This guide helps you identify and resolve common issues with your Nova Wi‑Fi extender ("kastari"), ensuring optimal performance throughout your home.
Issue description
The extender fails to pair with your Huawei router or performance drops unexpectedly:
- Solid or blinking red LED on the extender.
- White LED does not appear within 2 minutes after pairing.
- Internet speeds slow down in areas covered by the extender.
- Speedtest results are significantly lower than expected.
Signs
- Extender cannot pair with router.
- Previously working extender is now slow.
- Extender used wirelessly (no Ethernet backhaul).
- Extender hard‑wired to router but doesn’t achieve full speed.
Basic troubleshooting steps
- ✅ Power check – verify the extender is plugged in and switched on.
- ✅ Pair via Ethernet first – use a Cat5e/Cat6 LAN cable between extender and Huawei router; wait for white LED (~2 min).
- ✅ Correct placement – for wireless use, place extender ~10 m from router, clear of load‑bearing walls or floors; line of sight preferred.
- ✅ Restart devices – power‑cycle extender, then router, and fiber ONT if applicable.
- ✅ Run a speed test at the extender’s location to confirm improvements.
Advanced troubleshooting steps
Re‑pair with Ethernet
- Unplug the extender from power and LAN.
- Reconnect power; wait 30 s.
- Connect LAN cable from extender to any LAN port on Huawei router.
- Wait for white LED (~2 min). Disconnect cable if using wirelessly.
Factory reset extender
- Hold the reset button on the bottom of the extender for ≥ 10 s.
- LEDs will flash and the unit will reboot. Follow Step 1 to pair again.
Replace cable or reposition
- Use Cat5e/Cat6 cables to support 1000 Mb/s.
- If a dead spot exists between router and extender, move extender closer or keep it wired.
Most extender issues can be resolved through proper pairing, optimal placement, and simple reboots. Refer back to this guide whenever problems arise.