Whenever your wireless Internet starts to take a dip, the first thing you hear is that you need to boost your WiFi. But what does that mean? How do you do that?
When you look for answers, you will come across a handle of terms that all sound similar. Let’s define the terms and the differences between them:
WiFi booster
A WiFi booster is a device that helps improve your WiFi network. “WiFi Booster” is a catch-all term that covers a few different devices:
- Wireless repeaters (Wireless range extenders)
- Wireless network extenders
They all extend the reach of your WiFi signal but in a different way.
WiFi repeater
A WiFi repeater, sometimes also referred to as a WiFi range extender, is a WiFi booster device that re-broadcasts the same quality of WiFi signal that it receives. You would use a repeater to extend the reach of your WiFi by creating a second network. You should not use a repeater in an area that doesn’t have strong, reliable WiFi signal connection.
WiFi extender
WiFi extenders are used to stretch the wireless signal reach and coverage in your home. They are similar to a repeater in that they also re-broadcast the existing signal. But WiFi extenders are different than repeaters because they re-broadcast without impacting the network’s bandwidth output and do not create a new network for connectivity.
WiFi mesh
A WiFi mesh network, or mesh WiFi, is a whole-home WiFi system. It consists of a mesh router that connects directly to your modem, and a series of satellite modules placed around your house for full WiFi coverage.
Which should you use and why?
Like most home network solutions, the best option for you is the one that matches your situation and preferences.
If you are looking to upgrade your entire WiFi setup and want a whole-home system solution, mesh WiFi may be the better solution for you. Mesh systems are usually a complete replacement for your home WiFi.
If you are looking for a cost-effective solution and you have a strong WiFi signal, but you just need it to go farther, choose a repeater (WiFi range extender) or WiFi extender. You can add a repeater or range extender to your existing WiFi network.
Hitron’s offerings of WiFi Boosters are easy to use and install and eliminate dead spots inside and outside of your home. Hitron WiFi range extenders are a flexible solution to getting the high-performing network you want, whether that is through Ethernet, MoCA, or WiFi. Ask your Internet service provider about Hitron’s WiFi boosters today.
Want more like this? Check out Hitron’s Learn Page.