Netgear orporated 16100335 AC 1200 WiFi Range Extender User Manual AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Model EX6200

Netgear Incorporated AC 1200 WiFi Range Extender AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Model EX6200

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350 East Plumeria DriveSan Jose, CA 95134 USAMarch 2016202-11298-06AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderModel EX6200User Manual

3Table of ContentsChapter 1 OverviewUnpack Your Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Top Panel LEDs and Front Panel USB Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Rear Panel Ports, Buttons, Antennas, and Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Attach the Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Attach the Rubber Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Retrieve and Display the Product Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12When to Use Your Extender. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13How the Extender Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Support for the 801.11ac Networking Standard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Chapter 2 Get StartedUse the Extender in Extender Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Set Up the Extender Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Connect to an Existing WiFi Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Connect Ethernet-Enabled Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Use the Extender in Access Point Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Access Extender Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Run Smart Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Chapter 3 Optimize Extender PerformanceBoost Your Video Streaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Adjust the WiFi Coverage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Chapter 4 Extender Network SettingsView Connected Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29View WiFi Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Change the WiFi Network Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Turn Off the SSID Broadcast to Create a Hidden Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Disable or Enable the WiFi Radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Change the WiFi Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Use WPS to Add a Computer to the Extender’s WiFi Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Use WPS with the Push Button Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Use WPS with the PIN Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Deny Access to a Computer or WiFi Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Set Up an Access Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Change the Extender’s Device Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Set Up the Extender to Use a Static IP Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

5 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderAppendix A Factory Settings and Technical SpecificationsFactory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Technical and Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

611. OverviewYour extender boosts your existing network range and speed, delivering dual-band WiFi. The extender combines excellent range with maximum WiFi performance.You can also use the extender in access point mode as a WiFi access point and create a new WiFi hotspot by using a wired Ethernet connection.This chapter covers the following topics:•Unpack Your Extender•Top Panel LEDs and Front Panel USB Port•Rear Panel Ports, Buttons, Antennas, and Connector•Attach the Stand•Attach the Rubber Feet•When to Use Your Extender•How the Extender Works•Support for the 801.11ac Networking StandardNote: For more information about the topics covered in this manual, visit the support website at support.netgear.com.Note: Firmware updates with new features and bug fixes are made available from time to time on downloadcenter.netgear.com. Some products can regularly check the site and download new firmware, or you can check for and download new firmware manually.

Overview 7 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderUnpack Your ExtenderYour box contains the following items.PowerSnap-on stand Four rubber feetExtenderadapterFigure 1. Package contentsTop Panel LEDs and Front Panel USB PortUse the LEDs during installation to find the best location for the extender or to monitor the extender performance. The following figure shows the extender in upright position, with the stand attached. (For information about attaching the stand, see Attach the Stand on page 10.)2.4 GHz Link Rate LED5 GHz Link Rate LEDDevice to Extender LEDLAN LEDs (1 through 5)USB LEDUSB 3.0 port (on the front panel)Figure 2. Top panel LEDs and front panel USB port

Overview 8AC1200 WiFi Range Extender The following table describes the LEDs.Table 1. Front panel LEDsLED Description2.4 GHz Link Rate LEDGreen. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is optimum.Note: If you press the WPS button on the rear panel of the extender, the LED blinks green for two minutes.Amber. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is good.Note: This LED also lights amber during the startup process of the extender. After about one minute, the LED lights green or turns off, depending on the WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi network.Red. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is poor. Off. The extender and the WiFi router do not have a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection.5 GHz Link Rate LEDGreen. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is optimum.Note: If you press the WPS button on the rear panel of the extender, the LED blinks green for two minutes.Amber. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is good.Note: This LED also lights amber during the startup process of the extender. After about one minute, the LED lights green or turns off, depending on the WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi network.Red. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is poor. Off. The extender and the WiFi router do not have a 5 GHz WiFi connection.LAN LEDs (1 through 5)Green. An Ethernet device is connected to the LAN port. Off. No Ethernet device is connected to the LAN port.

