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You probably don't need two routers — do this instead

read original get TP-Link Deco XE75 Mesh Wi-Fi System → more articles
Why This Matters

Many households run their own router behind an ISP-supplied gateway without realizing both devices are routing traffic, creating double NAT and unnecessary complexity. The fix is choosing one device to run the network: bridge the ISP gateway, or set your own router to access point mode. It's a reminder that consumer networking gear often ships in defaults that undercut the hardware people pay extra for.

Key Takeaways
Worth a Look

TP-Link Deco XE75 Mesh Wi-Fi System — If you're going to let one device run your network, make it a capable mesh system — the Deco XE75 blankets a whole home in Wi-Fi 6E and can run either as the main router (with your ISP gateway bridged) or in access point mode to avoid double NAT. The app walks you through either setup, so you can pick the mode that matches your ISP's hardware.

See TP-Link Deco XE75 Mesh Wi-Fi System on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.

Internet providers often supply a gateway, combining the modem or fiber connection with router functions and Wi-Fi in one box. Connecting your router to that gateway doesn't automatically stop the ISP equipment from routing traffic, so leaving both devices in their default modes can produce double NAT.

If you want your own router or mesh system to control the network, check whether the ISP gateway supports bridge mode. Bridge mode stops the gateway from acting as a router, leaving your own router to manage the network instead. That also avoids double NAT. The exact procedure varies by provider and hardware, so this isn't a setting to change from generic instructions. Check the ISP's documentation first, particularly because bridge mode can affect other functions supplied by its gateway.

The other option is to keep the ISP gateway as your main router and put your own router or mesh system into access point mode. In that setup, the ISP gateway still handles routing, while your secondary device mainly provides Wi-Fi coverage. The downside is that some router-specific features on your device may stop working, which is a particular pain since many routers offer more features than ISP-provided models. TP-Link, for example, says AP mode disables functions such as NAT forwarding, VPN, QoS and some parental controls.

The decision depends on which device you want to manage the network. If you bought a new router specifically for its routing features, bridging the ISP gateway makes more sense. If you're satisfied with the gateway and just want better wireless coverage, AP mode is the simpler arrangement.