For anyone who has experienced the irritation of dead spots or signals too weak to utilize with their Wi-Fi, a common question asked is, “Does it really work?” As with most things relating to technology, the answer is not a simple one.
First, one must understand what Wi-Fi boosters are designed to do and what they don’t do. Wi-Fi boosters will not make your router’s signal stronger, but they will, when used properly, improve the distance over which a router’s signal is cast.
For instance, if your router’s strongest signal is achieved in the same room, but quickly declines to a medium level signal when you step into a neighboring room, chances are that a booster will simply extend the distance over which you can get a medium level signal, rather than extending the distance over which you can get a full signal.
Next, you must understand why your signal needs boosting in the first place. Many people do not realize that common items can interfere with the strength and quality of their router’s signal. Microwaves, older television sets, cable or digital satellite receivers, blue-tooth devices, and even cordless phones can all interrupt and weaken your router’s signal.
For optimal use, you should place your router as far away as possible from these common devices, which can be a difficult undertaking, especially if you use wireless or blue-tooth technology in your home office. If you suspect these items are to blame but do not have the option to isolate your router from them, then consider attempting to at least isolate your booster from them, which will also help you get the most from the booster.
Also understand that no amount of amplification will improve the signal in rooms that have a surplus of devices that disrupt the signal. This situation is less an issue of the signal reaching the room and more an issue of it becoming distorted once it gets there.
Choosing the right equipment is another factor in whether or not a Wi-Fi booster will work for you. While matching brands isn’t a necessity, it does sometimes help to create optimal conditions. Not all routers are created equally; likewise, not all boosters are created equally.
The standard data rate for most boosters is 300 Mbps, and the standard band is 2.4 GHz. Some boosters have no visible antennas, while others sport up to three. However, no one feature is the deciding factor in how far the device will be able to boost your signal.
The best way to ensure you are getting the most out of your device is to look at what the product boasts as its maximum range increase. For instance, 300ft is the average claim, and such claims are based on optimal conditions, meaning the router and booster are 100% compatible, there is little to no interference, and the signal is good and strong to begin with.
The best practice is to assume that under the worst possible conditions you will get about half of the claimed range. If that number should still meet your needs, then you can rest assured that the booster will indeed help improve your signal range.
