Start by deciding whether the two routers should create one shared network or two separate networks. For one shared network, the usual arrangement is a single router handling routing and DHCP, with the second router in Access Point (AP) or bridge mode. The switch only adds Ethernet ports; it cannot correct a second router that is still routing or handing out addresses.
Because the router models, ISP equipment, wiring and symptom matter, there is no one port layout or setting that fixes every setup. Use the checks below to identify the problem before changing configuration.
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First decide whether you want one network or two
If devices need to find and communicate with one another on the local network—for example, to use shared services—the usual goal is one LAN. Configure the main router as the gateway and use the second router’s AP or bridge mode, if its manufacturer supports it. Features available on the second router may change in that mode. NETGEAR Support describes an unmanaged switch as appropriate for adding Ethernet ports, not for changing how routers handle network traffic.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Two separate networks can be intentional, but devices on different networks may not communicate as expected. Google’s network guidance explains that separate networks can affect communication between devices. Choose the topology based on whether local sharing or isolation is the goal.
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Trace the cables and check the physical link
- Draw the actual connections. List the modem or ISP gateway, both routers, the switch, and the ports each cable uses. Do not assume the switch is between the routers; it may instead be downstream of one.
- Check power and Ethernet link indicators. If a device or port has no link light, confirm that both ends are seated and test another cable or port if available. A physical-link problem should be ruled out before changing router settings.
- Note which device connects to the ISP. Identify whether the ISP device is a modem only or also a gateway/router. This affects whether it is already routing or providing DHCP.
The correct port layout depends on the router’s supported mode and instructions. Some AP setups use LAN-side connections and leave the secondary router’s WAN port unused; this is not a universal rule. Follow the manual for the exact model. See ASUS router guidance and TP-Link setup guidance for examples of vendor-specific instructions.
Check whether both routers are routing
If both routers perform Network Address Translation (NAT), the result is commonly called double NAT. Each router may create its own private network, which can interfere with communication between devices and may cause connectivity or performance issues. Double NAT is a possibility to check, not a diagnosis based on having two routers and a switch alone. NETGEAR explains double NAT; Google also describes how multiple network layers can affect connectivity.
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For one shared network, look for an AP or bridge mode on the secondary router and follow its manufacturer’s setup procedure. In that arrangement, the main router generally remains responsible for routing and DHCP. AP mode can disable gateway-dependent features, so check the model documentation before switching modes. TP-Link notes that some features are unavailable in AP mode in its AP setup guidance.
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Verify DHCP and the secondary router’s LAN address
DHCP assigns devices their network settings, including an address and gateway. In a single-LAN setup, follow the secondary router’s AP-mode instructions for DHCP behavior and LAN addressing; avoid having both routers independently hand out addresses on the same LAN.
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Some routers without a dedicated AP-mode option can be configured for AP-like use by disabling DHCP on the secondary router and assigning it a LAN address in the main router’s subnet. The precise procedure and address choice are model-dependent. TP-Link documents this approach for certain setups in its router configuration instructions. Do not apply it blindly to a different model or topology.
Use the switch for the job it can do
An unmanaged Ethernet switch expands the number of wired ports available on a network. It does not turn a router into an access point, disable DHCP, or remove double NAT. If the actual issue is that you need more Ethernet connections, a switch may be the right tool; if the second router is still routing when you want one LAN, correct the router configuration first.
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If it still fails, collect the details needed for model-specific help
- The model numbers of both routers, the switch and the ISP gateway or modem.
- A cable diagram showing exactly which ports connect.
- The symptom: for example, no internet, no access to devices on the other router, or intermittent connection.
- The IP address and default gateway shown on a device connected to the affected part of the network.
Those details distinguish a physical link fault from an addressing, routing or topology problem. Router menus, supported modes and port requirements vary, so use the relevant manufacturer instructions rather than assuming a universal wiring order.
Quick Recap
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