802.11n and a new access point.

[momanium]

Hi guys,

Just ordered the following router:
TP-Link TL-WA901ND Advanced Wireless N Access Point: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories

I have a garden shed 30 metres away so hopefully 802.11n should be able to reach. The aim is to use 802.11n so speed is better in my house and my shed.

However I heard that 802.11g dongles and computers limit the network speed if you connect them to a router running 802.11n. (Can you do this?)

So I might try running 802.11n on the new router (in the main house) and running an ethernet cable down from the new router to the shed where I will have my old Belkin (g) router running 802.11g (as a new access point, if you can do this- if not what are my options)

On Amazon, this is the cheapest wire I could find but its not external so will it get damaged quickly if I have it exposed (will burying it underground make a difference?):

High Quality 40M CAT5e RJ45 Ethernet Network Fast LAN: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics

What is your advice? I heard that using G devices whilst the router is running N slows down the internet as it becomes a limiting factor. Sorry there are so many questions...

 

[Dave Atkin]

Hello,

Firstly I would just try the TP-Link Wireless N and see if you have a problem with the signal. You can set the Access Point so that it will broadcast 802.11b/g/n. It shouldnt be a problem mixing the devices up really (at least not a noticable difference.)

I wouldnt waste the money on a Cat5e cable just yet until you see what the signal is like. If you do need another access point and do want to use a cable then you will have to get an external cable. Burying underground will make a massive difference, you will need external (armoured if possible) as a standard cat5e cable will degrade quicker over time.

Another option (rather than running a cable) would be to create a wireless bridge using another access point. I believe the WA901ND's can do this... But I would double check in the manual.


Dave

 

[momanium]

Hi, thanks for the reply

I am pretty sure that the router that I have ordered can act as a bridge. Though what is the difference between this and a repeater.

If I put the new router in the shed as a repeater will it need a connection to the primary router or does it connect wirelessly.

 

[Dave Atkin]

Sorry, after reading the manual, you will want it to act as a repeater. The wireless bridge is for connecting two LANs... My mistake.

I would try doing it this way first before spending money on a cable. 30m is quite a distance though so it may not work anyway.

If you do need a cable, get an external (armoured cable if going underground) Cat5e.


Dave

 

[momanium]

So presuming I can get a connection between my old router and the new one, it just works as a repeater... without a wire. No wires are required to connect the two routers then?

 

[Dave Atkin]

Yes thats correct . If that fails then look at getting a cable.