Use Linksys WRT54G with 9100EM

[Knightro2]

I've been having weird issues with my Verizon provided wireless router since I got the service a couple of weeks ago. I want to use my Linksys router which I've never had issues with. I know I need to keep the 9100EM router up for the DVR and such. I'm a systems engineer so I have knowledge in computers...just not this specific setup. How would I go about connecting my Linksys to be my primary router (all wired and wireless connections would go through it)? Do I just set it up on the DMZ? Or is there a better way to do it?

Thanks in advance for any help.

[dslr595148]

The 9100EM may have a small NAT table.

Or maybe not.

I point you to All DSR (dslreports.com) FAQs » Verizon Online FiOS FAQ » 3.0 Networking ->  What are the tradeoffs between the various router configurations

[BrianMcD]

I have the same configuration (Linksys WRT54G), except with the Verizon Actiontec Router.

The simplest way would be as follows:

Assuming that your Westell is configured with an internal address of 192.168.1.1, configure the Linksys so that it has an Local Address of 192.168.1.2.  You will also want to disable the DHCP Server on the Linksys and change it from Gateway Mode to Router Mode.  I know that it sounds backwards but the help on the right explains it.

The Westell will remain as the Primary Router, which is 100% supported by Verizon.

Logon to the Westell and turn off the Wireless Portion.

Connect Lan Port 1 of the Westell to Lan Port 1 of the Linksys.  You can still use the other 3 ports of the Westell if needed.

All other devices can be connected to the Linksys and your wireless connectivity and security will be thru the Linksys.

There are many other ways to combine another router.  Here is a FAQ with more information:

http://www.dslreports.com/faq/verizonfios/3.0_Networking

[Knightro2]

That does sound backwards. Will my devices still get IP addresses assigned via DHCP if I am using only the Linksys for all of my devices? Or will I have to assign them all static IPs?

[BrianMcD]

Your devices will get their DHCP Address from the Westell.

Since you are doing a Lan to Lan connection the Linksys is being used like a Switch which is providing Wireless Access.

[Knightro2]

Ok, makes sense.

Another question...I have port forwarding setup so I can remote into one of my PC's at home (Static IP). Since the Linksys is now somewhat of a switch...will all my port forwarding information in the Verizon router still be valid? Or will I need to change it to point to the linksys and then setup forwarding in the linksys to the PC?

I'm assuming it should be fine the way it is but I'm more of a systems guy than a network guy.

Thanks again.

[BrianMcD]

All of your Routing, Firewall, and Port Forwarding functions will be handled by the Westell.  The Linksys will just be a Switch.

Here is a good site for Port Forwarding Information on the Actiontec, Westell, and many other Routers:

http://www.portforward.com/english/routers/port_forwarding/routerindex.htm

I have an Actiontec, but I believe it should be similiar to the Westell.  They do Port Forwarding in a 2 step Process (Setup Protocol First if not already pre defined then set up a forwarding rule).  I just posted a few port forwarding messages in the forum and will try to help you if you get stuck.

Good Luck.