What is a router?
Some of you may be asking yourself this question, and rightfully so. Well, a router is a piece of hardware that communicates directly with the internet. Not only that, but if you have a particular type of router, you may even expect a faster internet connection. Some routers can also help with cyber-attacks and much more. For those who might want a deeper understanding, we recommend reading Modem vs. Router – What are the major differences between them?.
Ways to use an old Wireless Router
Instead if throwing your old router away, you can reuse it as follows:
1] Create a web server for a smart home hub
With the rise of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data, your home will become more intelligent than ever before. You can get ahead of the curve by transforming your old routers into a home automation server. You see, the router will run a server that you’ll have to connect to using a web browser. You may have to install custom firmware such as DD-WRT or OpenWRT before getting started. You can do this from either a PC or even a smartphone, as long as the web browser is modern.
2] Create a VPN router
It is possible to create your own VPN router with the use of an old router. Similar to creating a smart hub, you will likely have to install OpenWRT or DD-WRT before anything else. From there, ensure that you have subscribed to a VPN service, then connect it to the router. When this is done, you won’t need to use VPN apps for any device connected to the router at your home.
3] Create your own repeater without cable
Depending on the size of your home, it is possible a single wireless router might not be enough to ensure 100 percent Wi-Fi coverage. To solve this problem, you will need a wireless repeater, but instead of purchasing one or more, how about using an old router? Use it as a range extender. Basically, you’ll connect the router to your new wireless network. From there, you should be able to share the Wi-Fi signal with other areas of the house. There may be latency issues, but that’s not a huge problem.
4] Use the router to make a network switch
If you do not have the cash to purchase a network switch but have an old router lying around, then you’re probably in luck. Because your router comes with four or more ethernet ports, sometimes a maximum of six, it’s easy for you to run out of ports. You can quickly fix this issue by connecting the old router to the current in a bid to create a network switch. Just make sure to disable wireless networking on the old router to ensure limited to no conflict of interest.
5] Use your old router for guest Wi-Fi
Do you have a popular home where people turn up more often than not? Maybe you want to have a special Wi-Fi connection for these visitors that is slower, so it won’t cut in too much on your bandwidth. If this is your reality, then use one of your older routers to set things straight. You will connect the old router to your network, and from within the router, if possible, you can change the output speed and have it ready for visitors at any time. Furthermore, if you use the guest network feature, anyone who is connected won’t have access to devices linked to your network. Finally, instead of just throwing it away, see if you can sell it for cash, or donate it to someone. Read: How to access and change Wi-Fi Router Settings.