Overview 9 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderRear Panel Ports, Buttons, Antennas, and ConnectorThe following figure shows the ports, buttons, antennas, and connector on the rear panel of the extender.Restore Factory Settings buttonEthernet LAN ports Power connectorOn/Off buttonWPS buttonTwo preinstalled 5dBi antennasFigure 3. Rear panelDevice to Extender LEDGreen. The extender is connected to a computer or WiFi device.Note: If you press the WPS button on the rear panel of the extender, the LED blinks green for two minutes. Amber. The extender is starting or is applying WiFi settings. After about one minute, the LED turns green. During the startup process, both Link Rate LEDs also light amber. After about one minute, these LED light green or turn off, depending on the WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi network.Note: The Device to Extender LED blinks amber during a firmware update. Off. The extender is not connected to a computer or WiFi device.USB LED Solid green. A USB device is connected to the USB port. Off. No USB device is connected to the USB port.Table 1. Front panel LEDsLED Description

Overview 10AC1200 WiFi Range Extender The antennas are preinstalled. In the unlikely situation that an antenna is loose, you must tighten it. (A loose antenna could affect the performance of the extender.)To tighten an antenna:1. Straighten the antenna.2. Turn the antenna clockwise until tightened.After you have tightened the antenna, you can change its position.Attach the StandIf you prefer to place the extender in upright (vertical) position, attach the stand that comes with the extender. Although the extender functions well in either horizontal or vertical position, a horizontal position might give a better performance.Figure 4. Attaching the stand

Overview 11 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderTo attach the stand:1. Place the stand on a flat surface.2. Hold the extender in upright position with the left side of the extender pointing down. (The left side has three rectangular openings.)The top panel of the extender and the three vertical support posts of the stand must face the same direction.3. Lower the extender onto the stand until the support posts of the stand snap into the rectangular openings of the extender.Attach the Rubber FeetIf you prefer to place the extender in horizontal position, you can attach the rubber feet that come with the extender. Figure 5. Attaching the rubber feetTo attach the rubber feet:1. Place the extender upside down, with the red panel facing you. (The red panel is the bottom.)2. In each corner, attach a rubber foot in such a way that it covers the triangle.

Overview 12AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Retrieve and Display the Product LabelThe product label that you can retrieve from the bottom panel of the extender contains the preset login information, serial number, security pin, MAC addresses of the radios, and other information.To retrieve the product label from the extender:1. Place the extender upside down, with the red panel facing you. (The red panel is the bottom.)2. Locate the label handle with NETGEAR printed on it, and pull out the product label.Label handleFigure 6. Pulling out the product labelPreset login informationSerial numberSecurity pinMAC address of the 2.4 GHz radioMAC address of the 5 GHz radioFigure 7. Product label

Overview 13 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderWhen to Use Your ExtenderNETGEAR recommends that you connect to the extender only when your existing home network connection is poor. Data traffic routed through the extender is inherently slower than traffic routed directly from the network.NETGEAR recommends that you connect through the extender network only when the WiFi device is in a “dead zone” where connection from the existing network is poor or nonexistent.How the Extender WorksThe extender works like a bridge between a WiFi router (or a WiFi access point) and a WiFi device outside the range of the WiFi router. The extender performs two main jobs:•The extender connects to a WiFi network that is up and running.When the extender connects over WiFi to an existing network, it functions as a network client, similar to how a WiFi device connects to a network.•The extender acts as an access point for WiFi devices. The extender broadcasts its own WiFi network that WiFi devices can join. In its role as an access point, the extender performs tasks that WiFi routers do, such as broadcasting its network name (SSID).The extender must do each of these jobs so that both ends of the bridge are in place.Existing WiFiSometimes your router does not provide the WiFi coverage you need.WiFi Range ExtenderBoosts the range of your existing WiFi and creates a stronger signal in hard-to-reach areas.Figure 8. Range extender in a home

Overview 14AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Support for the 801.11ac Networking StandardThe extender supports the 802.11ac networking standard. This new standard offers better speed, improved reliability, and more range than older WiFi networking standards.The extender is backward compatible with earlier WiFi standards. However, to get the benefits of 802.11ac, your WiFi router must support the 802.11ac WiFi networking standard.To learn more about the 802.11ac WiFi networking standard, visit http://www.netgear.com/landing/80211ac/.Figure 9. Speed comparison between the 802.11n and 802.11ac standards

1522. Get StartedThis chapter covers the following topics: •Use the Extender in Extender Mode •Use the Extender in Access Point Mode •Access Extender Settings •Run Smart Setup

