Defining Wi-Fi Extenders and Boosters
A Wi-Fi extender and a Wi-Fi booster serve the same basic purpose: to expand your existing Wi-Fi network‘s coverage area. However, they go about it in slightly different ways.
A Wi-Fi extender works by receiving your existing Wi-Fi signal, amplifying it, and then rebroadcasting it. This effectively increases the range of your network. Wi-Fi extenders need to be within range of your router‘s wireless signal in order to boost it.
A Wi-Fi booster, on the other hand, works a bit differently. It connects to your router via ethernet cable or coaxial cable, taking the existing signal and converting it into a new, separate wireless network with its own network name and password. So instead of just boosting your current signal, it creates an entirely new wireless network.
Key Difference: Range vs. Conversion
The key difference lies in the method: Wi-Fi extenders simply expand the range of your existing network, while Wi-Fi boosters convert your wired network connection into a new wireless network.
Extenders are generally easier to set up, while boosters can provide faster speeds. But both serve to eliminate dead zones and improve Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.
A Brief History
Wi-Fi extending technology has its origins in the late 1990s as home wireless networks started to become popularized. Linksys launched one of the first commercial Wi-Fi extenders in 1999.
Over the next decade, standards evolved from 802.11b to 802.11g and 802.11n, steadily improving speeds. The introduction of dual-band extenders in 2007 marked another major advance, allowing for less interference and higher throughput.
The latest generation of extenders supports the newest 802.11ac standard. Key players driving innovation in the extender marketplace include Linksys, Netgear, TP-Link, D-Link, Amped, Ezviz and more.
Wi-Fi boosters emerged in the 2000s as an alternative approach, pioneered by companies like Motorola and Cisco. They were designed specifically to convert wired signals to wireless.
Both extenders and boosters continue advancing today to keep pace with modern networking demands, new usage habits, and increasing numbers of connected devices in smart homes.
Extender vs. Booster Comparison
Here is a detailed feature comparison between Wi-Fi extenders and Wi-Fi boosters:
[table] | Feature | Wi-Fi Extender | Wi-Fi Booster ||-|————-|—————|
| How It Works | Receives and rebroadcasts existing Wi-Fi signal | Converts wired network signal to new wireless network |
| Setup | Plug into outlet within range of router Wi-Fi signal | Connect via ethernet or coaxial cable to router |
| Speed | Dependent on existing signal strength | Typically faster than extenders |
| Number of Networks | Extends your current SSID | Creates separate network with different SSID |
| Standards | Supports latest standards like 802.11ac | Varies depending on model |
| Price | $20 – $200 range | $100 – $250 range |
[/table]
As you can see, Wi-Fi boosters generally provide faster speeds, while Wi-Fi extenders tend to be more affordable. Boosters also keep your existing wireless network intact while creating a new SSID.
Mesh Wi-Fi vs. Extenders
Another option beyond traditional extenders and boosters is whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems. These utilize multiple access points to create a mesh network blanketing your entire home.
Mesh systems have the advantage of supporting faster modern standards like 802.11ac Wave 2. They also let you use one SSID throughout the house. But mesh routers are more expensive than standalone extenders.
Placement Tips
Properly placing your extenders or boosters is crucial for optimal performance:
- For extenders, position them halfway between your router and the dead zone, within range of router‘s Wi-Fi signal
- Elevate if possible for clearer transmission pathways
- Test signal strength to confirm placement using Wi-Fi analyzer apps
- For boosters, connect via coax or ethernet cable to strongest source of wired network signal
Getting positioning right makes a major difference in speed and reliability.
Leading Wi-Fi Extender Brands
These are some of the top manufacturers of Wi-Fi extenders:
- Linksys: The original innovator, Linksys makes reliable extenders at reasonable price points.
- Netgear: Known for high-performance extenders with leading specs and coverage.
- TP-Link: Budget-friendly models providing decent range and speed.
- Amped: Specializes in long-range units for large homes.
- Ezviz: Makes some uniquely designed Wi-Fi extenders.
For Wi-Fi boosters, top brands include:
- Motorola: Offers a variety of modem/router combos with built-in signal boosting.
- Netgear: Leading manufacturer of standalone boosters.
- Linksys: Makes both all-in-one units and separate boosters.
I generally recommend Netgear and Linksys for their proven reliability. But there are quality budget options from TP-Link as well.
The Bottom Line
While Wi-Fi extenders and boosters take different approaches, they both successfully expand your wireless coverage. Deciding which is better comes down to your specific networking needs and budget.
For those seeking maximum value, a Wi-Fi range extender is likely the best fit. But for large homes or fast speeds, a mesh system or Wi-Fi booster may be worth the extra investment.
Carefully evaluating your current setup, dead zones, device usage, and other factors will lead you to the ideal choice. With some strategic planning, you can banish weak signal issues for good.
The world of Wi-Fi networking continues advancing rapidly. We can expect even more powerful extending capabilities in the years ahead, bringing seamless connectivity to every corner.
