Introduction
In today's digital age, staying connected with friends, family, and business necessitates an uninterrupted connection to the internet. Nonetheless, there are instances when our internet connections are delayed or disrupted, particularly in buildings that have several floors. This is where a WiFi extender can come in handy.
A WiFi extender, frequently referred to as a WiFi booster, is a device that amplifies and expands your wireless network's range. It aids in the elimination of dead zones in your house or business when signal strength is low or non-existent. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about what is WiFi extender and how it can be helpful. We will also briefly touch upon the difference between WiFi extender and repeater.
How Does a WiFi Extender Work?
To understand how a WiFi extender works, you need to first comprehend how exactly a wireless network works. A wireless network consists of a router that primarily connects to the internet and several wireless devices that receive and transfer data. In addition, the router broadcasts a signal that is then picked up by devices within its range. The signal strength, however, continually decreases as it moves away from the router. This causes delayed or poor connectivity in places distant from the router.
A WiFi extender plays an indispensable role in fixing this issue by collecting the router's wireless signal and further rebroadcasting it to locations where the signal is weak or non-existent. It thus serves as a bridge between the router and the devices, efficiently increasing signal strength and boosting coverage. Hope you now understand what is WiFi extender and how it functions?
Types of WiFi Extenders
WiFi extenders are classified into two types: desktop and plug-in. Desktop WiFi extenders are bigger and must be plugged into. They feature a greater antenna gain, so they may give a stronger signal and a larger coverage area. They also have Ethernet connections, which enable you to connect devices such as game consoles, smart TVs, and PCs.
In contrast, plug-in WiFi extenders are smaller and may be inserted into a power outlet. They are perfect for compact places with limited space. They are also less expensive than desktop extenders but have a smaller coverage area and signal strength.
Factors When Purchasing a WiFi Extender
There are various variables to consider while selecting a WiFi extender.
Compatibility
The first and most crucial factor that you must consider is compatibility when choosing a WiFi extender. Verify if the WiFi extender you choose is suitable for your network. Most WiFi extenders work alongside any router, but it's wise to double-check before buying. Check the specs of the router and the extension to ensure its compatibility. If you are doubtful, get advice from the manufacturer or a technical specialist.
Range
Another critical thing to consider is the extender's range. The range of the extender refers to the distance it can traverse, which varies depending on the type and manufacturer. Select an extension that will give enough coverage for your house or workplace. If you have a multi-story house or workplace, choose a WiFi extender with a larger range. A WiFi extender with a lesser range may generally be suitable only if you have a tiny office.
Speed
The speed of the WiFi extension is also an important consideration. Look for an extension that has the same bandwidth as your router. If your router supports 802.11ac, check for an extender that supports it as well. Because the speed of the extender impacts how quickly data can be carried and received, it is critical to choose an extension that is at least as fast as your router.
Gain of Antenna
Another crucial element to consider is the WiFi extender antenna gain. The antenna gain describes the extender's capacity to increase the signal intensity and coverage area. The greater the antenna gain, the stronger the signal and the greater the coverage area. If you have a big house or workplace with numerous levels, look for an extension with a high antenna gain.
How to Set Up a WiFi Extender
To configure your WiFi extender, follow the below steps:
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Select a location: First, locate the extension in an area where it will get a more robust signal from the router. Then, place it midway between the router and the region with a poor signal.
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Plug in the extender: Next, make sure to turn on the extender by plugging it into a power outlet.
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Connect to the extender: The next step is to connect your device to the network of the extension. The network name and password for the extender will be different from those of your router.
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Configure the extender: Once you connect to the extender, open a web browser and type the extender's IP address into the address bar. Further, follow the on-screen instructions to set up the extender.
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Test the connection: When the setup is fully done, test the connection in regions where there is poor or no signal. If the connection is still poor, try and relocate the extension.
To Wrap Up
A WiFi extender is a valuable device that may help boost the speed and coverage area of your internet connection. It serves as a connection point between the router and the devices. Consider compatibility, range, speed, antenna gain, and other features when selecting a WiFi extender. Setting up a WiFi extender is a simple step that may significantly improve your internet experience. We hope that you now have a clear understanding of what is WiFi extender?
FAQs
Q: Can a WiFi extender lower my internet speed?
Yes, a WiFi extender may limit your internet speed. This is because the signal is constantly repeated, which might cause certain lags and slower speeds. Nevertheless, if you pick an extender with high-speed capability and position it in the proper spot, you may still receive an excellent internet connection.
Q: How far can a WiFi extension reach?
The range of a WiFi extender depends on the product and the surroundings. Some extenders may stretch up to 150 feet or more, while others may only have a range of 30-50 feet. Walls, floors, and other impediments may also affect the range.
Q: Can I use numerous WiFi extenders in my office?
Yes, you may use many WiFi extenders in your office to form a network of extenders that covers a larger region. However, it's crucial to make sure that they are all compatible with your router and that they are positioned in the appropriate areas to minimize interference and maintain the best performance.
Q: Will a WiFi extender improve my gaming experience?
Yes, a WiFi extender can improve your gaming experience by providing a much more efficient internet connection. However, make sure to choose an extender with high-speed capability and low latency.
Q: What is the difference between wifi extender and repeater?
A WiFi extender is a device that catches the router's wireless signal and rebroadcasts it to locations where the signal is weak or non-existent. On the other hand, a WiFi repeater is a device that receives the wireless signal and retransmits it at a higher power level in order to increase the range.
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