There are 2 methods to boost your WiFi signal. The first is to install a WiFi repeater, the second is to install a WiFi access point connected to a physical network cable. Which is better and why?
WiFi Repeater
Wireless (WiFi) repeaters are first generation WiFi signal extenders. WiFi repeaters re-broadcast the WiFi signal received to a certain location. The quality of WiFi signal strength received by the wireless repeater will be the same WiFi signal strength distributed. This means that if the signal in a room is only 25%, the repeater will only repeat the 25% signal to a wider area. This could mean that download speeds are only 1/4 of their normal strength in certain areas of your home/office.
Advantages of a WiFi Repeater
1. They are Cheap
Typically WiFi repeaters are very cost effective compared to WiFi access points.
2. Easy To Install
You don’t need to run any additional network cabling in order to install a WiFi repeater.
Disadvantages of a WiFi Repeater
1. They repeat an already weakened signal
WiFi repeaters can only repeat the signal they receive from another access point. This means that if the signal in a room is only 25%, the repeater will only repeat the 25% signal to a wider area
2. They are notoriously unreliable
If you have ever used a WiFi repeater you will know that they are very unreliable. Due to the fact tat they repeat an already weak signal means that if there is any change in the signal received, it could mean that the repeater is functional and appears to have WiFi, but in fact it is not repeating an actual Internet connection.
WiFi Access Point
A WiFi access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network, in your home, office or public space. An access point connects directly to a wired network via a network cable, and projects a Wi-Fi signal to an area. WiFi access points can be installed in server cabinets, on flat surfaces such as tables, as well as ceiling-mounted.
Advantages of a WiFi Access Point
1. They broadcast the full strength of the network
WiFi access points connect directly to the network via a network cable. This means that they broadcast the full strength of the network they are connected to. The only limitation is the speed of the access point itself
2. Attractive
Modern WiFi access points can be very attractive and unobtrusive, such as ceiling-mount units.
Disadvantages of a WiFi Access Points
1. More difficult to Install
WiFi access points require a netowrk cable to be installed form the router or network switch. If the router is nearby this can be a simple task, but generally to improve WiFi signal throughout a home or office, you will need to place the access point far from the router. This means that you will need to install network points. This is where we come in. We install network points and WiFi access points to homes and office in Johannesburg, Pretoria and most of Gauteng.
