Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work with Any Router?
How many times have you been in the middle of the movie or an important video call, and the Wi-Fi just dropped? Then you start pacing around the house to find the perfect spot to resume the call.
Instead, you can just get a Wi-Fi extender and catch a break. Sounds great, but how to know if the Wi-Fi extender will work with your existing router? How does that work?
Does It Matter Which Extender You Buy?
Here’s the thing, a Wi-Fi extender can be just what you need, but it has to fit the capabilities of the router you have at home. You can connect almost every Wi-Fi extender to any router, but it doesn’t mean it will improve the signal.
It means that going for an expensive extender won’t do much if your router is old or cheap. Also, if the router you already have has the capability for higher frequencies, getting a cheap extender would be a waste of money. It’s essential to match the devices with similar possibilities and limitations.
How to Be Sure You Need a Wi-Fi Extender?
Everyone has issues with Wi-Fi from time to time. It’s a part of life, and sure, the signal might drop in an inconvenient time.
Still, nothing prevents you from doing what you can to make that an infrequent occasion. Besides, it’s not just about losing the signal. What about slow speeds and dead zones around your home? Here are a few reasons why getting a Wi-Fi extender is a good idea.
You Have a Big Home
Bigger houses need better Wi-Fi coverage. A single router can hardly cover all the areas in the house. And when you consider all the interference from appliances and metal objects, Wi-Fi extenders become even more needed. Also, if you find the optimal position for your router, getting a high-quality Wi-Fi extender will make sure no spot goes uncovered.
Slow Streaming
With the expansion of streaming services, the need for a reliable and high-speed connection has never been greater. And if your router just can’t deliver the speed that you need to stream on several devices at the same time, you might benefit from a Wi-Fi extender.
Outside Wi-Fi
Perhaps the Wi-Fi in your home is working just fine. But wouldn’t it be nice for the signal to reach your garage or front yard? That’s where the Wi-Fi booster comes in. All you need to do is install it in the closest possible place to the area you want to cover with Wi-Fi.
Where Is the Router?
Before buying an extender, you need to make sure that the router sits in the best possible place. It’s not uncommon that the poorly positioned router is the reason the Wi-Fi signal is so weak.
And even though most modern routers are designed to overcome common obstacles, there are still things you can do. Try placing the router in the middle of your home. Make sure it’s not on the floor and keep it away from the walls and cupboards.
And if the router has an antenna or antennas, make sure they’re in the vertical position. That way, your signal will likely improve. And if not, then you’ll need some assistance from a Wi-Fi extender.
Great Wi-Fi Is Essential
Wi-Fi is not an essential household utility in the same way electricity and water are, but it’s still hugely important. And Wi-Fi extenders can help you achieve a reliable and fast signal that covers your entire home or workspace.
Is the Wi-Fi signal in your home OK, or do you need an extender? Let us know what you think about Wi-Fi extenders in the comments section below.
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