TP-Link Quick Installation Guide
Range Extender
1 Power On
Plug the extender into a power outlet next to your router. Wait until its Power LED turns solid on.
For safety, only plug the extender in the direction as shown below.
Setup with videos: Scan the QR code, or visit https://www.tp-link.com/download/TL-WA850RE.html
* Images may differ from your actual product.
2 Set Up
Via the Tether App
- Get the up-to-date Tether app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, or simply scan the QR code.
- Launch the Tether app and log in with your TP-Link ID. If you don't have an account, create one first.
- Tap the [+] button and select Range Extender. Note: If you cannot find your device, please refer to FAQ > Q1.
- Follow app instructions to complete the setup. The RE LED should turn solid on, indicating successful connection to your router. Note: If the LED does not turn solid on, please refer to FAQ > Q2.
More Setup Methods
Via a Web Browser
- Connect your computer or smartphone to the extender's network, typically named "TP-Link_Extender".
- Visit http://tplinkrepeater.net or http://192.168.0.254 in a web browser. Create a password to log in.
- Follow web instructions to complete the setup.
Via the WPS Button
- Press the WPS button on your router.
- Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on the extender for 1 second. The RE LED should change from blinking to solid on, indicating successful connection.
Your extended network name will be your router's network name with "_EXT" appended. The password will be the same as your router's password.
For more details, please refer to the user guide at https://www.tp-link.com/support/download/.
3 Relocate
- Plug in the extender about halfway between your router and the Wi-Fi dead zone. The location you choose must be within the range of your router.
- Wait for about 2 minutes until 3 or more signal strength LEDs light up. If not, relocate the extender closer to the router to achieve better signal quality.
Tip: To place the extender for optimal Wi-Fi performance, access extender settings via the Tether app and go to Tools > Location Assistant, or visit https://www.tp-link.com/support/faq/3103/.
Signal strength LEDs indicate connection quality. Aim for 3 or more LEDs lit for optimal performance.
Enjoy!
Connect your devices to the extender wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable, then enjoy the internet. The password of your extended network is the same as your host router.
Tip: You can also set up the extender in Access Point mode to transform your existing wired network to a wireless one. For details, refer to the user guide at https://www.tp-link.com/support/download/.
Connect devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, game consoles, and desktop computers.
Access Extender Settings
After setup, you can access extender settings via any of the methods below. You can reselect the host network, change extended network settings, and more.
If your extender and router use the same network name, Method 1 (Tether App) is recommended.
Method 1: Via the Tether App
- Connect your smartphone to the extender's or router's network.
- Launch the Tether app, select your extender, and log in.
- View or change extender settings as needed.
Method 2: Via a Web Browser
- Connect your computer or smartphone to the extender's network. If you are using a computer, unplug any Ethernet cable.
- Launch a web browser, enter http://tplinkrepeater.net in the address bar, and log in.
- View or change extender settings as needed.
LED Explanation
RE LED: Indicates the extender's connection status to your router. Solid On means connected; Blinking indicates WPS connection in progress.
Wireless LED: Indicates whether the extender's wireless function is enabled or disabled.
Power LED: Solid On means the extender is on; Blinking indicates the system is starting up or a firmware upgrade is in progress.
Signal Strength LEDs: Indicate the Wi-Fi connection between the extender and the router. More lit LEDs signify a better signal strength.
Ethernet LED: Indicates if the Ethernet port is connected to a powered-on device.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What should I do if the Tether app cannot find my device during setup?
Try another method by following these steps:
- Connect your smartphone to the extender's network, typically "TP-Link_Extender".
- Launch the Tether app, and select your extender.
- Follow app instructions to complete the setup.
Tip: If you have connected to the extender's Wi-Fi but still cannot find your device, try turning off your cellular data.
If you are still having problems, contact technical support.
Q2. What should I do if the RE LED doesn't turn solid on after completing setup via the Tether app or web browser?
- You may have entered an incorrect Wi-Fi password for your host router during configuration. Check the password and try again.
- Ensure the extender is close to your router, preferably within 16 feet, and away from large electrical appliances.
- If you have enabled wireless MAC filtering, wireless access control, or access control list (ACL) on your router, disable them first, then try any setup method again.
- Try setting it up via the WPS button.
- Reset the extender and go through the configuration again.
If you are still having problems, contact technical support.
Q3. How do I reset the extender?
With the extender powered on, use a pin to press the RESET button for 1 second. The extender will reboot.
Help and Support
For more setup help, please visit https://www.tp-link.com/support/faq/3074/.
Safety Information
- Keep the device away from water, fire, humidity, or hot environments.
- Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the device. Contact TP-Link for service.
- Do not use the device where wireless devices are not allowed.
- The socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.
Please read and follow the above safety information when operating the device. TP-Link is not liable for accidents or damage due to improper use.
TP-Link declares that the device complies with relevant EU directives (2014/53/EU, 2009/125/EC, 2011/65/EU, (EU) 2015/863). The original EU Declaration of Conformity may be found at https://www.tp-link.com/en/support/ce.
TP-Link declares that the device complies with the UK Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. The original UK Declaration of Conformity may be found at https://www.tp-link.com/support/ukca.
Community and Contact
To communicate with TP-Link users or engineers, please join the TP-Link Community at https://community.tp-link.com.
For suggestions regarding product guides, email techwriter@tp-link.com.cn.
For technical support, replacement services, user manuals, and other information, please visit https://www.tp-link.com/support.
300Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender Model: TL-WA850RE