wifi problem

I use an 'extender' to tap in to our router which is quite far. No problem until a few days ago when it just stopped working. The 'ralink' says the airport is on but the message that comes up is 'disconnected' and the name of our internet provider doesn't come on the screen. This happened right after I cleaned my history and cache. The green light on the extender is blinking which seems to mean it's working. I really need the connection for my work. I have tried shutting down and restarting the computer but no go. PLEASE, any ideas? I'm 60 and not overly computer literate but I think I can understand a clear response! Thanks in advance - Kim