Edimax EW-7438RPn Mini User Manual

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EW-7438RPn Mini

User Manual

07-2014 / v1.0

CONTENTS

I. Product Information .............................................................................. 1

I-1. Package Contents .......................................................................................................... 1

I-2. System Requirements .................................................................................................... 1

I-3. LED Status ...................................................................................................................... 1

I-4. Hardware Overview ....................................................................................................... 3

I-5. Safety Information ......................................................................................................... 4

II. Installation ............................................................................................ 5

II-1. Wi-Fi Extender Mode ..................................................................................................... 8

II-2. Wi-Fi Adapter/Bridge Mode ........................................................................................ 13

II-3. Wi-Fi Access Point Mode ............................................................................................. 17

II-4. WPS Setup .................................................................................................................... 20

II-5. Reset to Factory Default Settings ................................................................................ 22

III. Browser Based Configuration Interface ................................................. 23

III-1. Login ............................................................................................................................. 23

III-2. Save Settings ................................................................................................................ 25

III-3. Main Menu .................................................................................................................. 26

IV. Extender Mode .................................................................................... 27

IV-1. Home............................................................................................................................ 27

IV-2. iQ Setup ....................................................................................................................... 29

IV-3. WPS Settings ................................................................................................................ 30

IV-4. Advanced Setting ......................................................................................................... 31

IV-4-1. WLAN 2.4GHz Security ................................................................................................. 32

IV-4-2. Time Settings ............................................................................................................... 34

IV-4-3. Scheduling Setting ....................................................................................................... 35

IV-4-4. Administration Utility .................................................................................................. 37

IV-4-5. Configuration Tools...................................................................................................... 38

V. Wi-Fi Adapter/Bridge Mode ................................................................. 42

V-1. Home............................................................................................................................ 42

V-2. iQ Setup ....................................................................................................................... 44

V-3. Wireless Advanced ...................................................................................................... 45

V-3-1. Time Settings ............................................................................................................... 46

V-3-2. Administration Utility .................................................................................................. 47

V-3-3. Configuration Tools...................................................................................................... 48

VI. Access Point Mode ............................................................................... 52

VI-1. Home............................................................................................................................ 52

VI-2. iQ Setup ....................................................................................................................... 54

VI-3. Basic Settings ............................................................................................................... 55

VI-4. WPS Settings ................................................................................................................ 58

VI-5. Wireless Advanced ...................................................................................................... 60

VI-5-1. Security ........................................................................................................................ 62

VI-5-1-1. Disable ......................................................................................................................... 63

VI-5-1-2. WEP .............................................................................................................................. 63

VI-5-1-3. WPA pre-shared key .................................................................................................... 64

VI-5-1-4. WPA RADIUS ................................................................................................................ 65

VI-5-2. MAC Filtering ............................................................................................................... 66

VI-5-3. Time Settings ............................................................................................................... 68

VI-5-4. Scheduling Setting ....................................................................................................... 69

VI-5-5. Administration Utility .................................................................................................. 71

VI-5-6. Configuration Tools...................................................................................................... 73

VII. EdiRange App ....................................................................................... 77

VII-1. Login ............................................................................................................................. 77

VII-2. Main Menu .................................................................................................................. 79

VII-3. Parental Control ........................................................................................................... 80

VII-4. Wi-Fi Scheduling .......................................................................................................... 80

VII-5. Admin ........................................................................................................................... 81

VIII. Appendix ........................................................................................ 82

VIII-1. Configuring your IP address ......................................................................................... 82

VIII-1-1. How to check that your computer uses a dynamic IP address ................................... 83

VIII-1-1-1. Windows XP ................................................................................................................. 83

VIII-1-1-2. Windows Vista ............................................................................................................. 85

VIII-1-1-3. Windows 7 ................................................................................................................... 87

VII-1-1-4. Windows 8 ................................................................................................................... 90

VIII-1-1-5. Mac OS ......................................................................................................................... 94

VIII-1-2. How to modify the IP address of your computer ........................................................ 96

VII-1-2-1. Windows XP ................................................................................................................. 96

VIII-1-2-2. Windows Vista ............................................................................................................. 98

VII-1-2-3. Windows 7 ................................................................................................................... 99

VIII-1-2-4. Windows 8 .................................................................................................................104

VIII-1-2-5. Mac ............................................................................................................................108

VIII-1-3. How to Find Your Network Security Key ...................................................................111

VIII-1-3-1. Windows 7 & Vista .....................................................................................................111

VIII-1-3-2. Mac ............................................................................................................................113

VIII-1-4. How to Find Your Router’s IP Address .......................................................................116

VIII-1-4-1. Windows XP, Vista & 7 ...............................................................................................116

VIII-1-4-2. Windows 8 .................................................................................................................118

VIII-1-4-3. Mac ............................................................................................................................121

VIII-2. Connecting to a Wi-Fi network ..................................................................................123

VIII-3. Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................125

VIII-4. Glossary......................................................................................................................128

I. Product Information

LED

Color

Status

Description

Signal

Strength

2.4GHz

Amber

Excellent signal Signal strength: 60 – 100%

Slow

Flashing

Good signal Signal strength: 40 – 60%

Quick

Flashing

Poor signal Signal strength: 0 – 40%

Off

No signal detected, disconnected, or in LED off mode

I-1. Package Contents

- EW-7438RPn Mini

- CD with multi-language QIG & user manual

- Quick installation guide (QIG)

- Access key card

I-2. System Requirements

- Wi-Fi extender/Wi-Fi bridge mode: Existing 2.4GHz wireless network

- Access point mode: Cable/DSL modem router

- Computer with 2.4GHz 802.11/b/g/n Wi-Fi adapter, and web browser for

software configuration (Internet Explorer 8® or above, Google Chrome®, Firefox® or Safari® latest version)

- Smartphone setup: iOS 4.3 or Android 4.x and above

I-3. LED Status

Wi-Fi

Green

Flashing

Transferring data

Off

Wi-Fi not active or in LED off mode

Power

Green

Extender is on

Flashing

Resetting to factory default settings, or system is booting up

Off

Extender is off or in LED off mode

WPS

Green

WPS connection established (LED will remain on for 5 minutes to indicate a successful connection)

Flashing

WPS in progress (waiting for another WPS device)

Off

No WPS in progress or in LED off mode

LAN

Green

LAN port connected

Flashing

LAN activity (transferring or receiving data)

Off

LAN port not connected

I-4. Hardware Overview

1. LEDs 2. Ethernet Port

3. WPS/Reset Button

I-5. Safety Information

In order to ensure the safe operation of the device and its users, please read and act in accordance with the following safety instructions.

