How to Extend Broadband Coverage

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Option 1: Main Router + Additional Router (AP or Extension Mode)

  • You’ll need an extra router configured in either Access Point (AP) mode or Extension/Bridge mode.
  • It uses the same network settings as the main router (same SSID and IP range).

① Router Mode

  • Purpose: Used as the main router connected directly to the internet (e.g. ONT → Router).
  • Connection:
    • ONT → Router’s WAN port
    • Devices connect via Wi-Fi or LAN ports

② Access Point (AP) Mode

  • Purpose: Extends an existing wired network with additional Wi-Fi coverage.
  • Connection:
    • Main router LAN port → Sub router LAN port (Do not use the sub router’s WAN port)
    • Connected via Ethernet cable (up to 100 metres), sub router does not need to be within Wi-Fi range of the main router.
  • Features:
    • Disables NAT and DHCP (main router handles IPs)

③ Extender / Repeater Mode

  • Purpose: Wirelessly extends Wi-Fi signal to areas with weak coverage.
  • Connection:
    • Sub router connects to the main router via Wi-Fi
    • Repeats the wireless signal
  • Features:
    • Acts as a wireless repeater or bridge
    • No cable needed (but wireless backhaul may reduce speed)

Option 2: Main Router + Wi-Fi Range Extender

  • The range extender must be placed within the Wi-Fi signal range of the main router.
  • It connects to the main router wirelessly.
  • It uses the same network name (SSID) and IP range as the main router.

Option 3: Mesh Router System (Recommended!)

  • Usually comes in packs of 2 or 3 units, with one acting as the main router and the others as satellites.
  • The main router connects to the ONT (fibre modem), and the satellites should be placed within range of the router or each other.
  • Mesh nodes automatically connect and sync, so once set up, no further configuration is usually needed.
  • Great for big houses or Wi-Fi dead zones.

Option 4: Main Router + Powerline Adapter

  • Powerline adapters send internet signals through the existing electrical wiring.
  • Connect the main router’s LAN port to one adapter, then plug the second adapter into a power socket in the area where Wi-Fi is needed.
  • Both adapters must be on the same electrical circuit (e.g. same fuse board or main switch).
  • No need for long Ethernet cables, even over long distances.
  • You can either clone the main router’s Wi-Fi name and settings, or create a new SSID for the powerline device.