This blog is completely based on a Case study. It is the case in which a user while connecting his iPhone to Netgear_ext got an error message saying that he’s trying to access an unsecured network. He was so concerned about the security of his WiFi extender and also examined if someone can access his WiFi network. However, with the implementation of a few hits and trials, he succeeded in resolving the Netgear extender unsecured network error. You can refer to this post in case you are also struggling with the same problem and learn what were techniques used by that user. Keep reading.
Solution: Netgear Extender Unsecured Network
The solutions to fix the error message on your iPhone will come later. But, first of all, let us make clear the reasons why you might get an unsecured network message in an attempt to connect to the extender’s WiFi. Well, this error simply means that the WiFi network of your extender is insecure. The root cause is the use of the WPS method for the extender setup process. The Bigger Picture: If the concept is deeply dived in, then the WPS connection uses the WPA and WPA2 security standards. In case your extender’s network was open during the installation via the WPS method, then a random WiFi password might have been generated that is easy to crack and the user gets an error message – Netgear extender unsecured network. One can try changing the WiFi network password and the security of the extender to resolve the problem.
Change Extender Security Settings
You need to log in to your range extender via mywifiext.net to change the wireless security standards. For reference, we’ve taken an example of an EX7000 range extender. However, we recommend you check the user manual of the product before using the given steps for your extender.
- First of all, connect your computer to the EX7000 through a LAN cable.
- When the Device to Extender LED turns green, it means the connection is successful.
- Now, open an internet browser such as Chrome or Edge.
- Enter mywifiext.net into the URL field.
- The login page of your EX7000 will show up.
- Fill in the details on the form and click Log In.
- The Netgear Genie page will appear.
- Click Settings > Wireless Settings.
- Under the WiFi Password section, click Use a Different Password.
- Choose the Security Type.
- Enter the new network key (WiFi password) for your extender and verify it.
- Scroll down a little and click Apply.
If your extender does not allow you to change the network key, consider logging into your main router and changing its security settings.
Do Some Troubleshooting on WiFi Client
The user that we talked about was still getting the Netgear extender unsecured network error after changing the extender’s security settings. So, he performed troubleshooting on his client device, here, an iPhone. Refer to the points given below to know what techniques can be implemented on iPhone to resolve the error.
- You’ve got this advantage on iPhone that you will get an opportunity to connect to an unsecured network by agreeing to a few terms and conditions. Thus, immediately after attempting to connect to Netgear_ext, open Safari and do the needful. It won’t even require you to enter a password.
- Forget the network and try to access it again. Here’s the path to follow: Settings > WiFi > Select the Unsecured Network > Forget This Network
- Turn on the Airplane Mode before reconnecting and see if it works. You can find this mode in the Control Center or the Settings app.
- Reset your network settings on your iPhone. Tap Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. The stored WiFi networks and their settings will be erased. However, we recommend you be mindful before doing so if you are bad at remembering passwords.
- 5. Disable Location Services. For this: Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services > WiFi Networking > Toggle to OFF
The Bottom Line
That’s all we have to say about the Netgear extender unsecured network error message. We hope that you will get success in getting rid of this message and successfully connecting your iPhone to the extender. However, if the success is still not yours, change the DNS and IP settings on your client device. Also, access mywifiext.local or mywifiext.net on a supported web browser and install the latest firmware version. FYI, firmware updates enhance network security.