It often happens that the main router can't cover the entire area of an apartment or house, leaving "dead zones" without internet access in remote rooms. Purchasing new equipment can be a costly decision, especially if you have an old but working router lying around. TP-Link TL-WR845NThis model, despite its age, has sufficient power to create a reliable bridge between the main signal source and problem areas.
Transforming this device into repeater A repeater allows you to significantly extend the range of your wireless network without running long cables throughout your entire home. The setup process doesn't require extensive networking knowledge, but it does require attention to details such as channel matching and encryption. In this article, we'll walk you through all the configuration steps to ensure you get stable internet access anywhere in your home.
It is worth noting right away that the repeater functionality is not available on all firmware versions, however, for the model TL-WR845N There is a proven algorithm that bypasses the limitations of the standard interface. We will consider a method based on the mode WDS Bridge, which is the most versatile for equipment in this class. Your task is simply to follow the instructions precisely and verify the entered parameters.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before starting any manipulations with the software, you must ensure that the device is physically in good working order and that the latest version of the microcode is available. Model TL-WR845N The firmware was released in several hardware revisions (V1, V2, V3, V4, V5), and the available features in the menu depend on this. If you have the stock firmware installed, the bridge mode may be hidden or have a different name, so the first step should always be version check on the sticker on the bottom of the case.
⚠️ Attention: Before making any changes to the settings, it is recommended to perform a factory reset to avoid conflicts with old configurations. Press and hold the button
Resetfor 10-15 seconds with the power on.
You'll also need to know the exact parameters of the primary network you plan to expand. This includes not only the password, but also the encryption type and channel number. If the primary router is configured to automatically select a channel, it must be set to a specific channel, otherwise the connection between devices will be constantly lost. Connection stability in repeater mode directly depends on the coincidence of frequency characteristics.
To perform this task, make sure you have a computer or laptop with a network port and a short patch cord. Although setup can be done via Wi-Fi, a wired connection eliminates packet loss during network interface reconfiguration. Connect the cable from your PC to any location. LAN port the router you are setting up, but do not connect it to the main network yet.
Basic setup of the main router
The key to the success of the entire operation is the correct configuration of the main unit that distributes the internet. You need to log into its control panel and find the wireless network section. Wireless. It is important to change the parameter here Channel (Channel) with meaning Auto to a specific number, such as 1, 6, or 11. These frequencies are least susceptible to interference in apartment buildings.
After fixing the channel, write down the network name (SSID) and the type of security. For the model TL-WR845N It is critical that the encryption type matches on both devices. It is best to use a standard WPA2-PSK with an algorithm AES, as it provides an optimal balance between speed and data security. Older encryption methods may not be supported or may be unstable.
Don't forget to save the main router's settings and wait for it to fully reboot. Only after devices within range can see the network again with the new fixed channel can you begin configuring the extender itself. Even a single channel error will result in devices simply not connecting. they won't see each other.
Login to the interface and change the IP address
Now let's move on directly to the setup TP-Link TL-WR845NConnect your computer to its LAN port and enter the address in your browser. 192.168.0.1 (or the one indicated on the sticker). The standard login and password are usually equal adminAfter logging in, the first thing you need to do is change the device's local IP address so that it doesn't conflict with the main router's address.
Go to the menu Network → LANIf the main router has an address 192.168.0.1, then our repeater needs to be assigned an address from the same subnet, but with a different ending, for example, 192.168.0.254This is necessary so you can access the extender settings in the future without disconnecting from the main network. After changing the address, the device will ask you to reboot. Accept this and log in using the new IP address.
| Parameter | Value for the main router | Value for TP-Link (Repeater) |
|---|---|---|
| IP address | 192.168.0.1 | 192.168.0.254 |
| Subnet mask | 255.255.255.0 | 255.255.255.0 |
| Gateway | 192.168.0.1 | 192.168.0.1 |
| DNS | Provider / 8.8.8.8 | 192.168.0.1 |
It is also important to turn off the server DHCP On the repeater. In bridge or repeater mode, only the main router should distribute addresses. Leaving DHCP enabled on both devices will cause a network conflict, and the internet will be lost on all connected devices. Find the section DHCP → DHCP Settings and select the option Disable.
Activating WDS Bridge Mode
The most crucial step is setting up wireless mode. Go to the menu Wireless → Wireless SettingsHere you need to set the same channel that was selected on the main router. Then check the box next to the item Enable WDS BridgingAfter activating this option, additional fields for configuration will open.
