FAQ
TL;DR: WR841N can repeat only with custom Gargoyle firmware, and the repeater mode "cuts the speed by half"; keep signal ≥ −70 dBm. “It's a bad mode and cuts the speed by half.” [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps home users decide how to extend Wi‑Fi from a WR340/AirGrid link without wasting money or speed.
Quick Facts
- WR841N lacks official repeater/WDS on stock firmware; Gargoyle is required to add it. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
- Place the repeater where the main router’s RSSI is approx. −70 dBm or better. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
- Expect approx. 50% throughput loss when repeating on one radio. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
- WDS/repeater stability is weak; “I do not recommend.” [Elektroda, jimasek, post #16784041]
- Asus RT‑N12+ offers an official Repeater mode out of the box. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16788338]
Can a TP‑Link WR841N work as a Wi‑Fi amplifier with a WR340?
Yes, but not on stock firmware. Flash Gargoyle to the WR841N to enable wireless bridge/repeater features, then configure it per guide. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
What signal strength do I need at the repeater spot?
Target roughly −70 dBm or better from the WR340 where you place the WR841N. Weaker signals cause drops and low speeds. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
How much speed will I lose using a repeater?
Single‑radio repeaters halve throughput. Plan for about a 50% drop compared to the source link in that room. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
Is WDS a good idea for this setup?
It’s unreliable here. As one expert put it, “I do not recommend.” Use alternatives like Gargoyle or a router with native repeater mode. [Elektroda, jimasek, post #16784041]
Which WR841N hardware versions work with Gargoyle 1.6?
Gargoyle 1.6 supports WR841N v3, v5, v7, and v8. Always verify your exact hardware revision before flashing. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
What’s a quick way to choose better hardware instead?
Pick a router that ships with Repeater mode, like Asus RT‑N12+. It simplifies setup and avoids third‑party firmware. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16788338]
Should I replace my old WR340 if I add a repeater?
Yes, consider replacing it with a modern router and use another unit as the repeater. It improves stability and management. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16789947]
I have 10/2 Mb/s Internet. Is a budget repeater enough?
Yes. For that speed tier, an affordable repeater‑capable router is sufficient and cost‑effective for Wi‑Fi and Ethernet. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16790529]
How should I verify if repeating will work in my house?
Install the main router first, then measure Wi‑Fi level at the intended repeater spot. Share results before buying more gear. [Elektroda, KOCUREK1970, post #16791439]
Can the WR841N connect wirelessly to WR340 and rebroadcast?
Yes, but only after flashing Gargoyle and configuring wireless bridge/repeater mode. Stock firmware lacks this capability. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
What is Gargoyle firmware?
Gargoyle is third‑party firmware that adds features like wireless bridge/repeater to some TP‑Link routers, including WR841N. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
What is WDS in simple terms?
WDS is a wireless distribution mode used to extend networks between routers. In this case it’s discouraged due to reliability. [Elektroda, jimasek, post #16784041]
Any placement tips to avoid a dead‑end setup?
Do not place the repeater where Wi‑Fi is already weak. Ensure around −70 dBm from the main router at that location. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
Will a repeater hurt a radio backhaul link?
Yes. The repeater shares one radio for backhaul and clients, which halves capacity and can bottleneck your link. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16784222]
What should I do first if I’m unsure about my signal levels?
Measure the Wi‑Fi strength at the desired repeater spot, then decide on hardware or placement based on the reading. [Elektroda, KOCUREK1970, post #16791439]
Quick setup: How do I configure WR841N as a repeater with Gargoyle?
- Flash Gargoyle on WR841N, matching its hardware version.
- In Gargoyle, set Wireless Bridge/Repeater mode and connect to WR340 SSID.
- Place it where WR340 is ~−70 dBm and test throughput.
[Elektroda, matek451, post #16784047]
