Question Setting my router to repeater mode for WiFi ?

[Shodan5150]

Hi everyone. Long time lurker here. Quick question about using repeater mode for WiFi on my router.

I connect to free free wifi where I live. I want to use my Asus RT-AC65 router in repeater mode. However, in order for me to connect to the WiFi I have to go through an extra step and I'm not sure if this is supported by the router.

When I connect a device, such as my phone, to the WiFi I enter the WiFi password and tap connect. Then a browser window opens and I have to tap an authorization button. Basically this means I agree to the terms of using this WiFi connection. If I don't tap authorize I do not get internet.

I want to use a NAS but I am unable to connect the NAS to the main router that supplies the WiFi. I thought I could connect my Asus router to the WiFi in repeater mode and create my own sub network.

My question is will this work with the way I have to connect to the WiFi signal? When I connect my router to the WiFi signal will a browser window open in order for me to tap the authorize button?

 

[Ralston18]

I am going to say no.

If it was that easy then the hosting network would be very vulnerable.

And Forum rules prohibit any assistance with working around or otherwise hacking security settings.

Just connect the NAS to the main network - a wired connection to the Asus router should work just fine.

 

[Shodan5150]

I'm not asking for a work around or how to hack it or anything like that. The owner of the building is unable to accommodate plugging peoples things into the main router.

All I wanted to know is if I use my router as a repeater and I go to connect my router to the main router wirelessly will a window open so I can click on the authorization button? I see you said no but you sound like you don't really know. I'm thinking no as well but I am unsure. That is why I'm asking the question and hoping someone with more networking knowledge and experience can give me a definitive answer.

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

 

[bill001g]

If it is possible it is going to be very messy. First to run in repeater mode the main router would need WDS enabled. This is generally turned off to prevent exactly what you are attempting to do. What stops you from connecting to their network and then setting up a completely open network that any one can connect to.

Next for the same reason the NAS can't log into a web page the router can't.

Even if it could you are putting your NAS on a public network.

Likely the only change is to use some kind of wireless bridge and connect that to the wan port of your router.

 

[Shodan5150]

Thanks for your reply. I'll see what I can do.

 

[Serrakuzz]

If it is possible it is going to be very messy. First to run in repeater mode the main router would need WDS enabled. This is generally turned off to prevent exactly what you are attempting to do. What stops you from connecting to their network and then setting up a completely open network that any one can connect to.

Next for the same reason the NAS can't log into a web page the router can't.

Even if it could you are putting your NAS on a public network.

Likely the only change is to use some kind of wireless bridge and connect that to the wan port of your router.


If you want more info you can read https://howly.com/networks/type-routers/issue-doesnt-turn-on/

Thank you for your comment. You're correct that running a repeater mode can be messy and may require specific configurations on the main router, such as enabling WDS (Wireless Distribution System). However, as you mentioned, many routers disable WDS to prevent unauthorized access.

If you want to create a separate open network for others to connect to while still being connected to the existing network, you could consider setting up a wireless bridge. A wireless bridge can help extend the network without repeating the signal and allows you to connect your router's WAN port to the bridge.