Kavin Tyler 
In today’s fast-paced digital world, having a reliable internet connection is no longer a luxury but a necessity. However, no matter how advanced our wireless router technology is, some areas in our homes or offices still exist where the wifi signal could be stronger or more present.
It is where wifi extenders come in handy. They help boost the signal from the router and extend its coverage to hard-to-reach areas. One of the most convenient ways to connect a wifi extender to a router is using WPS. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do it step-by-step.
Step 1: Check if Your Router and Extender Support WPS
Before starting the WPS setup process, you must ensure that your router and wifi extender support WPS. WPS stands for wifi Protected Setup, a wireless network security standard that simplifies setting up and securing a wireless home network. To check if your devices support WPS, look for the WPS button or symbol on your router and wifi extender.
Step 2: Place Your Extender near Your Router
For a successful WPS setup, placing your wifi extender near your router, preferably within range of the router’s wifi signal, is best. It ensures that the WPS process goes smoothly and that the extender can connect to the router without interference.
Step 3: Power On Your Extender
After you have positioned your wifi extender near your router, plug it into an electrical outlet and power it on. Wait a few seconds for it to boot up and for the power LED to light up. Most extenders have a LED indicator that shows the device’s status.
Step 4: Press the WPS Button on Your Router
Now it’s time to start the WPS setup process. Press the WPS button on your router. The location of the WPS button may vary depending on your router model, but it’s usually located on the back or side of the router. Hold down the WPS button for a few seconds until the LED starts flashing.
Step 5: Press the WPS Button on Your Extender
After pressing the WPS button on your router, it’s time to press the WPS button on your wifi extender. The WPS button on the extender may also be located on the back or side of the device. Press the button and hold it down for a few seconds until the LED on the extender starts flashing.
Step 6: Wait for the WPS Connection to be Established
Once you have pressed the WPS button on both devices, you must wait for the WPS connection to be established. It can take up to a minute. During this time, the LED lights on both devices will flash and blink. Once the WPS connection is established, the LED lights on both devices will stop flashing and remain solid.
Step 7: Test Your Connection
You need to test your connection to ensure your wifi extender is connected to your router. You can connect to your extender’s network using a wireless device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Ensure you are within range of your extender’s signal and the device is connected to the extender’s network. If the connection is successful, you should be able to browse the internet without any problems.
FAQs:
What is WPS?
WPS stands for wifi Protected Setup. It’s a wireless network security standard that simplifies setting up and securing a wireless home network.
Do all routers and extenders support WPS?
Not all routers and extenders support WPS. It depends on the model and manufacturer. To determine if your devices support WPS, check the user manual or look for the WPS button or symbol on the device.
What if my router or extender doesn’t have a WPS button?
If your router or extender doesn’t have a WPS button, you can still manually connect them using the web-based setup. You must access the router’s administration page and manually configure the extender settings. Consult the user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on your devices.
Can I use WPS to connect multiple extenders to my router?
You can use WPS to connect multiple extenders to your router. However, the process may vary depending on the extender model and the router’s capabilities. Sometimes, you may need to repeat the WPS process for each extender separately.
Is WPS secure?
While WPS provides a convenient way to connect devices, it has been known to have security vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit some older implementations of WPS. If you are concerned about security, disabling WPS after the initial setup is recommended. Instead, use more secure methods such as manually entering the wifi credentials or using a mobile app provided by the extender manufacturer.
What should I do if the WPS connection fails?
If the WPS connection fails, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, ensure that the router and extender are powered on and within range of each other. Press the WPS buttons on both devices simultaneously and hold them down for a few seconds. If the connection fails, restart both devices and repeat the process. If the issue persists, consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer’s support for further assistance.
Can I use WPS to connect other devices to my router?
Yes, besides extenders, you can also use WPS to connect other devices to your router. Many modern devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, support WPS. By pressing the WPS button on both the router and the device, you can quickly establish a secure wireless connection without manually entering the wifi password.
