Old buildings and structures are modernized, completed, rebuilt over time, due to which the walls become thicker, and there are more rooms. An ordinary Wi-Fi router is not able to cope with the indicated functions on its own. There are several options for solving the problem: purchase and install auxiliary equipment of the same type (with the subsequent laying of an Internet cable) or connect an amplifier that will cover the dead zones. The second option is much cheaper than the first.
Which is better to buy
A Wi-Fi signal booster is also referred to as a repeater. The principle of operation is similar to network hubs. However, aggregates should not be confused. With the help of a repeater, you can significantly reduce the transmission delay of the signal emitted by the router. Among the designated functionality, special attention should be paid to the following aspects:
- Management of other networks.
- Redundant protocol support.
- Auto-segmentation of ports.
- Amplification of the existing signal.
Before you buy such a device, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the information regarding what they are. Particular attention is paid to the data transfer standards they support. It is on this aspect that the ability to connect auxiliary devices to the repeater and the ability to connect to it depends. Experts advise giving preference to equipment that works according to 802.11-n and 802.11-ac standards.According to buyers, the rate at which data is transferred also deserves attention. At home, this indicator is not critical, however, for offices, you should choose the best model.
It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the data transfer rate declared by the manufacturer is much lower in practice. This statement applies not only to products from Aliexpress, but also to European and Russian-made goods. The optimal rate will be 300 Mbps and above.
We also advise you to pay attention to the signal transmission range. The Internet coverage area directly depends on this indicator. In each model, this indicator will be individual. In addition, the actual range will be reduced by the walls. Both their thickness and quantity are taken into account. The thicker the partition, the more significant the losses will be and the weaker the transmitted signal will be. There is a category of repeaters on the market that can only be docked with products of the same brand.
When purchasing a universal type device, you should configure it before starting work. It is recommended to give preference to units that can be controlled via a laptop or mobile application. Thus, you can receive information of any type regarding the operation of the Internet.
How not to make mistakes when choosing
Before choosing such a device, you should consider the main selection criteria that do not apply to routers and routers. The repeater must be able to cover the entire area and operate without interruption. A properly selected device will not only work without failures, but will also cover the required area of offices or a private house.It is worth noting that for giving this option is also considered acceptable, as evidenced by numerous photos on the network. The selection should be based on the parameters below.
Options | Description |
Current transmitter power | Each, without exception, amplifier operates on the basis of a built-in type transmitter. The coverage area will directly depend on this indicator. A power of 20 dB is enough for a small apartment. The maximum allowable coefficient will be 23 dB. The point is that, according to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, all devices whose range exceeds this mark must be subject to compulsory registration. Also, the figure indicated by the manufacturer affects the power of the transmitted signal - how much it will improve after connecting to the main router. The coefficient of popular models can reach 50 dB, which guarantees a reliable and stable network. |
Top Producers | The manufacture of repeaters is often carried out by the same companies as the distributors of network equipment. However, exceptions do occur. Based on numerous reviews, reviews and ratings, the following brands deserve unconditional trust:
1.Keenetic.
2. Vegatel.
3. Xiaomi.
4.D-link.
5. ZyXel.
6.Tenda.
7 Locus.
8.TP-LINK.
Their products are characterized as the highest quality. If on the front panel a person sees incomprehensible and unfamiliar icons from China, then it is better to pass by such a product. Chinese-made goods may be of high quality, but the risk of making a mistake when choosing or buying a marriage is too high. Well-known brands have their own online stores that allow you to order products online. |
Ranges | If the user seeks to provide themselves with superior speed, then in the selection process, special attention should be paid to designs with a mark of 5 GHz. This frequency is not used often, so it remains free, which has a positive effect on the speed of the Internet. However, it should be understood that the purchase of such a device will be justified only if other gadgets have access to it. If there is no certainty in this matter, we advise you to give preference to two band models that can operate at different frequencies. |
Antennas and their number | Such elements can be both external and internal. Their number can reach 8 antennas. The more of them were installed, the more power the device has. Internal ones practically do not affect the final indicator, however, external ones allow the modem to reach the 5 dB mark. If possible, choose models equipped with external antennas. Otherwise, there must be three or more inline elements. |
Device type | Conventionally, all designs can be divided into those that work only with Wi-Fi routers and cellular signal amplifiers (3G / 4G). The criterion is important and must be taken into account in the selection process. The specification is indicated in the product passport. There are also a number of devices on the market that can also distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi. The unit will work from a SIM card, which you can install yourself. The principle of operation of the models is different. |
Protocol support | If we are talking about buying a cellular signal amplifier, then the unit must support communication standards such as 3G and 4G. It is these protocols that today are responsible for access to the World Wide Web. Reception will be significantly higher with the LTE mark.3G is also supported by budget models, but you should still check the specification before buying. |
Which company is better to buy a Wi-Fi amplifier with a router function
Asus RP-AC68U
The fine decision, both for shops, and offices. The declared data transfer rate is 1000 Mbps. The popular model is equipped with four antennas, which is a feature of the product. The undoubted advantage in favor of this choice is the unusual appearance of the wireless installation, namely the stylish deep black column. This will allow you to harmoniously fit the device into any environment.
