How to Install the Linksys AX1800 Range Extender

The Linksys AX1800 Range Extender can be configured in two modes:

• Wireless Range Extender Mode: Extends your existing WiFi network wirelessly.

• Wired Range Extender Mode: Establishes a new WiFi network using an Ethernet cable connection to your router.

Wireless Range Extender Setup (Using WPS Method)

The wireless setup allows the extender to repeat signals from your existing WiFi network. This method uses the WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) button for a quick and easy configuration.

Steps to Set Up:

1. Placement: Plug the range extender into a power outlet near your router. The front LED will blink blue for up to one minute.

2. Wait for Orange Light: Once powered, wait until the front LED begins blinking orange.

3. Initiate WPS Connection:

   • Press the WPS button on your router.

   • Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your range extender.

4. Relocate the Extender: Once connected, move the extender to a location halfway between your router and the area where you need improved coverage.

5. Connect Devices: Devices can now connect to the extended network, which will use the same SSID and password as your main router. If your router supports seamless roaming, your devices will automatically switch between the main and extended networks as you move throughout your home.

Wired Range Extender Setup (Ethernet Method)

In wired mode, the extender connects to the router via Ethernet cable and broadcasts a new WiFi network.

Steps to Set Up:

1. Connection: Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your router and the other to the range extender. Plug the extender into a power outlet nearby.

2. Initial Setup:

   • Wait until the LED indicator on the extender blinks orange.

   • On your computer or mobile device, go to the WiFi settings and connect to the default Linksys extender network (no password required at this stage).

3. Access the Setup Page:

   • Open a web browser and enter extender.linksys.com in the address bar.

   • If you encounter a "404 Not Found" error, try clearing your browser cache and reloading the page.

4. Login Credentials:

   • Enter the default username and password (commonly admin/admin or admin/password). Refer to the label on your device for exact credentials.

5. Complete the Configuration:

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setup.

   • Customize network settings, such as SSID, password, and guest access if desired.

Connecting Devices to the Extended Network

Once setup is complete:

• If your router supports seamless roaming, the extended network will use the same SSID and password as your primary network. Devices will automatically switch between networks for optimal performance.

• If seamless roaming is not supported, extended networks will appear with "_Ext" added to the original SSID (e.g., HomeWiFi_Ext), but will use the same password.

Conclusion

Setting up the Linksys AX1800 Range Extender is a straightforward process and can be done in just a few steps. Whether using the WPS method for a wireless extension or the Ethernet method for a wired setup, both options effectively enhance your WiFi coverage to eliminate dead zones and improve connectivity throughout your home.