Losing all cable internet while Wifi Extender is connected

[Lemoncoffee]

Modem: Netgear CG3100

Wifi extender: Linksys RE6300

I recently bought a Linksys RE6300 to extend the wifi range of my modem. When I have the wifi extender connected I find that my internet constantly keeps dropping out. I have a computer connected directly by ethernet to the modem. I have done the following troubleshooting steps:

1) Reboot modem: This solves the connection for a few minutes

2) Reset to factory default

3) Checked cable connection for obstruction or faults

4) Rebooted computer

5) Updated firmware on Wifi Extender

When I disconnect the Wifi Extender the internet comes back to life and I no longer have the problem.

[EthanG]

Hi @Lemoncoffee,
 

Thanks for reaching out. Do the lights change when it drops out and if so, which ones?

Please let us know.

[mazinoz]

It is good that you have updated the firmware on the Linksys extender as it was one of those affected by the linuxVPNfilter malware
https://www.linksys.com/us/support-article?articleNum=246427

However the Netgear modem is VERY old and it may be having wifi issues. It really needs to be replaced for security reasons alone. Netgear don't even list it on their support site any more. Search turns up zero.
https://crowdsupport.telstra.com.au/t5/Modems-Hardware/CG3100-Firmware-Upgrade/td-p/36973

Other posters on crowdsupport have mentioned wifi issues with this modem.

[Lemoncoffee]

None of the lights change when it drops out.

[Lemoncoffee]

Would Telstra be able to replace the modem?
They have not offered me a replacement out of all the times I've contacted them about my problems.

[343GuiltySpark]

If the issue occurs while the wifi extender is plugged in and doesn't occur when its not - would appear to be the wifi extender causing the issue and not the Telstra modem. Id look at getting the wifi extender replaced if its relatively new. This may be of interest https://www.telstra.com.au/broadband/extras/wifi-extender

[Lemoncoffee]

I think I'll return the wifi extender as a last resort.

I'll have a look at Linksys support for any solutions.

[343GuiltySpark]

Could try a factory reset on the Wifi extender