Quickly Add WPS Clients to Your Netgear Extender’s WiFi

Adding a WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) client to a Netgear range extender allows you to easily and securely connect devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops to the extended Wi-Fi network. The WPS feature enables quick setup of protected wireless networks without having to enter long passwords.

With most modern Wi-Fi devices having WPS capability, it provides a very convenient way to get clients connected to the range extender’s SSID. The WPS exchange automatically negotiates the security, encrypts the connection, and joins the network without user intervention.

   

WPS has become an essential feature for range extenders as they are often deployed in locations where it may be difficult to access physically. By using WPS, you can wirelessly add clients to the extended network from anywhere within range. For example, you can be downstairs near the range extender and still easily connect your phone which is upstairs.

The importance of WPS is further enhanced with the latest WPA3 security protocol. WPA3 uses much longer and complex passphrases that are impractical to enter on client devices. With WPS, the passphrase exchange is automated securing the connection with WPA3 encryption.

In this article, we will go through the steps required to add a WPS client to your Netgear range extender. This will allow any WPS-enabled device to securely join the extended Wi-Fi network.

What is a WPS Client?

A WPS client refers to a device that can connect to a WPS-enabled wireless router or access point like a Netgear range extender. The WPS client uses the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) protocol to establish a secure connection and join the network.

Common examples of WPS client devices include

• Smartphones – Most modern Android and iOS phones have WPS capability. This allows them to easily connect to the extended network.
• Tablets – Both Android and iOS tablets are equipped with WPS making connecting seamless.
• Laptops – Many Wifi-enabled laptops, especially newer models, come with native WPS support.
• Smart speakers – Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home can be added as WPS clients to your WiFi network.
• Smart TVs – Modern smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku allow WPS connections.
• Gaming consoles – Playstation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch support connecting using WPS.

The key advantage of WPS is that it allows these clients to securely connect to the network without needing to type in the long WPA/WPA2 wireless password. The WPS handshake automatically negotiates the SSID and passphrase. The connection is also secured using the latest encryption standard supported by the device, such as WPA3.

WPS capability is usually denoted by a WPS logo or button on the client device. The hardware push button or software WPS option triggers the protocol to connect. Once successfully connected via WPS, the client will be able to access the extended wireless network.

   

What is Needed Prior to Adding a WPS Client?

There are a few important requirements that must be met before you can add a WPS client to your Netgear range extender. Ensuring these conditions are satisfied will help make the WPS process smooth and successful.

• WPS-enabled extender – First, confirm that your Netgear range extender actually supports WPS. This allows it to initiate the protocol when its WPS button is pressed. Most modern Netgear extenders have WPS, but double-check the specifications for your model to verify.
• WPS-capable client – Naturally, the device you want to connect to the extender like a phone or laptop needs to have WPS capability. There should be a WPS logo, button, or menu option on the client to activate the secure handshake.
• Updated firmware – Make sure the range extender has the latest firmware installed. Outdated firmware can cause issues with the WPS exchange. Visit Netgear’s website and check if there are new firmware updates available for your device.
• Extender powered on – The range extender must be powered on and booted up before initiating WPS. The extender needs to broadcast its SSID in order for the client to find and connect to it.
• Connected to router – Confirm that your extender is connected to your main router’s network. This connection is required in order to extend the network to the WPS client device.
• Within range – The client needs to be within the wireless coverage range of the extender to connect. The recommended distance is closer than 25-50 feet for a reliable connection.

Once you’ve verified these conditions, you’ll be ready to start the WPS process and securely add your client device. Having the right setup will allow a smooth and fast connection.

   

How to Add WPS Client on Netgear Range Extender?

Follow these steps carefully and the WPS client will securely connect to your Netgear extender without needing to type in the wireless password manually. The encryption negotiated will also be the most secure standard supported.

Article you might be intrested in: Troubleshooting: Tips for Netgear Extender Not Connecting to Computer

   

Conclusion

Adding a WPS client to a Netgear range extender provides a quick and easy way to connect devices to the extended wireless network. It eliminates the need to enter long WPA passphrases. With just a press of the WPS button, the client is securely connected.

Just make sure your extender has WPS capability, the client device is WPS-enabled, firmware is updated, and the extender is powered on before starting the WPS process. Initiating WPS and allowing the negotiation to complete will establish the connection.

   

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