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Can I connect two routers to the same network with the same network name?

Updated
You have two options for expanding your existing network: 
  • You can add a second router as a range extender.
  • You can configure the two routers to function as a single network with a unified network name (SSID).
In both cases, BluOS Players and other network devices will automatically connect to the router with the strongest signal.

Numerous modern routers come equipped with Wireless Distributed Services (WDS) functionality, enabling the creation of multiple Access Points under a single network with a unified name (SSID).

If your current routers do not offer WDS support, you can establish a WDS environment manually by following these steps:

Note: Refer to the router's support documentation for detailed setup instructions tailored to perform these universal steps.

Router 1

Configure Router 1 using the standard connection method. Within Router 1's Wireless Security Settings: 

  • Disable Automatic Channel selection.
  • Manually set the Channel as channel 3.

Router 2

In most scenarios, connecting Router 2 to Router 1 using a wired connection is recommended. Alternatively, you can consider the option of utilizing a wireless media bridge or running a single network cable to the other location and follow these steps:

  1. Disable the DHCP server on Router 2 to avert potential IP conflicts and network configuration problems. This ensures that only Router 1 is responsible for network management.
  2. Manually assign an IP Address to Router 2 that is one digit higher than Router 1's current IP. For instance, if Router 1's IP is 192.168.1.1, set Router 2's IP to 192.168.1.2. Additionally, make sure that Router 2's IP address is not included in the DHCP allocation range of Router 1. If necessary, establish a DHCP reservation for Router 2's IP address within the DHCP table of Router 1.
  3. Configure Router 2's Internet Gateway with Router 1's IP address.
  4. Establish a wired connection between the two routers by connecting their ports (1-4). You can also create this wired connection using a Wireless Media Bridge or a Powerline Ethernet Kit.
    Note: Do NOT use Router 2's WAN port for connection.
  5. Within Router 2's wireless security settings, disable Automatic Channel selection and manually set the Channel to an unused channel within the network, ensuring it is not being used by Router 1 or any other routers.
    Note: You can also configure more than two routers with the same name (SSID) for larger areas.
  6. Set up the wireless security settings of Router 2 to match those of Router 1.

This configuration establishes two identical access points working seamlessly from opposite ends of the home, forming a unified distributed network.

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