A wifi extender is a small device that boosts the signal strength of your wireless network throughout your home. It’s ideal for covering dead spots or reaching high-ceilinged rooms or outdoor locations with minimal obstructions.
The initial step is to connect your extender to your router using an Ethernet cable. After doing so, it will log in to your network using your router’s identical SSID and password.
1. Connect the Extender to Your Router
WiFi extenders connect to your router using an ethernet cable, making it easier to get a reliable internet connection where the router’s signal is weak. In some cases, they may even come equipped with an ethernet port so you can directly connect end devices like computers to the extender’s network.
Connecting an extender to your router typically involves using an app or web-based tool. Depending on which model of extender and router you have, you may have to press a WPS button or enable WPS mode on your router to complete this process.
When first pairing your extender with your router, it may create a separate Wi-Fi network with an SSID and password that don’t match your original network. Although this isn’t ideal, if you wish to sync up with it, there’s an easy solution: modify the SSID and password in the extender app.
2. Set the Extender’s SSID
One of the initial steps you should take is setting your extender’s SSID (Service Set Identifier). This is simply the name of your network, and it will appear in all devices’ WiFi settings.
Note that the SSID you select must be compatible with your primary router’s settings; otherwise, it won’t function. If you have a dual-band router, assigning separate SSIDs for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands may be best.
Modern extenders usually feature a handy device that displays your wireless network ID (SSID). You’ll likely be asked to enter it from your main router into one or more fields displayed, and depending on the model, you may even be able to modify them later. Personalizing your network with an SSID and password helps alleviate headaches in the future; additionally, testing out its range without interference from other networks is an ideal opportunity to evaluate it thoroughly.
3. Set the Extender’s Password
For the security of your wireless extender, setting a password is recommended. A default password usually appears in the login field of the device and allows it to authenticate itself against your router.
Once set, you can change it if needed. Generally, password changes can be made through the extender’s web interface; however, some devices require manual reset for security.
To accomplish this task, you will need a laptop or computer with an Ethernet port and access to the internet. Alternatively, you can use your smartphone using iOS or Android applications.
Once you’ve set the network password, you can reconnect all connected devices to the extender and begin using your Internet again with ease. To do this, select “Edit” next to the network password field in the Extender Settings window, then click ‘Save Changes’; this process may take a few minutes but should be successful once complete.
4. Set the Extender’s Channel
One of the best ways to increase your Wi-Fi signal is by placing a WiFi extender in an ideal location. Not only will this improve coverage, but it also reduces stray wireless signals from things like microwave ovens and cordless phones. But before setting up this new network booster, there are many considerations you need to make: making sure it won’t interfere with existing SSID or be vulnerable to malicious attacks such as hacking or hijacking attempts.
Start by checking your router’s menus and finding its extension icon on the home screen. From there, you should be able to access its configuration wizard quickly enough; scroll through all available settings until you find ones that need changing. After selecting those necessary items, you can set up your home Wi-Fi hotspot!
