Discover More Now!

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.

Electronic circuit board with various components.

What you’ll build / learn

In this tutorial, you will learn how to effectively connect your BGW320 router to your RAX120 router and Unraid server using a single Ethernet run. This setup aims to optimise your home network performance while ensuring that devices can communicate efficiently. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how to configure your routers, manage your network settings, and troubleshoot any potential issues that may arise.

You will also explore the concept of VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) and how they can help isolate IoT devices from your main network. This is particularly useful for enhancing security and managing bandwidth effectively. Additionally, you will gain insights into the differences between 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, and how to leverage these frequencies for better connectivity.

Overall, this guide will empower you with the knowledge to create a robust and efficient home network, tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Why it matters

Setting up a reliable home network is essential in today’s digital age, where multiple devices often require simultaneous internet access. A well-configured network not only enhances your online experience but also ensures that your devices can communicate effectively. Whether you are streaming videos, gaming, or working from home, a stable connection is crucial.

Moreover, understanding how to implement VLANs can significantly improve your network’s security. By isolating IoT devices from your main network, you reduce the risk of potential attacks and ensure that sensitive data remains protected. This is particularly important as the number of smart devices in our homes continues to grow.

Additionally, knowing how to troubleshoot common connectivity issues can save you time and frustration. With the right knowledge, you can quickly identify and resolve problems, ensuring that your network remains operational and efficient.

Prerequisites

Before diving into the setup process, there are a few prerequisites you should have in place. Firstly, ensure that you have both the BGW320 and RAX120 routers available and properly configured. Familiarise yourself with their settings and interfaces, as this will make the setup process smoother.

You will also need a reliable Ethernet cable to connect the two routers. Make sure it is of sufficient length to reach from the BGW320 to the RAX120 without any tension or bends. Additionally, having access to your Unraid server and understanding its configuration will be beneficial, as you will need to connect it to the RAX120.

Lastly, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of networking concepts, such as IP addresses, DHCP, and subnetting. This knowledge will aid in managing your network settings and troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the setup process.

Step-by-step

  1. Begin by connecting the BGW320 router to your internet service. Ensure that it is powered on and functioning correctly. You can check the status lights to confirm that it is connected to the internet.

  2. Next, take your Ethernet cable and connect one end to one of the LAN ports on the BGW320. Make sure it is securely plugged in.

  3. Run the Ethernet cable to the location of your RAX120 router. Ensure that there are no sharp bends in the cable to avoid signal degradation.

  4. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN port on the RAX120 router. This establishes the connection between the two routers.

  5. Power on the RAX120 router and wait for it to boot up completely. You should see the status lights indicating that it is ready for use.

  6. Access the RAX120’s web interface by entering its IP address into a web browser. The default IP address is often 192.168.1.1, but check your documentation if unsure.

  7. Log in using the default username and password. It is advisable to change these credentials for security reasons.

  8. Once logged in, navigate to the network settings and configure the WAN settings to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP from the BGW320.

  9. Next, set up your local network settings. You can choose to use a different subnet from the BGW320 to avoid IP conflicts. For example, if the BGW320 uses 192.168.1.x, you could set the RAX120 to 192.168.2.x.

  10. Configure any additional settings such as Wi-Fi SSID and password for the RAX120. Ensure that the settings are saved before exiting the interface.

  11. Now, connect your Unraid server to one of the LAN ports on the RAX120 using another Ethernet cable. This will allow the server to communicate with the rest of your network.

  12. Finally, test the network by connecting a device to the RAX120 and checking if it can access the internet and communicate with the Unraid server.

Best practices & security

Implementing best practices in your home network setup can significantly enhance both performance and security. Firstly, ensure that you regularly update the firmware of both your BGW320 and RAX120 routers. Manufacturers often release updates that address security vulnerabilities and improve performance.

Secondly, consider setting up a guest network on your RAX120 for visitors. This isolates guest devices from your main network, reducing the risk of unauthorised access to your devices and data. Additionally, use strong passwords for both your Wi-Fi networks and router interfaces to prevent unauthorised access.

