Where’s the Wi-Fi? When to consider a Wi-Fi extender
Hello? Wi-Fi? Are you there?
Nothing sinks your spirits like watching the Wi-Fi fail to connect while you’re trying to binge the latest TV craze from the comfort of your bed.
These days, accessing the web should be easy as pie! Fire up your device, connect to the Wi-Fi, and you’re all set.
But every now and then, your network might act a little temperamental in certain places, and you’re left thinking it requires a bit more power. But how do you know if it’s time to consider an extender?
What’s the deal with your Wi-Fi?
If your Wi-Fi doesn’t seem up to scratch, there are few things to consider before running to the shops. We’ve taken a closer look at how to get the best Wi-Fi range in your home over on the blog, but here’s a quick rundown!
Your modem
Your modem is a key player in the Wi-Fi connectivity game. Placing your modem in the most central location possible means that the signal doesn’t have to travel as far, and risk losing strength. It’s also best to keep it off the floor where it can be easily damaged, and away from other devices that could interfere with the signal (like microwaves, baby monitors, and even fridges).
One easy way to determine if your modem is running smoothly is to directly connect a laptop or computer using an ethernet cable and run a speed test. If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides you with a modem, it’s handy to use this one, as they’ll be able to provide you all the info you need if you bump into any issues.
It’s also worth checking that your current modem is up to par. Not sure if you’ve got the right modem? Belong gives you a brand spanking new modem on our 12-month internet plans. Sign up!
Your property’s physical connection
Each property is connected to the internet a little differently. The type of nbn connection at your place may affect internet speeds. You can read a little more about nbn connection types here.
Your plan
Generally, ISPs offer varying speeds on different plans so you can choose what works best for you. Sometimes you might sign up for a lower speed plan, but require more speed over time. If you’re currently connected on ADSL, you can check to see if you’re nbn ready to potentially speed things up. You can also check with your ISP if your current plan best suits your needs. If you’re with Belong, you can manage your plan in your online account or app.
Frequency and channel
Wi-Fi has two common frequencies — 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 2.4GHz generally provides a better signal over a greater distance at a slightly slower speed, whereas the 5GHz generally offers a faster speed over a shorter distance. If you’re trying to connect to the 5GHz network, but you’re three rooms down from your modem, it’s worth giving the 2.4GHz a whirl. You can also change the channel of your Wi-Fi, in case the one that you’re using is a little crowded.
The limits of Wi-Fi
Just as Superman had his limits, so too does Wi-Fi. If your place is quite big, has thick brick walls, or multiple levels, it’s probably difficult for your single Wi-Fi signal to reach every nook and cranny.
If you’ve run through all the above, but you’re still struggling to get a signal where you need it, it might be time to consider a Wi-Fi extender.
Consider a Wi-Fi extender if:
- The Wi-Fi signal on your device is low in different parts of the house.
- Your internet is fast when you’re near your modem but a lot slower in other rooms as you move away from it.
- You want your Wi-Fi to reach places that it currently doesn’t, like your back patio or far away rooms.
- You have smart devices that can’t be compromised that are spread out over the home, such as baby monitors, security cameras, or remote working set-ups.
How does a Wi-Fi extender work?
Also known as a Wi-Fi booster or Range Extender, these devices pick up your existing Wi-Fi signal, amplify it, and then redistribute it to provide greater signal coverage. It’s like a little bridge between your existing network and that hard-to-reach study upstairs.
It’s important to note that Wi-Fi extenders can’t boost your speed beyond what your connection allows — they simply provide further-reaching access to your existing signal.
Setup will vary for each device, but many extenders plug straight into a power outlet, and use your modem’s existing WPS function to connect to the network.
How to extend successfully
There’s a wide variety of Wi-Fi extenders on the market, so do your research to see what will best suit your needs. Some things to consider include how many devices you want to connect, and if you require multiple ethernet ports.
Just as your modem location is important, so too is the extenders. Generally speaking, you need to find the sweet spot in between the place where your Wi-Fi is lacking (the upstairs bedroom, for example) and the modem. Most experts say somewhere around the middle point should do the trick.
Once setup is complete, you simply connect to your extender’s network as you would for your normal Wi-Fi!
You can purchase Wi-Fi extenders from most computer and electrical stores.
Conclusion
These tips and tricks should help you work out when to consider a Wi-Fi extender for your connection.
Got a question for us? We’re here to help!
Belong’s modems are easy to use, with handy features like parental controls, guest network compatibility and a simple setup that’s outlined step by step. Our modems and plans are also carbon neutral. Have a squiz at our unlimited nbn plans today.
All information published in this article is provided for general education and information only, and isn’t intended to replace expert advice from a registered professional. While all information is published with due care and diligence, content remains subject to further research and may reflect differing matters of opinion. Belong does not accept any liability for any error or omission, injury, expense, loss or damage incurred by any person as a result of using this website or relying on any information published on this website.
