Spec me a second router (must support 'client mode')

[pinkacidbootson]

As we keep saying, you don't need a router for this. You need a wireless access point to do what you're describing.

Sorry, I only just realised that a wireless AP is basically just a wireless router that connects to a wired router instead of a modem confused it with wireless range extender.

So what i want to do is the same as the top half of this diagram. Thanks for the advice.

 

[csmager]

So what i want to do is the same as the top half of this diagram. Thanks for the advice.

Pretty much. If you set the SSID of the router and the AP to the same name but on different channels, you should be able to roughly simulate roaming. It won't be seamless, but it should just lock onto the stronger of the two APs depending where you are in the house.

If that turns out to be hopeless, just have two separate SSIDs to make life simple.

 

[pinkacidbootson]

Is there a wireless AP you would recommend? I'm looking for good range but not too expensive, around £35. Can the WRT54G be used in wireless AP mode?

 

[csmager]

Is there a wireless AP you would recommend? I'm looking for good range but not too expensive, around £35. Can the WRT54G be used in wireless AP mode?

If you wanted to stick with the Linksys theme, they make the WAP54G. Though, probably down to the much higher volume of routers sold in this country, the WRT54GL is about the same price or cheaper.

A wireless router can be configured as an AP - just connect nothing to the WAN port and disable DHCP. And ignore any router/firewall/NAT options, as they'll do nothing! Would also have the added advantage of a built in 4 port switch if someone wanted a hard-wired connection.

 

[pinkacidbootson]

I also just realised, if I put the Netgear router in the middle of the house and had an ethernet cable going to my room, could I have an ethernet switch/hub in my room to give me all the wired connections I need?

 

[tolien]

Yes. There's no real reason to want a hub though.

 

[pinkacidbootson]

I don't know anything about ethernet switches, is there any particular model/type that would be suited to my needs? I would just need one to connect a PC and games console.

 

[csmager]

They're not very exciting. One unmanaged switch is much the same as another.

 

[pinkacidbootson]

What sort of ethernet cable would I need to connect the router to an ethernet switch? Crossover or normal?

This is what I want: http://http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=NW-099-NG

 

[csmager]

What sort of ethernet cable would I need to connect the router to an ethernet switch? Crossover or normal?

Technically a straight-through cable, but in all probability it will make no difference. The switch will auto-sense the difference.