Get Started 16AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Use the Extender in Extender ModeThe extender repeats signals from an existing WiFi router or access point. Place the extender, apply power, and connect the extender to your WiFi network. Note: You can also use the extender as a WiFi access point and create a new WiFi hotspot by using a wired Ethernet connection. See Use the Extender in Access Point Mode on page 21.Set Up the Extender HardwareTo set up the extender hardware:1. Attach the stand or the rubber feet.For more information, see Attach the Stand on page 10 or Attach the Rubber Feet on page 11.2. Place your extender in the same room as your WiFi router.Proximity to the WiFi router is required only during the initial setup process.3. Connect the power adapter to the extender and plug it into an electrical outlet.Wait for the Power LED to light green.If the Power LED does not light green, press the Power On/Off button on the extender.The Link Rate LEDs and the Device to Extender LED light amber and then turn off.Connect to an Existing WiFi NetworkTo extend the range of your WiFi network, you must connect the extender to your existing WiFi network. You can do this in one of two ways:•Connect with WPS. For more information, see Connect with WPS on page 16.•Connect with web browser setup. For more information, see Connect with Web Browser Setup on page 18.Connect with WPSYou can use WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) to connect the extender to your WiFi router without typing your existing router’s WiFi network name (SSID) or WiFi password. If you do not want to use WPS, see Connect with Web Browser Setup on page 18.To use WPS to connect the extender to your WiFi router:1. Make sure that the extender is powered on.

Get Started 17 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender2. Press the WPS button on the extender.Both Link Rate LEDs and the Device to Extender LED blink green for two minutes.3. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your WiFi router.When the extender connects to your existing WiFi network, the WPS LED on the extender lights and the Link Rate LED lights. If the Link Rate LED does not light, try again. If it still does not light, see Connect with Web Browser Setup on page 18.4. If your WiFi router supports the 5 GHz band, repeat Steps 1 and 2 to connect the extender to the 5 GHz band.5. Unplug the extender and move it to a new location that is about halfway between your router and the area with a poor router WiFi signal.DO DON’TThe location that you choose must be within the range of your existing WiFi router network.6. Plug the extender’s power adapter into an electrical outlet and wait for the Power LED to light green. 7. Use the Link Rate LEDs to help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router connection is optimal.8. If a Link Rate LED does not light amber or green, plug the extender’s power adapter into an outlet closer to the router and try again.Keep moving the extender to outlets closer to the router until a Link Rate LED lights amber or green.9. On your computer or WiFi device, find and connect to the new extended WiFi network.The extender creates two new extended WiFi networks. The extender’s new WiFi network names are based on your existing WiFi network name, with _EXT at the end of the name.For example:•Existing WiFi network name. MyNetworkName•New extended network names. MyNetworkName_2GEXT and MyNetworkName_5GEXTUse the same WiFi password that you use for your WiFi router.10. Test the extended WiFi range by moving your computer or WiFi device to the area with a poor router WiFi signal:

Get Started 18AC1200 WiFi Range Extender a. Leave your computer or WiFi device in the area with a poor router WiFi signal and return to the extender.b. Check the Device to Extender LED on the extender: •If the Device to Extender LED is solid green or amber, your extended WiFi network reaches the area with a poor router WiFi signal and your network setup is complete.•If the Device to Extender LED is red, your extended WiFi network does not reach the area with a poor router WiFi signal.You must move the computer or WiFi device closer to the extender until the Device to Extender LED turns solid green or amber.Connect with Web Browser Setup1. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or WiFi device to find and connect to the NETGEAR_EXT (SSID) WiFi network.After the connection with the computer or WiFi device is established, the Device to Extender LED lights solid green.2. Launch a web browser.3. Enter www.mywifiext.net in the address field of the browser.A login window opens.4. Click the NEW EXTENDER SETUP button.5. Complete the fields on the page and click the NEXT button.6. Select the WiFi Range Extender button.

Get Started 19 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderThe extender searches for WiFi networks in your area and displays a list.7. Select a WiFi network to extend and click the NEXT button.If you do not want to extend both WiFi bands, clear the 2.4GHz WiFi Networks or the 5 GHz WiFi Networks check box.8. In the Password (Network Key) field, type the existing WiFi network password (also called passphrase or security key) and click the NEXT button9. Set the network name (SSID) and password for your new extender WiFi network and click the NEXT button.Wait for the page to display a list of available extended WiFi networks, which could take up to one minute.10. Connect the computer or WiFi device to the new extended WiFi network using the SSID and password that you created in Step 9.Note: To connect additional devices, repeat Step 10.11. Make sure that your computer or WiFi device is connected before you click the Continue button.12. Click the Continue button.A message displays confirming that the extender is connected and ready.13. Click the Next button.The registration page displays.14. Complete the registration fields and click the Finish button to complete the setup.If you do not want to register your extender, click the Skip Registration link. Note that you must register your extender before you can use NETGEAR telephone support.The Status page displays.15. Unplug the extender and move it to a new location that is about halfway between your router and the area with a poor router WiFi signal.DO DON’TThe location that you choose must be within the range of your existing WiFi router network.16. Plug the extender into an electrical outlet and wait for the Power LED to light green. 17. Use the Link Rate LEDs to help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router connection is optimal.

