Question Asus router in client (media bridge) mode keeps losing connection to AP

msziegler83

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Jun 23, 2014
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I have a ARRIS modem/router setup as my AP. In my office I have a ASUS router in client (media bridge) mode to connect my desktop PC to internet. I am having random disconnects from AP to client. Everything is fine while using my computer however overnight or after my PC goes to sleep sometimes I have to restart the ASUS router to reconnect to the internet. What have I missed and what can I do to stop from having to restart the ASUS router?
 
Yes - make and model information for both the Asus and Arris devices.

= = = =

And I will also ask about the physical connectivity.

As I understand your post the connections are (line diagram where ---> represents an Ethernet cable):

ISP === (coax, DSL, fiber) ==> Arris Modem/Router (as AP) [WAN] --->[LAN port] ASUS Router[LAN] ---> PC.

Feel free to edit and correct my line diagram as necessary.

I would expect that the Arris would be the router (gateway) and the ASUS the AP (Access Point).

What IP addresses are being used?

On your PC run "ipconfig /all" (without quotes) via the Command Prompt. Post the results - you should be able to copy and paste the "ipconfig /all" results with no need to retype it all.

Also, from your PC, run "pathping 8.8.8.8" and post the results.

( 8.8.8.8 targeting Google's website. 8.8.4.4 can also be used.)
 
What model Asus router and what firmware version. There was a database problem a few months ago that caused disconnects. Newer firmware should resolve it.

You can also try installing Merlin if you have a compatible model. https://www.asuswrt-merlin.net/
The Asus router is a GT-AC2900. I haven't tried to install merlin yet. I had it on there before but had to reset the router after we moved in March.
 
Yes - make and model information for both the Asus and Arris devices.

= = = =

And I will also ask about the physical connectivity.

As I understand your post the connections are (line diagram where ---> represents an Ethernet cable):

ISP === (coax, DSL, fiber) ==> Arris Modem/Router (as AP) [WAN] --->[LAN port] ASUS Router[LAN] ---> PC.

Feel free to edit and correct my line diagram as necessary.

I would expect that the Arris would be the router (gateway) and the ASUS the AP (Access Point).

What IP addresses are being used?

On your PC run "ipconfig /all" (without quotes) via the Command Prompt. Post the results - you should be able to copy and paste the "ipconfig /all" results with no need to retype it all.

Also, from your PC, run "pathping 8.8.8.8" and post the results.

( 8.8.8.8 targeting Google's website. 8.8.4.4 can also be used.)
The Arris is a Surfboard G34 Wi-Fi 6 docsis 3.1. The Asus is a GT AC2900. The Arris is the gateway. The Asus connects to the Arris via Wi-Fi. I don't have a wired connection in my office yet. I'll run those tonight when I get home from work. Is there any info I should remove for security reasons?
 
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Ipconfig /all is safe to post.

Some people are concerned about the MACs (PhysicalAddress). Overall, I do not view the MACs as a risk.

For more about IP addresses:

https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-a-private-ip-address-2625970#:~:text=When a device such as,with a public IP address.

As I understand your routers and the planned/required connectivity the Arris would be the Gateway with DHCP enabled.

The Asus router (DHCP functions disabled) would be configured as an AP with a static IP address via the Arris router.

First ensure that you can get everything initially connecting (wired and wireless) and running via the Arris alone.

Second, then configure the Asus as the AP for wireless use.

Third, connect wired devices to the Asus and ensure that local wireless devices have network/internet connections.

Plan it all out step by step before doing anything. Familarize yourself with the necessary router admin screens and options for both routers. Be sure to write things down in case you need to go back and undo something.

Keep in mind that if there is a problem then Arris will likely blame Asus and vice versa.

And ensure that all Ethernet cables are known to work at the applicable speeds.

Revised line diagram being:

ISP === (coax, DSL, fiber) ==> Arris Modem/Router (as Gateway )[LAN ports] ---> wired devices and ~~~> local wireless devices plus ~~~> Asus Router as AP ~~~~ > local wireless devices and [LAN Ports] ---> local wired devices.

~~~~>
indicating a wireless connection.

Again, feel free to edit and correct my line diagram.