Wi-Fi signal amplifiers: description of devices, popular models for home use

Today it is difficult to imagine life without the Internet. It became necessary not only for work, information search, but also for normal communication. Often people are faced with the problem of a weak signal and blame the device for everything.

However, in most cases it is necessary to select a device that solves the problem. Wi-Fi signal amplifiers or repeaters have become popular because they help to establish the Internet.

Poor Signal Reasons

In some cases, a weak signal is the result of improper actions by the owner of the device, and sometimes the reason is in the device itself.

The following are considered the most likely deterioration factors:

• incorrectly chosen place for the location of the router, when the signal is absent anywhere in the house;
• overheating of the device as a result of constant work without minimal rest;
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• outdated device firmware, which directly affects its performance;
• an abundance of devices in the house that can interfere with the normal operation of the router;
• thick walls, a large amount of antique furniture and mirrors in the house can also cause signal scatter;
• the presence of many other wireless networks at close range, for example, from neighbors.

Oftentimes, the signal deterioration is caused by the connection of third-party users to the network. This happens when the device does not have an individual password, which prevents unknown devices from connecting to it.

As a rule, the owner can install the code immediately after the purchase, but some do not, mistakenly assuming that the connection of other devices is unlikely.

Strengthening methods

There are several methods that can help you to amplify the signal without purchasing a repeater. It is necessary to correctly configure the channels of the router. Typically, most common home use models are dual band, 13 channels. You should find the freest one and connect to it.

You can do it using the special program inSSIDer. You can download it on the Internet, watch the most unloaded channels. You should not choose 1,2,12 and 13, since they have low power and no one wants to connect to them. If there are no free ones, you need to set the maximum signal strength.

This can be done in the advanced settings menu. Usually the percentage is around 100 by default, but it can get lost and cause a weak signal. If this does not help, on the manufacturer's website you can change the device firmware to the newest one. In case of failure, it is recommended to purchase a repeater or a new router with a built-in amplifier function.

Router location rules

If everything is in order with the device, its firmware and parts, it is recommended to think about the correct location, which will help establish the signal. Recommendations largely depend on the antennas, the size of the dwelling, the number of floors in it and the thickness of the walls.

It is worth noting that the distribution is not affected by antennas, namely their number, but in a large house it is better to install a device with three or more antennas for the convenience of all users. If the building has 2-3 floors, the device must be located approximately in the center and at the top. A closet or top shelf for books would be a good option.

Do not obstruct the device or place it in closed boxes or other places. This will obstruct the signal. The antennas are best directed upward to distribute the streams evenly. In a small apartment, the location of the router is not so important, but you should not put it in closed cabinets.

If a private house has only one floor, it is allowed to place the router on the table, direct the antennas slightly with a deviation to the sides. This will allow you to receive a normal signal anywhere in the building.

Subject to the recommendations and correct settings of the device, you can ensure its stable operation.

How the repeater works

If the router is working properly, configured and correctly located, but there are still problems with the Internet connection, it is recommended to think about purchasing a repeater. The Wi-Fi signal booster for a router is a small, portable device that plugs into a regular outlet.

When located in the immediate vicinity of the device, such an assistant picks up the signal and spreads it over a greater distance. Thanks to this, at the farthest point of the house, you can use the Internet without any problems.

It should be noted that the device does not increase the connection speed, but simply helps spread it. It must be located close enough to the router and monitor the color of the light that indicates operation. If it is red, move the fixture closer. If it's blue or green, that's okay.

Some models are capable of combining signals from multiple routers and transmitting to remote areas where it is impossible to run a cable. The ability of a device to improve dispersion largely depends on the frequency at which the router operates. Older models usually support 2.4 GHz, while modern models support 5 GHz. The choice of repeater should be based on these characteristics.

Varieties of devices

Today on the market are amplifiers of a wifi signal of a router from well-known manufacturers and with a diverse set of functions. Their power also differs.

There are three groups of devices:

1. Personal - are miniature, portable devices that are in the form of USB devices. They are used with a very weak signal, but they have a low power, so it is difficult to connect several devices. The distance when applied increases by 5-8 meters.
2. Pets - increase the signal length by 15-20 meters. They have larger dimensions, power and allow you to simultaneously connect up to 5 devices. They can be used in large private houses on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd floors and apartments with a large area.
3. Office or industrial repeaters are considered full-fledged access points and allow you to connect up to 50 subscribers at the same time. As a rule, they have 3 or more antennas. The signal when using them is stable and the connection speed is good. They are usually installed to gain access to the Internet in small firms.