The average price is 4500 rubles.
Asus RP-AC68U
Advantages:
- design;
- power;
- characteristics;
- material of manufacture;
- the ability to solve any problems of a modern user;
- the possibility of conducting the Internet to premises in which laying wires is not possible;
- stable work;
- reception;
- operational period.
Flaws:
For many users, the price for this product seems too high, however, based on the declared functionality, this is not so. Not every person can afford such an acquisition. The situation is different for shops and firms with spacious premises. A feature of the model is the ability to independently recognize the received signal by other gadgets. If necessary, the device will automatically switch between ranges based on the list of connected gadgets. Due to this, the device belongs to the category of universal.
You can buy a new product at a price of 4000 rubles.
ZyXEL Keenetic Extra II
Advantages:
- 4 antennas that can significantly increase the coverage area;
- design;
- no backlash (build quality);
- reception;
- no failures in work;
- device management and traffic tracking through a mobile application;
- built-in torrent client;
- the ability to connect a hard drive;
- two-band distribution frequency;
- stable reception.
Flaws:
- in order to configure the modem, you should follow the step-by-step instructions, which will take a lot of time;
- price.
ZyXEL Keenetic Lite III
Router with amplifier function. It is in high demand among domestic consumers. An excellent choice in the presence of a multi-room apartment, where the coverage goes beyond the standard. Thus, it is possible to acquire wireless Internet in the most remote areas at no special cost. The speed declared by the manufacturer is 300 Mbps, which is considered quite acceptable.
The cost of an inexpensive device is 2200 rubles.
ZyXEL Keenetic Lite III
Advantages:
- price;
- design features;
- the declared speed is true;
- independent connection;
- internal settings (mobile application);
- body materials;
- price/quality ratio;
- functional.
Flaws:
TP-LINK TL-WA860RE
The classic body is not able to surprise the modern user, who is used to dealing with unusual design solutions. However, this aspect is more than compensated by the functionality declared by the manufacturer. The socket with which the device is equipped deserves special attention. This will not negatively affect the number of scarce sockets in the power grid. The only unit of its kind, which was thought out to the smallest detail.Technicians have done everything possible to provide the user with the necessary amenities.
There is an RJ-45 jack that will allow you to connect to computers or TVs in Wi-Fi adapter mode. When connected to the network, the distribution of the Internet is carried out. The declared data transfer rate is 300 Mbps. An excellent and economical solution for both a small office and a spacious apartment.
How much does the kit cost? The purchase will cost 2100 rubles.
TP-LINK TL-WA860RE
Advantages:
- built-in socket;
- equipment;
- ergonomics;
- functional;
- transmission speed;
- assembly;
- manufacturer's warranty;
- service maintenance.
Flaws:
- appearance;
- not identified.
Rating of high-quality Wi-Fi amplifiers for 2 antennas
Vegatel VT5-900E
It is this model that is perfect for professional activities. The device belongs to the advanced class. It has several levels of protection and is characterized by stable signal transmission. The system is housed in a rugged metal case that is shock and moisture resistant. This makes it possible to use the router outdoors (outdoor type). Gain control is carried out both in automatic and manual mode. Functions with all known GSM standards.
It is possible to connect two antennas. One is directed towards the tower (37 dB), while the second is directed towards the phone (20 dB). The gain is quite high. It is used both in spacious country houses and office premises.
Cost - 1600 rubles.
Vegatel VT5-900E
Advantages:
- the possibility of manual adjustment;
- assembly;
- substantial coverage;
- support for various GSM standards;
- transmitters of acceptable power;
- 2 antennas can be connected optionally;
- reliability;
- protection of the body from moisture and mechanical influences;
- no failures.
Flaws:
Tenda A18 with two external antennas
An amplifier from a well-known brand continues our rating, which is capable of distributing the Internet simultaneously in several ranges. The maximum speed reaches 867 Mbps, but this is just a theory. Built-in antennas in the amount of two units allow you to increase the indicator by 2 dB, due to which the coverage area increases significantly. The modem's own rate is 16 dB, which is considered acceptable for a small one-story house or two-room apartment.
