Yes, you can configure a MikroTik device to repeat the signal of a third-party router. This is achieved through several possible configurations in MikroTik RouterOS, depending on the specific scenario and the hardware used.

We explain how it can be done:

1. Wireless Bridge Mode

A common way to repeat the signal is to configure the MikroTik device in bridge mode. This allows the MikroTik device to connect two segments of a network as if they were physically connected. To repeat the signal from a third-party router, you can configure the MikroTik to connect to the existing network as a client and then retransmit that signal.

Basic steps:

• Configure the wireless interface in 'station bridge' mode for the MikroTik to connect to the existing router.
• Establish a bridge on the MikroTik to include the wireless interfaces and any Ethernet interfaces if you want to connect wired devices.
• Set up wireless security (such as WPA2) to match your existing router settings.

2. Universal Repeater

If the MikroTik device supports this function, it can act as a universal repeater, expanding the coverage of the existing wireless network even if it is from another manufacturer.

Basic steps:

• Configure the wireless interface to connect to the existing network as a customer.
• Create a new virtual wireless network (Virtual AP) to retransmit the signal.
• Secure both networks with the same security settings as the original network.

3. WDS (Wireless Distribution System) Configuration

WDS is another technique for expanding a wireless network, but it requires that both the main router and the MikroTik support WDS. This may not be feasible with all manufacturers, but if both devices support it, it can be a robust solution.

Basic steps:

• Configure WDS on both wireless interfaces, on the MikroTik and on the main router.
• Match security settings and channel to ensure fluid communication.

Considerations

• Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the MikroTik hardware with the specific modes required for replay.
• Safety: Ensure wireless security is consistent across the entire network to avoid disconnections or authentication issues.
• Performance: Please note that using a repeater may reduce the bandwidth available to end devices due to the nature of retransmitting the signal.

Setting up a MikroTik device to repeat the signal of a third-party router is definitely possible and can be a great way to extend the coverage of your wireless network without needing to replace all your existing hardware.