Get Started 20AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 18. If the Link Rate LEDs do not light amber or green, plug the extender’s adapter into an outlet closer to the router and try again.Keep moving the extender to outlets closer to the router until a Link Rate LED lights amber or green.19. Reconnect your computer or WiFi device to the new extended WiFi network.20. Test the extended WiFi range by moving your computer or WiFi device to the area with a poor router WiFi signal:a. Leave your computer or WiFi device in the area with a poor router WiFi signal and return to the extender.b. Check the Device to Extender LED on the extender: •If the Device to Extender LED is solid green or amber, your extended WiFi network reaches the area with a poor router WiFi signal and your network setup is complete.•If the Device to Extender LED is red, your extended WiFi network does not reach the area with a poor router WiFi signal.You must move the computer or WiFi device closer to the extender until the Device to Extender LED turns solid green or amber.Connect Ethernet-Enabled DevicesAfter the extender is connected to your existing WiFi network, you can connect wired devices to the extender using Ethernet cables. Those devices can then access your existing network through the extender’s WiFi connection. Figure 10. Connect an Ethernet-enabled device to an Ethernet LAN port

Get Started 21 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderUse the Extender in Access Point ModeYou can use the extender as a WiFi access point, which creates a new WiFi hotspot by using a wired Ethernet connection.To install the extender as an access point:1. Attach the stand or the rubber feet.For more information, see Attach the Stand on page 10 or Attach the Rubber Feet on page 11.2. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your router to the Ethernet port on the extender.EthernetExtender Ethernet LAN portWiFi router3. Turn on your extender.Plug the extender into an electrical outlet. Press the Power button if necessary.The Link Rate LEDs and the Device to Extender LED light amber and then turn off.4. Use a WiFi network manager on a computer or WiFi device to find and connect to the NETGEAR_EXT (SSID) WiFi network.After the connection with the computer or WiFi device is established, the Device to Extender LED lights solid green.Note: In access point mode, you can connect your computer or WiFi device to the extender only using a WiFi connection.5. Launch a web browser.6. Enter www.mywifiext.net in the address field of the browser.

Get Started 22AC1200 WiFi Range Extender The first time that you log in to the extender, the Create Account page displays.7. Complete the fields and click the NEXT button.8. Click the ACCESS POINT button.The extender checks for an Internet connection through the router that you connected to the extender.9. When prompted, set the network name (SSID), security option, and password for each WiFi band, and click the NEXT button.Your settings are applied and the extender is ready to be used as an access point.10. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or WiFi device to connect to the new access point WiFi network.11. Click the Continue button.A page displays that says you successfully created an access point.12. Click the Next button.The registration page displays.13. Follow the onscreen instructions to register your extender.

Get Started 23 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderAccess Extender SettingsAfter installation, you can log in to the extender to view or change the extender’s settings.To log in to the extender:1. Use a WiFi network manager on a computer or WiFi device to find and connect to the new extended WiFi network.After the connection with the computer or WiFi device is established, the Device to Extender LED lights solid green.2. Launch a web browser.3. Enter www.mywifiext.net in the address field of the browser.A login window opens.4. Enter your user name and password.The Status page displays.Run Smart SetupYou can use Smart Setup to change the extender settings. This is an easy way to connect the extender to a different router or to change the extender WiFi network name (SSID) or WiFi password.To run Smart Setup:1. Use a WiFi network manager on a computer or WiFi device to find and connect to the new extended WiFi network.After the connection with the computer or WiFi device is established, the Device to Extender LED lights solid green.2. Launch a web browser.3. Enter www.mywifiext.net in the address field of the browser.A login window opens.4. Enter your user name and password.The Status page displays.5. Click the SMART SETUP button.The Welcome page displays.6. Click the WIFI RANGE EXTENDER button.The extender scans for WiFi signals and finds the WiFi networks in your area and displays a list.

Get Started 24AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 7. If you do not want to extend both WiFi bands, clear the 2.4GHz WiFi Networks or the 5 GHz WiFi Networks check box.8. Select your WiFi network and click the NEXT button.9. When prompted, enter the password to connect to your WiFi network and click the NEXT button.The extender connects to your existing router’s WiFi network.10. When prompted, complete the fields to name your extended networks and click the NEXT button.The extender applies your settings to its WiFi network names and WiFi passwords. During this change, the extender disconnects you from its WiFi network.The following page displays:11. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or WiFi device to connect to the new extended WiFi network and click the Continue button.12. Click the Next button.The Status page displays.

