Why Can’t TP-Link Extender Connect to 5GHz Network?

Using a 5GHz frequency, you can enjoy faster network speeds and have a smooth internet experience. But what if your TP-Link range extender is unable to detect the 5GHz WiFi network from the host router? Thus you are left with using only the 2.4GHz band. What was that? Are you experiencing a similar issue? Even your TP-Link extender can’t connect to a 5GHz network? Fret not! This guide has come to the rescue. We will help you come out of this mess in a hassle-free manner. So, if you have done a TP Link setup at home and are facing an issue with it lately, then keep on reading this guide and get rid of the issue at hand.

TP-Link Extender Can’t Detect 5GHz Network: Fixed

So, if your TP-Link range extender is unable to detect the 5GHz frequency band and you are unable to access a blazing-fast internet signal, then follow the tips given ahead. 

Hack 1: Power Cycle the Extender

First of all, reboot your TP-Link range extender. If you are wondering what this would do, then know that this works wonders for eliminating technical glitches with the devices. So turn the power button on the TP-Link wireless range extender off and remove it from the power socket. After waiting for a while reconnect it and turn the power button on. Right after the device boots up, try accessing its network. This should help you connect to the 5GHz WiFi band. However, if you are still not able to access it, then try other hacks mentioned ahead. 

Hack 2: Bring the Devices Closer

First of all, try bringing the networking devices together. This issue may be a consequence of excessive distance between the TP-Link range extender and the host router. This issue can be resolved by pulling the TP-Link WiFi range extender closer to the router. 

Hack 3: Access WiFi on Nearby Device

Looks like you are trying to access the 5GHz band on a device that is quite far from the TP-Link range extender. Either come closer to the extender or use a device that is already closer to the extender to see if the distance is the actual reason. Congratulations, if the issue has been fixed. Else you have some more hacks to try. 

Hack 4: Eliminate WiFi Interference

Have you placed your TP-Link range extender in a place where it has to share its location with other devices that can cause interference with its signal? This might be the actual culprit. Relocate your TP-Link extender away from any such devices or appliances like microwave ovens, baby monitors, Bluetooth speakers, smart TVs, refrigerators, reflexive surfaces, fish tanks, etc. 

Hack 5: Check Router Settings

Now, access the router’s settings to get to the WiFi settings.  Once you are there, see if the router is set to Auto. If it is then change the channel and the job is done. 

Hack 6: Update Firmware

Having outdated firmware on the TP-Link extender can also raise certain issues with its network. You need to access its admin dashboard to check if any latest updates are ready. If they are then right away update your TP-Link range extender to the latest firmware version. If this does not get you to do away with the issue, then there is one final hack that you need to follow straight away.

Hack 7: Reset TP-Link Extender

This is the final resort. When no other troubleshooting hack works, this hack comes to the rescue. You need to reset your TP-Link range extender now. By resetting you will delete every single customized setting from it. This will also delete any bug that is causing trouble. So, locate the Reset button on your TP-Link extender and push it. Now your extender is reset to the factory settings. Once it is done, you will need to configure your extender once again. Access the TP-Link admin dashboard using either the web-based interface or TP Link app and get through the setup process. You can always refer to the user manual to know the actual method of the setup process.

Closing Note

That’s it! This is all about how to fix TP-Link not connecting to the 5GHz WiFi band issue. We are very hopeful that these hacks have been of help to you in getting the issue kicked out with ease. Make a note of the point that it is important to keep the firmware of the extender updated all the time to get the maximum out of it.