Working from home, watching Netflix, or chatting with friends on different continents is fun only if you have a consistent and strong network. Sadly, there might be signal dead zones in your home, scrambling your connection to the digital world.
So, what can you do to extend these signals? Here are the two effective remedies to give your home a speedy and reliable network.
Internet Speed Tests
Understand the basics of wireless networks before you start looking for ways to expand the range of your network. You most likely have a router that allows multiple devices in your home to connect to the internet.
Any hardware device you use will only strengthen and expand your router’s network signal. Changing the location of your router to an open space may improve signal quality.
You will need to run internet speed tests to determine which parts of your home experience strong signals and which spots are close to the dead zone. These are easy.
Search for internet speed tests and select any speed test website. Run this test in different parts of your home to see what areas need a signal boost.
Mesh Routers
If you are experiencing slow speeds and bad signals in a larger area, mesh routers can provide whole-home coverage. You can place multiple devices on different floors, rooms at the end of the hallway, or the basement and ensure the connection stays strong everywhere.
The routers use an algorithm to determine whether to connect directly with the main router or use one of the satellites. The latest mesh routers are sophisticated, high-performing devices available with single and multiple extenders.
You can go for a two or three-piece setup and expect a drastic improvement in your home network. Mesh routers can cost anywhere, starting from $150, depending on the manufacturing and capabilities.
Some of the highest-performing brands include TP-Link, Google, Eero, and Asus. Here are some of the best options you can choose from when selecting a mesh router for your home:
- Google’s Nest Wi-Fi
- TP-Link RE605X
- Asus ZenWi-Fi AX
- Eero 6
Wi-Fi Range Extender
This option for simpler wireless network issues is relatively simpler. If most of your home is covered and the signal drops in one or two rooms, a Wi-Fi range extender can help You can pair your extender with your router easily. Most routers have a WPS button. Simply plug in the extender to the router, add it to the Wi-Fi Protected Setup mode, and push the WPS button. The good thing about range extenders is that you don’t have to buy them from a particular brand.
They all work relatively well. A possible downside is that they won’t push near your network’s maximum speed and have a limited range. If you have zero signal strength, extenders under $100 can provide a speedy connection of 50Mbps easily.
Other top-of-the-line pricey extenders also support Wi-Fi, such as TP-Link RE505X. For optimum performance, place the extenders at a location where they can drive their signals from the router. Many range extenders also indicate signal strength on the device or apps to guide you in picking the best spot.
