Asus WiFi Extender: A Buyer’s Guide

Asus WiFi Extender

Asus is a multinational hardware company based in Taiwan. It is well recognized for the world’s high-quality routers and other technology solutions. Currently, the company is designing next-generation technologies to enhance tech users’ experience. For example, the Asus WiFi extender is considered the best option to extend WiFi coverage.

A growing number of personal and IoT devices have led to a complete increase in network bandwidth that pushes the limits of the current WiFi standard. So, the Asus routers meet the latest WiFi standard using 802.11ax and AiMesh technology.

This article will help you to find out the best Asus WiFi extender in 2022 with other details like pros and cons, quick tips, buying guide, and more. 


Best Asus WiFi Extender in 2022

Each Asus WiFi extender is unique in some ways. Most Asus routers use future-proofing technology to offer faster WiFi speed, network efficiency, widest coverage, and more battery life for connected devices.  Keep reading to get details of the four best Asus WiFi extenders.


1. Asus ZenWiFi Extender 6 Mesh System (XT8 2PK) – Best Overall

ASUS WiFi extender – Best Overall

This Asus ZenWiFi extender comes with 6 routers, featuring the latest technologies that give you reliable, secure, and super-fast WiFi connections coverage up to 5500 sq. ft both inside and outside your home.

Main Features

The main features of the Asus ZenWiFi AX system are given below.

Smooth connection on all your devices: Asus WiFi 6 extender (802.11ax) is mainly designed for modern devices. So, even your home is full of devices; you’ll still enjoy fast WiFi everywhere.

Enhance battery life: Its unique Target Wake Time technology can reduce the power consumption of your WiFi devices up to 7X. Therefore, it enhances the battery life.

Flexible Network Naming: This Asus range extender lets you choose how you call your WiFi networks: one name for everything or different names for each frequency band. Choose whatever you like!

Tri-band Technology: ZenWiFi AX incorporates tri-band technology with a full WiFi backhaul band to enhance system performance and stability. This advanced layout offers fast and stable WiFi, even if the data is transferred to multiple hubs to access your device.

8K Live Streaming: ZenWiFi AX puts your WiFi in top gear. It offers bandwidth up to 6600 Mbps making it up to 2.2X faster than the tri-band AC3000 (WiFi 5) routers.

Please Note: 160MHz bandwidth may not be available in the 5GHz band in some regions due to some restrictions. Moreover, to enjoy full speed, use a device compatible with WiFi 6.

Smart Home Compatible: ZenWiFi AX works seamlessly with smart-home devices like Alexa skills and IFTTT. Moreover, it is available in white and black. So, you can choose what suits your decor.

Backhaul configuration: The ZenWiFi AX allows flexible backhaul connection configuration. You can set up a second 5GHz band as a dedicated or non-dedicated backhaul connection, enabling increased backhaul speed or releasing a fast 5GHz band for connected devices.

If you have Ethernet ports on your walls, you can also set up ZenWiFi AX to use the Ethernet backhaul, keeping all three WiFi bands on your wireless devices with a stable and reliable network.

ASUS ZenWiFi Extender

Asus WiFi Extender Setup – Quick Steps

Asus WiFi extender setup is easy with three steps given below;

  1. Turn on ZenWiFi AX.
  2. Give a name to the WiFi network and create an admin account
  3. Wait for 3 minutes, and you’re done.

Also, watch this video to learn how to set up ZenWiFi AiMesh System!

What makes setup so easy?

The following two things make the setup so easy

  1. It is a one-time setup with automatic synchronization for all devices.
  2. ZenWiFi AX setup is Hassle-free because each unit can work like an extender node or the primary router.

Scalable and Flexible Wireless Networking

Suppose you need new functions or more coverage, this Asus range extender allows you to easily add any other compatible router to this AiMesh network system at any time!

Additional Features

The following additional features distinguish Asus WiFi range extender from another WiFi extender in the market and make the internet safer for everyone:

Protection Against Attacks: Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) protects you from all common attacks on the internet.