1. The device is designed for indoor use only; do not place it outdoors.

2. Do not place the device in or near hot/humid places, such as a kitchen or bathroom.

3. Do not pull any connected cable with force; carefully disconnect it from the EW-7438RPn Mini.

4. Handle the device with care. Accidental damage will void the warranty of the device.

5. The device contains small parts which are a danger to small children under 3 years old. Please keep the device out of reach of children.

6. Do not place the device on paper, cloth, or other flammable materials. The device may become hot during use.

7. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the device. If you experience problems with the device, please contact your dealer of purchase and ask for help.

8. The device is an electrical device and as such, if it becomes wet for any reason, do not attempt to touch it without switching the power supply off. Contact an experienced electrical technician for further help.

9. If you smell burning or see smoke coming from the EW-7438RPn Mini then unplug the device immediately, as far as it is safely possible to do so. Call your dealer of purchase for help.

10. This product should work for a long time, and provide round-the-clock Wi-Fi service.

II. Installation

Wi-Fi Extender

The device connects wirelessly to your existing network and repeats the wireless signal.

Location: The best location for your extender is roughly in the middle between your existing wireless router/access point and the dead zone. The extender needs to receive a good Wi-Fi signal from your router/access point.

Wi-Fi Adapter/ Wi-Fi Bridge

The device connects to an Ethernet device such as a games console or smart TV via Ethernet cable and provides wireless Internet access for that device.

Location: Within Wi-Fi coverage, close to your wired network device.

Wi-Fi Access Point

The device connects to an existing router via Ethernet cable and provides wireless Internet access for your network devices.

Location: Connected to your router via Ethernet cable.

The EW-7438RPn Mini has three different operating modes which you can choose depending on your network requirements. Each mode is described below:

1. Plug the EW-7438RPn Mini into a power socket.

2. The green power LED will flash while the system is booting up. The device

is ready when the green power LED displays on.

3. Use a Wi-Fi device (e.g. computer, tablet, smartphone) to search for a

Wi-Fi network with the SSID EdimaxEXT.Setup ** and connect to it.

If you are using a computer, please disconnect any Ethernet cables. For mobile devices, iOS 4.3 or Android 4.x or above is required.

The last two characters of the SSID (Edimaxext.Setup**) will be unique numbers according to your device e.g.”EdimaxEXT.Setup c1”. Your unique SSID is displayed on the product label along with the included access key card.

4. Open a web browser and if you do not automatically arrive at the “Get

Started” screen shown below, enter the URL http://edimaxext.setup and

click “Get Started” to begin the setup process.

If you cannot access http://edimaxext.setup, please make sure your computer is set to use a dynamic IP address. For more information please refer to VIII-1. Configuring your IP address.

5. Select an operating mode for your EW-7438RPn Mini.

II-1. Wi-Fi Extender Mode

1. Please read the on screen instructions about selecting a good location for

your wireless extender and then click “NEXT” to continue. You can check

your signal strength on the next page.

2. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list.

A hidden SSID is one that is not publically displayed when scanning for available Wi-Fi networks. Hidden SSID settings are

usually available in the configuration options of your router. If you use a hidden SSID , check the “Connect to a hidden network” box and enter the information manually.

3. Select whether to use the same SSID (“Duplicate from root AP”) or a

different SSID (“User Defined”) for your extender, and enter your existing Wi-Fi password. Click “Next” to continue.

For “User Defined” the Wi-Fi extender’s default wireless network name ( SSID) is your existing router/access point’s SSID + _2EX. For example if your router’s SSID is “Your SSID” then the EW-7438RPn Mini ’s SSID will be “Your SSID_2EX”. You can change the extender’s SSID if you wish.

You can also enable an additional guest Wi-Fi network. A guest Wi-Fi network is another SSID with a different name and

password. Select “Enable” and enter a guest network name and

password if you wish.

4. Please wait while the EW-7438RPn Mini tests the connection.

If your Wi-Fi extender fails to connect (below) to your existing router/access point, click the “BACK” button and ensure you entered the correct Wi-Fi network password.

If your Wi-Fi extender cannot obtain an IP address (below) from your existing router/access point then click the “Static IP” button to assign an IP address to the extender. For more guidance please refer to the VIII-1. Configuring your IP address.

5. When the connection test is complete, click “Apply” to restart the

extender.

6. Please wait a moment until the extender is ready.

7. A final congratulations screen will indicate that setup is complete. The

EW-7438RPn Mini is working and ready for use - the amber signal strength LED should display on or flash depending on your signal strength. To download the EdiRange app, scan the QR code.

Android: iOS:

8. Please close the browser window. You can now connect to the extender’s

new SSID on a wireless device within range such as a computer, smartphone or tablet.

The password for your Wi-Fi extender’s SSID is the same as for your router’s SSID.

For more advanced configurations, use the browser based configuration interface (refer to III. Browser Based

Configuration Interface).

II-2. Wi-Fi Adapter/Bridge Mode

1. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the security

key/password.

If the Wi-Fi network you wish to connect to does not appear, try clicking “Refresh”.

Do not check “Connect to a hidden network” unless you wish to connect to a hidden SSID instead.