It is necessary to choose an amplifier taking into account your needs. An office option is not needed in an apartment or a private house, and a home option is not suitable for a large room and providing uninterrupted connections for several dozen people.

Popular models

You can buy an amplifier in a regular electronic goods store, in a mobile phone store or using the Internet by ordering your favorite model on popular sites. Any of the options will work.

The most demanded models are the following:

1. For many years, TP-Link products have been among the highest quality and most purchased among home users and owners of private enterprises, companies. Differs in good assembly, ease and durability of operation. The cost of the device ranges from 1,500 to 1,800 rubles. Has 2 antennas and operates at 2.4 GHz. There is also a model operating at 5 GHz, but its price is approaching 3000 rubles. As a rule, it is chosen by company owners, since the coverage area and the number of connected devices doubles. The disadvantage of the device is the high cost.
2. ZyXEL also holds one of the leading positions in the repeater market. Its advantage is the ability to choose, since the line includes expensive and cheaper devices with excellent technical characteristics. The second option costs from 1,700 to 2,000 rubles. Consumers talk about the absence of flaws in such a product. There are also expensive devices that can have a price tag of up to 4000 rubles. They are used as a portable Internet center and have an additional set of various functions. The only drawback is the high cost.
3. The manufacturer of quality laptops Asus also produces a variety of routers with a built-in repeater program for up to 1000 rubles. They are of high quality, serve for a long time and perform their function well. The downside is that they only work at 2.4 GHz. There are also more expensive models up to 5000 rubles. They have a stylish design in the form of a black column, operate at a frequency of 5 GHz, a connection speed of 1000 Mb / s. The only drawback of the design is the price.

These companies are recognized as leaders and their products are bought well, there are no complaints about them. But not everyone can afford to buy a product.

Amplifiers of other companies

There are other manufacturers who also produce a variety of repeater models. They have been on the market not so long ago, but they managed to gain popularity among consumers. Xiaomi has shown itself well and produces budget models of repeaters from 300 to 1000 rubles.

The products are of high quality, reasonable price, ease of use and long service life. Customer reviews confirm this, the devices have no drawbacks, except for cases when some kind of manufacturing defect is found in the device.

Nitgear great emphasis during production is placed on the design of devices. That is why the price tags for products start at 3000 and reach 5000 rubles. However, the high quality and trouble-free operation of the instruments justify the costs. The line includes models with simpler functions and settings, and there are professional access points with advanced functionality. The connection speed reaches 1000 mb / s. Such characteristics make it possible to use the repeater to provide Internet access for several dozen people. The disadvantage is the high cost.

D-Link repeaters sells quite well as there are cheaper and more expensive models in the lineup. The choice is large and the functionality of the devices depends on the cost. The devices have three antennas, they distribute the signal well and increase the range of its propagation. The only drawback, according to users, will be that the frequency is only 2.4 GHz.

Totolink company known for a variety of models in different price categories. The cost of a repeater for home use is only 500 rubles, and for professional purposes the option for 2500 rubles is suitable. Thanks to this variety, the firm is quite popular among consumers. The frequency of the devices is 2.4 and 5 GHz, equipped with 1-4 antennas, depending on the purpose.

Netis Products also has its fans due to its affordable price and good functionality. Models from this company are able to increase the signal propagation area by 100 meters. Professional devices cost from 2000 rubles and are equipped with 4 antennas. There are also more compact devices. The company also manufactures routers with a built-in repeater function.

Criterias of choice

The first selection criterion will be the purpose of the amplifier. If the user does not need to spread the signal over a long distance from his home, it is better not to overpay for a powerful device with advanced functionality that is not needed at all.

This will not only lead to the acquisition of a more expensive product, but will also affect the distribution of the signal to the nearest neighbors. As a result, the purchase will only bring trouble. A miniature and portable device will be an ideal solution for a small apartment. For a private house, it is worth taking a more powerful device.

The owner of a private company can pay attention to multifunctional access points with a built-in repeater function. If necessary, it is best to seek professional advice from a device dealer or a specialist in this field. The right choice will provide the consumer with a good signal for a long time.

A repeater is a multifunctional and necessary device that will help spread the signal over a long distance and provide an Internet connection in places where it is impossible to stretch a cable.