Q: Extending wifi range

It can, but the maximum clear space range of such a setup is abou 300 feet. If there are any obstructions between the router and the AEX then that range will be reduced substantially. So whether it will work depends on where the router is, where the AEX will be, and where the destination target is for the WiFi signal.

Yes, but you will need TWO Express units.  One replaces the WiFi from your router and the other extends the WiFi created by the first one.  The Express (and the Extreme) can not extend a non-Apple WiFi.

By the way, I did exactly what you want to do and the setup was a breeze.  Airport Utility knew exactly what I wanted to do!

The image is from Airport Utility.  "Internet" is my router.  Solid line is Ethernet.  Dashed line is WiFi.

If you're on 5Ghz, try setting to 2.4 Ghz to extend range.

I have this same problem.  I have an extreme in the basement and and express in the living room but, given all the walls I can't reach into the bedroom.  I have been thinking about getting another express to fit in the bedroom but then I started hearing about the "next big thing" is something called AC.  Will it be best to wait until Apple comes out with this?

Carson James wrote:

 

I have this same problem.  I have an extreme in the basement and and express in the living room but, given all the walls I can't reach into the bedroom.  I have been thinking about getting another express to fit in the bedroom but then I started hearing about the "next big thing" is something called AC.  Will it be best to wait until Apple comes out with this?

802.11ac is still in draft. The only vendor with a router that supports this is Netgear, scheduled for release sometime this month. Google search 802.11ac

First, you can not extend an extension.  In your case, you're going to have to experiment to determine the best location for the extender and it may well be necessary to relocate the Extreme.

I have no clue what the "next big thing" is.

Does Time Capsual have an extreme built into it?  Could I replace the extreme in the basement with a 2T time capsule and take the extreme upstairs and extend the range tht way? (Thanks for your help)

Carson James wrote:

 

Does Time Capsual have an extreme built into it?  Could I replace the extreme in the basement with a 2T time capsule and take the extreme upstairs and extend the range tht way? (Thanks for your help)

That won't change what your current conditions.  Your problem is the location of the devices.  Be reminded that you can not extend an extension.  HOWEVER, you can have multiple extenders IF each one accesses the WiFi from the main unit (a "star" arrangement).  Again, experimentation with location of main unit and extender(s) is necessary.

Yes, the Time Capsule (TC) is basically an 802.11n AirPort Extreme Base Station (AEBSn) with an internal HDD. Unlike the AEBSn, it support Time Machine backups on both its internal HDD or to an external HDD attached to its USB port.

... and yes, you can configure both for an extended wireless network.