2. Enter the security key/password for your existing Wi-Fi.

3. Please wait while the EW-7438RPn Mini tests the connection.

If your Wi-Fi extender fails to connect (below) to your existing router/access point, click the “BACK” button and ensure you entered the correct Wi-Fi network password.

4. When the connection test is complete, click “Apply” to restart the

extender.

5. Please wait a moment until the EW-7438RPn Mini is ready.

6. A final congratulations screen will indicate that setup is complete. Please

close the browser window.

7. The EW-7438RPn Mini is working and ready for use as a wireless bridge.

Use an Ethernet cable to connect the EW-7438RPn Mini to the Ethernet port on your network device.

8. Ensure the EW-7438RPn Mini is on and then use your network device to

connect to your network as usual.

II-3. Wi-Fi Access Point Mode

1. Connect the LAN port of your EW-7438RPn Mini to the LAN port of your

existing router using an Ethernet cable, and then click “Next”.

2. Click “Next” to continue.

3. Select “Obtain an IP address automatically” or “Use the following IP

address” for your EW-7438RPn Mini. If you are using a static IP, enter the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway and DNS. Click “Next” to proceed to the next step.

“Obtain an IP address automatically” is the recommended setting for most users. For more guidance on static IP addresses, please refer to VIII-1. Configuring your IP address.

4. Enter a name and password for your wireless network, then click “Next”

to continue.

You can also enable an additional guest Wi-Fi network. A guest Wi-Fi network is another SSID with a different name and

password. Select “Enable” and enter a guest network name and

password if you wish.

5. A summary of your configuration will be displayed, as shown below.

Check that all of the details are correct and then click “Apply” to restart the EW-7438RPn Mini.

6. Please wait a moment until the EW-7438RPn Mini is ready.

7. A final congratulations screen will indicate that setup is complete. Please

close the browser window. The EW-7438RPn Mini is working and ready for

use. You can now connect to the device’s new SSID.

II-4. WPS Setup

The WPS button is a quick and easy method to establish a secure connection between your EW-7438RPn Mini and wireless router/access point.

If your wireless device supports WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) then you can use this method to setup the EW-7438RPn Mini in extender or adapter/bridge mode, instead of the setup wizard described in II. Installation.

Please do not hold the WPS button for too long – this may reset your device.

1. Press the WPS button on your wireless router/access point for the correct

length of time to activate its WPS.

Please check the instructions for your wireless device for how long you need to hold down its WPS button to activate WPS.

2. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on the EW-7438RPn Mini for

Press for two

seconds

2 – 5 seconds to activate WPS. The green WPS LED will flash to indicate that WPS is active.

3. The devices will establish a connection. The green WPS LED on the

EW-7438RPn Mini will display on for 5 minutes to indicate a successful connection.

II-5. Reset to Factory Default Settings

If you experience problems with your extender or if you want to change the extender to a different operating mode, you can reset the device back to its factory settings. This resets all settings back to default.

1. Press and hold the WPS/Reset button

for at least 10 seconds and release when the green power LED is flashing.

2. Wait for the extender to restart. The

extender is ready for setup when the

green power LED displays on.

III. Browser Based Configuration Interface

After you have setup the EW-7438RPn Mini as detailed in II. Installation or the included Quick Installation Guide, you can use the browser based configuration interface to configure advanced settings.

Please ensure that your computer is set to use a dynamic IP address. Refer to VIII-1. Configuring your IP address for more information.

III-1. Login

1. To access the browser based configuration interface enter

http://edimaxext.setup into the URL bar of a browser on a network device connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the EW-7438RPn Mini.

2. You will be prompted for a username and password. The default

username is “admin” and the default password is “1234”.

3. You will arrive at the “Status and Information” screen. Use the menu

down the left side to navigate.

III-2. Save Settings

1. After you make any changes to the EW-7438RPn Mini’s settings, please

click “APPLY”.

2. Then, select “CONTINUE” to save changes but not apply them yet, or

select “APPLY” to restart the EW-7438RPn Mini and bring the changes into

effect.

The EW-7438RPn Mini needs to restart in order to apply and bring

any changes into effect. Use the “CONTINUE” button to make

several changes and apply them all together in one restart.

III-3. Main Menu

Wi-Fi Extender

Wi-Fi Adapter/Bridge Access Point

The main menu displays different options depending on your device’s

operating mode. Please refer to the following chapters for guidance on each mode.

IV. Extender Mode

IV-1. Home

The “Status and Information” page displays basic system information about the device, arranged into

three categories: system, wireless configuration & LAN configuration.

Screenshots displayed are examples.The information shown on your screen will vary depending on your configuration.

Current Time

Current time and date.

Uptime

Displays the total time since the device was turned on.

Hardware Version

Displays the hardware version.

Firmware Version

Displays the firmware version.

Mode

Displays the operating mode.

SSID

Displays the EW-7438RPn Mini’s SSID. The SSID is the name used to identify a wireless network.

Channel Number

Displays the current wireless channel number.

Security

Displays the current wireless security setting.

BSSID (MAC)

Displays the device’s BSSID. The BSSID identifies the EW-7438RPn Mini in the network, and is the same as the device’s MAC address.

Associated Clients

Displays the number of clients connected to the EW-7438RPn Mini. Click “Show Active Clients” to display a new window showing information about wireless clients.

State

Displays the current connection status of the EW-7438RPn Mini.

Signal Strength

Displays the signal strength for the specified SSID.

IP Address

Displays the IP address of this device.

Subnet Mask

Displays the subnet mask of the IP address.

Default Gateway

Displays the IP address of the default gateway.

MAC address

Displays the device’s MAC address. The MAC address is a unique, fixed ID for this device, it cannot be modified.

IV-2. iQ Setup

You can run the setup wizard again to reconfigure the basic settings of the device. Please refer to II-1. Wi-Fi

Extender Mode Step 2 onwards for guidance.

