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We all have this constant urge to check social media feeds and posts throughout the day as we are connected to the internet, 24/7. Our dependence on the internet is likely to grow even more over time. However, if the signal we get is not strong enough, it leaves us with a lot of ranting and cursing our service provider.
Most of the time, the problem is with our Internet provider, the download speed we are getting, and the plan we are subscribed to. However, in some cases, poor router placement might cause poor wireless connectivity. Thanks to technology, the issue is sorted and can be eliminated. With the help of wireless repeaters and extenders, you can fix connection strength. Or better yet, get some amazing internet service, like Spectrum Internet plans, that offer top-notch routers to eliminate the need for a repeater. However, if this isn’t a possibility, keep reading to learn more.
The question is how does a wireless repeater work? What should we know about it and what are the benefits of using a repeater? We created a comprehensive guide to answer all these relevant queries. Here is what you need to know:
What is a Wireless repeater?
Having a wireless network in your house or office offers you great ease and flexibility if your router has a solid signal strength. Unfortunately, a poor signal can result in undependable connection performance and might frustrate you. One way to give your wireless internet an instant lift and increase its range is by installing a device called a Wi-Fi repeater.
How does repeater work?
A repeater works as a transmission system for your wireless internet network. It helps your router to send stronger signals. It does that by picking up the signals that are transmitted by your router. After the signals are picked, it amplifies them and spreads them throughout your home. As a result, you get decent reception in areas where it previously could not reach.
With a repeater installed, you will be able to take your laptop farther away from the router at your convenience. Moreover, the signal strength will be strong and the connection will be better.
How to use a wireless repeater?
As we have already discussed, a Wi-Fi repeater uses built-in wireless technology to connect to your home network. Here is how you can use a Wi-Fi repeater:
- Place the repeater in a part of your house, which is the dead zone or where Wi-Fi signals are weaker.
- Connect the Wi-Fi repeater with your desktop or laptop and let the setup run.
- Log into your residential Wi-Fi network.
- After you log in, the repeater will connect to the network and it will rebroadcast the signals to a new, larger area with much better signal strength.
There are multiple benefits of getting these repeaters, as they are much cheaper than extenders. It is super easy to set them up and they need no direct connection to a wired port for the network.
The repeaters are ideal for outdoor settings such as backyards and pool houses. You can even get an outdoor panel antenna. It will be able to boost the wireless signal around your home in a more efficient manner.
Where should you place a repeater?
There are no hard and fast rules on where you should place these repeaters. The good thing about these devices is that you do not have to connect them directly to your router. You can place it anywhere you like. However, it is recommended that we place the repeaters halfway between your router and the computer you are operating.
Moreover, if you are working in your backyard that currently does not receive the wireless signals at all, it is recommended that you place the repeater in the center of your house while the router rests in the corner.
Final Verdict
With everything being said, there is a drawback associated with repeaters. The repeater will use bandwidth as the process of sending and receiving data frames and might eventually utilize double the amount of data frames. This can affect your network’s overall performance. Therefore, it is not recommended for users with fixed data caps.