Life Time Protection- Some router providers only offer three years of protection. Luckily, Asus AiProtection also offers you lifetime protection without any subscription fee.

Auto Detection and Blocking: If you connect any already-infected device to ZenWiFi, AiProtection will detect it and block it to protect your data.

Prevent Access to Malicious Websites: Using Trend Micro’s official database, AiProtection identifies and prevents access to malicious websites even before clicking.

Box includes: ZenWiFi AX, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Power Adapter, Quick Start Guide & Warranty Card.

Advanced Parental Controls

AiProtection Pro with Advanced Parental Controls is free for life. It helps you to keep an eye on all activities of your kids with the mobile app.

Internet Activity Dashboard: A graphical dashboard allow you to view the online activities of all your family members. You can also group devices used by your kids to check aggregate data.

Kid-Safe Preset: You can choose the option to set auto filters for inappropriate content on Kid’s devices.

Schedule Block Time: You can also schedule block time to prevent your kids from accessing the internet on a specific device.

Content Filter: The advanced filtering with Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) helps you block content from a specific category both on mobile apps and websites.

Is Wi-Fi 6 worth it over Wi-Fi 5?

Yes, because Wi-Fi 5 AP is 3×2 and the Wi-Fi 6 AP is 2×2, most devices are 2×2. Wi-Fi 5 AP doesn’t connect more than 866Mbps, whereas Wi-Fi 6 can connect 1.2Gbps.

Real-world testing is also far more accurate; I routinely get a maximum downstream speed of 500Mbps on Wi-Fi 5 and 900Mbps on Wi-Fi 6.

Best Asus WiFi Extender: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 3 step Setup
  • LED indicator
  • 8k Live Streaming
  • Advanced Traffic Control
  • Flexible Network Naming
  • Commercial Grade Security
  • Advanced Parental Controls
  • Compatible with smart homes
  • Whole-home coverage up to 5500 sq. ft
  • Available in two colors: White and black
  • AiMesh Technology for flexible management
Cons
  • Moderate Range
  • Expensive but advanced features worth the cost

Buyer Guide

The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 is the best for folks looking for the latest WiFi system in their homes. You can tick all the boxes: Superfast and easy mesh networking, WiFi 6 support, and advanced security tools to protect your family data. Besides, you can manage it from anywhere with its mobile app.


2. Asus Mesh WiFi Extender Mini (XD4 3PK) – Best for Medium Size Homes
ASUS ZenWiFi 6 Mesh Mini extender – Best for Medium Size Homes

The Asus Mesh WiFi extender features a single AX1800 WiFi 6 router and two expandable nodes, including unique technologies that give you reliable and highly secure connectivity everywhere inside or outside your home.

Main Features

Smoothest Network: WiFi 6 (802.11ax) is specially designed for the latest devices. So, it enables you to enjoy fast WiFi on all your devices.

It also uses Target Wake Time technology that minimizes the power consumption of devices up to 7X. Ultimately, it increases the battery life of your connected devices.

Compatible with all WiFi devices: Asus wireless extender is entirely compatible with all generations of WiFi, so you can connect any device to the ZenWiFi AX Mini, whether it uses 802.11ac, 802.11n, or other previous WiFi standards.

ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini Extender

8k Streaming: The ZenWiFi AX Mini puts your connection in top gear. It is up to 1.4X faster than WiFi 5 routers. You can get bandwidth speed up to 1800 Mbps. However, you can get this faster speed using a compatible device. So, you can enjoy 8k streaming without any interruption.

Changeable Network Naming: In contrast, ZenWiFi lets you choose how you call your networks. You can use one name for everything or different names for each frequency band. All is up to you!

Wired Connection Option: You also have the option to use a wired connection for a more Stable network between ZenWiFi Hubs. For example, suppose you have Ethernet ports on your walls.

In that case, you can set up a ZenWiFi AX Mini to use the Ethernet backhaul, keeping all WiFi bands of your wireless devices for a stable and reliable network.

