Can I use 2nd wireless router as a Wi-Fi signal booster?

[jmp_78]

I currently have a Linksys Wireless G Modem Router downstairs in my house, and recently the signal upstairs has all but vanished! Luckily I also use Homeplugs so my main PC upstairs is fine, but my Samsung netbook struggles to maintain a wireless connection.

I have just inherited a D-Link Wireless G Modem Router, and wanted to know the following...

If I use the Homeplugs to connect the 2nd router upstairs, could I use it's Wi-Fi antenna as a signal booster?

 

[Atari]

I did try doing this with a Buffalo 'n' router and a Linksys WRT54G, both running the DD-WRT firmware.

Didn't work as well as I had hoped. Followed the instructions on their website, but the wireless devices wouldn't connect to the Linksys (secondary) router at all and just kept trying to connect to the Buffalo (primary) router.

Looking now for a router with external antenna's so I can change them for higher gain ones.

 

[vsmora]

...If I use the Homeplugs to connect the 2nd router upstairs, could I use it's Wi-Fi antenna as a signal booster?

Yes you can use it as a simple access point. Connect the homeplug to the Dlink via one of the LAN ports. Disable DHCP server. Set IP to same subnet as existing router to make management easier (make sure IP isn't already in use or assigned). For simplicity I'd suggest using the same SSID and security as the existing router, but if possible using a non-overlapping wifi channel.