“I’ve always loved using Netgear networking devices for fulfilling my internet requirements. That’s why I complemented by existing Netgear router with a range extender. But, once I set it up, I started getting slow internet speeds. Why is my Netgear WiFi extender slow? Can you help me?”
Does the aforementioned scenario sound similar to yours? If yes, then there are a few parameters that you need to take care of to patch things up. But, first of all, let’s answer the query in the discussion i.e. why is Netgear extender slow?
Reasons Why is Netgear WiFi Extender Slow
a) You Overburdened Your Extender
When we say that you’re overburdening your Netgear range extender, we mean that it is overworking. Perhaps, you don’t keep it powered down when not needed. Chances are also that you let multiple devices (more than the factory set value) access its network at the same time.
b) The Extender is Too Far from the Router
The distance through which your WiFi devices (Netgear range extender and router) are separated matters a lot. Know that you will experience your Netgear WiFi extender slow performance if your devices are not sharing a safe distance.
c) Outdated Firmware of Extender
Your Netgear extender will keep delivering slow internet connections if you are ignorant when it comes to updating its firmware. For your information, an outdated version of firmware can also bring other technical issues to your table.
d) Your Extender is Placed in a Corner
If your Netgear extender is sitting somewhere in the corner of your house, then there’s no surprise that it is providing you with lower outputs. Remember that when a WiFi device is placed in a corner, its tendency to propagate signals in all dimensions decreases.
e) Weak Hardwired Connections
You are likely to cross paths with the Netgear WiFi extender slow connection issue if the hardwired connections linked with your extender are weak. In other words, the Ethernet cable coupling your extender and router, or the power cable has undergone damage.
Now that we have discussed the potential causes behind the intermittent performance of your WiFi device, it is time that we make you aware of the hacks to fix the issue. So, shift your focus to the following section and learn how to fix it.
How to Improve Netgear WiFi Extender Slow Connection?
a) Let Your Extender Rest
No matter whether you have done Netgear EX3700 setup or installed another awesome extender model by Netgear, you are not supposed to overburden it. The number of devices accessing the Netgear_ext must not be more than the pre-decided value (mentioned in the extender’s user guide). Additionally, consider giving some rest to your range extender i.e. power it down when not in use.
b) Reduce Distance Between Your WiFi Devices
Ease the wireless communication between your WiFi devices by maintaining a safe distance between them. It means you can neither place them right next to each other nor in two different corners of your house. The ratio of the distance between the extender and router and that between the router and host gateway (router) must be 1:1. If you need more information regarding the distance between your networking devices, no other way would be better than getting in touch with our experts.
c) Update the Firmware
Upgrade the firmware to improve the Netgear WiFi extender slow performance. It can be done by accessing the extender’s dashboard via the default URL or IP address. However, do not commit the mistake of uploading the incorrect firmware file. Such an action can force you to face major issues with the extender.
d) Bring the Extender to Central Location
If your Netgear extender is placed in the central area of your house, then the signal propagation will be even. Thus, do not wait to implement this hack. Additionally, ensure that the room where you’ve placed your extender is free of devices emanating EM waves, objects carrying a large amount of water, and lustrous surfaces.
e) Repair the Wired Connections
Spare some time and repair all the damaged wired connections (if possible). Just in case, any cable connected to your Netgear extender is found severely damaged, you have to replace it immediately. Additionally, ensure that all the wired connections are stable. It will ensure no fluctuation in the extender’s performance.
In a Nutshell
This post was all about fixing the slow internet connection with the extender. Here, you learned how the factors like outdated firmware, weak wired connections, and the extender’s location affect the output of the WiFi network. We are expecting that you’ve got the answer to the question “why is my Netgear WiFi extender slow?” Along with this, you also got acquainted with the troubleshooting hacks to resolve the problem. However, if your extender is still not in the mood of speeding up, you can take help from our profound experts.
