How to setup the D-Link DAP-1720 (and possibly other) Range Extender

[Adrian_D]

Hello Everyone! I decided to post this as maybe someone else is looking for a solution; also, I'm sure it can be applied to other extenders as well.

A week or so ago I've purchased a D-Link Range Extender after much thought and research' according to various sources it is one of the best - which might be the reason for it's price being a little on the high side - LINK to product here. I believe it retails around $120 CAD.

For a week I've been trying to set it up to extend my wireless network, but I was unable to do so; as a side note, I have been in IT for over 25 years now. Either setup - WPS or Manual - always ended with the same result: the extender itself was OK but it could not connect to my Rogers CODA 4582 modem/router.

After much research, I called D-Link and got an answer; following these steps, I was able to get this setup properly.

NOTE: Rogers has released a firmware update for this device that will not allow wireless extenders to properly connect.

1. If you want to extend your 2.4 GHz, connect to your 5 GHz or vice-versa.

2. Log into your CODA 4582 (how-to HERE).

3. From the Home Page, click on "Wireless" link on the top black bar in your browser.

4. Click on the tab corresponding to your desired network which you'd like to attach the extender. (either 2.4 or 5 GHz)

5. On the left side of the page, under "Basic Settings", ensure that "WPS Enabled" option is OFF.

6. On the right side, set "Security Mode" to WPA-Personal and "Encrypt Mode" to TKIP. Scroll down if necessary and make sure you click the "Save Changes" button.

7. Follow the extender's manufacturer Manual setup steps and it should work.

***Edited Labels***

[Gdkitty]

While I am glad you go it working..

Some concerns on step 6..

Putting it on WPA-personal..
Is a much older form of security.. and very prone to break in attempts, etc. 
No where near as secure as WPA2

[Adrian_D]

VERY valid concern that I've raised with D-Link. They're answer: talk to Rogers, since it was their firmware that broke the previous process.

That being said, I should've put a note stating that it will decrease security somewhat. Thank you for the reply!

[Datalink]

@Adrian_D, just to point out, when the 4582 was first released by Rogers, it would not connect the certain D-Link routers due to some unique method of communication with other devices that D-Link had employed.  Hitron has already changed the firmware apparently to accommodate D-Link.  So, just pointing out here, this might not be a Rogers, or more specifically a Hitron / Intel problem, it just might be a D-Link issue instead.  One would have to run a capture between the two devices to really understand where the blame lies. Certainly not trying to defend Hitron or Intel here, just pointing out the possibility.  Personal opinion, given that TKIP is no longer secure, I would return the extender and swap it for another manufacturers device that is compatible with the Hitron modems.  Food for thought ......

[Pottertons]

Which ones are compatible?