No internet connection via TP-Link extender

So, our router is stuck downstairs, which means the Wi-Fi upstairs is basically non-existent. We figured we’d grab a TP-Link extender to fix the dead zones. We plugged it in upstairs, but now I can't actually get online—even though the signal bars look strong. All I get is that annoying "site unavailable" error message saying everything will be ready once I reconnect.
I called AT&T to troubleshoot the router, and they’re straight up blaming the extender. Then I called the shop where I bought the extender, and they’re claiming the router is the culprit.
Has anyone else dealt with this kind of runaround? Any idea how to actually fix this?

James Taylor28 said:So, our router is stuck downstairs, which means the Wi-Fi upstairs is basically non-existent. We figured we’d grab a TP-Link extender to fix the dead zones. We plugged it in upstairs, but now I can't actually get online—even though the signal bars look strong. All I get is that annoying "site unavailable" error message saying everything will be ready once I reconnect.
I called AT&T to troubleshoot the router, and they’re straight up blaming the extender. Then I called the shop where I bought the extender, and they’re claiming the router is the culprit.
Has anyone else dealt with this kind of runaround? Any idea how to actually fix this?

Does it work when you put the devices right next to each other? You know, zero obstacles in the way?
Also, make sure you've actually connected through that extender in that scenario, rather than just jumping back onto the main router.

First thing you need to do is figure out if they're even talking to each other at all when they have a clear line of sight. Just test them side-by-side without any walls in the way.

It doesn't matter where I plug this extender in—the signal looks strong, but I still can't get any actual internet through it. So, in my WiFi settings, it shows the TP-Link extender is connected, yet I can't load a single webpage. What's the point?

You sure the extender actually paired with the router?

Everything’s fine now. Turns out there wasn't even a connection issue—just a setup one. My parents were told they needed to grab an extender to boost the signal at their place, but I realized the thing wasn't actually paired with the router. All they had to do was hit the WPS button on the extender.

James Taylor28 said:Everything’s fine now. Turns out there wasn't even a connection issue—just a setup one. My parents were told they needed to grab an extender to boost the signal at their place, but I realized the thing wasn't actually paired with the router. All they had to do was hit the WPS button on the extender.

WPS?

Man, that's risky. If you know even a little bit about networking, you're probably better off securing things a different way...

Hey, I’m running into some issues with my extender too. It’s a D-Link model. When I try to connect it wirelessly to the router, it just won't behave properly. If I plug it in physically, my router starts acting up constantly. Plus, because of how it creates its own network, I get the feeling the router itself is slowing down...
Anyway, whether I was using my old ISP or my current one, ExxonMobil, this extender is being a pain.
Is it just a flaw with this specific model, or is this kind of behavior pretty standard for extenders?

Matthew Williams4 said:Hey, I’m running into some issues with my extender too. It’s a D-Link model. When I try to connect it wirelessly to the router, it just won't behave properly. If I plug it in physically, my router starts acting up constantly. Plus, because of how it creates its own network, I get the feeling the router itself is slowing down...
Anyway, whether I was using my old ISP or my current one, ExxonMobil, this extender is being a pain.
Is it just a flaw with this specific model, or is this kind of behavior pretty standard for extenders?

When you say the "router is working slower," what are we actually talking about here? Are you seeing lower bandwidth, or is the hardware itself lagging?
If you mean bandwidth, then yeah, obviously it's going to be lower. That's just the nature of the beast with extenders. There isn't much you can do about that physics-based reality.
Try this: run a speed test with the extender disconnected, then hook it up and run it again. If you're getting about 50% of your max speed through the extender, honestly, you should probably just take the win.