TP-Link Range Extender Not Working? How to Fix It

This guide covers troubleshooting a TP-Link range extender that was previously working but has stopped connecting to the host router. Three common causes are addressed: nothing changed on the host router (pointing to a hardware or signal issue), the host router itself was replaced, or settings on the host router were changed.

Key Takeaways

• If your TP-Link range extender stopped working but nothing changed on the host router, start by rebooting both the router and the extender. Then confirm the extender is within range and free of interference from metal objects, microwaves, or Bluetooth devices.
• If rebooting and repositioning do not resolve the issue, reset the extender by pressing the reset button with a pin for 1 second, then reconfigure it.
• If the host router was replaced, you must reset the extender and reconfigure it to connect to the new router. The extender does not automatically detect a new host network.
• If settings on the host router were changed, such as Access Control, channel, or security settings, check and adjust those host router settings. Specific recommended settings for TP-Link range extenders are covered in the guide linked below.
• If none of the above resolves the issue, update the extender's firmware to the latest version. Firmware updates can resolve compatibility issues with the host router.

Case 1: The Extender Stops Working With Nothing Changed on the Host Router

If your TP-Link extender is not working but nothing has changed on the host router, try the following steps:

1. Try rebooting your router and the extender.

2. Ensure that your extender is within range of the router.

3. Ensure that the range extender is not affected by interfering devices such as metal objects, fish tanks, microwaves, Bluetooth devices, and so on.

4. If the above steps didn't resolve the issue, try resetting the extender completely. Use a pin to press the button for 1 second to reset the extender. After resetting, you will need to reconfigure the extender following the How to configure Range Extender via Tether APP.

Case 2: The Extender Stops Working After Changing the Host Router

If the host router was changed, you need to reset the extender and reconfigure it again.

Use a pin to press the button for 1 second to reset the extender. Once you reset, you will need to reconfigure the extender following the Set Up a Range Extender via the Tether App.

Case 3: The Extender Stops Working After Changing Some Settings on the Host Router

If you recently changed the settings on your host router, such as Access Control settings, channel, and so on, you may try checking and modifying them by following the instructions in Recommended Settings on the Host Router to Work Well With TP-Link Range Extenders.

If the troubleshooting steps are still not working, try upgrading the firmware to the latest version. You can refer to the How to Upgrade the Firmware of a TP-Link Range Extender for instructions on how to do this.

If the firmware update still does not resolve the issue, please contact support.

Before Contacting Support

Have the following information ready when you reach out:

• The LED status of the extender (you can take a photo)
• The IP address when the device (phone or laptop) is connected to the extender
• The IP address when the device (phone or laptop) is connected to the router
• The model number of your main router
• The firmware version of the extender