How to Set up Netgear WiFi Router in Access Point Mode

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    Facing troubles while setting up Netgear wireless router in the Access Point mode? Or want to reconfigure your router from the default Router mode to the Access Point mode? If you nod your head in yes, then cheer up! You have landed on the right post. Here, you will be guided through the process of Netgear router setup as an Access Point. Keep reading.

     

    Before we delve into the setup procedure, let's share some basic knowledge about access point with you.

     

    What is the Difference Between Router And Access Point?

     

    A WiFi router is a network device, serving two major functions, i.e.

     

    • It connects multiple PCs, tablets, phones, and other devices to establish a managed local area network (LAN).

     

    • It gives full internet access to all of the supported devices connected to the router's network.

     

    In order to set up a local area network, all you need to do is simply deploy a router and connect one or more devices to it. Netgear routers allow you to connect devices either wirelessly or by using Ethernet cables.

     

    On the other hand, an access point is a wireless network device acting as a medium for devices to connect to a local area network. Basically, access points are meant to extend the wireless coverage area of an existing network and to increase the number of users that can connect to it. The only available option for access points is wireless connectivity to set up connections with end-devices.

     

    Router or access point? It entirely depends on your requirements. For small business and homes, routers may prove as the best solution, whereas access points are the perfect fit for medium to large enterprises and organizations.

     

    That's enough to make you well-versed in the field of access points.

     

    Now, without further ado, let's take you through a journey on how to set up Netgear router as an access point.

     

    Netgear Router Setup as an Access Point (AP)

     

    Netgear router, once set up in the Access Point mode, acts as a simple wireless gateway. Its sole function is to endow users with a WiFi connection. It is worth notable that the router will lose its router functions like DHCP server and port forwarding once you set it up as an access point.

     

    In order to configure Netgear router in the access point mode, carefully follow the steps given below:

     

    • Turn on your Netgear wireless router by plugging it into a wall socket.
    • Use an Ethernet cable to connect the router to the existing modem.
    • Switch on your computer and log in to it as an admin.
    • Now, click on the web browser's icon you like the most.
    • Once a new window opens, enter routerlogin.net in the address bar.
    • Hit Enter.
    • The next screen will prompt you to enter a username and password.
    • Fill in the required details and hit Log In.

     

    Quick Tip: On the off chance if the default Netgear router login details do not work, it means you might have changed the admin password earlier. In case you forgot the new passphrase, reset the router to the default settings and then use the default admin password.

     

    • After you logged in, head over to wireless settings.
    • Click on the Enabled AP Mode option.
    • Here, you can change the default access point settings as per your needs.
    • After that, click on the Apply button.
    • Now, connect an Ethernet cable between your Netgear WiFi router and the main router.
    • Your Netgear WiFi router is now set up in the Access Point mode.

     

    To further configure your Netgear router AP, you need to connect your PC to a WiFi network and access the Netgear router login web page via a web browser.