A Wi-Fi repeater is a device that is designed to extend a wireless Internet connection in an easy and secure way. It is also a very economical option, since the prices of this type of solution have decreased considerably in recent years and today it is possible to find different models with prices that are within reach of almost every pocket.

How does a Wi-Fi repeater work?

This device plugs into an outlet to directly get the power it needs to work. After connecting and turning it on, it is necessary to connect it to the Wi-Fi network of our router. for that the easiest is to use the WPS system because at the push of a button we can create this connection between them automatically.

Once the connection is established, it will start repeating the Wi-Fi signal it receives from the router, and it amplifies it through its own antennas so it reaches areas that could not be reached before. It is important to note that although a Wi-Fi repeater works by repeating the router’s signal, the router may have its own security settings.

It is also important to note that like these devices They are directly dependent on the signal they receive from the router, She must be at a safe distance from him. If we place the repeater too far from the router, it will not receive the signal with sufficient intensity, and therefore it is likely that it will not be able to repeat it well.

On the other hand, the repeater also has a limited range, and since it works on the principle of repeating the Wi-Fi signal, will be affected by distance, obstacles and sources of interference to which he is exposed. Therefore, placement is very important and we have to be careful if we want to get a good user experience with this type of device.

When is the best choice?

We can say that as a general rule, a Wi-Fi repeater will be the best option for extending the range of a wireless network. when we want to cover a wide area that is not too far away, and in which there are also not too many obstacles or sources of interference. It is also the best solution when we mainly use multiple mobile devices that will connect wirelessly.

For example, imagine that you want extend the range of your Wi-Fi connection to your garden. You have the router near the living room, so the signal will only have to go through the passage and the kitchen. In this scenario, a Wi-Fi repeater would be a good choice, both for the distance and obstacles, and for the use you intend to provide, since you will mainly be using smartphones, tablets and laptops in the garden.

In cases where the distance is highand they meet along the way obstacles and sources of interference, you should resort to a PLC with a Wi-Fi repeater. If you will only be connecting to the Internet with one or two devices (for example, a console and a PC), a standard PLC would be the most suitable solution.

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