This article will guide you on how to resolve wireless detection setup error while manually configure Linksys range extender (RE1000 or RE3000W) using a Windows computer/PC.
Scenario: My existing WiFi router is configured properly, why can’t my Linksys wireless range extender detect any wireless network when I try to set it up using a Windows computer/desktop/PC? It continuously shows me your Linksys extender setup instead requires a wireless connection page.
If you have encountered the same issue, then here are some possible fixes:
- Make sure that your Linksys range extender is within your router’s wireless range.
- Check whether the wireless capability of your computer is enabled.
- Get connected to the 2.4 GHz WiFi network.
- Keep your existing wireless router’s SSID (network name) visible.
Make sure that your Linksys range extender is within your router’s wireless range
Ensure that your Linksys WiFi range extender is within the range of your main wireless router. After a successful configuration, you can place your devices (router and the extender) according to your preference.
In addition, there might be third-party signal obstructions between your extender and the router. So, avoid placing your Linksys extender near metal objects, electronic appliances, masonry walls, reflective surfaces such as mirrors, cordless phone, and Bluetooth speakers.
On your computer’s taskbar, the Wireless Network Connection denoted by the wireless icon should show up. Otherwise, if you see the Local Area Connection denoted by the wired icon, disable it and use the wireless connection instead. Follow the steps below to learn how:
Check whether the wireless capability of your computer is enabled or not
Step 1:
- Right-click on the wired icon.
- Select Open Network and Sharing Center.
Step 2:
- Network Connections window will now open.
- Disable your Local Area Connection to ensure that the wired and wireless connections do not conflict with each other.
- Right-click on the Disable icon and select it.
Step 3:
- Make sure that the option ‘Wireless Network Connection’ (without quotes) is marked as enabled.
- In case, it is not, then right-click the Enable icon and select it.
Get connected to the 2.4 GHz WiFi network
If you own a dual-band WiFi router, then make sure that the 2.4GHz WiFi/wireless network is broadcasting properly. Your computer/PC/desktop should be connected to the 2.4GHz network. Please note this down that Linksys WiFi range extender setup (RE1000 and RE3000W) are not compatible with 5GHz WiFi network.
Step 1:
First of all, on your Desktop taskbar, please click on the wireless icon in order to view the list of available wireless connections that are active within the range of your Linksys extender.
Step 2:
Select the wireless SSID (network name) of your 2.4 GHz WiFi network.
Step 3:
Click on Connect.
Note: You can also click on the checkbox the ‘Connect automatically’ (without quotes) for your device (computer) to remember this wireless/WiFi network.
Step 4:
Wait for some time until the computer connects to the WiFi network successfully. When prompted, please enter a network security key (passphrase/password/passcode/passkey),
on the provided field and after that, click on OK.
Once you are connected successfully, a white wireless icon will be displayed.
Fab! You are now connected to your main WiFi router’s 2.4 GHz network.
Note: If you can’t connect to Linksys extender then it is requested – without any delay, please call our technical department at toll-free number 1-844-726-2255. We provide support for all Linksys devices.
Keep your existing wireless router’s SSID (network name) visible
One of the main reasons why Linksys range extender can’t detect your WiFi network is because – the main wireless router’s SSID (network name) may be disabled or hidden. As a matter of fact, the ‘Setup Wizard’ will not be will be unable to detect your router’s wireless network.
- If you have set your SSID previously as hidden, then you will need to set the router’s network name Broadcast feature to ‘Enabled’ (without quotes). In case you disable it, then you will not be able to access the Linksys smart WiFi login page.
Once done successfully, reconnect your device i.e. the computer and run the range Linksys extender’s smart ‘Setup Wizard’ again.