Converting an old or spare router into an access point is a proven way to extend your wireless network coverage without purchasing expensive equipment. Model D-Link DIR-615 copes with this task perfectly, providing a stable connection at the speed of the standard NMany users underestimate the potential of this device, leaving it to gather dust in a closet, although it could become a fully-fledged component of your home infrastructure.
The basic idea is to use the router's hardware solely for signal transmission, handing over routing functions to the provider's main device. This reduces network congestion and creates a unified local environment for all devices. Unlike repeater mode, an access point provides more stable speeds because it doesn't split the channel's bandwidth in half.
Before changing the configuration, it's important to clearly understand the difference between the operating modes. Router mode involves managing IP addresses and creating a subnet, while access point mode requires transparent traffic forwarding. Important Prepare your computer with a network cable, as the wireless connection may be interrupted at the most inopportune moment during the reconfiguration.
The transformation process begins with a physical connection and a factory reset. This ensures that the configuration is free of any conflicting settings from the previous owner or provider. Locate the button on the device's body. Reset, it is usually recessed into the case, and press it with a paper clip for 10-15 seconds with the power on.
Preparing equipment and resetting settings
The first step is to isolate the device from the main network. Connect the computer directly to any LAN port. D-Link DIR-615, but don't connect it to the ISP's main router with a cable yet. This is critical to avoid IP address conflicts if both devices have the same default address.
After the reset, log in to the web interface by entering the address in your browser. 192.168.0.1. Standard credentials are usually represented by a login admin and an empty password field. However, in newer firmware versions, the password may be indicated on a sticker on the bottom of the case. If the login is successful, you will see a control panel displaying the current connection status.
Make sure your computer's network adapter properties are set to obtain an IP address automatically. This will allow the device to correctly obtain an address from the router's built-in DHCP server immediately after rebooting. In some cases, you may need to manually assign a static address, for example: 192.168.0.10, if automatic distribution does not work.
Changing the IP address of a device
The most important step is changing the local IP address of the router itself. DIR-615By default, it often matches the address of the main router (e.g., 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), which will cause network conflicts. You need to specify an address that is in the same subnet as the main network but does not overlap with the DHCP range of the main device.
For example, if the main router distributes addresses from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200, That D-Link you can assign a static address 192.168.1.2To do this, go to the menu Setup → Local Network or Network → LANEnter the new address in the IP Address field and save the settings. After this, the device will reboot, and to access it further, you'll need to enter the new address in your browser.
⚠️ Please note: Changing your router's IP address will disconnect your computer. You'll need to manually assign a static IP address from the new subnet to your computer or simply reconnect by entering the device's new address in your browser.
The logic here is simple: the host device should see the access point as a regular network client with a fixed address. This will allow you to always have access to the settings in the future. D-Link, simply by entering its IP into the address bar of the browser, while being in any part of the house.
☑️ IP addressing check
Disabling the DHCP server
The key to turning a router into an access point is disabling its IP address distribution function. There should only be one DHCP server running on the network—the main router. Leaving this function enabled DIR-615, your gadgets will receive incorrect gateway and DNS settings, which will result in a lack of internet access.
Find the section in the menu Setup → Local Network or Network → LANThere will be an option there. Enable DHCP Server (Enable DHCP server). Uncheck the box or select the option. Disabled (Disabled). Save the changes by clicking the button. Save SettingsFrom this moment on D-Link will stop issuing addresses to connected devices and will only forward requests further.
After disabling DHCP, you may need to reconnect your computer again to request an address from the main router. Make sure the PC has received the correct IP address and a gateway that matches the main network. Both devices are now on the same logical network segment.
Setting up a wireless Wi-Fi network
Now you need to configure the radio module. Go to the section Wireless Settings or Wi-Fi → Basic SettingsHere you can set the network name (SSID). For seamless roaming (automatic switching between access points), it is recommended to give the network the same name as the main router, but use different channels.
Security tab (Wireless Security) requires special attention. Select the encryption type. WPA2-PSK (or WPA3, if your hardware supports it), as this is the most secure standard currently. The password must match the primary network password if you want devices to switch automatically without manual input.
Optimal channels for Wi-Fi
In the 2.4 GHz band, use channels 1, 6, and 11. They don't overlap. If your main router operates on channel 1, configure the DIR-615 to channel 6 or 11 to minimize interference.
Be sure to set the region correctly so that the device operates within the permitted signal strength. In some firmware versions D-Link This setting is hidden or automated, but it's a good idea to check it. Once the settings are applied, the wireless network will be available for connection.
Physical connection via cable
Once the software setup is complete, it's time to make the physical connection. Take an Ethernet cable and connect one of the LAN ports on the main router to LAN port devices D-Link DIR-615. The WAN (Internet) port on the D-Link is not used in this circuit and should remain free..
Connecting to a LAN port turns the device into a Wi-Fi switch. The signal from the main router reaches the switch. D-Link and is transmitted wirelessly. If you accidentally connect a cable to the WAN port, the router will try to create a separate subnet, and devices behind it won't be able to see each other.
| Parameter | Main router | D-Link DIR-615 (Access Point) |
|---|---|---|
| IP address | 192.168.1.1 | 192.168.1.2 (static) |
| DHCP Server | On | Disabled |
| Connecting the cable | LAN port | LAN port (not WAN) |
| SSID (Wi-Fi Name) | HomeNetwork | HomeNetwork (or other) |
Check the indicators on the case. The LAN light should be on or blinking, indicating a link. If the indicators don't respond, check the cable for damage and the tight connections.
Performance testing and diagnostics
Once connected, take your smartphone or laptop and try connecting to the created Wi-Fi network. The device should receive an IP address from the main router (192.168.1.x range). Open the command prompt and run the command ping 192.168.1.1 (gateway address) to make sure you have internet access.
It's also worth checking the access point itself. Enter the IP address you assigned into your browser. D-Link (e.g. 192.168.1.2). If the settings page opens, it means the controls have been saved, and you can change the password or channel at any time.
⚠️ Note: D-Link firmware interfaces may differ depending on the hardware revision (A, B, K, M, etc.). The menu layout may vary, but the logic (LAN IP -> DHCP Off -> Wireless On) remains the same.
If you have internet but the speed is low, check if Wi-Fi is only working in the mode 802.11b/g. In the wireless settings (Wireless Mode) make sure the value is selected 802.11n or Mixed, to utilize the full power of the antennas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the D-Link DIR-615 as a repeater without a cable?
Most DIR-615 models cannot function as wireless repeaters (WDS) using standard firmware. Wireless operation between routers requires specialized firmware (such as OpenWrt), if supported by your hardware revision, but this requires advanced skills.
What should I do if I forgot the new IP address of the access point?
Use a network scanner (such as Advanced IP Scanner) on a computer connected to the network. Find a D-Link device. If this isn't possible, you'll have to reset the device using the Reset button and reconfigure it.
Will the guest network work through the access point?
No, since the guest network function is usually implemented at the DHCP level and client isolation on the main router. The access point simply broadcasts the signal and does not separate the traffic.
Will the internet speed decrease with this scheme?
With a wired connection between the routers (via LAN), there will be virtually no speed loss. The only limitation is the maximum speed of the DIR-615's Wi-Fi module itself, which for older models is 150 or 300 Mbps.