2533. Optimize Extender PerformanceThis chapter covers the following topics: •Boost Your Video Streaming •Adjust the WiFi Coverage

Optimize Extender Performance 26AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Boost Your Video StreamingGet the most out of your HD entertainment with FastLane technology. With FastLane technology, the extender connects to your router using one band and connects to your devices using another band. Because a band is dedicated to each function, performance is enhanced.If all your devices and your WiFi router support only the 2.4 GHz band, or all your devices and your WiFi router support only the 5 GHz band, do not enable FastLane Technology.When you enable FastLane Technology, two options are available:•Use the 2.4 GHz band to connect the extender to the WiFi devices and use the 5 GHz band to connect the extender to the WiFi router. Use this mode if your WiFi router supports the 5 GHz band but the devices that you want to use for gaming and streaming support the 2.4 GHz band.•Use the 5 GHz band to connect the extender to the WiFi devices and use the 2.4 GHz band to connect the extender to the WiFi router. Use this mode if the devices that you want to use for gaming and streaming support the 5 GHz band but your WiFi router supports the 2.4 GHz band.To activate FastLane mode:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Do More > FastLane.

Optimize Extender Performance 27 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender6. Select a radio button:•Router-to-Extender in 2.4 GHz only and Extender-to-Device in 5 GHz only. •Router to Extender in 5 GHz only and Extender-to-Device in 2.4 GHz only. 7. Click the Save button.Your changes are saved.Adjust the WiFi CoverageYou can set the extender’s WiFi coverage depending on how large you want your coverage area to be.To adjust the WiFi coverage:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Do More > WiFi Coverage.6. Select a Wireless Output Power radio button.If your extender is covering a small area, select a lower-output power percentage. If your extender is covering a large area, select a higher-output power percentage.7. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.

2844. Extender Network SettingsThis chapter covers the following topics: •View Connected Devices •View WiFi Settings •Change the WiFi Network Name •Turn Off the SSID Broadcast to Create a Hidden Network •Disable or Enable the WiFi Radios •Change the WiFi Speed •Use WPS to Add a Computer to the Extender’s WiFi Network •Deny Access to a Computer or WiFi Device •Set Up an Access Schedule •Change the Extender’s Device Name •Set Up the Extender to Use a Static IP Address •Use the Extender with MAC Filtering or Access Control

Extender Network Settings 29 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderView Connected DevicesYou can view a list of devices that are connected to the extender network.To view connected devices:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Connected Devices.View WiFi SettingsTo view the WiFi settings:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 30AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 5. Select Settings > Wireless.Change the WiFi Network NameTo change the WiFi network name:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 31 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender5. Select Settings > Wireless.6. In each Network Name (SSID) field, type a network name.7. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Turn Off the SSID Broadcast to Create a Hidden NetworkBy default, the extender broadcasts its WiFi signal so that its wireless network names (SSIDs) are easy for you to find and connect to from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can turn off the SSID broadcast to create a hidden WiFi network. To connect to a hidden network you must know its SSID and password and manually enter them.To turn off the SSID broadcast to create a hidden network:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 32AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 5. Select Settings > Wireless.6. Clear the Broadcast the Network name (SSID) check box.7. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Disable or Enable the WiFi RadiosBy default, the extender’s WiFi radios broadcast signals in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. If you disable the WiFi radios, then no one can connect with WiFi to the extender. To disable or enable the WiFi radios:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 33 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender5. Select Settings > Wireless.6. Select or clear the Enable 2.4 GHz WiFi check box.7. Select or clear the Enable 5 GHz WiFi check box.8. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Change the WiFi SpeedTo change the WiFi speed:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 34AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 5. Select Settings > Wireless.6. In each WiFi Speed menu, select a speed.7. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Use WPS to Add a Computer to the Extender’s WiFi NetworkWPS (WiFi Protected Setup) lets you connect a computer or WiFi device to the extender’s network without entering the WiFi network passphrase or key. Instead, you use a WPS button or enter a PIN to connect.If you use the push button method, the WiFi device that you are trying to connect must include a physical push button or a software button. If you use the PIN method, you must know the PIN of the WiFi device that you are trying to connect.WPS supports WPA and WPA2 WiFi security. If your extender network is open (no WiFi security is set), connecting with WPS automatically sets WPA + WPA2 WiFi security on the extender network and generates a random passphrase. You can view this passphrase on the WiFi Settings page (for more information, see View WiFi Settings on page 29).For information about using WPS to connect the extender to a WiFi network during setup, see Use the Extender in Access Point Mode on page 21.