If you wish to change the operating mode, please reset the EW-7438RPn Mini back to factory default settings.

IV-3. WPS Settings

WPS Status

Displays “Configured” or “unConfigured”

depending on whether WPS and SSID/security settings for the device have been configured or not, either manually or using the WPS button.

Self PIN Code

Displays the WPS PIN code of the device.

Configuration Mode

The configuration mode of the device’s WPS setting is displayed here. “Registrar” means

the device acts as an access point for a wireless client to connect to and the wireless client(s) will follow the device’s wireless settings.

Configure via Push Button

Click “Start PBC” (Push-Button Configuration) to activate WPS on the access point. WPS will be active for 2 minutes.

Input Client PIN Code

Enter the wireless client’s PIN code here and click “Start PIN” to activate PIN code WPS. Refer to your wireless client’s documentation if

you are unsure of its PIN code.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup is a simple way to establish

connections between WPS compatible devices. When WPS is activated in the correct manner and at the correct time for two compatible devices, they will automatically connect. PIN code WPS includes the use of a PIN code between the two devices for verification.

The WPS Settings page displays settings for WPS between your extender and a

wireless client. For WPS Setup between your extender and router/access point, please use the WPS button as described in II-4. WPS Setup.

IV-4. Advanced Setting

Tx Power

You can adjust the level of wireless output power as a percentage. Depending on the size of your location and required coverage, you may not require 100% output power. Reducing the output power can enhance security since your Wi-Fi signal will not extend to potential malicious/unknown users in distant areas.

In “Advanced Setting” you can adjust the power output of the EW-7438RPn Mini. The submenu also allows you to configure security, time settings and scheduling settings as well as various administrative and management functions.

IV-4-1. WLAN 2.4GHz Security

Broadcast SSID

Enable or disable SSID broadcast. When enabled, the SSID will be visible to clients as an available Wi-Fi network. When disabled, the SSID will not be visible as an available Wi-Fi network to clients – clients must manually enter the SSID in order to connect. A hidden (disabled) SSID is typically more secure than a visible (enabled) SSID. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is also disabled when SSID broadcast is disabled.

Device SSID

This is the name of your Wi-Fi network for identification, also sometimes referred to as “SSID”. The SSID can consist of any combination of up to 32 alphanumerical characters.

Security Type

The security/encryption type of your EW-7438RPn Mini’s wireless network is displayed here. The security/encryption type is the same as your existing router/access point.

Security Key

This is the security key for your EW-7438RPn

Mini.

Guest Network

You can also enable an additional guest Wi-Fi network. A guest Wi-Fi network is another SSID with a different name and password. Select enable or disable.

Guest Network Name

Enter a name (SSID) for your guest Wi-Fi network.

Guest Wi-Fi Encryption

Select whether to disable encryption for your guest Wi-Fi or use WPA pre-shared key encryption.

WPA Unicast Cipher Suite

WPA2(AES) is selected automatically and is the most secure type.

Pre-Shared Key Format

Choose a format for your pre-shared key (Wi-Fi password). Select from “passphrase” (any alphumeric characters 0-9 a-z A-Z) or “Hex” (limited to characters 0-9 a-f A-F).

Guest Wi-Fi Password

Enter or modify the password for your guest Wi-Fi network here.

IV-4-2. Time Settings

Set Time Zone

Select the time zone of your country or region.

Time Server Address

The extender supports NTP (Network Time Protocol), select a time server from the drop down menu.

Daylight Savings

If your country/region uses daylight saving

time, please check the “Enable Function”

box, and select the start and end date.

IV-4-3. Scheduling Setting

Add

Click to add a new schedule in a new window (see below).

Edit

Edit an existing schedule in a new window.

Delete

Delete the specified schedule.

Add

When you click “Add” to add a new schedule, a new window will open as

shown below:

1. Select which function to schedule using the “Service” menu and enter a

name for the schedule in the “schedule description” box.

2. Specify a start and end time (hours and minutes) using the drop-down

menus for your required day.

3. Select the schedule in the “Select” column and click “APPLY” to save the

schedule, or “Back” to cancel and go back to the previous screen.

If you need to use the extender during a scheduled off period,

press the WPS/Reset button once to “wake up” the extender and

resume Wi-Fi coverage.

IV-4-4. Administration Utility

Current Password

Enter your current password.

New Password

Enter your new password.

Confirmed Password

Confirm your new password.

IP Address

Specify an IP address here. This IP address will be assigned to yourEW-7438RPn Mini.

Subnet Mask

Input the subnet mask of the new IP address.

Gateway Address

Input the network’s gateway IP address.

DNS

Enter the DNS address here.

You can change the password used to login to the browser-based configuration interface here. It is advised to do so for security purposes. You can also configure the EW-7438RPn Mini’s IP address.

Please make a note of the new password. In the event that you forget the password and are unable to login to the browser based configuration interface, see II-5. Reset to factory default

settings for how to reset the device.

IV-4-5. Configuration Tools

Backup Settings

Click “Save” to save the current settings on your computer as config.bin file.

Restore Settings

Click “Browse” to find a previously saved config.bin file and then click “Upload” to replace your current settings.

Restore to Factory Default

Click “Reset” to restore settings to the factory default. A pop-up window will appear and ask you to confirm and enter your log in details. Enter your username and password and click

“Ok”. See below for more information.

The “Configuration Tools” menu allows you to backup the EW-7438RPn Mini’s

settings, restore the settings to a previous version or restore the EW-7438RPn Mini back to its factory default state. You can also upgrade the firmware, reboot the device and export the system log.

Upgrade Firmware

Browse

Open a new window to locate and select the firmware file in your computer.

You can upgrade the system firmware to a more recent version. You can download the latest firmware from the Edimax website. After the upgrade, the system will restart.

Do not unplug or disconnect the device during a firmware upgrade, as this could damage the device. It is recommended that you use a computer for a firmware upgrade.