How to connect Asus WiFi extender

You can easily connect the Asus WiFi extender using the Asus Router app in the 3 easy steps given below;

  1. Turn on ZenWiFi AX(1800).
  2. Set any name of your choice to connect and create your admin account
  3. Wait for a few minutes (max 3 min) to complete the setup.

Available in two Colors: Charcoal 3PK and washed wood 3PK. You can buy what suits the interior of your smart home.

Parental Control: It allows you to filter URLs. You can also schedule to protect your kids from harmful online activities.

AiProtection Classic: The main functions of AiProtection classic are given below;

24/7 Auto Update: The automatic firmware updates keep your internet connection running securely. So, you can always enjoy a fast and stable internet experience.

No Subscription Fee: Unlike other routers, Asus AiProtection doesn’t charge any subscription fee.

Control Access to Malicious Sites: Trend Micro’s database can find and block known malicious websites to protect you from infection.

Box Includes:

3-pack (1 router + 2 nodes)
2-pack (1 router + 1 nodes)
1-pack (1 router)
Please note: Content varies in different packages and regions.

Asus Range Extender: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 8k Streaming
  • Parental Controls
  • AiProtection Classic
  • Hassle-Free Control
  • Easy and quick setup
  • Flexible Management
  • Network Naming options
  • Lifetime Internet Security
  • Commercial Grade Security
  • Always Up-to-date Protection
  • Compatible with Alexa and IFTTT
  • Available in two colors: Black and white
Cons
  • Coverage only up to 4800 sq.ft

Buyer Guide

If you are looking for coverage up to 4800 sq. ft and want to enjoy all features of the latest mesh system at reasonable price, Asus ZenWiFi AX Mini is for you. However, if you are not concered with mesh system and simply want to improve coverage, check out the long range Wifi Router.


3. Asus Router Extender WiFi 6 (RT-AX88U) – Best for Gamers

ASUS WiFi (RT-AX88U) extender - Best for Gamers

The RT-AX88U is a 4×4 dual-band WiFi Asus router range extender that offers 160MHz and 1024-QAM bandwidth for the superfast wireless network.

With an overall connection speed of 6000Mbps, 1148Mbps for the 2.4GHz band, and 4804Mbps for the 5GHz band, it is 2.3X faster than the 802.11ac 4×4 routers. Let’s explore its features in detail;

Main Features

Better Coverage: Using the latest OFDMA technology, the RT-AX88U offers a better range by dividing each channel into smaller sub-channels. These sub-channels have a small bandwidth that enables them to travel up to 80% faster, resulting in better WiFi connections throughout your home.

Minimizing game lag and ping: The Adaptive QoS prioritizes game packages for easy online playback. It also has a built-in WTfast to search and protect shortcut path between your gaming device and game server. So, it reduces game ping and lag.

Commercial-grade Security: Its AiProtection Pro is automatically and regularly updated to protect your data and devices from internet threats.

Besides, it has advanced parental controls to allow you to filter and block harmful websites and apps. The best thing is – it is free for a lifetime.

Convenient: Eight Gigabit LAN ports make the RT-AX88U a better option if you use multiple wired devices, like PCs, NAS programs, and switches. Moreover, if you are interested in hosting a LAN party at your home, the RT-AX88U is an ideal solution.

802.11ax WiFi standard: It offers a next-generation WiFi standard to ensure better efficiency.

Asus Gaming router standard

Please note: To enjoy all features of 802.11ax, make sure the Wi-Fi client is compatible with 802.11ax.

Unique design: RT-AX88U is specially designed with AiRadar beamforming technology, antennas, and RangeBoost technology to offer you a stable connection and the most extensive coverage.

So, you can enjoy the secure and smooth connection to do work or play your favourite games anywhere in your home.

Robust Network: AiMesh is a new innovative feature that allows you to use a combination of Asus router models. In addition, it is a powerful and flexible WiFi system you can rely on for all your devices.

It also protects your investment by offering you time-saving control and a seamless connection in your entire home.

Please Note: The free router versions support only one device on your network connection at a time given the GPN traffic limits including wtfast technical support. However, you need to pay to upgrade to get advanced features and simultaneous devices.