Extender Network Settings 35 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderUse WPS with the Push Button MethodTo use the Push Button method to connect a WiFi device to the extender’s WiFi network, the WiFi device that you are trying to connect must have a physical push button or a software push button.To use WPS to add a computer or WiFi device to the extender’s WiFi network:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Do More > Connect Devices (WPS).6. Leave the Push Button (recommended) radio button selected.7. Click the WIFI PROTECTED SETUP (WPS) button.Both Link Rate LEDs and the Device to Extender LED blink green for two minutes.For two minutes, the extender attempts to add the computer or WiFi device to its WiFi network. 8. Within two minutes, go to the computer WiFi device and press or click its WPS button.9. To verify that the WiFi device is connected to the extender’s WiFi network, select Settings > Connected Devices.The WiFi device displays onscreen.Use WPS with the PIN MethodTo use the PIN method to connect a WiFi device to the extender’s WiFi network, you must know the PIN of the WiFi device that you are trying to connect.

Extender Network Settings 36AC1200 WiFi Range Extender To add a computer or WiFi device to the extender’s WiFi network:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Do More > Connect Devices (WPS). The Connect Devices (WPS) page displays.6. Select the PIN Number radio button.7. Type the PIN of the WiFi device in the field.8. Click the NEXT button.For four minutes, the extender attempts to find the computer or WiFi device.9. Within four minutes, go to the WiFi device and use its WPS software to join the WiFi network.10. To verify that the WiFi device is connected to the extender’s WiFi network, select Settings > Connected Devices.The WiFi device displays onscreen.Deny Access to a Computer or WiFi DeviceBy default, access control is disabled so that it is easy for you to connect to the extender’s WiFi networks.You can deny network access to specific computers and WiFi devices based on their MAC addresses. Each network device is assigned a MAC address, which is a unique 12-character physical address, containing the hexadecimal characters 0–9, a–f, or A–F only, and separated by colons (for example, 00:09:AB:CD:EF:01). Typically, the MAC address is on the label of the WiFi device. If you cannot access the label, you can display the MAC address using the network configuration utilities of the computer. You might also find the MAC addresses on the Connected Devices page (see View Connected Devices on page 29).

Extender Network Settings 37 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderTo use WiFi access control to deny access:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Connected Devices.6. In the WiFi Devices section, select the Enable Access Control check box.The WiFi devices table displays the name and MAC address of WiFi devices that are connected to the extender.7. Select the Deny check box for the device.8. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved and that device cannot connect to the extender’s WiFi network.Set Up an Access ScheduleYou can control access to all users during specific periods of the day. You can set up an access schedule that prevents Internet access through the extender network based on the times that you set.

Extender Network Settings 38AC1200 WiFi Range Extender To set up an access schedule:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Do More > Access Schedule.6. Select the Access Schedule On radio button.The page adjusts.7. In the Days menu and the Time menu, select the days and time when you want to disable Internet access.8. Click the Add Time button to add the time that you specified to the Scheduled Times table.9. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Change the Extender’s Device NameThe default name is EX6200.To change the extender’s device name:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.

Extender Network Settings 39 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender5. Select Settings > WiFi Settings.The WiFi Settings page displays.6. Scroll down and click the IP Address heading to expand the IP address settings.7. In the Device Name field, type a name.8. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Set Up the Extender to Use a Static IP AddressThe extender comes set up to use a dynamic IP address, which is the correct setting for most home networks. To set up the extender to use a static IP address:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > WiFi Settings.The WiFi Settings page displays.

Extender Network Settings 40AC1200 WiFi Range Extender 6. Scroll down and click the IP Address heading to expand the IP address settings.By default, the Dynamically get IP Address from Router radio button is selected.7. Select the Use Static IP Address radio button.8. Complete the fields to specify the IP network IP addresses.9. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Use the Extender with MAC Filtering or Access ControlWhen the WiFi device connects through the extender to your router, the MAC address of the wireless device that is shown on the router is translated to another MAC address. If your router's MAC filter, wireless access control, or ACL is enabled, the WiFi device connects to the extender but cannot get an IP address from the extender and cannot access the Internet. To allow the wireless device to receive an IP address from the extender and access the Internet, you must provide the translated MAC address to the router.To add a translated MAC address to your router:1. Log in to your router and disable the MAC filter, wireless access control, or ACL.For more information about how to disable your router’s MAC filter, wireless access control, or ACL, see your router’s documentation.2. Power on the extender and connect all of your WiFi devices to the extender.3. Make sure that the Link Rate LED remains lit.4. Log in to your extender:a. Launch a web browser.b. Enter www.mywifiext.net in the address field of the browser.A login window opens.c. Enter your user name and password.5. Click the Menu icon .

