Is the Wi-Fi signal weak in certain parts of your home? Do your video calls drop, or does streaming buffer in the bedroom? In this blog we will explain what a Wi-Fi extender is, how it works and how to set up one to eliminate those dead zones in your home.
What is a Wi-Fi Extender?
A Wi-Fi extender, also known as a Wi-Fi repeater or booster, is a device that amplifies your router’s wireless signal to areas with weak coverage.
What are the signs you might need a Wi-Fi Extender?
- Rooms have weak or no signal.
- Video calls/streaming drop in specific areas of your home.
- Your home is large or has thick walls which limit the signal strength.
Choosing the correct Wi-Fi Extender
When buying a Wi-Fi extender, the following points need to be taken into consideration:
- Compatibility: Ensure the Wi-Fi extender is compatible with your router.
- Speed: Check that the Wi-Fi extenders speed matches your routers capabilities.
- Dual Band: Look for a dual band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) for the best performance.
- Placement flexibility: Some Wi-Fi extenders plug directly into the mains plug, others are tabletop units.
Where is the best place to place your Wi-Fi Extender?
Placement is very important. For best results:
- Place the Wi-Fi extender midway between your router and the area with no/poor signal.
- Avoid placing the Wi-Fi extender near thick walls, metal appliances, or electronic items.
- Ensure the Wi-Fi extender is within range of your routers signal, as a weak signal will not improve with extension (many Wi-Fi extenders have signal indicators to help you find the best spot).
How easy is it to set up a Wi-Fi Extender?
Here is a quick overview on how to set up a Wi-Fi extender:
- Plug the Wi-Fi extender in near your router.
- Connect to your home network via a WPS button or a setup app/website.
- Test the signal in the house for where there is a weak or no signal.
- Move the Wi-Fi extender to an ideal location and test the signal again.
Most of the well-known brands have a beginner friendly setup process.
In Summary
Adding a Wi-Fi extender is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to boost your home internet range and performance. In just a few minutes of setup, you can eliminate the dead zones in your house and stream, game and browse wherever you are. Another alternative to boost the Wi-Fi coverage in your home is Mesh Wi-Fi, read our blog here for more information.
View the full range of Wi-Fi extenders here