Reboot

Apply

Click “Apply” to reboot the device. A status bar will indicate the progress of the reboot and you will see a confirmation screen when the reboot is complete.

In the event that the router malfunctions or is not responding, then it is recommended that you restart the device.

Rebooting the EW-7438RPn Mini will not affect the current configuration/settings of the device.

System Log

Export system log

Click to open a new window and select a location to save the log file.

You can export the system log to a separate file if you require.

V. Wi-Fi Adapter/Bridge Mode

Current Time

Displays the current time and date.

Uptime

Displays the total time since the device was turned on.

V-1. Home

The “Status and Information” page displays basic

system information about the device, arranged into three categories: system, wireless configuration & LAN configuration.

Screenshots displayed are examples.The information shown on your screen will vary depending on your configuration.

Hardware Version

Displays the hardware version.

Firmware Version

Displays the firmware version.

Mode

Displays the operating mode.

SSID

Displays your router/access point’s SSID, sometimes also known as SSID. The SSID is the name used to identify a wireless network.

Channel Number

Displays the current wireless channel number.

Security

Displays the current wireless security setting.

BSSID (MAC)

Displays the device’s BSSID. The BSSID identifies this device in the network, and is the same as the device’s MAC address.

State

Displays the current connection state of the EW-7438RPn Mini.

Signal Strength

Displays the signal strength for the specified Wi-Fi network.

IP Address

Displays the IP address of this device.

Subnet Mask

Displays the subnet mask of the IP address.

Default Gateway

Displays the IP address of the default gateway.

MAC address

Displays the device’s MAC address. The MAC address is a unique, fixed ID for this device, it cannot be modified.

V-2. iQ Setup

You can run the setup wizard again to reconfigure the basic settings of the device. Please refer to II-2. Wi-Fi

Adapter/Bridge Mode for guidance.

If you wish to change the operating mode, please reset the EW-7438RPn Mini back to factory default settings.

V-3. Wireless Advanced

Tx Power

In “Wireless Advanced” you adjust the power output

of the EW-7438RPn Mini. The submenu also allows you to configure time settings and various administrative and management functions.

V-3-1. Time Settings

Set Time Zone

Select the time zone of your country or region.

Time Server Address

The extender supports NTP (Network Time Protocol), select a time server from the drop down menu.

Daylight Savings

If your country/region uses daylight saving

time, please check the “Enable Function”

box, and select the start and end date.

V-3-2. Administration Utility

Current Password

Enter your current password.

New Password

Enter your new password.

Confirmed Password

Confirm your new password.

IP Address

Specify an IP address here. This IP address will be assigned to yourEW-7438RPn Mini.

Subnet Mask

Input the subnet mask of the new IP address.

Gateway Address

Input the network’s gateway IP address.

DNS

Enter the DNS address here.

You can change the password used to login to the browser-based configuration interface here. It is advised to do so for security purposes. You can also configure the EW-7438RPn Mini’s IP address.

Please make a note of the new password. In the event that you forget the password and are unable to login to the browser based configuration interface, see II-5. Reset to factory default

settings for how to reset the device.

V-3-3. Configuration Tools

Backup Settings

Click “Save” to save the current settings on your computer as config.bin file.

Restore Settings

Click “Browse” to find a previously saved config.bin file and then click “Upload” to replace your current settings.

Restore to Factory Default

Click “Reset” to restore settings to the factory default. A pop-up window will appear and ask you to confirm and enter your log in details. Enter your username and password and click

“Ok”. See below for more information.

The “Configuration Tools” menu allows you to backup the EW-7438RPn Mini’s

settings, restore the settings to a previous version or restore the EW-7438RPn Mini back to its factory default state. You can also upgrade the firmware, reboot the device and export the system log.

Upgrade Firmware

Browse

Open a new window to locate and select the firmware file in your computer.

You can upgrade the system firmware to a more recent version. You can download the latest firmware from the Edimax website. After the upgrade, the system will restart.

Do not switch off or disconnect the device during a firmware upgrade, as this could damage the device. It is recommended that you use a computer for a firmware upgrade.

Reboot

Apply

Click “Apply” to reboot the device. A status bar will indicate the progress of the reboot and you will see a confirmation screen when the reboot is complete.

In the event that the router malfunctions or is not responding, then it is recommended that you restart the device.

Rebooting the EW-7438RPn Mini will not affect the current configuration/settings of the device.

System Log

Export system log

Click to open a new window and select a location to save the log file.

You can export the system log to a separate file if you require.

VI. Access Point Mode

Current Time

Displays the current time and date.

Uptime

Displays the total time since the device was turned on.

Hardware Version

Displays the hardware version.

VI-1. Home

The “Status and Information” page displays basic

system information about the device, arranged into three categories: system, wireless configuration & LAN configuration.

Screenshots displayed are examples.The information shown on your screen will vary depending on your configuration.

Firmware Version

Displays the firmware version.

Mode

Displays the operating mode.

SSID

Displays the access point’s SSID, sometimes also known as SSID. The SSID is the name used to identify a wireless network.

Channel Number

Displays the current wireless channel number.

Security

Displays the current wireless security setting.

BSSID (MAC)

Displays the device’s BSSID. The BSSID identifies this access point in the network, and is the same as the device’s MAC address.

Associated Clients

Displays the number of clients connected to the access point. Click “Show Active Clients” to display a new window showing information about wireless clients.

State

Displays the current connection state of the EW-7438RPn Mini.

IP Address

Displays the IP address of this device.

Subnet Mask

Displays the subnet mask of the IP address.

Default Gateway

Displays the IP address of the default gateway.

MAC address

Displays the device’s MAC address. The MAC address is a unique, fixed ID for this device, it cannot be modified.

VI-2. iQ Setup

You can run the setup wizard again to reconfigure the

basic settings of the device. Please refer to II-3. Wi-Fi

Access Point Mode Step 3 onwards for guidance.

