September 21, 2025

One Ethernet run between BGW320 and RAX120/Unraid room — how do I make this schematic actually work?

Hi everyone, I’ve attached a diagram of my desired setup and the goals I’m trying to achieve.

What you’ll build / learn

In this tutorial, you will learn how to set up a reliable Ethernet connection between your BGW320 gateway and RAX120 router, ensuring that your Unraid server is effectively integrated into your home network. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from understanding the necessary components to troubleshooting common issues that may arise during setup. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a clear schematic of your network, allowing for optimal performance and connectivity.

You will also gain insights into the importance of VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) in managing your home network, particularly if you have IoT devices that require isolation from your primary network. Additionally, you will learn about the differences between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, helping you make informed decisions about device placement and connectivity.

Finally, this guide will provide you with best practices for maintaining your network, ensuring that you can enjoy uninterrupted internet access for all your devices. Whether you are streaming videos, playing online games, or working from home, this setup will enhance your overall online experience.

Why it matters

Setting up a robust home network is essential in today’s digital age, where multiple devices often rely on a stable internet connection. With the rise of smart home technology, understanding how to configure your network can prevent connectivity issues and enhance security. A well-structured network allows for efficient data flow, reducing lag and improving the performance of applications that require high bandwidth.

Moreover, having a clear understanding of your network’s architecture can help you troubleshoot problems more effectively. When issues arise, knowing how your devices are connected and the role of each component can save you time and frustration. This knowledge is particularly valuable for those who work from home or rely on streaming services for entertainment.

In addition, the implications of poor network setup can extend beyond mere inconvenience. Security vulnerabilities can arise if devices are not properly isolated, potentially exposing sensitive information to cyber threats. By implementing VLANs and understanding device connectivity, you can create a safer environment for your online activities.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following components ready for your network setup: a BGW320 gateway, an RAX120 router, an Unraid server, and an Ethernet cable of sufficient length to connect the BGW320 to the RAX120. It’s also advisable to have a computer or mobile device on hand to access the router’s settings and make necessary configurations.

Familiarity with basic networking concepts will be beneficial, although this guide is designed for beginners. Understanding terms such as IP addresses, DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), and subnetting will help you grasp the setup process more easily. If you’re unfamiliar with these concepts, consider doing a bit of research or asking for assistance from someone with networking experience.

Lastly, ensure that your devices are updated to the latest firmware versions. This can help prevent compatibility issues and improve overall performance. Check the manufacturer’s website for any updates and follow their instructions for installation.

Step-by-step

Begin by connecting your BGW320 gateway to your internet service. Ensure that it is powered on and connected to the wall outlet. Wait for the gateway to fully boot up, which may take a few minutes.
Next, take your Ethernet cable and connect one end to the LAN port of the BGW320. The LAN ports are typically yellow and labelled on the device.
Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN (Internet) port of the RAX120 router. This port is usually blue and clearly marked.
Power on the RAX120 router and wait for it to boot up completely. This may take a couple of minutes. Once powered on, check the indicator lights to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Using a computer or mobile device, connect to the RAX120’s Wi-Fi network or use another Ethernet cable to connect directly to one of its LAN ports.
Open a web browser and enter the router’s default IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) into the address bar. Press Enter to access the router’s login page.
Log in to the RAX120 router using the default credentials, which are typically found on a sticker on the router or in the user manual. Change these credentials to something secure after logging in.
Once logged in, navigate to the network settings and configure the WAN connection type. Select DHCP if your ISP uses dynamic IP addressing, which is common for residential connections.
Next, set up your local network settings. You can choose to enable VLANs if you want to isolate specific devices, such as IoT devices, from the main network. Follow the router’s instructions for VLAN configuration.
Configure the Wi-Fi settings, including the SSID (network name) and password. Ensure that you enable both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for optimal connectivity.
Save all settings and reboot the RAX120 router to apply the changes. This may take a few minutes.
Finally, test the connection by connecting a device to the RAX120’s Wi-Fi or LAN port. Ensure that you have internet access and that all devices are communicating correctly.

Best practices & security

To maintain a secure and efficient home network, consider implementing several best practices. First, regularly update your router’s firmware to protect against vulnerabilities. Manufacturers often release updates that enhance security and performance, so checking for updates every few months is advisable.

