VWB Blog Did you know that 58% of students use the internet to complete their homework? If they do not have good WiFi, then their grades may suffer from incomplete assignments.
In today’s world, the internet is the center of everything you do. Whether it is making payments, completing work, or a presentation in an important meeting, you must have high-speed internet to succeed.
But how do you improve your internet?
WiFi boosters and extenders enhance your WiFi but work in different ways. When choosing between a WiFi extender vs booster, it depends on the needs of your situation.
If you’re interested in learning the differences between WiFi extenders and boosters, then keep reading!
What is a WiFi Extender?
A WiFi extender is a device that increases the range of your WiFi. But it does not strengthen the signal.
If you have weak WiFi, then an extender is not the best choice for you. WiFi extenders help expand the reach of your WiFi to the “dead spots” in your home. Dead spots, or dead zones, are areas within your property that have a weaker connection or signal.
A WiFi extender uses a cable, such as an ethernet cable to accomplish this. The benefit of using a cable is that it won’t slow down your internet speed. Some WiFi boosters require a wireless connection, so it takes away from the bandwidth of your signal. But by using a cable, your internet speed will remain the same, and you won’t experience additional latency.
What is a WiFi Booster?
A WiFi booster extends the range of your WiFi but may also improve your internet. There are a few different types of WiFi boosters:
- Wireless range extenders
- Mesh WiFi
- Wireless network extenders
- Wireless repeaters
- MoCA adapters
It may be confusing to see extenders on this list, but it’s important to note that a WiFi extender is a type of booster.
The term “WiFi booster” is more of a marketing tactic. A WiFi booster involves both an extender and repeater. It gets even more confusing when companies use these terms in place of each other, but there are a few differences to note.
The Differences Between Them
After learning about each device, the details may still seem hard to decipher. If an extender is a type of WiFi booster, then how do you know which one to buy?
As mentioned above, there is a type of booster called “Mesh WiFi.” This booster is a large investment but is best for when you must strengthen your signal and extend it throughout your property.
If your WiFi signal is strong, then an extender will help expand it to the dead spots in your home. Extenders don’t strengthen your signal, so it’s important to fix your WiFi before purchasing one. This can be done by calling your provider and going over different options with a specialist.
Whether you go with an extender or booster, it’s imperative that you improve your WiFi before it’s too late. Schoolwork is almost entirely online, and WiFi has become so crucial that WiFi is even being installed on school buses. Click the link to learn more about school bus WiFi.
WiFi Extender Guide
So, your WiFi is strong, but you want to work in your backyard where there is no signal? It’s time to get a WiFi extender.
Most WiFi extenders use software through an app that you access on your smartphone. This is to connect your router to your WiFi network.
Your extender must be situated between your router and the dead zone. This is so you can still connect to the router and get the signal you’re looking for.
There are more pros and cons to WiFi extenders. Some pros include:
- Not having to replace your router
- Indoor and outdoor coverage
- Small devices that aren’t too noticeable
A WiFi extender is a useful tool that’s budget-friendly and easy to use. But there are a few cons to them:
- Some broadcast their signal on a new WiFi network
- Less bandwidth than your original router
Though WiFi extenders typically have good bandwidth, you’ll notice a difference if your WiFi isn’t great from the start. And connecting to a different WiFi network within your home is pretty inconvenient.
WiFi Booster Guide
WiFi boosters connect to your existing network like a separate device. Most of them have a setup button that makes installation easy.
There is no designated place to set up a booster, but there are a few suggested locations. You want to pick a spot where it can easily pick up your router’s signal. This means keeping away from thick walls or anything that may cause interference, like microwaves and electronics.
But if you can’t avoid thick walls or electronics, then you should invest in a wired WiFi booster. This booster connects to the coaxial cable in your home.
An even easier option is a powerline WiFi booster which uses electrical cables in your home to re-broadcast your signal. All you have to do is plug it in an outlet within the dead zone of your home.
WiFi Extender vs Booster
The internet has become an important aspect of our lives, and having high-speed WiFi gives us the opportunity to use it. If the internet is our destination, then WiFi is our gateway to it.
WiFi should be of utmost importance in your home because it is what everyone uses to accomplish assignments and different tasks. When debating between a WiFi extender vs booster, ensure that your decision is based on your unique situation.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, make sure to read our other articles.