Setting up the Linksys WAP1200AC AC1200 Wi-Fi Access Point to Range Extender mode

The Linksys WAP1200AC AC1200 Wi-Fi Access Point can be set up as an Access Point (AP) or as a Range Extender.  This article will show you steps on how you can set up the Linksys WAP1200AC to Range Extender mode. 
 
Before you start the setup process, make sure to take note of the following:
  • An active 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz wireless network connection
  • Wireless network settings of your existing wireless network
    • wireless network name (SSID)
    • password or security Key
QUICK TIP:  If you have lost or forgotten your Wireless Network Settings, click here to know how to retrieve it.
 
Step 1:
Plug the Linksys WAP1200AC into a wall outlet.
 
NOTE:  Wait for the Light Emitting Diode (LED) to change to amber.  To learn more about this device’s LED behavior, click here.
 
Step 2:
Connect a wireless computer or a mobile device to Linksys AP Setup – xxx which is the Linksys WAP1200AC’s default SSID.  You should be connected into this network to start the setup process.
 
QUICK TIP:  xxx are the last three (3) characters of the access point’s MAC address.  The MAC address of your access point is located on the label at the back of the device. 
 
Step 3:
Open a web browser and enter http://ap.linksys.com or 192.168.1.1 in the Address bar to launch the setup.
 
Step 4:
Click Start Setup.

 
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Step 5:
Create and confirm an admin password.  You can also create a password hint (optional) to help you remember your password in the future.  Click Save once done.

 
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Step 6:
Select the As a wireless range extender option then click Next.
 
NOTE:  No Ethernet cable is needed for the Range Extender mode.

 
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Step 7:
Select your existing wireless networks and enter your password when prompted.
 
NOTE:  If you have a dual-band network, you should see the SSID of both bands.

 
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QUICK TIP:  If you have a hidden SSID, click Manually Enter Network Name and Password.  Otherwise, wait until it detects your wireless networks and select your network.
 
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Step 8:
Configure your extended network settings.  This is the wireless network name your wireless clients will connect to. 

NOTE:  You can use the same wireless name as your current SSID or enter a different wireless network name.

 
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Step 9:
The Spot Finder page only appears when in Range Extender mode.  This feature determines the signal strength between your range extender and your router.  If your range extender is too far, unplug and move it closer to your router.  Then, reconnect to the range extenders’ default SSID and go to http://ap.linksys.com to continue the setup.

 
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You should have set up your Linksys WAP1200AC now. 
 
QUICK TIP:  You can click Print this to secure a copy of your settings.

 
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When Linksys WAP1200AC is in Range Extender mode, the top header will read Dual Band Wireless Range Extender.  You can log in to the web-based setup page to view the updated top header name.  To learn how, click here.
 
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Alternatively, you can also configure the Linksys WAP1200AC to work in Access Point mode.  To learn how, click here.
 

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