List of WTFast-Asus Supported Top Games

The WTFast supported Asus routers like Asus RT-AX88U, RT-AC86U, RT-AC88U, RT-AC5300,  GT-AX11000, GT-AX11000_BO4, and GT-AC5300, currently work with the following top games:

PS4 Games

  1. Battlefield 1
  2. Battlefront 1
  3. Destiny 2
  4. Overwatch
  5. Ghost Recon: Wildlands

XBOX One Games

  1. Battlefield 1
  2. Battlefront II
  3. Call of Duty: WWII
  4. Destiny 2
  5. Elder Scrolls Online
  6. GTA V
  7. Overwatch

PC Games

  • Ark: Survival Evolved
  • Aion
  • Black Desert
  • Brawlhalla
  • Dota 2
  • Overwatch
  • Team Fortress 2
  • Destiny 2
  • Minecraft
  • MU Legend
  • Smite
  • Tibia

Asus RT-AX88U router: Unable to connect to the internet

The Asus RT-AX88U can indicate a red light while connecting to the internet. However, it doesn’t mean internet connectivity issues. Now switch to Merlin firmware. The issue will resolve itself.

Asus WiFi Extender: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Ultrafast WiFi Speed
  • Both Wired, or Wireless
  • Next-Gen WiFi Standard
  • Commercial-grade Security
  • Compatible with Mesh System
  • Wider Usage and More Convenient
  • minimizing game ping from 45% -75%
  • 1.8GHz Quad-core CPU make it extremely Powerful
Cons
  • AX clients are not available globally
  • Expensive but advanced features worth the cost

Buyer Guide

Asus router extender (RT-AX88U) is for the gamer who is looking for the next generation WiFi router with a powerful processor to deliver extreme WiFi coverage.

Moreover, this dual-band router helps to optimize game packets with game boost and optimize routes to game servers with wtfast. Besides, this Asus router WiFi extender offers commercial safeguard security and advanced parental control.


4. Asus AiMesh Extender & Repeater (RP-AC1900) – Best BudgetASUS WiFi Extender & Repeater (RP-AC1900) – Best Budget

The Asus AiMesh extender RP-AC1900 allows you to quickly expand your current wireless network to get robust and seamless internet connections to every corner of your home.

In addition to the entire home WiFi, when used with AiMesh routers, the Asus AC1900 extender expands various features. For instance, parental controls, AiProtection, and flexible QoS that provide improved security and precise internet controls access and prioritization of gaming experience.

Main Features

The details of the main features of the Asus AC1900 extender are given below:

Work with all WiFi routers: The RP-AC1900 is also a WiFi range extender that works well with almost all WiFi routers, modems, and cable routers in the market. So, you don’t need to bother even if you don’t have an AiMesh / ASUS router yet.

Seamless WiFi: When used with AiMesh routers, the RP-AC1900 can create a single, home-based network, so no need to change networks as you roam in your entire home. AiMesh checks the signal strength of your device and converts it to another source if necessary.

Roaming Technology: AiMesh connects automatically and freely to your devices on a router. Besides, it uses the most powerful WiFi signal, wherever you are.

WiFi Name Flexibility: When expanding the current AiMesh network, you may choose to keep only one name for the entire home network for easy use or split names to get a different WiFi band for different users.

For example, using an Asus WiFi mesh extender, you can customize a 5GHz band for gaming devices with high bandwidth requirements and a 2.4GHz band for regular use.

Incredibly Easy and Powerful: Asus AiMesh extender is easy to use and powerful. As part of the AiMesh network, the RP-AC1900 offers exclusive features. It also allows easy control between all Asus router range extenders or AsusWRT mobile app settings.

Flexible Backhaul Connection: RP-AC1900 supports AP mode, so you can set up Ethernet backhaul with an Ethernet jack on the wall in your home to build a wired connection between the router and the RP-AC1900.

Besides, the Asus mesh extender provides more stable WiFi and provides all 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands on wireless devices for smooth connectivity.

