How to Connect Linksys Extender to Optimum Internet Gateway?

Optimum provides its internet gateways to users on rent. If you are someone who wants to extend the Optimum internet range with the help of a WiFi extender, you must have a look at the information given in this blog. Here, we will try to throw some light on the instructions to connect a Linksys extender to Optimum internet gateway. Know that you are free to make use of your own extender. A Linksys range extender has been used for referential purposes only. Continue reading.

Prerequisites for Linksys and Optimum Internet Connection

There are a few prerequisites that need to be fulfilled in every condition if you want to connect your Linksys range extender to a gateway presented by Optimum. We’ve mentioned them below for you:

1. Your Extender Must be Running on Factory Settings

This points holds an utmost importance if your Linksys extender was previously extending the WiFi network of another gateway. However, you should reset Linksys extender even if it is new. The reason being, your extender should be running on the default settings. Only then you will be able to customize it according to the Optimum internet gateway settings.

2. Write Down the SSID and Network Key of Optimum Gateway

You can’t identify a destination until you know a related landmark. In the same way, if your Linksys extender doesn’t know which network to extend, it will not be able to do its job. Thus, you are supposed to take note of the SSID and the WiFi password of the Optimum gateway. Because at the end of the day, the extender has to increase the range of WiFi signals generated by an Optimum provided gateway.

Done with the prerequisites fulfillment? Now, you are all prepared to learn the connection process between a Linksys extender and Optimum gateway. It will be quite similar to doing Linksys extender setup for the first time. Move to the next section to know the instructions.

How to Connect Linksys Extender to Optimum Internet?

• You must start by creating a hardwire connection between a Linksys extender and the Optimum internet gateway.
• Ports to be used are: Linksys extender – Internet port and Optimum – LAN port.
• After creating a finger-tight connection, switch on the Optimum internet gateway.
• Are the lights stable on your gateway? If yes, power on the Linksys extender now.
• Very soon, the extender will start broadcasting WiFi.
• You can conclude that once the WiFi light on the extender glows.
• Switch on the PC now. You can use your laptop too.
• Move to the Network and Internet Settings by clicking the WiFi icon.
• The network name of your Linksys extender will become visible there on the list.
• Connect to it using the default WiFi password of the extender.

• Is the connection successful? Great! Now, launch the default browser on PC.
• Use an upgraded browser though.
• Get to the address bar and type extender.linksys.com there.
• To launch the Setup, press Enter.
• Select Manual Setup link at the bottom of the screen.
• Be certain that you have agreed to the End User License Agreement.
• Input the default password now. FYI, it is admin.
• To reach the Basic Settings page, select Login.
• You will now be prompted to select your WiFi name (one that you want to extend).
• Choose the Optimum gateway network there and input the respective WiFi password.
• Wireless Network Name and Network Key for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks should be configured now.

• If you get disconnected from network, reconnect your computer right away.
• The Spot Finder page will show up now. This page will help you place your extender w.r.t. your Optimum gateway.
• Now, create the admin password for your Linksys extender.
• Register your Linksys extender (if new) using your email address.
• Upgrade the extender’s software/firmware.
• Reconnect to the WiFi extender if you get disconnected from its network.
• In case you want to print the WiFi network settings, save the page.
• The Linksys extender is successfully connected to your Optimum gateway.

Have you learned how to connect Linksys extender to Optimum internet gateway? We hope you have. Now, you are left with the only task of connecting your wireless clients to the newly extended network. Be sure that you are using the correct WiFi password. Also, to ensure home network security, consider modifying the Linksys extender login password every 45 days.

Verdict

To connect Linksys extender to Optimum internet is not a difficult job. You just have to reset the extender and make some changes to the extender’s settings after hardwiring it to the gateway. However, during the extender placement, you have to be very careful that you are not placing the range extender near any direct heat source or an object that carries a large amount of water. Plus, be very sure that the extender is at a good distance from devices emitting electromagnetic frequencies.