If you wish to change the operating mode, please reset the EW-7438RPn Mini back to factory default settings.

VI-3. Basic Settings

Mode

The EW-7438RPn Mini’s mode is displayed here.

Band

Displays the wireless standard used for the EW-7438RPn Mini. “2.4GHz (B+G+N)” means that 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n wireless clients can connect to the EW-7438RPn Mini.

MAIN SSID

This is the name of your Wi-Fi network for identification, also known as “SSID”. The SSID can consist of any combination of up to 32 alphanumerical characters.

Multiple SSID

Click “Multiple SSID” to open a new window

and assign up to four SSIDs to this access point. Please see the following page for more details.

AP Isolation

When “Enabled”, wireless clients will be able to access the Internet, but will not be able to communicate with each other. This applies to clients connected to the MAIN ESSID only.

Channel Number

Select a wireless radio channel or use the default “Auto” setting from the drop-down menu.

Associated Clients

Click “Show list” to display a new window showing information about wireless clients. Please disable any pop-up blockers if you have difficulty using this function.

The “Basic Settings” screen displays various settings for

your wireless network.

Multiple SSID

No.

Identification number of each additional SSID.

Enable

Check the box to enable or disable an SSID.

SSID

Enter the SSID (the name used to identify this wireless access point) here. You can input up to 32 alphanumerical characters. Please note

that the SSID is case sensitive.

Broadcast SSID

Enable or disable SSID broadcast. When enabled, the ESSID will be visible to clients as an available Wi-Fi network. When disabled, the SSID will not be visible as an available Wi-Fi network to clients – clients must manually enter the SSID in order to connect. A hidden (disabled) SSID is typically more secure than a visible (enabled) SSID.

WMM

WMM (Wi-Fi Multimedia) technology can improve the performance of certain network applications, such as audio/video streaming, network telephony (VoIP), and others. When WMM is enabled, the access point will prioritize different kinds of data and give higher priority to applications which require instant responses. This improves the performance of such network applications.

Band

Select the wireless band you wish to use for the access point: 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n

This page allows you to configure the wireless settings for multiple ESSID’s.

or selected combinations of each. Only wireless clients of the same band(s) as you select will be able to connect.

AP Isolation

When “Enabled”, wireless clients will be able to access the Internet, but will not be able to communicate with each other.

SSID Isolation

When “Enabled”, wireless clients that connect to main SSID and multiple SSID will not be able to communicate with each other.

VI-4. WPS Settings

WPS Status

Displays “Configured” or “unConfigured”

depending on whether WPS and SSID/security settings for the device have been configured or not, either manually or using the WPS button.

Self PIN Code

Displays the WPS PIN code of the device.

Device SSID

Displays the SSID of the device.

Security Type

Displays the wireless security authentication mode of the device.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup is a simple way to establish

The WPS Settings page displays settings for WPS between your extender and a wireless client.

Do not use the physical WPS button (described in II-4. WPS Setup) in access point mode. Use the settings below instead.

Passphrase Key

Displays the wireless security authentication key.

Configuration Mode

The configuration mode of the device’s WPS setting is displayed here. “Registrar” means

the device acts as an access point for a wireless client to connect to and the wireless client(s) will follow the device’s wireless settings.

Configure via Push Button

Click “Start PBC” (Push-Button Configuration) to activate WPS on the EW-7438RPn Mini. WPS will be active for 2 minutes.

Input Client PIN Code

Enter the wireless client’s PIN code here and click “Start PIN” to activate PIN code WPS. Refer to your wireless client’s documentation if

you are unsure of its PIN code.

VI-5. Wireless Advanced

Fragment Threshold

Set the Fragment threshold of the wireless radio. The default value is 2346.

RTS Threshold

Set the RTS threshold of the wireless radio. The default value is 2347.

Beacon Interval

Set the beacon interval of the wireless radio. The default value is 100.

DTIM Period

Set the DTIM period of wireless radio. The default value is 3.

Using the “Advanced Setting” menu, you can configure security, MAC filtering and various other settings.

The settings on the “Advanced Setting” page shown below are for experienced users only. Please do not change any of the values on this page unless you are already familiar with these functions.

Changing these settings can adversely affect the performance of your access point.

Data Rate

Set the wireless data transfer rate. The default is set to auto.

N Data Rate

Set the data rate of 802.11n. The default is set to auto.

Channel Width

Select wireless channel width (bandwidth used by wireless signals from the device) – the recommended value is Auto 20/40MHz.

Preamble Type

Set the wireless radio preamble type. The default value is “Short Preamble”.

Broadcast SSID

CTS Protect

Enabling this setting will reduce the chance of radio signal collisions between 802.11b

and 802.11g wireless access points. It’s recommended to set this option to “Auto”.

Tx Power

Set the power output of the wireless radio. You may not require 100% output power. Setting a lower power output can enhance security since potentially malicious/unknown users in distant areas will not be able to access your signal.

VI-5-1. Security

SSID choice

Select which SSID to configure security settings for.

Encryption

Select an SSID from the drop down menu to configure security for. Refer to the next sections for more details about each security type.

The access point provides a variety of wireless security options (wireless data encryption). When data is encrypted, information transmitted wirelessly cannot be read by anyone who does not know the encryption key. The “Security” screen displays security settings for your EW-7438RPn Mini.

VI-5-1-1. Disable

Enable 802.1x Authentication

Check the box to enable the 802.1x authentication. A RADIUS server is required to perform 802.1x authentication.

Key Length

Select 64-bit or 128bit. 128-bit is more secure than 64-bit.

Key Format

Choose from “ASCII” (any alphanumerical character 0-9, a-z and A-Z) or “Hex” (any

Encryption is disabled and no password/key is required to connect to the EW-7438RPn Mini.

Disabling wireless encryption is not recommended. When disabled, anybody within range can connect to your device’s SSID.

