I want to know if it's possible to configure a Netgear WNDR3800 to use both of its radios (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz) to connect to separate SSIDs on my main T-Mobile router and bridge them. My goal is to extend the main router's network while keeping separate SSIDs for smart devices that require 2.4 GHz.
Current Setup:
I have only the 5 GHz radio (wwan5) bridged to LAN using the br-lan interface.
Devices connected to the LAN ports get DHCP addresses and work fine.
Issue:
When I try to add the 2.4 GHz radio, I lose connection to the WNDR3800.
I've looked into VLAN configurations and potential ways to bridge the 2.4 GHz radio, but I’m unsure if it's possible.
What I Need to Know:
Is it possible to have both radios connect to the main router's SSIDs and bridge them?
If yes, what steps should I follow to properly configure it?
Would VLANs be required, and if so, how should they be set up?
I’ve referenced this video for guidance but haven't found a clear solution: YouTube Video
@brada4 I apologize, but I’m not sure I fully understand. I know that I can enable VLANs and that VLAN filtering with tagging and trunking may be needed. Are you saying that I need to create a VLAN on the Switch page for each wired device connected to the router? If so, could you clarify how that should be configured?
I’m a visual learner, so if you could provide a diagram, example configuration, or more details on how to properly implement VLANs over the Ethernet cable in this setup, that would really help. Thanks!
If you are in range of decent 5 GHz reception, there is no point to add a second uplink over 2.4 GHz (given that 5 GHz is significantly faster) - regardless of the question of how you then share the repeated uplink connection (be it by a single/ merged ESSID or two separate ones).
Trying to cope with two uplinks makes your situation significantly more complex (and no, just bridging will not work - and actually break your whole network due to the networking loop you created). While technically possible, this is generally not a good option (and much more complex).
YouTube Video