Lastly, regularly monitor your network for any unfamiliar devices. Most routers provide a way to view connected devices, allowing you to identify any potential security threats quickly. If you notice any suspicious activity, take immediate action to secure your network.

Common pitfalls & troubleshooting

While setting up your home network, several common pitfalls can arise. One of the most frequent issues is IP address conflicts. Ensure that your BGW320 and RAX120 are on different subnets to avoid this problem. If both routers are set to the same subnet, devices may struggle to connect properly.

Another common issue is incorrect WAN settings. If the RAX120 is not set to obtain an IP address automatically, it may fail to connect to the internet. Double-check the WAN configuration in the RAX120 settings to ensure it is set to DHCP.

If you experience connectivity issues, try rebooting both routers. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Additionally, check the Ethernet cables for any damage or loose connections, as these can also cause connectivity problems.

Alternatives & trade-offs

Option Pros Cons
Mesh Wi-Fi System Improved coverage, easy to set up Higher cost, may require replacing existing hardware
Powerline Adapters Utilises existing electrical wiring, easy installation Performance can vary based on electrical wiring quality
Wi-Fi Extenders Cost-effective, easy to implement Can reduce overall network speed

When considering alternatives to the Ethernet run setup, each option has its pros and cons. A mesh Wi-Fi system offers improved coverage and seamless connectivity but can be more expensive and may require replacing existing routers. Powerline adapters can provide a simple solution by using your home’s electrical wiring but may suffer from performance issues depending on the quality of the wiring.

Wi-Fi extenders are a cost-effective way to boost your network signal, but they can reduce overall network speed. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the layout of your home.

What the community says

The home networking community often shares valuable insights and experiences regarding setups like the one discussed in this guide. Many users emphasise the importance of proper configuration and the benefits of VLANs for isolating IoT devices. This is particularly relevant as more smart devices are integrated into home networks.

Additionally, discussions around the performance differences between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands highlight the need for users to understand their devices’ capabilities. Many users recommend using 5GHz for devices that require higher speeds and less interference, while 2.4GHz can be suitable for devices that need longer range.

Overall, the community provides a wealth of knowledge that can help you troubleshoot issues and optimise your home network setup effectively.

FAQ

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

A: The 2.4GHz band offers a longer range but slower speeds, making it suitable for devices that are further from the router. Conversely, the 5GHz band provides faster speeds but has a shorter range, ideal for devices located closer to the router. Understanding these differences can help you optimise your network performance.

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

A: To set up VLANs, access your router’s web interface and navigate to the VLAN settings. From there, you can create separate VLANs for different devices or groups of devices. This helps isolate traffic and enhances security, especially for IoT devices. Ensure to save your settings before exiting.

Q: What should I do if I can’t connect to the internet?

A: If you are unable to connect to the internet, first check all physical connections to ensure they are secure. Next, reboot both routers to refresh their settings. If the issue persists, verify the WAN settings on your RAX120 to ensure it is set to obtain an IP address automatically.

Q: Can I use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks simultaneously?

A: Yes, most modern routers allow you to use both frequencies simultaneously. You can set different SSIDs for each band, enabling you to connect devices based on their needs. This flexibility can help optimise your network performance.

Q: What is the best way to secure my home network?

A: To secure your home network, use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi and router interfaces. Regularly update your router’s firmware and consider setting up a guest network for visitors. Monitoring connected devices can also help identify any potential security threats.

Q: How can I improve my Wi-Fi coverage?

A: To improve Wi-Fi coverage, consider repositioning your router to a central location in your home. You can also use Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system to enhance coverage in larger areas. Additionally, reducing interference from other electronic devices can help improve signal strength.

Further reading

For more information on home networking, consider exploring resources that cover advanced networking concepts, router configuration, and security best practices. Websites like the SmallNetBuilder and Tom’s Hardware offer extensive guides and articles on these topics. Additionally, forums such as Reddit’s HomeNetworking community provide real-world experiences and solutions from fellow users.

Books on networking fundamentals can also be beneficial, especially for those looking to deepen their understanding of how networks operate. By continuing to educate yourself, you can stay informed about the latest technologies and best practices in home networking.

Source

For further details and community discussions, visit the source: Reddit HomeNetworking.