VI-5-1-2. WEP

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is a basic encryption type. For a higher level of security consider using WPA encryption.

WEP supports data rates up to 54Mbps.

characters from 0-9, a-f and A-F).

Encryption Key

Enter your encryption key/password according to the format you selected above. A complex, hard-to-guess key is recommended. Check the

“Hide” box to hide your password from being

displayed on-screen.

Enable 802.1x Authentication

Check the box to enable the 802.1x authentication. A RADIUS server is required to perform 802.1x authentication.

WPA Unicast Cipher Suite

Select from WPA (TKIP), WPA2 (AES) or WPA2 Mixed. WPA2 (AES) is safer than WPA (TKIP). Please make sure your wireless client supports your selection. WPA2 (AES) is recommended followed by WPA2 Mixed if your client does not support WPA2 (AES).

Pre-shared Key Format

Choose from “Passphrase” (8 – 63 alphanumeric characters) or “Hex” (up to 64 characters from 0-9, a-f and A-F).

Pre-shared Key

Please enter a key according to the format you selected above. A complex, hard-to-guess key

is recommended. Check the “Hide” box to hide

your password from being displayed on-screen.

VI-5-1-3. WPA pre-shared key

WPA pre-shared key is the recommended and most secure encryption type.

WPA (TKIP) supports data rates up to 54Mbps.

VI-5-1-4. WPA RADIUS

WPA Unicast Cipher Suite

RADIUS Server IP address

Input the IP address of the RADIUS authentication server here.

RADIUS Server Port

Input the port number of the RADIUS authentication server here. The default value is 1812.

RADIUS Server Password

Input the password of the RADIUS authentication server here.

WPA RADIUS is a combination of WPA encryption and RADIUS user authentication. If you have a RADIUS authentication server, you can authenticate the identity of every wireless client against a user database.

VI-5-2. MAC Filtering

Delete Selected/ Delete All

Delete selected or all entries from the table.

Reset

De-select all selected entries.

MAC address

Enter a MAC address of computer or network device without dashes or colons e.g. for MAC

address ‘aa-bb-cc-dd-ee-ff’ enter ‘aabbccddeeff’.

Comment

Enter a comment for reference/identification consisting of up to 16 alphanumerical characters.

Add

Click “Add” to add the MAC address to the

The MAC filtering feature allows you to define a list of wireless devices permitted to connect to this access point, identified by their unique MAC address. When this feature is enabled, devices which are not on the list of permitted MAC addresses cannot connect to the access point.

MAC address entries will be listed in the “MAC Address Filtering Table”. Select an entry using the “Select” checkbox.

To enable the MAC filtering function, check the box labeled “Enable Wireless Access Control”.

MAC address filtering table.

Clear

Clear all fields.

VI-5-3. Time Settings

Set Time Zone

Select the time zone of your country or region.

Time Server Address

The extender supports NTP (Network Time Protocol), select a time server from the drop down menu.

Daylight Savings

If your country/region uses daylight saving

time, please check the “Enable Function”

box, and select the start and end date.

VI-5-4. Scheduling Setting

Add

Click to add a new schedule in a new window (see below).

Edit

Edit an existing schedule in a new window.

Delete

Delete the specified schedule.

Add

When you click “Add” to add a new schedule, a new window will open as shown below:

1. Select which function to schedule using the “Service” menu and enter a

name for the schedule in the “schedule description” box.

2. Specify a start and end time (hours and minutes) using the drop-down

menus for your required day.

3. Select the schedule in the “Select” column and click “APPLY” to save the

schedule, or “Back” to cancel and go back to the previous screen.

If you need to use the extender during a scheduled off period, press the WPS/Reset button once to “wake up” the extender and resume Wi-Fi coverage.

VI-5-5. Administration Utility

Current Password

Enter your current password.

New Password

Enter your new password.

Confirmed Password

Confirm your new password.

You can change the password used to login to the browser-based configuration interface here. It is advised to do so for security purposes. You can also configure the EW-7438RPn Mini’s IP address.

Please make a note of the new password. In the event that you forget the password and are unable to login to the browser based configuration interface, see II-5. Reset to factory default

settings for how to reset the device.

IP Address

Specify an IP address here. This IP address will be assigned to your EW-7438RPn Mini.

Subnet Mask

Input the subnet mask of the new IP address.

Gateway Address

Input the network’s gateway IP address.

DNS

Enter the DNS address here.

DHCP Server

Enable or disable the DHCP server.

Default Gateway

Input the network’s gateway IP address.

Start IP

Enter the start IP address for the DHCP server’s IP address leases.

End IP

Enter the end IP address for the DHCP server’s IP address leases.

Lease Time

Select a lease time for the DHCP leases here. The DHCP client will obtain a new IP address after the period expires.

Please refer to VIII-1. Configuring your IP address for more

information about changing the access point’s IP address.

VI-5-6. Configuration Tools

Backup Settings

Click “Save” to save the current settings on your computer as config.bin file.

Restore Settings

Click “Browse” to find a previously saved config.bin file and then click “Upload” to replace your current settings.

Restore to Factory Default

Click “Reset” to restore settings to the factory default. A pop-up window will appear and ask you to confirm and enter your log in details. Enter your username and password and click

“Ok”. See below for more information.

The “Configuration Tools” menu allows you to backup the EW-7438RPn Mini’s

settings, restore the settings to a previous version or restore the EW-7438RPn Mini back to its factory default state. You can also upgrade the firmware, reboot the device and export the system log.

Upgrade Firmware

Browse

Open a new window to locate and select the firmware file in your computer.

You can upgrade the system firmware to a more recent version. You can download the latest firmware from the Edimax website. After the upgrade, the system will restart.

Do not switch off or disconnect the device during a firmware upgrade, as this could damage the device. It is recommended that you use a wired Ethernet connection for a firmware upgrade.

Reboot

Apply

Click “Apply” to reboot the device. A status bar will indicate the progress of the reboot and you will see a confirmation screen when the reboot is complete.

