Are you excited to hear about the latest tech device to come? Of course you do! But when that new device replaces your old one, you're faced with the age-old question, "What should I do with the old one?" If your latest device is a new router, these quick ideas will get you thinking about how you can reuse your old routers without just throwing them away.
Contents1. Wireless repeater2. Guest Wi-Fi3. Network switch4. Wireless Bridge5. Smart home hub6. NAS7 drive. VPN connection8. HotspotBonus:Help OthersIf your Wi-Fi network doesn't reach all parts of your home, you can use the old router as a wireless repeater. A repeater is a device that creates an access point that sends a wireless signal back to your new network router. When you install one at the edge of your router's range, a repeater extends the signal range so the signal can reach all areas of your home.
You can even use it to extend the range outdoors. Due to the transfer of data between two points, setting up a wireless repeater can cause noticeable latency issues.
With the increase in the number of devices requiring an Ethernet connection, you may run into issues as most routers have six or less Ethernet ports. Instead of buying a new network switch to increase the number of Ethernet ports, simply connect your old router to the new one and use the ports it provides. Your old router must be DD-WRT compatible to do this, and the only additional item you need is an Ethernet cable.
A wireless bridge is different from a wireless repeater because it connects multiple signal networks. These networks are usually physically separated, such as in different offices of the same company. This allows them to operate as separate connections, so traffic doesn't overwhelm a single network. Repurpose your old routers to create different networks around your home or small business.
If your old router has a serial port, you can reuse it as a home automation server. When you do this, your router runs a web server that you access with your browser. This project is not an easy thing to do, but if you like a hands-on approach to technology, this project will give you a better understanding of home automation.
Want to store data on a single storage device and access it from anywhere in your home? You can use a NAS (network attached storage) device connected to your old router. You need a router that can run custom firmware and has a spare USB port. The router should also allow you to browse content on the device. With this setup on your network, you can use any device to access files on the NAS.
Many older routers won't have the option to create a VPN, but if yours isn't that old, it's a possibility. Check your router's manufacturer details to see if this is an option for you. It can be a great addition to your home network, especially when shopping online or working remotely.
If you have a business or other location where you want to allow guest access, you can turn the old router into an access point. You can configure the hotspot with a captive portal that requires users to agree to your terms, see ads, or make payments before continuing.
You don't have to reuse your old routers in your home. If none of the solutions above sound appealing to you, consider donating your router. If it still works well, it could be a great addition to a local small business, school, or non-profit organization. In fact, consider donating or recycling your old electronics as soon as possible.
If you love tinkering with technology and hate to see good gear headed for the recycling bin, you might like to try some of these projects to make your home or business network work harder for you.