Box includes: RP-AC1900, Power Adapter, Ethernet Cable, Guide, and Warranty Card

Moreover, Ultra-Fast WiFi is powered by 802.11ac technology. So, the RP-AC1900 transmits speeds up to 600 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz band.

This efficient connection also allows you to enjoy low ping internet games, faster web surfing, and other activities that limit bandwidth without a wired connection. To improve outdoor internet coverage, you can choose from 10 best WiFi range extenders.

3 Setup Methods

You can set up an RP-AC1900 WiFi repeater with any of the three methods given below:

Method #1: Download the Asus Extender App – If you do not have an AiMesh router, you can still set up your RP-AC1900 WiFi repeater with a few taps using the Asus Extender app. It does not need discs, or mouse, or a keyboard.

Method #2: Connect via WPS – Start set up by pressing the WPS button on the router. Then press the pair button for more than two seconds till the power LED starts blinking.

Method #3: Web Support – First, connect to RP-AC1900’s network. To extend, open the web browser, enter http://repeater.asus.com. Set a strong password and choose the network you want to extend and configure.

Tips for Asus WiFi ExtenderIf synchronization fails, it means your router can’t find any RP nearby. So, you can try the following things:

  1. Make sure RP is powered on.
  2. Move RP closer to the router. Ideally, it should be within 1-3 meters.
  3. Upgrade router to supported firmware. Download supported firmware at https://asus.com/AiMesh

Asus AiMesh Extender: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Parental Controls
  • Quick setup with app
  • Dedicated name options
  • Flexible backhaul network
  • Compatible with all WiFi routers
  • seamless and powerful connectivity
  • switch networks automatically if needed
  • Ultra-fast WiFi speeds: up to 1300 Mbps
Cons
  • Coverage is just up too 3000 sq. ft

Buyer Guide

Asus RP-AC1900 is for the individual looking to quickly expand the current network to every corner of your home. This dual-band WiFi range extender is also a repeater to help you get robust and seamless internet connections even outside your home.


Why should you buy Asus WiFi extender?

WiFi coverage is affected by many things, such as room layouts, furniture, and construction materials. Luckily, Asus AiMesh is an innovative feature that fixes these problems to protect your investment. The main features of Asus extenders include

  • Unified navigation power
  • Centralized time-saving controls
  • Connect multiple Asus routers to provide a whole-home mesh WiFi network
  • Flexible and scalable technology allows you to add new ones at any time to enhance coverage.
  • All devices connected to an AiMesh network can access all advanced features of the primary router. For instance, AiProtection, gaming features, commercial-grade security, parental control, and more.

The table below will help you to distinguish AiMesh WiFi System from other available systems;

AiMesh WiFi System Ordinary Mesh System Traditional Performance Router
Easy installation Yes Yes  No
Seamless roaming Yes Yes  No
Wider coverage (single node) Yes  No Yes
Powerful performance Yes  No Yes
Rich features Yes  No Yes

Similarly, Asus offers AiProtection, advanced security in the form of a Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) engine made by Trend Micro Inc. It offers you business-level security in the home. So, this feature makes the Asus router most secure.

The latest Asus routers provide AiProtection Pro whereas the older models offer AiProtection classic. The below table will help you to distinguish the features of AiProtection Pro and classic. 

Comparison Table:  AiProtection Pro Vs. Classic

AiProtection Pro AiProtection Classic
Network Security
24/7 Auto Updates Yes Yes
Protected WPA2 &TLS Connections Yes Yes
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) Yes No
Malicious Site Blocking Yes Yes
Guest Network Yes Yes
Infected Device Detection & Blocking Yes Yes
Firewall Yes Yes
Parental Controls
Content Filter (Website & App) Yes No
Internet Activity Dashboard Yes No
Schedule Block Time Yes Yes
Kid-Safe Preset Yes Yes
URL Filter – Manual Blacklist Yes Yes

So, the future-proofing technology and advanced level of security distinguish Asus WiFi extenders from its competitors. Although Asus extenders are comparatively expensive but unique features worth your investment.


