the primary router and the other end into the Internet port on the secondary router.

Testing the Connection

After completing the above steps, your devices should be able to connect to the extended network using the primary router's SSID and password. You can test the connection by connecting a device to the extended network and checking its IP address. It should be in the same subnet as the primary router's DHCP range.

In this article, we discussed how to establish a LAN-WAN connection using two TP-Link WR840N routers. By configuring the secondary router to operate in client mode and connecting it to the primary router, we were able to extend the network coverage and create a separate network for specific devices.

References

• TP-Link WR840N User Manual
• How to Set up a Wireless Router as a Repeater or Access Point, TP-Link
• How to Connect Two Routers on the Same Network, Lifewire