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    Ethernet to WiFi converter or WiFi bridge

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by jclausius, Sep 9, 2019.

  1. jclausius

    jclausius Notebook Virtuoso

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    I'm looking for suggestions regarding an easy-to install solution for the following problem:

    a) WiFi in an area is by Wireless Access Points (2.4GHz and 5.2GHz) and public in nature - in a way, similar to WiFi at your local coffee shop. Also, it is not password protected nor safe by any means.

    b) I have some WIRED devices I want to connect.

    ---

    This is similar to a scenario where one wants to take a laptop with non-available USB ports and a broken WiFi adapter, but with working RJ-45 port into the Coffee Shop, connect the laptop to some device that can configured to connect to the Coffee Shop's WiFi Access Point service. Basically a WiFi based bridge

    ---

    I'm looking for a hardware solution that can allowany wired device to connect to the WiFi Access Point. I originally purchased a WiFi extender with a built in Ethernet port, but apparently, according to the IT folks running the WiFi in this area, their exact setup won't work with an extender.

    My next thought is something like an IOGEAR's Ethernet-2WiFi adapter, which from reading looks like would do the trick, but it is only 2.4GHz.

    Anyone have other suggestions?

    TIA
     
    Last edited: Sep 11, 2019
    jclausius, Sep 9, 2019
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  2. Starlight5

    Starlight5 Yes, I'm a cat. What else is there to say, really?

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    @jclausius if a router in bridged mode won't work for whatever reason, I'd use some ARM mini pc. How many ethernet ports do you need, and how many of them need be Gigabit? What brands of mini pcs can you source in reasonable time?

    - If single 10/100M ethernet is acceptable, I'd recommend Orange Pi Zero w/case + 802.11ac 2x2 RTL8812 wi-fi adapter, but depending on your location these may take a while to deliver, or be more expensive than just buying some Raspberry Pi locally.

    I no longer recommend using an ARM SBC with any USB adapters.
     
    Last edited: May 27, 2020
    Starlight5, Sep 11, 2019
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  3. jclausius

    jclausius Notebook Virtuoso

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    Worse case, I could put an old PC with a wireless USB (like shown), and make it a plain router. However, a device would be preferable. I'll investigate the Orange Pi + case route. Thanks for the suggestion!!
     
    jclausius, Sep 11, 2019
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  4. tilleroftheearth

    tilleroftheearth Wisdom listens quietly...

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    I would recommend a used Asus RT-AC56U or even an RT-AC68U in Bridge mode.

    Add an 8 port or larger switch (if needed) to connect more than 4 devices wired at the same time. Done. :)

    Rock-solid and hassle-free.

    Almost any other solution will be creaky, unstable and use more power, space and required 'maintenance' than necessary. ;)
     
    tilleroftheearth, Sep 11, 2019
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  5. skandal

    skandal Notebook Evangelist

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    I have this setup at home and it works flawlessly.
     
    skandal, Sep 12, 2019
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