US
Linksys

Linksys RE6500 AC1200 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Extender

  • AC1200 dual band, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
  • N300 plus AC867 speeds across the two bands
  • 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices
  • Up to 10,000 square feet of coverage
  • Wi-Fi 5, compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n devices
  • WPS, WEP, WPA and WPA2 security
  • 32 to 104 F operating temperature

Updated 23 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A dual-band extender with a wired port bank, useful where a game console or smart TV is placed beyond the router signal. The listing contradicts itself on band count, so confirm before ordering.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ProductDome earns a commission when you buy through links on this page.

ASIN: B00KTLG9AKModel: RE6500

Overview

Linksys builds this extender to rebroadcast an existing Wi-Fi network on two bands at once. It plugs into an outlet near the weak zone, joins the router wirelessly, and adds wired Ethernet ports for devices that need a cable. Two detachable antennas can be adjusted.

The reason to buy is the wired side: several Ethernet ports let consoles and streaming boxes connect by cable while the extender handles the wireless hop. The limit is the conflicting band information in the spec fields, which calls it single band in one place and dual band in another.

Who it's for

Households with dead spots and several wired devices in the same room are the target. The description also mentions linking a stereo or speakers for music streaming. Anyone expecting a mesh setup with one network name should look elsewhere, since the listing does not describe mesh.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Dual-band operation described
  • Four wired Ethernet ports
  • Detachable adjustable antennas
  • Works with any router or gateway
Cons
  • Band class field contradicts dual-band description
  • Wired speed capped at Gigabit
  • Antenna adjustment needed for best coverage

Performance notes

An extender repeats the router signal, so the result depends on where it is placed: it needs a usable signal at its own spot before it can pass it on. Using both bands at the same time spreads traffic and cuts congestion. Turning the antennas aims coverage where it is needed.

Specifications

BrandLinksys
ModelRE6500
Dimensions & fit
LAN Port Bandwidth1000 Mbps
Capacity & performance
Connectivity Range10000 square_feet
Construction & materials
ColorBlack
Compatibility & installation
Compatible DevicesRouter
Connectivity ProtocolEthernet, Wi-Fi
Connectivity TechnologyEthernet, Wireless
Included components
Unit Count1 Count
Warranty & support
Warranty Description1 year-limited
Other details
Antenna LocationHome
CoverageUp to 10,000 square feet
Data Transfer Rate1000 megabytes_per_second
Frequency Band ClassSingle-Band
Item Type NameWireless Range Extender
Maximum Upstream Data Transfer Rate1167 megabits_per_second
Number Of Ports5
Operating SystemWindows, Mac OS
Security ProtocolWPS, WEP, WPA, WPA2
Wireless Compability2.4 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11a/b/g/n

Frequently asked questions

How do I adjust the antennas on the Linksys RE6500?

The description says the antennas are detachable and can be adjusted to provide the best coverage. Two dipole antennas come in the listed contents.

Is the Linksys RE6500 a router?

No. It is a range extender that works with a router or gateway, including ones supplied by a service provider, and does not replace it.

Is the Linksys RE6500 single band or dual band?

The title and description say dual band, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, but the spec field for band class says single band. The description and title are the more detailed sources.

What comes in the box with the Linksys RE6500?

The description lists the extender, an AC/DC power supply, two dipole antennas, an Ethernet cable and a quick installation guide.

Which operating systems does the RE6500 setup support?

The description names Windows XP SP3, Vista SP1 or later, Windows 7 and Windows 8, plus Mac OS X Leopard 10.5.8, Snow Leopard 10.6.1, Lion 10.7 and Mountain Lion 10.8 or later.