Can I Configure My Old Router as a Modem with a TP-Link Router?

Upgrading a router is a common practice to enhance networking performance and security. However, it is a frequent question to configure an old router to act as a modem after purchasing a new one. This article will address various aspects of this process, including the pitfalls, necessary steps, and alternative solutions.

Challenges and Risks

When considering configuring an old router to act as a modem, it's critical to understand the limitations and risks involved. While it is technically possible to use an old router in this manner, there are several key issues to consider:

Data Rate Limitations: The old router may not be able to handle the bandwidth provided by a new modem, leading to performance issues such as frequent reboots and suboptimal network speeds. Security Vulnerabilities: Outdated routers may lack the latest security updates, making them more vulnerable to hacks and cyber threats. Incompatibility: Older routers were not designed to function as modems, and the necessary hardware components may not be present, leading to compatibility issues.

Given these constraints, it is generally recommended to upgrade both devices simultaneously or use a modem-router combination unit that includes both functionalities in a single device.

Specific Questions and Solutions

Let's address the specific questions raised by a user who wishes to use a TP-Link router as a modem with their existing setup:

1. Configuring TP-Link to Use for Static IP and DHCP Reservation

Connecting an Ethernet/LAN cable from the LAN port of the old router to the WAN port of TP-Link allows you to leverage the TP-Link for static IP and DHCP reservation. Here’s how:

Unplug the old router: Disconnect the fiber optic cable from the old router to ensure it is no longer functioning as a router. Connect the cables: Plug one end of the Ethernet/LAN cable into the WAN port of the TP-Link router and the other end into the LAN port of the old router. Set the TP-Link as a Modem: Access the TP-Link router’s configuration page via 192.168.0.1 and configure the router to act as a modem and disable the SSID broadcasting. Static IP Configuration: Set up static IP addressing for devices on the network. For the TP-Link, go to the LAN settings and configure static IP addresses for the devices you want to keep on a fixed IP. DHCP Reservation: Use the DHCP reservation feature in TP-Link to ensure that specific devices, such as the PS4, get the same IP address on every boot.

2. Making the Old Router Act Only as a Modem

To ensure the old router does not broadcast an SSID and maintains its role as a modem, follow these steps:

Disable Wireless Functions: Go to the settings of the old router and disable the Wi-Fi capabilities, ensuring no SSID is being broadcast. Configure as a Bridge: Set the old router's configuration to function as a bridge, allowing the TP-Link to handle the networking duties while the old router acts solely as a modem.

3. Redirecting TP-Link Configuration Page to 192.168.0.1

By default, the TP-Link router configures the device to open at 192.168.0.1. To ensure the TP-Link config page remains accessible via 192.168.0.1, follow these steps:

Access TP-Link Config Page: Connect to the TP-Link router’s wireless network and navigate to 192.168.0.1 in your web browser. Modify DNS settings: Go to the network settings and modify the DNS settings to point to the TP-Link router as the DNS provider. This ensures that requests to 192.168.0.1 are directed to the TP-Link.

4. Keeping the PS4 on a Static IP with a Range Extender

To maintain a static IP for your PS4 even if it’s connected via a range extender, follow these steps:

Set a Static IP: Configure the PS4 to use a static IP manually. In the network settings, specify a fixed IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server that matches the TP-Link configuration. Connect Range Extender: Use an Ethernet cable to connect the range extender to a LAN port on the TP-Link router. This ensures that the wireline connection is not affected by Wi-Fi limitations. Use Static IP for Range Extender: Ensure the range extender is configured to use the static IP provided by the TP-Link router.

Alternatives and Combos

While configuring an old router as a modem can be a workaround, it's often recommended to use a combo unit that includes both a modem and a router in a single device. This approach simplifies the setup process and ensures both functionalities are seamlessly integrated. Given the user’s setup with ACT Broadband, a device like a TP-Link N750 or more advanced such as the TP-Link AC1900 might be suitable.

Conclusion

Avoiding the configuration of an old router as a modem after purchasing a new one is advisable due to technical limitations and security issues. Instead, leverage a combo unit or upgrade both devices simultaneously to achieve a seamless and secure network setup. For detailed instructions and troubleshooting, refer to the device manuals or seek assistance from tech support.