Airport Extreme & Airport Express security

My computer is connected to an airport base station (for satellite wireless) and we have another computer -- a MacBook Pro -- that requires the boost from an airport express in order to connect. I want to add security to our wireless connection. When I went into the airport utility and changed to one of the password protected options (it didn't matter which), the MacBook Pro would only connect if it's in very close proximity to the base station. It's as if the airport express isn't active or recognized. I've tried moving it around and it doesn't help. If I go back into airport utility while in the passport activated status, the airport express isn't listed as a device. If I return the settings to no security at all, then the airport express is listed and works just fine.
Do I need to change the settings on the express? More broadly, how can I add password security without impairing the connectivity within the house? We have stucco walls which have metal lathe inside them, so the connection is very tricky.
Thanks so much for any assistance.

Patiencex2 wrote:
I want to add security to our wireless connection. When I went into the airport utility and changed to one of the password protected options (it didn't matter which), the MacBook Pro would only connect if it's in very close proximity to the base station. It's as if the airport express isn't active or recognized.
Do I need to change the settings on the express?
You should set both units to the same type of security and the same network password. If at some point AirPort Utility has trouble "seeing" one of the units, try connecting your Mac to it with an Ethernet cable.

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