Homeplug issue - picking up neighbours network

Kol

Kol

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The other day I was getting sick of my wireless being poor in one of the bedrooms so I pulled my old TP Link PA-211 plugs out and decided I'd use my Airport Express to extend the network.

It didn't quite go to plan so I unplugged the one going into the router but noticed the other one was still quite active. I didn't think much of it so just switched it off.

Just now I switched it on, turned off the wireless on my laptop and plugged a network cable in and low and behold I had a solid 50Mbit connection through someone else's BT connection.

Any tips? I guess the only thing I can do is purchase some that are encrypted? I'm keen to use mine but I don't want one of the flats in the building getting into my network. Building consists of nine flats, purpose built.

The real kicker is the plugs weren't ever really that good when I bought them going from lounge to bedroom but from kitchen to whoever's flat the connection is solid!
 
Your's will be encrypted. You'll be getting the problem because you're both using the same factory default encryption keys.

You should be able to set your own using buttons on the adapters. The process varies a bit so check the instructions.

For many adapters you can also download a software utility that will allow the keys to be changed.
 
I had a similar issue, it's somewhat alarming when it happens. "Wait, this shouldn't be working yet, I haven't plugged in the other one."

bremen1874's got you covered, there's probably a button on them somewhere to pair them.

If they're old though, consider getting a newer set (maybe from MM) as they have definitely improved. Maybe buy a newer set for your neighbour too, so they make more efficient use of your effectively shared wiring bandwidth!
 
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