Why is my Asus wireless router is blinking orange and not working?

Slow/lost internet connections and not updated firmware may cause the Asus wireless router not to work and glow orange. Follow the methods below to fix the issues quickly:

  • Reconnect the power cord correctly.
  • Restart the modem, computer, and router.
  • Reset your router and connect your computer straight to the modem.
  • If the orange light is still flickering, upgrade the firmware.

Asus WiFi Extender – FAQs

When it comes to knowing about the Asus WiFi extender, you may be asking a few questions. Here I present some most common questions with answers.

Do WiFi extenders improve WiFi?

Yes, WiFi extenders improve WiFi because using an extender shortens the distance between the WiFi devices and the WiFi signal, improving the speed and performance of each device.

How do I connect my Asus Wi-Fi extender?

Here is how you can connect your Asus WiFi extender

  1. Open the Play Store on your Android or smartphone.
  2. Search for Asus Extender, then choose the Asus Extender model from the given list.
  3. Select Install and wait for a few seconds. Click Accept,
  4. Open the Asus extender App and start using it.

Is Asus WiFi extender good?

The Asus Zen WiFi Extender 6 Mesh System (XT8 2PK) is good for individuals with a wired house and who want to expand internet connection wirelessly. Its AiMesh-ready network gives a moderate broadband connection of roughly 300Mbps or less. Moreover, it is available in black and white.

Can you use Netgear extender with ASUS router?

Yes, you can use Netgear extender with ASUS router. To do so, First, plug in the Netgear Extender to the power source. However, we recommend placing the extender near the router for initial setup. Then, after 2 minutes, press and hold the WPS button on your extender for 3 seconds to establish a connection between them. The light on the extension will flash to indicate that it is connected.

How does AiMesh ASUS work?

AiMesh ASUS observes the signal strength of your device and effortlessly transfers it to a different source if needed. It’s also possible to use different network names for each frequency band if you wish – AiMesh is meant to perform in the way you like!

How do I know if my ASUS Extender is working?

To know if your ASUS Extender is working,  visit repeater.asus.com and sign in using the previously set up credentials on your range extender device. Using the Network Map tab, you can see the current status of your range extender. Moreover, you can examine its operating mode, connection to the router, and connection to your devices in the status bar.

Does ASUS make a Wi-Fi extender?

Yes, Asus makes an advanced Wi-Fi extender like ASUS RP-AX56 that allows you to effortlessly extend your existing wireless network. When used in conjunction with AiMesh routers, the RP-AX56 may provide additional functions including parent control, Malicious Site Blocking, Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) and more.

What WiFi extender works with Asus router?

Both Asus WiFi extenders; RT-AX88U RP-AC1900 works with the Asus router. It means you can easily expand your wireless network to get powerful connectivity inside and outside your home.

Besides, if you use a whole-home WiFi system with AiMesh routers, you will be able to get all features of AiMesh routers.

Do WiFi extenders really work?

Yes, WiFi extenders can expand the range of your network both inside and outside your home. However, their usefulness is limited by various factors, including the speed of your internet connection, required coverage area, distance from your router, and the number of devices used by your family.

Can I use my Asus router as a WiFi extender?

Yes, you can use your Asus router as a WiFi extender to extend the wireless network coverage. However, in this mode, the firewall, IP sharing, and NAT functions are disabled. However, to set up Repeater mode, you need to take router [RT-AC66U B1] and OS: Windows 10 as examples.

How do I install Asus extender?

Here is how you can install the Asus extender with a few easy steps;

  1. Open the Play Store on your Android phone or smartphone.
  2. In the search box, type Asus Extender and select your model from the list.
  3. Hit Install and wait for a minute then, click Accept.
  4. Asus installation is complete!


The Bottom Line

Asus has received several rewards including 205 product design awards. Asus WiFi extender is considered the best option when it comes to extending the WiFi coverage inside and outside your home. The article above helps you to know about the best Asus extender in the market. If you still have any issues, please comment below.

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