How does an AirPort Express work?

[L T]

Hello all

First post on here!

I have just moved bedroom's in my house and the WiFi strength isn't as good as my old room. My router is in an extension so has to come through an originally external wall. I was looking at buying an AirPort Express to boost my WiFi range, until I went into the Apple store. I was told that to be able to repeat my network I would have to plug an ethernet cable into the back of the Express.

I thought I would just be able to plug the AirPort Express into the mains within range of my current router (Sky Broadband router) and it would pick up the signal and repeat it.

Am I right or are the Apple guys right?

Thanks for any help given!

 

[smellalot]

The Apple guy is right. Apple Airport devices only work with each other. So either get an ordinary wifi extender (cheaper that Airport Express) or another Airport Router and use that as your main wifi access point (expensive). Or run a cable (cheapest).

 

[Giuly]

Get a Netgear WN3200RP Dual-Band WiFi-Extender. It even supports audio streaming, but via DLNA.

 

[Adams Apple]

The Apple guy is right. Apple Airport devices only work with each other. So either get an ordinary wifi extender (cheaper that Airport Express) or another Airport Router and use that as your main wifi access point (expensive). Or run a cable (cheapest).

Wow. I had assumed the same functionality OP presumed. What's the point of an Airport Express at all, then?

 

[rgarjr]

You do not need to hook up an ethernet cable for the AE to extend. It can extend your WiFi using wireless.
Just got one today to boost my signal outside.

 

[aristobrat]

Airports/Time Capsules can wirelessly extend a wireless network only if the other routers are all Airports or Time Capsules.

Since your wifi is from a non-Airport/Time Capsule, you can't use the Express to wirelessly extend it.

Extend an existing Wi-Fi network’s range.

If you already have a wireless network in your home and want to extend its range, AirPort Express can help. Just place it in range of your primary base station — an AirPort Extreme, Time Capsule, or another AirPort Express — and near the area where you want your wireless connection. Launch the easy-to-use AirPort Utility app on your iOS device or Mac, and you’re mere minutes away from long-range Wi-Fi enjoyment.

 

[smellalot]

Wow. I had assumed the same functionality OP presumed. What's the point of an Airport Express at all, then?

Streaming music wirelessly?!?!

It's also Apple's cheap Wi-Fi AP. And it can wirelessly wake your Mac. Which I find great.