
Some manufacturers have systems that cover up to 5,000 square feet with a single router and node, while others need three or more devices to cover an area that size.

The number of nodes you need depends on the size of your home and the coverage the particular system covers. A mesh system is made up of a source router and additional “satellite nodes” that can be placed around the home. Mesh networks are often referred to as systems that “blanket” your home in Wi-Fi. When extenders aren’t up to the job, mesh networking becomes a very attractive solution. So, if you use two extenders to hit the basement, for example, the speed and strength of your Wi-Fi will often be noticeably slower. While extenders can help a great deal, the problem is that the Wi-Fi signal degrades the further away you get from the source (your ISP router or modem). And if you are using the wireless signal for a television or console, then it’s wise to only give those devices the extender’s Wi-Fi credentials to prevent connection attempts to the weaker signal. If you just have both networks saved under different names, your phones and tablets should just connect to the stronger signal. The problem is that your wireless device may keep trying to remain connected to the weaker signal, resulting in frustration for you.
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A powerline adapter setup uses your home’s electrical wiring to transmit data.Įxtenders typically have a different network name (SSID) from the main home network, such as “Home Wi-Fi” and “Home Wi-Fi Ext.” Some devices do allow you to use the same name and password for both the extender and the main network, but that usually isn’t a good idea. The major difference to watch out for is that some extenders are Powerline adapters requiring two boxes, while most extenders are purely wireless devices. When shopping for an extender, however, confusion usually arises because you can also run across devices called Wi-Fi repeaters, extenders, or boosters.įor the most part, the terms “Wi-Fi extender,” “repeater,” and “booster” are used interchangeably, with extender being the more common term.

Range extenders were a popular option for improving home networks prior to the arrival of mesh systems.
