Recommended Wireless Bridges for NAS and How to Choose Them

When setting up a NAS (Network Attached Storage) in an environment where wired connections are difficult, one of the most practical solutions is using a wireless bridge. Especially in cases where pulling LAN cables through walls or long distances is not feasible, a wireless bridge becomes a highly stable alternative.


An infographic comparing five wireless bridges for NAS use. Includes product names, Wi-Fi speed, LAN port availability, bridge mode support, pros, cons, and price in a tabular format.


However, the market is filled with similar products labeled as "Wi-Fi extenders," "repeaters," or "AP mode," making it hard to identify which devices are truly suitable for NAS. This article will explain the key points for choosing the right wireless bridge for NAS use and provide a comparison of 5 popular products along with use-case-based recommendations.

 

 

 

1. 5 Key Points When Choosing a Wireless Bridge

  • 1) LAN Port: NAS must be connected via LAN, so the device must have at least one LAN port.
  • 2) 5GHz Support: 2.4GHz has more interference and slower speed. Choose 5GHz or dual-band devices.
  • 3) Bridge Mode Support: Always check if it supports Bridge or AP mode, otherwise NAS won’t connect properly.
  • 4) Firmware Stability: Since NAS runs continuously, choose devices from trusted brands with reliable firmware.
  • 5) Speed Grade: At least AC1200 is recommended. For large transfers, go for AC1750 or Wi-Fi 6 (AX1800+).

2. Comparison of 5 Popular Wireless Bridges

Here is a comparison table of five representative wireless bridges available on the market:

Product Name Wi-Fi Speed LAN Port Bridge Mode Pros Cons Price
TP-Link RE450 AC1750 1 Stable speed, easy setup Bulky design ~$45
ASUS RP-AX56 AX1800 (Wi-Fi 6) 1 Wi-Fi 6 support, reliable firmware Somewhat expensive ~$70
Netgear EX6150 AC1200 1 Compact, good cost-performance Complex UI ~$35
FRITZ!Repeater 1200 AX AX1800 1 European quality, stable performance Limited availability in some regions ~$90
Xiaomi Range Extender Pro N300 (2.4GHz only) Ultra-low price Not suitable for NAS ~$20

 

 

3. Recommendations by Use Case

  • Prioritizing stability and value: TP-Link RE450 offers the best balance.
  • Planning for a Wi-Fi 6 environment: ASUS RP-AX56 is a future-proof choice.
  • Compact setup for minimal usage: Netgear EX6150 is compact and practical.
  • Very limited budget: Xiaomi product is not recommended (incompatible with NAS).
  • Connecting multiple devices: Wi-Fi 6 model + switching hub is the ideal combo.

4. Tips for Installation and Setup

  • Use Bridge Mode: Ensure wired IP communication by using proper bridge mode.
  • Keep firmware updated: Brands like TP-Link and ASUS are known for stability.
  • Use high-quality LAN cables: At least Cat6 is recommended to avoid interference.
  • Device placement: Keep the bridge close to the NAS and within the router's Wi-Fi range.

 

 

Conclusion: Wireless Bridges Make NAS Setup Flexible

Even in spaces where wiring is not practical, wireless bridges allow you to set up NAS efficiently. By choosing a device that has a LAN port, supports bridge mode, 5GHz frequency, and has stable firmware, you can enjoy DSM, QuickConnect, remote access, and backup features with confidence.

Avoid cheap repeaters or 2.4GHz-only models without LAN ports—they are not suitable for NAS. Choose the model that fits your budget and needs to enjoy a seamless NAS experience.