I have two Wi-Fi devices using the same internet connection. The original ZTE ZXHN F671Y router, installed in March 2022, can access Scribd.com and other sites normally. A newer APTEK AR1200 AC1200 dual-band router was added in my room because the original router's signal was weak there, but every device connected to the APTEK has trouble reaching certain websites. The issue affects multiple devices, so it does not appear to be limited to one computer or phone. Occasionally, connecting to the ZTE router first and then switching back to the APTEK works, and a VPN also fixes the problem. The APTEK depends on the ZTE router, so if the original router is disconnected, the room router loses internet access as well. How can I configure the room router so these websites work normally without switching networks or using a VPN?
3 Answers
First compare the network details on a device connected to each Wi-Fi network. Check the IP address, default gateway, DNS servers, and whether IPv6 is enabled. If the APTEK gives devices a different gateway or DNS server, that points to its configuration as the cause. You can also test by manually setting DNS on one device; if the site immediately works, change the DNS properly on the router. If changing DNS does nothing, contact the provider and ask them to check the APTEK for filtering, incorrect IPv6 configuration, or a firmware issue.
This sounds like a DNS problem. The room router may be using a DNS server supplied by the ISP that is failing to resolve or reach certain domains. Try changing the DNS settings on the main router, or on the APTEK if it allows custom DNS servers, to Cloudflare DNS at 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1, or Google DNS at 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4. Cloudflare is 1.1.1.1; Google's public DNS is 8.8.8.8. After changing it, restart the router and reconnect the devices.
Because the APTEK is connected behind the ZTE, it is probably acting as a second router rather than just an access point. That can create different DNS, routing, IPv6, or filtering behavior. If possible, configure the APTEK in access-point or bridge mode, connect the Ethernet cable from the ZTE to the APTEK's LAN port instead of its WAN port, and let the ZTE handle DHCP and DNS. Also check the APTEK for parental controls, website filtering, custom DNS, and IPv6 settings. If you cannot find those options, the exact firmware version or a screenshot of the network settings would be useful.
The APTEK was installed by my internet provider and depends on the ZTE, so it may not have been configured as a simple access point. I have access to the equipment, but the router settings are unfamiliar to me.