Extender Network Settings 41 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderThe extender menu displays.6. Select Settings > Connected Devices.The Connected Devices section displays the MAC addresses and virtual MAC addresses for computers and WiFi devices that are connected to the extender network.7. On the router, add the extender’s virtual MAC address and all the virtual MAC addresses connected to the extender network to your router’s MAC filter table.8. Enable the router’s MAC filter, wireless access control, or ACL.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 43 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderChange the Extender User Name and PasswordYou can change the user name and password to log in to the extender.To add an extender user:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Password.6. In the New User Name field, type an user name.7. Type the password in the New Password field and the Verify Password field.8. Select questions and answers.9. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 44AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Turn Password Protection Off and OnNETGEAR recommends that you leave password protection on to help keep your network secure. You can turn password protection off and on.To turn password protection off and on:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Password.The Password Settings page displays.6. Select the Password Off or Password On radio button.7. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Recover a Forgotten User Name or PasswordIf you changed the password to access the extender and set up password recovery, you can recover your password if you lose it. To recover your password to access the extender:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. You are prompted to enter a user name and password.3. Click the Username & Password Help link.A page displays requesting the answers to your security questions.4. Enter the saved answers to your security questions.5. Click the NEXT button.Your email and password are displayed.6. Click the BACK button.A login window opens.7. Log in to the extender.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 45 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderAutomatically Adjust for Daylight Saving TimeTo set up the extender to automatically adjust for daylight saving time:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Do More > Access Schedule.The Access Schedule page displays.6. Select the Automatically adjust for daylight savings time check box.7. click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.Manually Set the Extender ClockTo manually set the extender clock:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Do More > Access Schedule.The Access Schedule page displays.6. In the Extender Clock section, select the Manual radio button.7. To specify the time, complete the fields or click the Sync Clock button to synchronize the extender time to the time on the computer or WiFi device that you are using.8. Click the SAVE button.Your settings are saved.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 46AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Back Up and Manage the Extender ConfigurationWhen the extender works correctly after initial setup, NETGEAR recommends that you back up the extender configuration settings. After you have back up the settings, if you change the extender configuration settings but are not content with the new settings, you can restore the extender configuration to the backed-up settings.Back Up the Configuration SettingsYou can back up the configuration file of the extender.To back up the extender configuration settings:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Other.6. Click the Backup button.Your browser extracts the configuration file from the extender. By default, the name of the backup file is NETGEAR_Ex6200.cfg.7. If your browser is not set up to save downloaded files automatically, locate where you want to save the file.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 47 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderRestore the Configuration SettingsYou can restore the configuration file of the extender to a previously saved configuration file.To restore the extender configuration settings:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Other Settings.6. Click the Browse button.7. Locate and select the previously saved backup file.By default, the name of the backup file is NETGEAR_EX6200.cfg.CAUTION:After you click the Restore button, do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender until it finishes restarting! 8. Click the Restore button. A confirmation pop-up window opens.9. Confirm your decision.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 48AC1200 WiFi Range Extender The extender configuration is restored and the extender restarts. This process takes about one minute.Return the Extender to Its Factory Default SettingsUnder some circumstances (for example, if you lose track of the changes that you made to the extender settings), you might want to erase the configuration and reset the extender to factory default settings.To reset the extender to factory default settings, you can either use the Restore Factory Settings button on the rear panel or log in to the extender and reset it. For a list of factory default settings, see Factory Default Settings on page 76.To use the Restore Factory Settings button to return the extender to factory default settings:CAUTION:This process erases any settings that you configured in the extender.1. Insert a straightened paper clip into the hole of the Restore Factory Settings button and hold it for about seven seconds.Restore FactorySettings button2. Release the button.CAUTION:Do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender until it finishes restarting! The extender resets and restarts. This process takes about one minute.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 49 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderTo log in to the extender and reset the extender’s to factory settings:CAUTION:This process erases any settings that you configured in the extender.1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Other.CAUTION:After you click the Erase button, do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender until it finishes restarting! 6. Click the Reset button. A confirmation pop-up window opens.7. Confirm your decision.The extender returns to its factory settings and restarts. This process takes about one minute.

