Using Airport Extreme as Range Extender with Verizon Fios

Using Airport Extreme as Range Extender with Verizon Fios

Any one have instructions how to use it as a range extender rather than a primary router ?

Posted on May 21, 2017 7:57 AM

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7 replies

May 21, 2017 10:10 AM in response to janesmith999

Well in that case, you can configure both routers for a roaming type network. This will have the effect of extending the Wi-Fi network.


The keys to this type of network are that:

  • All wireless routers used, must be interconnected by Ethernet.
  • All wireless routers will broadcast their own Wi-Fi network.
    • However, each router will broadcast a wireless network using the same network name (aka, SSID), and use the same wireless security type and password.
    • This way, wireless network clients just "see" one wireless network and can roam between them.

May 21, 2017 9:30 AM in response to janesmith999

You could, but the connection between them will need to be a wired one as I assume that you will want to use the same modem for Internet access for both routers ... correct?


If running an Ethernet cable between routers is not practical or desirable, you have the option to use Powerline adapters instead. These adapters can create a pseudo Ethernet one over your home's electrical circuit; however, for them to work best they need to be on the same circuit.

Jun 27, 2017 6:56 AM in response to Tesserax

I have a similar question too. I have an Xfinity Wireless Router (Arris TG862). Xfinity informed me this router is the most current available from them. It is used as the main router/wi-fi network. The Wi-Fi signal seems choppy on the other side of the house, so I would like to extend the network to that side. I have an old Airport Extreme (3rd Generation) connected to the main router via Cat5 Ethernet. I am able to view security settings on my main router on my web browser, but I do not understand the technical terms. I read that I have to set up the Airport Extreme as a new network, using the same network name, password, and security settings. Then make the Airport Extreme function in bridge mode. I would like to 'roam' the network or create a bigger network. Is this true? If so, can you please walk me through this step by step (including in detail what security settings I must copy and how) to make this happen? Thanks so much!

Jun 27, 2017 7:11 AM in response to viraysolutions

We don't know what device.....a Mac, PC, or iPhone / iPad......that you will be using to set things up.


If you have a Mac, we need to know what operating system it is running. If you do not know, click the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the screen, then click About This Mac and report on the OS X Version number that you see there.


The setup is different with each type of device, and we can't provide the setup steps until we have that information from you.

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Using Airport Extreme as Range Extender with Verizon Fios

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