jessiefromusa
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: Will 'create new network' using Airport weaken current network signal?

I have 4th generation (? - the flat, square model that was recently replaced) Time Capsule/Airport that I bought to extend my Verizon DSL dry loop modem/wireless signal througout the house and to the guest house.  I know now that AIrport will not extend the wireless signal of a non-Apple product. 

Initially, I created two separate networks and used whichever popped up.  But then the wirelss part of the Verizon modem died.  Verizon replaced the model with an ActionTec, but I wondered if dual networks contributed to the early demise of that modem.

 

My question:

If I connect my time capsule/airport device via ethernet to my DSL modem and create a new network, but use the SAME network name, passcodes, etc --   Will that Strengthen my existing wireless signal or will both machines butt heads and make the signal weaker?

 

I spoke to Verizon rep and he did not recommend any 3rd party 'signal boost' devices, but there are so many signal boosters out there that I can hardly believe that Verizon modems are that 'special.'

 

Thank you for any assistance you can provide.

Airport Express/Time Capsule, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.4)

Posted on Sep 16, 2013 8:53 PM

Close
jessiefromusa

Q: Will 'create new network' using Airport weaken current network signal?

  • All replies
  • Helpful answers

  • by Tesserax,Helpful

    Tesserax Tesserax Sep 16, 2013 8:57 PM in response to jessiefromusa
    Level 9 (54,906 points)
    Wireless
    Sep 16, 2013 8:57 PM in response to jessiefromusa

    If I connect my time capsule/airport device via ethernet to my DSL modem and create a new network, but use the SAME network name, passcodes, etc --   Will that Strengthen my existing wireless signal or will both machines butt heads and make the signal weaker?

    What you are describing is the basics for a roaming network. With this type of network you will create an "extended" wireless network with each wireless router broadcasting its own network but using the same network name and wireless security.

  • by jessiefromusa,

    jessiefromusa jessiefromusa Sep 16, 2013 10:19 PM in response to Tesserax
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Sep 16, 2013 10:19 PM in response to Tesserax

    So in your opinion, it would be a good thing to do?  Since we use Roku device in every room, plus the Direct TV Genie -- a lot taxing our network, but it keeps chugging along -- but I just want to give the wireless signal some boost, so will doing what you suggest help?  Thank you.

  • by Tesserax,Helpful

    Tesserax Tesserax Sep 17, 2013 10:27 AM in response to jessiefromusa
    Level 9 (54,906 points)
    Wireless
    Sep 17, 2013 10:27 AM in response to jessiefromusa

    So in your opinion, it would be a good thing to do?  Since we use Roku device in every room, plus the Direct TV Genie -- a lot taxing our network, but it keeps chugging along -- but I just want to give the wireless signal some boost, so will doing what you suggest help?

    Yes, a roaming network configuration provides the best overall bandwidth especially for streaming. The only thing better would be an all Ethernet backbone with all wired clients.