Maintain and Monitor the Extender 50AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Update the FirmwareUnless you changed the settings in the Firmware Update page previously, the extender is set up to check for new firmware automatically at login.To check manually for new firmware and, if available, update the firmware:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.5. Select Settings > Firmware Update.6. Click the Check Online button.7. If new firmware is available, follow the onscreen prompts to download it onto your computer.Note: You might need to unzip the firmware file.8. Click the Browse button.9. Locate and select the new firmware file.The firmware file name ends with a .chk extension.CAUTION:After you click the Upload button, do not try to go online, turn off the extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender until it finishes restarting! 10. Click the Upload button.The firmware update starts and the extender restarts. The firmware update process takes a couple of minutes.

5266. Share a USB Storage DeviceThis chapter describes how to access and configure a USB storage drive attached to your extender. The USB port on the extender can be used only to connect USB storage devices such as flash drives or hard drives, or a printer. Do not connect computers, USB modems, CD drives, or DVD drives to the extender USB port.This chapter contains the following sections:•USB Storage Device Requirements•Access a USB Storage Device Attached to the Extender•Turn the USB Port Off and On•Add a Network Folder on a USB Drive•Password-Protect a Folder on a USB Storage Device•Use the Extender USB Port to Share a Printer

$Share a USB Storage Device 53 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderUSB Storage Device RequirementsThe extender works with most USB-compliant external flash and hard drives. For the most up-to-date list of USB drives that the extender supports, visit http://kbserver.netgear.com/readyshare.Some USB external hard drives and flash drives require you to load the drivers onto the computer before the computer can access the USB device. Such USB devices do not work with the extender.The extender supports the following file system types for full read and write access:•FAT16, FAT32•NTFS•NTFS with compression format enabled•Ext2•Ext3•Ext4•HFS•HFS+Note: Do not connect computers, USB modems, CD drives, or DVD drives to the extender USB port.Share Files Across Your WiFi NetworkYou can share data that is stored on most common USB storage devices across your WiFi network with ReadySHARE® USB Storage Access.To access your USB device from a Windows computer:1. Insert your USB device into the USB 3.0 port on the extender.2. If your USB device includes a power supply, you must use it when you connect the USB device to the extender.When you connect the USB device to the extender USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB device is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).3. Select Start > Run.4. Enter \\readyshare in the dialog box and click the OK button.A page automatically opens and displays the files and folders on the device.$

$Share a USB Storage Device 54AC1200 WiFi Range Extender To access your USB device from a Mac:1. Insert your USB device into the USB 3.0 port on the extender.If your USB device includes a power supply, you must use it when you connect the USB device to the extender.When you connect the USB device to the extender USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB device is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).2. On a Mac that is connected to the network, launch Finder and select Go > Connect to Server.3. In the Server Address field, enter smb://readyshare.4. When prompted, select the Guest radio button.5. Click the Connect button.A window automatically opens and displays the files and folders on the device.Access a USB Storage Device Attached to the ExtenderReadySHARE lets you access and share a USB drive connected to the extender USB port. (If your USB drive uses special drivers, it is not compatible.)To connect a USB drive:1. Insert your USB storage drive into the USB 3.0 port on the front of the extender.2. If your USB drive uses a power supply, you must use it when you connect the USB drive to the extender.When you connect the USB drive to the extender USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB drive is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).To access the USB drive from a Mac:1. Select Go > Connect to Server.2. In the Server Address field, type smb://readyshare as the server address.3. Click the Connect button.4. When prompted to enter your name and password, select the Guest radio button.5. Click the Connect button.To access the USB drive from a Windows computer: 1. Select Start > Run.2. Enter \\readyshare in the dialog box.3. Click the OK button.$

$Share a USB Storage Device 55 AC1200 WiFi Range ExtenderTo map the USB device to a Windows network drive: To map the USB device to a Windows network drive: 1. Connect your USB storage device to the USB port on the router.If your USB device uses a power supply, you must use it when you connect the USB device to the router.When you connect the USB device to the extender’s USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB drive is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).2. Select Start > Run.3. Enter \\readyshare in the dialog box.4. Click the OK button.A window automatically opens and displays the USB Storage device.5. Right-click the USB storage device and select Map network drive.The Map Network Drive page displays:6. Select the drive letter to map to the network folder.7. Click the Finish button.The USB device is mapped to the drive letter that you specified.8. To connect to the USB storage device as a different user, select the Connect using different credentials check box, click the Finish button, and do the following:a. Type the user name and password.b. Click the OK button.The USB storage device is mapped to the drive letter that you specified.Turn the USB Port Off and OnBy default the USB port is on, but you can log in to the extender and turn it off and on.To turn the USB port off and on:1. On a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the extender network, launch a web browser. 2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net. 3. When prompted, enter your user name and password.4. Click the Menu icon .The extender menu displays.$