In the event that the router malfunctions or is not responding, then it is recommended that you restart the device.

Rebooting the EW-7438RPn Mini will not affect the current configuration/settings of the device.

System Log

Export system log

Click to open a new window and select a location to save the log file.

You can export the system log to a separate file if you require.

VII. EdiRange App

The EdiRange app is for use with range extender mode only.

The EdiRange app is a free smartphone app from which you can manage the extender’s functions and check your local Wi-Fi environment.

Please ensure that your smartphone/tablet is connected to your extender’s Wi-Fi (SSID).

VII-1. Login

1. Open the EdiRange app.

2. Select “Management”.

3. Enter the username and password (default username: admin, default

password: 1234).

The admin password is the same password used for the browser based configuration interface. It is recommended that you change the password

from the default “1234”. You can change the password in the “admin” page from the main

menu.

4. Wait for the app to log in.

VII-2. Main Menu

After you log in, the “Status” page will be displayed. You can see the extender status, SSID name, and guest network and schedule status here. Use the menu of icons across the bottom of the screen to navigate around the app.

Logout

Click the logout icon in the top left corner of the app anytime to log out from the app.

Help

Click the help icon in the top right corner of the app anytime to display help and tips about using the app.

Click the “more” icon in the main menu to display an additional menu

with more options:

VII-3. Parental Control

The parental control function is a guest Wi-Fi network (SSID) which can be used for children, and switched on or off remotely using the EdiRange app independent from your extender’s primary Wi-Fi network. Select “Second Wi-Fi Network” and then enter a name and password for the network.

VII-4. Wi-Fi Scheduling

Wi-Fi can be scheduled to switch off according to your preference. Your current schedules are displayed in the table: grey areas indicate Wi-Fi is off and orange areas indicate Wi-Fi is on.

Touch the time bars on the screen to open the schedule settings, and then click “Add” or “Edit” to add a new or edit an existing schedule for Wi-Fi off. Daylight Savings can also be configured here.

VII-5. Admin

You can change the extender’s administrative password on the Admin page. This is the password to login to the EdiRange app and the browser based configuration interface.

VIII. Appendix

VIII-1. Configuring your IP address

For first time access to the URL http://edimaxext.setup please ensure your computer is set to use a dynamic IP address. This means your computer can obtain an IP address automatically from a DHCP server. You can check if your computer is set to use a dynamic IP address by following VII-1-1. How to

check that your computer uses a dynamic IP address.

Static IP users can also temporarily modify your computer’s IP address to be

in the same IP address subnet e.g. 192.168.9.x (x = 3 – 254) as the EW-7438RPn Mini in order to access http://edimaxext.setup.

The EW-7438RPn Mini’s default IP address is 192.168.9.2.

The procedure for modifying your IP address varies across different operating systems; please follow the guide appropriate for your operating system in

VIII-1-2. How to modify the IP address of your computer.

Static IP users please make a note of your static IP before you change it.

You can assign a new IP address to the device which is within the subnet of your network during setup or using the browser based configuration interface, so that you can access the URL http://edimaxext.setup in future without modifying your IP address.

Please remember to change your IP address back to its original value after the device is properly configured.

VIII-1-1. How to check that your computer uses a dynamic IP address

Please follow the instructions appropriate for your operating system.

VIII-1-1-1. Windows XP

1. Click the “Start” button (it should be located in the lower-left corner of

your computer), then click “Control Panel”. Double-click the “Network and Internet Connections” icon, click “Network Connections”, and then double-click “Local Area Connection”. The “Local Area Connection Status” window will then appear, click “Properties”.

2. “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server address

automatically” should be selected.

VIII-1-1-2. Windows Vista

1. Click the “Start” button (it should be located in the lower-left corner of

your computer), then click “Control Panel”. Click “View Network Status and Tasks”, then click “Manage Network Connections”. Right-click “Local Area Network”, then select “Properties”. The “Local Area Connection Properties” window will then appear, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP / IPv4)”, and then click “Properties”.

2. Select “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server

address automatically” should be selected.

86 87

VIII-1-1-3. Windows 7

1. Click the “Start” button (it should be located in the lower-left corner of

your computer), then click “Control Panel”.

2. Under “Network and Internet” click “View network status and tasks”.

3. Click “Local Area Connection”.

4. Click “Properties”.

5. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then click “Properties”.

6. Select “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server

address automatically” should be selected.

VII-1-1-4. Windows 8

1. From the Windows 8 Start screen, you need to switch to desktop mode.

Move your curser to the bottom left of the screen and click.

2. In desktop mode, click the File Explorer icon in the bottom left of the

screen, as shown below.

3. Right click “Network” and then select “Properties”.

4. In the window that opens, select “Change adapter settings” from the left

side.

5. Choose your connection and right click, then select “Properties”.

6. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then click “Properties”.

7. Select “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server

address automatically” should be selected.

VIII-1-1-5. Mac OS

1. Have your Macintosh computer operate as usual, and click on “System

Preferences”.

2. In System Preferences, click on “Network”.

3. Click on “Wi-Fi” in the left panel and then click “Advanced” in the lower

right corner.

4. Select “TCP/IP” from the top menu and “Using DHCP” in the drop down

menu labeled “Configure IPv4” should be selected.

VIII-1-2. How to modify the IP address of your computer

Please follow the instructions appropriate for your operating system. In the following examples we use the IP address 192.168.9.20 though you can use any IP address in the range 192.168.9.x (x = 3 – 254) in order to access iQ Setup/browser based configuration interface.

Please make a note of your static IP before you change it.

VII-1-2-1. Windows XP

1. Click the “Start” button (it should be located in the lower-left corner of

2. Select “Use the following IP address”, then input the following values:

Your existing static IP address will be displayed in the “IP address” field before you replace it. Please make a note of this IP

Edimax EW-7438RPn Mini User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual