What are Wi-Fi Extenders

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Netgear
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  • What is a WiFi Extender
  • In what situations may you need a WiFi Extender (Examples)
  • *Compatible Device refers to a router that supports the speed of your modem

 

WiFi Extenders, boosters or repeaters are used to extend signals from an existing wifi signal to dead areas in a home or business. They receive, replicate and extend designated signals and connections.

Various brands and models cover different distances and support different mbps so make sure when purchasing you select the right device that fits you needs.

Your situation may not call for a wifi extender, but a better wifi router. Again wifi extenders are used to extend existing signals to dead zones. So if your current router is not outputting what it’s receiving from your ISP provider then you may need another router that is compatible with your ISP.

A good way to check if your router is outputting the correct mpbs is to directly connect your laptop or desktop to your router with an ethernet cable and run a speed test. Then do it again on the wifi network. Remember wifi routers have different coverage areas and mbps depending on the brand or model you purchase.

wifi coverage 1
Apartment or Small Home

In the example above we have a small home or small apartment. In this scenario you wouldn’t need a wifi extender because the area is small enough for router coverage.

If this is your situation and you are still having issues with wifi, I recommend testing your internet speed at the modem. You may need a compatible router or have possible issues with your internet service provider. ( If you have brick walls between you and the router then I recommend leaving the door open.)

If that’s the case a wifi extender would do minimal to help because brick walls also affect wifi extenders.

wifi area 2
Large Home

If you live in a larger home that exceeds the capabilities of your router then a wifi extender would be perfect for you. 

 

wifi area 3
Extender is too close to router to be affective
wifi area 4

For optimal performance install your wifi extender at a middle point in your house or at the dead spot.

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Antoine

Antoine is a former Dish satellite tech with over 9 years of experience. He decided to cut the cord in 2015 after noticing that pay TV bills were only getting higher. After a few very intense months of countless web searches and video watching he found a setup that was right for him, but soon realized that he actually enjoyed the hunt. So he decided to dedicate his time to help others like him.