Do you love surfing the internet? Is your WiFi network often cutting out? According to
a recent study by Datareportal, the average person spends 397 minutes daily on the internet. And with the development of artificial intelligence and the internet, the number is only increasing. That's how crazy people are about using the internet.
But what happens when your internet connection can't keep up with your obsession with cat videos and social media scrolling?
Well, my friend, it's time to take matters into your own hands and invest in a
WiFi booster or extender. But wait, before you run to the nearest store with your wallet, you need to know which one is right for you. It's like choosing between a burrito and a taco, both delicious, but one might satisfy your hunger more than the other.
So, let's get into the world of WiFi. This article will analyze the pros and cons of WiFi boosters and extenders and help you decide which is more suitable for you.
What is a WiFi Booster?
Have you ever heard of
WiFi booster? If not, you will be interested in what I have to say below.
A WiFi booster is a device that amplifies and extends the coverage area of a wireless network. The main function of a WiFi booster is to boost the signal strength of an existing wireless network. It can improve the internet speeds and overall browsing experience of connected devices.
Amazing, isn't it?
But how does a WiFi booster do it?
It works by rebroadcasting the current wireless signal to increase signal strength and coverage. WiFi boosters come in different types, including plug-in and desktop boosters, and can be easily set up to extend your network's coverage area.
With the right setup, a WiFi booster provides better internet speeds and an overall browsing experience. But what are the downsides of such a powerful device? Next, I will introduce its advantages and disadvantages point by point.
WiFi Booster's Pros and Cons
The following will solve your doubts. Here are some pros and cons of using a WiFi booster:
Pros:
● Improved coverage. A WiFi booster can expand the coverage area of your wireless network. It helps to eliminate dead zones and weak signal areas in your home or office.
● Cost-effective. A WiFi booster is affordable compared to upgrading to a new router or other networking equipment.
● Easy to set up. Most WiFi boosters are easy to set up and require minimal technical knowledge to get up and run.
Cons:
● Signal degradation. Depending on the type of booster and its setup, you may experience some signal degradation or interference. Sometimes this can impact the overall performance of your wireless network.
● Limited range. A WiFi booster can only expand network coverage within a certain range. Beyond that range, the signal will degrade, and you may experience connectivity issues.
● Compatibility limitations. Some WiFi boosters may not be compatible with certain routers or devices, which can limit their functionality.
It's important to weigh these pros and cons when considering whether a WiFi booster is a right solution for your networking needs. However, another strong player in WiFi stands up and becomes a competitor of WiFi boosters - WiFi extenders.
What is a WiFi Extender?
And I'm not stopping there because it's time to introduce another WiFi signal extension tool - a
WiFi extender.
A WiFi extender, also known as a wireless range extender, is a device that extends the coverage area of an existing wireless network. It works by receiving the wireless signal from the original network, amplifying it, and then retransmitting it to extend the network's coverage area. This allows devices outside the range of the original wireless network to connect to the internet via the extended network.
Does it really work?
Yes, of course!
A
WiFi extender can be useful when the network's wireless signal is weak or cannot reach certain home or office areas. It can effectively improve a wireless network's signal strength and coverage area. And a WiFi extender can provide a more stable and reliable internet connection to devices in remote areas.
WiFi extenders are generally easy to set up and can be a cost-effective solution to improve your wireless network coverage. It's still the same; let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of WiFi extenders in points.
WiFi Extender's Pros and Cons
Here comes the exciting part: the pros and cons of WiFi extenders are as follows:
Pros:
● Extends wireless network reach. By rebroadcasting your router's signal, a WiFi extender can extend the reach of your wireless network. And it provides better coverage throughout your home or office.
● Stable and fast speed. With a WiFi extender, you can strengthen your WiFi signal, resulting in a more stable and fast speed.
● Available in weak signal areas. A WiFi extender can improve the signal and reliability of your internet connection in areas where the signal is weak.
● Good compatibility. WiFi extender is compatible with most routers and can work with different brands and models.
Cons:
● Some are more difficult to set up. Most WiFi extenders are simply plug-and-play installation processes. But some WiFi extenders are more difficult to set up, requiring advanced technical knowledge and configuration.
● High cost for larger areas. A WiFi extender can be expensive depending on the size of the area you need to cover.
A WiFi extender can be a useful tool for extending your wireless network coverage. But before deciding if it's the best option for you, it's essential to compare WiFi boosters to extenders.
What is the Difference Between a WiFi Booster and Extender?
I know you're thinking WiFi boosters and extenders sound similar, but is there really a difference between them? Yes, although WiFi boosters and extenders have the same purpose of improving WiFi signal, they have the following differences.
WIFI EXTENDER
WIFI BOOSTER
Range
Extended range
Limited range
Setup
More complicated
Simple setup
Performance
Amplifies and retransmits signals
Amplifies signals
Speed
Stable and fast speed
May reduce speed
Compatibility
Compatible with most routers
Compatibility limitations
Price
Higher cost
Lower cost
This table provides a quick comparison between WiFi boosters and extenders. And which one is best depends on your specific needs, such as the size of your coverage area and the number of devices that need to be connected to the network.
Summary
In short, WiFi boosters and extenders serve the same purpose of improving your WiFi signal, but they work differently. Boosters amplify the existing signal, while extenders create a new network to extend the coverage area. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and the layout of your home or office. Boosters are better for smaller spaces or areas with weak signals, while extenders are ideal for larger spaces or areas with dead zones. It's important to carefully consider your options and choose the best suits your needs. Investing in a WiFi extender or booster, no matter which one you choose, can greatly improve your internet experience by making your connection stronger and more reliable.