Click the button Survey (or "Search") to have the router scan the air. In the list that appears, find your primary network and click ConnectThe system will automatically insert BSSID (MAC address) and SSID Main network. Make sure the security type and password match those used on the main device. Any discrepancy will result in an authorization error.
After entering the password, save the settings. The wireless network indicator on the router should start blinking or light up, indicating a connection has been established. If the connection status in the menu Run Status shows Run or Success, then the bridge was built successfully. Otherwise, check the encryption type and password again.
Security setup and MAC cloning
To improve security and stability, it's recommended to clone the MAC address of the computer used for setup, or leave the default settings if your ISP doesn't bind access to a specific address. However, in WDS mode, this isn't always critical, as requests originate from the main router. The key is to ensure the same encryption settings.
In the section Wireless Security make sure the mode is selected WPA/WPA2 - Personal (Recommended)The version must be Version 2, and encryption AESThe passphrase must be exactly the same as on the main router. Some users prefer to set the same network name (SSID) on both devices to create the illusion of a single location, but this can cause problems with roaming.
⚠️ Attention: When using the same network name (SSID) on both routers, devices may become stuck on the weak signal of the far router, without switching to the near one. For manual operation, it's best to name the extender network with the prefix "_EXT."
If you want devices to switch automatically, the names should match, but then make sure the channels and signal strength are configured correctly. In densely populated areas, it's sometimes more convenient to have two different networks and switch between them manually when you move from one room to another. This ensures you're always connected to the source. maximum signal.
Final check and optimization of placement
After saving all settings and rebooting TP-Link TL-WR845N, the device must be positioned correctly. It shouldn't be placed in a room where the signal has already been lost. The ideal location is halfway between the main router and the "dead signal" zone. The repeater must receive a strong signal from the source in order to transmit it further.
☑️ Checking the repeater's operation
You can check the connection quality using utilities on your smartphone, for example, Wi-Fi AnalyzerPay attention to the signal strength (RSSI). Values between -50 and -60 dBm are considered excellent, while -60 and -70 dBm are considered good. If the signal strength is below -80 dBm, network speed will be low, regardless of your provider's speed plan.
Physical obstacles should also be considered. Metal structures, mirrors, and thick concrete walls with reinforcement significantly weaken the signal. Try to position the router antennas vertically. If the model allows for removable antennas, they can be replaced with more powerful or directional ones, but this is for a standard model. TL-WR845N It is enough to choose the installation point correctly.
Possible problems and their solutions
During setup, users often encounter problems where devices connect to the extender, but the internet is down. This most often indicates a DNS or gateway issue. Ensure that the correct gateway (IP address) is specified in the WAN settings (if available in the selected mode) or in the manual network settings on your PC. main router.
Another common issue is speed degradation. WDS mode on older chips can reduce speed by up to 50% of the original, as the radio module simultaneously transmits and receives. This is a physical limitation of the technology. If maximum speed is critical, consider connecting the routers with a cable in Access Point mode.
Why isn't WDS working?
WDS bridging isn't a standardized protocol, so different manufacturers (and even different revisions of the same manufacturer) may implement it differently. If TP-Link doesn't detect a router from another brand, try updating the firmware or changing the encryption mode to WEP (less secure, but more compatible with older devices).
If all else fails, try updating your router's firmware to the latest version available from the manufacturer's official website. New firmware versions often fix wireless module bugs and improve compatibility with other devices. Keep in mind that updating firmware is a risky operation and requires a stable power supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can TP-Link TL-WR845N be used as a repeater for a router from another brand?
Yes, this is possible, but only through WDS mode. However, compatibility is not 100% guaranteed, as each manufacturer may implement this protocol differently. Devices from the same brand communicate more reliably with each other.
Will my internet speed decrease when using a repeater?
Yes, in wireless bridge mode, speeds are typically reduced by approximately 40-50% compared to a direct connection to the main router. This is because the communication channel is used for both receiving and transmitting data.
Do I need to configure PPPoE or L2TP on the extender?
No, these settings are not required in repeater or bridge mode. Only the main router authenticates with the provider. The repeater simply forwards the data it has already received.
How do I return my router to normal operation?
To do this, simply perform a reset using the button on the case or, through the web interface, select the “Wireless Router” operating mode in the corresponding menu, if the firmware allows it.