Secondly, change the default login credentials for your router. Using unique usernames and strong passwords can prevent unauthorized access to your network. Additionally, consider enabling WPA3 encryption if your router supports it, as this provides the highest level of security for your Wi-Fi network.

Another important practice is to segment your network using VLANs. This allows you to isolate IoT devices from your main network, reducing the risk of security breaches. For example, smart cameras and home assistants can be placed on a separate VLAN, ensuring that even if they are compromised, your primary devices remain safe.

Common pitfalls & troubleshooting

Even with careful planning, issues can arise during the setup of your home network. One common pitfall is failing to connect the Ethernet cable securely. Ensure that both ends of the cable are firmly plugged into the appropriate ports. If you experience connectivity issues, try using a different Ethernet cable to rule out cable faults.

Another frequent problem is incorrect router settings. If you cannot access the internet, double-check that you have configured the WAN settings correctly. Ensure that the router is set to obtain an IP address automatically if your ISP uses DHCP.

If devices are not connecting to the Wi-Fi network, verify that the SSID and password are correct. Additionally, check the device’s compatibility with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, as some older devices may only support one frequency.

Alternatives & trade-offs

Option	Pros	Cons
Powerline Adapters	Easy to set up, no need for new wiring	Dependent on electrical wiring quality
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems	Improved coverage, seamless roaming	Higher cost, may require additional configuration
Wi-Fi Extenders	Cost-effective way to boost signal	Can reduce overall bandwidth, may require placement adjustments

When considering alternatives to a direct Ethernet connection, various options are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Powerline adapters are a popular choice for extending network coverage without running new cables. They use your home’s electrical wiring to transmit data, making them easy to set up. However, their performance can be affected by the quality of your electrical wiring.

Mesh Wi-Fi systems provide excellent coverage and allow for seamless roaming between nodes. They are particularly useful in larger homes where a single router may struggle to reach all areas. However, they can be more expensive and may require additional configuration to set up correctly.

What the community says

The home networking community often shares experiences and tips regarding various setups. Many users have reported success with VLAN configurations, particularly when isolating IoT devices. This approach not only enhances security but also improves overall network performance by reducing congestion on the main network.

Users also frequently discuss the benefits of dual-band routers, highlighting the advantages of using both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for devices that require longer range, while the 5GHz band offers faster speeds for devices that are closer to the router.

Overall, community feedback suggests that taking the time to properly configure your network can lead to significant improvements in both speed and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for any home user.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi?

A: The primary difference lies in their range and speed. The 2.4GHz band covers a larger area and penetrates walls better, making it suitable for devices farther from the router. However, it typically offers slower speeds compared to the 5GHz band, which provides faster data rates but has a shorter range. For optimal performance, it’s advisable to use both bands based on device proximity and requirements.

Q: How do I set up VLANs on my router?

A: Setting up VLANs involves accessing your router’s settings through a web browser. Once logged in, navigate to the VLAN configuration section and create new VLANs for the devices you wish to isolate. Assign appropriate IP ranges and ensure that your main network remains separate. Consult your router’s manual for specific instructions, as the process may vary between models.

Q: What should I do if my devices cannot connect to the Wi-Fi network?

A: First, check that you are using the correct SSID and password. If the credentials are correct, ensure that the device is compatible with the Wi-Fi bands available. Additionally, reboot your router and the device to refresh the connection. If issues persist, consider moving closer to the router or checking for interference from other electronic devices.

Q: Can I use a Wi-Fi extender with my current setup?

A: Yes, a Wi-Fi extender can be used to boost the signal in areas where your router’s coverage is weak. However, keep in mind that extenders may reduce overall bandwidth. If you decide to use one, place it within range of your router’s signal for optimal performance.

Q: How often should I update my router’s firmware?

A: It is recommended to check for firmware updates every few months. Manufacturers release updates to improve security and performance. Regularly updating your router helps protect against vulnerabilities and ensures that you are benefiting from the latest features.

Q: What are the benefits of using a mesh Wi-Fi system?

A: Mesh Wi-Fi systems provide improved coverage throughout your home, allowing for seamless connectivity as you move between rooms. They eliminate dead zones and offer a more reliable connection for multiple devices. While they can be more expensive than traditional routers, the benefits often outweigh the costs, especially in larger homes.

Source

For additional context and community insights, visit the original discussion on Reddit: One Ethernet run between BGW320 and RAX120/Unraid room.