Can a wired router set up as the main router, act as the DHCP for all devices connected wirelessly to the secondary router?

Question

I am trying to set up my home network with the following setup: Main router - wired router with 8 ports to connect all outlets in the house Secondary router in computer room port - Wireless, will provide house with the wireless signal

If I turn off DHCP on the secondary router, will the primary router be able to assign IP address to the devices connected to the system wirelessly? or do I need to leave DHCP 'On' on the wireless router?

Any hints or tips on setting up this kind of network would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Yes, with DHCP turned on from the first router the wireless router/AP will allow DHCP to pass through. With a setup like this the second router is acting like an AP more then a router. Proposed setup as follows:

• 192.168.0.1- primary router/dhcp

• 192.168.0.2- wireless AP/router

• 192.168.0.3.20- reserved for other stuff you may add in the furture

• 192.168.0.50-249- DHCP RANGE-Active slots for connected equipment.

Notice the dead space from 192.168.0.21-.49 that is in case you need either more room for static ip equipment like webcams, servers, more AP's... in the future. Or if you want more DHCP address's. It leaves your network some breathing room if needed.

Answer 2

Some routers offer dhcp-forwarding, if your secondary router has this option enabling it should be all it takes.