TPLink WiFi Extenders

Vitor

You need to check if an extender supports seamless handoff (the 802.11k/v/r standard). This allows devices to roam to the optimal access point offering the common SSID and is the basis for 'mesh' systems.

Unfortunately, the TP-Link TL-WPA4221 KIT AV600 doesn't appear to support seamless handoff so appending "_EXT" to the SSID seems to be the best option, albeit needing to change your WiFi connection on the mobi when moving about the house.

rmg1

In some semblance of order.....
Just done a factory reset of the extender and I see the SSID of the extender, connect to it and use the connection. I can see full bars on my wifi signal on my mobile (that I'm using for this entry).

According to the paperwork that came with it, I can clone my "original" wifi to the extender and use it. That's the bit I'm struggling with. 

I'm wondering if it's something to do with the WPA3 setup on my router that's causing the issue?

Edit 1 - I've just used the tplink app to change the SSID and password to match what's coming from my router and hit the same problem. Another factory reset, reconnect to the WiFi from the extender and all is good again.

Edit 2 - Just checked the other signals my phone can see as I'm wandering around, and it can see my original EE wifi. However, it says a WPA3 connection is required. Not sure if this is relevant or not

rmg1

In case it helps someone else, I've been on to tplink support and, after loads of troubleshooting, they've determined the adaptors I have are defective. Now waiting for RMA instructions 

jshm2

Have you got the system setup right? 

The small grey adapter is what you plug the router into, the large white adapter is where you want the signal to go. 

Give the system about 5 minutes once you switch it on, and then press the "pair" button on the white adaptor.

First thing to test is if you even have a connection. Plug your laptops ethernet cable into the white adaptors ethernet port. If it doesn't come on, then it usually means your house wiring is too old, or not able to work with a powerline system. 

If it does all go green, then quickest way to configure is via the tpplc app. DON'T name the extender(s) the same as your original SSID, 

I use these all the time for installs.  

rmg1

@jshm2 - I've confirmed with TP-Link themselves the system was set up correctly but they were defective when it comes to the WiFi.

I now need a set that will cope with WPA3 (that's what my router is currently using with no option to downgrade to WPA2) if anyone has any ideas on what I could use?
I need the WiFi extender but with two ethernet ports on the extender end (if that makes sense).

Robert619

Though your question seems a bit off, but here's a plausible answer that can help.  Your EE Smart Hub SH30A is set to WPA3-Personal-Transition mode. Some older extenders (including TP-Link models) do not fully support WPA3 and may struggle to function properly in this mode. Try changing your router's WiFi security mode to WPA2-Personal (AES) and see if that helps.

Frozen_up_north

"Try changing your router's WiFi security mode to WPA2-Personal (AES) and see if that helps"

Spot on Robert619, I doubt the TP-Link extender is faulty. I have several TP-Link devices and they all work flawlessly.