How to Add a New Network to an Existing Router

Can you make the guest network hidden if the primary network isn't hidden?

No, but even if you could, you would not normally want to do this since that will increase the chances of disconnections, especially with mobile devices like the iPhone and iPad.

For what it's worth, Apple also recommends against using a "hidden network". And, you might not be aware that there are free utilities available on the Internet that will reveal a hidden network in seconds, so anyone who really wants to see your network will be able to do so very easily. But, it's your call.

it sounds like I could just add another Airport Extreme to the existing one and create an entirely new network that way.

That's correct. Keep in mind that both AirPorts will be sharing the same Internet connection, so if things are busy on your "main" network, things will likely slow on your "private" network. If that is the case, you'll need to look at a higher speed Internet plan.

Is there any way to create a different network with new settings on the same router?

Possibly, if your AirPort Extreme has Guest Network capability......AND.....you have the AirPort Extreme connected to a simple modem (it will have only one Ethernet port). Even if you have a simple modem, there will likely be more questions before answers can be provided.

Do I need to get a new Airport Extreme and plug it into the current one?

Yes, if you don't have a simple modem that would allow the Guest Network feature to be used on your current AirPort Extreme.

Will an Express work well enough?

Not if you are used to the performance of an AirPort Extreme. The Express will be slower, with significantly less WiFi range.

How about a different brand router (say an Asus)? Can I plug that into the Airport or will it cause problems?

Sorry, but we cannot provide support on a non-Apple router.

Hey sparrownet,

Yes, you can plug any wifi router into the modem or into the AEBS to have a second wifi network. However, independent of the router, if you have two wifi networks near each others, they will "bite" into each others bandwidth even if you choose different channels and all but the effect might be imperceivable.

I think you can only choose BOTH networks to be hidden or open, not eighter the one or the other If you go the way of having the AEBS doing the main and the guest network.