Modern life practically requires the internet—from work and school to entertainment and socialization, we use it in just about every facet of life. If your wi-fi signal is weak, however, it makes it a lot more difficult to make use of your internet connection. With this in mind, you might be considering a wi-fi booster, repeater or extender: devices that should be able to amplify the wi-fi signal in your building. But what’s the difference between them, and how do they work? Read on to learn more about these handy tools.

How do wi-fi boosters, repeaters and extenders differ from each other in San Bernardino County, CA?

You may have seen these tools referred to as wi-fi boosters, repeaters or extenders. While they operate slightly differently depending on the device model, they’re more or less the same thing. These tools receive your wi-fi signal, amplify it and then transmit a “boosted” signal. (If you have a repeater, it will probably create a second network as a backup.) That makes it possible to get wi-fi anywhere in your home—even your backyard. If you normally have a weak signal, or there are dead spots in your home, a booster can help you remedy the issue.

How to get the most out of your wi-fi

Here are some tips to get a better signal:

• Try moving your router first: You might not need a wi-fi booster at all. First, try moving your router to a different location in your home. Place it somewhere high, especially if you live in a two-story home. Wi-fi signals spread out and downward from the router, so you’ll get best results when you put it on a high shelf in the middle of your home. Also, keep it away from your microwave and metal objects whenever possible.
• Upgrade your router: Sometimes your router simply needs to be upgraded. If you’re having trouble with your signal, it might simply be time for a replacement. Consider getting a new, more powerful router that’s designed to broadcast a strong signal around a multi-room home. If that solves your problem, there’s no need for a booster.
• Install a wi-fi booster: If moving the router and getting a new, more powerful model didn’t work, you can install a wi-fi booster. Boosters will take the signal you already have and amplify it so you can move freely about your home while still receiving a strong signal. In fact, you should be able to get plenty of signal in the backyard, too—which means it’s easy to stream music and other entertainment while you’re enjoying the fresh air.

With any luck, these three troubleshooting tips should help you get a strong, clear signal throughout your home.

For more help troubleshooting your internet problems, the team at JDS Systems can help. We’re happy to answer questions about the differences between wi-fi boosters, repeaters and extenders in San Bernardino County, CA. Call us today to learn more about our internet service, or get help with your existing HughesNet subscription.