Does Deco Work with an Existing Router?

Yes, Deco works with an existing router. You can use Deco with an existing router in one of two modes: Router mode or Access Point mode. The mode you choose affects how many Deco units can connect directly to your existing router, so it's worth understanding both options before you set up.

If you're wondering how many Deco units you need, that's a great place to start before choosing your setup mode.

Key Takeaways

• Deco can work with an existing router in two modes: Router mode and Access Point mode. The correct mode depends on how you want to manage your network.
• In Router mode, only one Deco unit should be wired directly to the existing router to avoid creating a network loop. Additional Deco units connect wirelessly as satellites.
• In Access Point mode, multiple Deco units can be wired directly to the existing router without causing a network loop.
• The main Deco unit must always be connected to the modem, router, or Internet cable with a physical Ethernet connection. Deco does not support Repeater mode and cannot connect to an existing router wirelessly.
• If your existing router is a combined modem and router, it is recommended to configure it in bridge mode to avoid double Network Address Translation (NAT) issues.
• When using Deco alongside an existing router, it is recommended to turn off the router's Wi-Fi network and use Deco's Wi-Fi instead to reduce wireless interference.

Two Ways to Connect Deco with an Existing Router

The diagrams below show the two supported connection structures. The mode you use determines which topology applies to your setup.

Topology 1:

Note: When Deco works in Router mode, connecting more than one Deco unit directly to the existing router is not recommended, as it may cause a network loop.

When Deco works in Access Point mode, connecting more than one Deco unit directly to the existing router is not a problem.

Topology 2:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I set the Deco Wi-Fi name and password to be the same as my existing router?

When Deco works with an existing router, it is recommended to turn off the router's Wi-Fi network and use Deco's Wi-Fi instead to reduce wireless interference. If both networks share the same name, devices may connect to the wrong one, which can cause performance issues.

Q2: Can I connect Deco wirelessly to an existing router to extend my existing Wi-Fi network?

Deco does not support Repeater mode, so the main Deco must always be wired to a modem, router, or Internet cable to get Internet access. It cannot connect to an existing router wirelessly. However, satellite Deco units can connect wirelessly within the Deco network. For guidance on adding additional units to your Deco network, or to confirm whether your models are compatible, see can different Deco models work together.

Q3: Do I need to set my existing router to bridge mode if my router is a combination modem and router?

Deco works with a combined modem and router, but configuring the modem router in bridge mode is recommended to avoid double NAT. Double NAT occurs when two devices on the same network both perform Network Address Translation (NAT) simultaneously, which can cause connectivity and performance issues.

For step-by-step instructions on configuring this setup, see how to use Deco with your existing router.