HT204617: Wi-Fi base stations: Setting up and configuring an extended wireless network (802.11n)

Learn about Wi-Fi base stations: Setting up and configuring an extended wireless network (802.11n)
Frnch

Q: Can I extend a non-apple base station with Airport Extreme?

I have a Motorola wifi modem supplied by my ISP.  I was advised that I could extend the range of my network with Airport Extreme, but I can only get it to work using a ethernet connection which kind of defeats the purpose.  Any advice? 

Posted on Feb 26, 2015 6:04 PM

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Q: Can I extend a non-apple base station with Airport Extreme?

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  • by Allan Eckert,

    Allan Eckert Allan Eckert Feb 26, 2015 6:08 PM in response to Frnch
    Level 9 (53,581 points)
    Desktops
    Feb 26, 2015 6:08 PM in response to Frnch

    No. The Apple Basestation doesn't extend non-Apple networks.

  • by KiltedTim,Solvedanswer

    KiltedTim KiltedTim Feb 26, 2015 6:07 PM in response to Frnch
    Level 9 (55,477 points)
    Mac OS X
    Feb 26, 2015 6:07 PM in response to Frnch

    No. You can't extend it wirelessly with an AirPort. You can connect it via Ethernet, put it in Bridge mode, and set the WLAN up to match the name/password you're providing from the one you got from your ISP. Technically, that's not 'extending' the existing network, it's creating a new one with the same credentials, but as a practical matter, you won't be able to tell the difference.

  • by Bob Timmons,

    Bob Timmons Bob Timmons Feb 26, 2015 6:20 PM in response to Frnch
    Level 10 (105,062 points)
    Wireless
    Feb 26, 2015 6:20 PM in response to Frnch

    If the Extreme is new, and within the return period, you might want to return the product and look for a universal repeater......something that is designed to work with a number of different products.  Netgear is a good choice, and I am sure there are others.

     

    If you "own" the AirPort Extreme...and cannot run the Ethernet cable to the location where you want the Extreme to work.....then you might want to take a look at a pair of Ethernet Over Powerline (EOP) adapters to send the signal over the AC powerlines in your home.

     

    The theory with these devices is that you already have the wiring in place, you just need the adapters. In practice, things do not always work as well as the theory might suggest, so if you decide to try a pair, it would be good idea to understand the store's return policy before you buy.

     

    Any computer / electronics superstore will have a selection of EOP adapters from which to choose. Ask the sales guy what he would recommend for you.

  • by Frnch,

    Frnch Frnch Feb 27, 2015 8:20 AM in response to Bob Timmons
    Level 1 (4 points)
    Feb 27, 2015 8:20 AM in response to Bob Timmons

    Thanks all...  I conected it via Ethernet and set up a new wifi network.   Even though I can't wirelessly extend my Motorola modem's wifi, in fact the range of the AirPort Extreme is much better, so...mission accomplished.