We have 1 AP-extreme and 3 AP-express.
All are linked together and green lights on all.
However the wifi-signal is weak. The users seem to connect only to the first AP-express or the AP-extreme. Even if AP-2 and AP-3 is closer the iphones and MBP keep connecting to the first AP.
Lights are green and signal ok.
Why doesn't the phones choose the closest AP which should provide best signal?
BR
Jari
iPhone 4S, iOS 6
Are all three AirPort Express base stations connected to the AirPort Extreme using a wireless connection. Where are each of the Express base station located in relation to the Extreme.
They are linked like a chain. From AP extreme - ap Ex 1 - Ap ex 2 - Ap ex 3
The only ones connecting to phones and MBPs are AP extreme and AP ex 1. The other 2 (ap2 and 3) are not found by the phones even if I stand close to them.
Connection between the APs are GOOD or EXCELLENT
Are the connections between base stations wired or wireless?
Ok, thanks for clarifying that for me. It is important to understand that in an extended wireless network the daisy chain concept does not apply. Instead it works more like in a wheel fashion with the base station being extended at the hub and each of the extending stations along one of the wheel's spokes.
Therefore, in your current network configuration all Express base stations are attempting to extend the Extreme. Most likely Express #2 and #3 may not be within range of the Extreme to extend it properly.
Please check out the following AirPort User tip for details on optimal base station placement in an extended network.
aha ok. Thank you for explaining that. In that case I see no use of my "daisy chain"-config. Extending range is therefore not possible.
If I go Wired from extreme to express?
I think of a scenario where I use express 1 wireless and then 2 and 3 wired to extend range.
The area to cover is long and narrow so the "wheel" doesn't work for me.
/Jari
One option would be to reconfigure all of your base stations for a roaming network. In this case all of them would be interconnected by Ethernet. If you can work with this requirement, it should solve your problem of providing Wi-Fi in a long & narrow space.
sounds good. I'll try that.
Alternative 2: Can an express be the primary base? In that case my extreme would live its own life (it on an different level) an then I could use express 1 (wired) as an primary base and then wheel-config number 2 and 3 to the first express (wireless)?
/J
Yes, you can use any of the 802.11n or 802.11ac AirPort base stations (Extreme, Express, or Time Capsule) as the "primary" base station in an extended wireless network.
perfect!
TY very much and Merry Christmas
You're very welcome! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too!
weak wifi when bridge-extending with 3 AP-express
