Here is the question. I am trying to set up a CPE510 as an access point and use the Archer C20 as a range extender. I configured the Archer C20 in extender mode and it was able to detect and save the SSID from the CPE510. I can connect to the CPE210’s 2 GHz SSID, but there is no internet access. My goal is to link the Archer C20’s 5 GHz band to the CPE510, which is about 350 meters away (it detected the SSID), and then use the 2 GHz band for local WiFi. Why is it that the Archer C20 cannot connect to the CPE510 in 5 GHz extender mode?
Picture below shows the CPE510 for WISP PtP installed in my office balcony:
Here is the answer. The CPE510 is capable of transmitting WiFi signals over long distances such as 350 meters, but the Archer C20 does not have the same power. For wireless communication to work, signals must be able to travel in both directions. An outdoor access point can send its signal much farther, but client devices such as smartphones, WiFi adapters, or home routers often lack the transmit power to send data back effectively.
This is related to antenna coverage and the need for reliable two-way communication. Even if your device can detect the SSID of the outdoor AP, it doesn’t guarantee that the connection will be strong enough to exchange data properly. The practical range always depends on both sides of the link. That’s why for long-distance setups, you usually need outdoor AP devices at both ends.
TP-Link’s outdoor access points, such as the CPE605, CPE710, CPE210, and CPE510, are equipped with built-in high-gain directional antennas.
Here are the suggested ranges when using the built-in antennas:
CPE605: up to 20 km
CPE710: up to 30 km
CPE210: up to 5 km
CPE510: up to 15 km or more
If you need to extend coverage further, you can attach an external directional antenna with higher gain. However, keep in mind that higher gain antennas focus energy more narrowly, which makes alignment harder, and you must also make sure to follow local regulations regarding antenna power.
For point-to-multipoint setups, where a single AP needs to cover multiple directions, you can use an external omnidirectional antenna on the main access point.