The model got into the TOP largely due to the number of favorable reviews and the declared functionality. Internet port 100 Mbps. It can also work as a full-fledged access point. The functionality allows you to use the unit in bridge mode. The interface is nice and clear. Dimensions are also compact: 80x48x58 mm.
Price - 2700 rubles.
Tenda A18 with two external antennas
Advantages:
- bridge mode;
- two antennas (external);
- 100 Mbps LAN port;
- the declared speed is 867 Mbps;
- auxiliary transmitter at 16 dB;
- hotspot function;
- two working ranges.
Flaws:
- lack of decent reception at 5 GHz.
TP-LINK RE200 V1
A quality product from a world famous manufacturer. The ability to work with two ranges deserves special attention. There is also support for various Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac standards. The declared speed is 733 Mbps. is a theoretical indicator, in practice the coefficient is somewhat lower.There is a 20dB built-in type transmitter, which guarantees excellent transmission and signal stability. Installed antennas have a positive effect on the functionality of the device. Protection is carried out using the standard WPA2 protocol.
One of the best solutions for home use. The cylindrical design is only available in white. Loss of reception or connection will be highlighted by the corresponding LEDs. There is also a 100 Mbps Internet port in the case. Can act as a bridge as a router. You will need a web interface for configuration. Compact dimensions allow you to place the device anywhere.
Price - 2100 rubles.
TP-LINK RE200 V1
Advantages:
- three internal antennas;
- internet port;
- user-friendly interface;
- port with the possibility of installing a bridge (function);
- power of 20 dB;
- WPA2 security;
- speed 733 Mbps;
- the possibility of using two frequencies;
- dimensions: 110x66x75 mm.
Flaws:
- extended networks are not saved.
TP-LINK TL-WA855RE
It should be noted that along with the design, the buyer receives a network cable that will allow cable connection to a laptop. In addition to the quick setup instructions, the manufacturer also includes a warranty card. Compact size adapter that plugs into an outlet. During the assembly process, high-strength plastic is used, which is not recommended to be dropped (the board is not protected). Air vents are located on the rear and side panels. This must be taken into account during installation to avoid overheating. The WPS button is on the top and is used to connect the main device.
Price - 1300 rubles.
TP-LINK TL-WA855RE
Advantages:
- wide coverage;
- acceptable transfer rate;
- work stability;
- manufacturer's warranty;
- configuration via WPS;
- classic design;
- transmission speed.
Flaws:
Best Wi-Fi Boosters with WPS
TP-LINK RE205
It comes in a neat white plastic box. The front panel is glossy, while the rest of the elements are matte. Repeater dimensions: 80x78x77 mm. Fixed-type antennas in the popular model move exclusively vertically. However, in most cases this will not be a problem. For control, the minimum number of buttons is used. The WPS mode key is located separately. An internet port can be seen in the immediate vicinity. There are two operating ranges. The blue color of the indicator indicates that the device is working properly. Red blinking - reception is weak.
Cost - 2000 rubles.
TP-LINK RE205
Advantages:
- user-friendly interface;
- control via mobile application;
- two working ranges;
- excellent reception;
- functional;
- no failures;
- ease of setup;
- status indicators;
- design;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
Tenda A9
Modern device to improve Wi-Fi reception. For power, a 220 V home network is used. Physical data is 802.11 b / g / n, which is considered obsolete parameters that remain relevant to this day. Operating frequency 2.4 GHz. Due to two external type antennas, the device gives a speed of 300 Mbps. However, the indicator should be divided by two, which is also considered an acceptable ratio. Protection is carried out according to WPA2, WPA and WEP standards. The perfect solution for a three-room apartment in an old building or a small office.
Cost - 1200 rubles.
Tenda A9
Advantages:
- appearance;
- protection of the main protocols;
- acceptable speed;
- reliability;
- build quality;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
- insufficient power, compared with similar devices in this price segment.
Netis E1+
The equipment looks like a bar of soap and has the appropriate dimensions. Thus, the device can be placed almost anywhere. It should be noted that the antennas of the router are located inside. Works with 802.11 b / g / n standards, and provides speeds up to 300 Mbps. In practice, the figure is much less. It uses a regular household outlet for power. A feature is the presence of a LAN port. The user, if desired, can switch to the RangeExtrnder mode, which makes a full-fledged router out of the amplifier. With the appropriate cable, it becomes possible to connect the unit to TVs.
Cost - 750 rubles.
Netis E1+
Advantages:
- TravelRouter mode will transmit the Internet via Wi-Fi via an Internet wire;
- universal type device;
- acceptable price;
- compact dimensions;
- built-in antennas;
- standard protocol protection.
Flaws:
Rating of the best Wi-Fi amplifiers with data transfer rates up to 300 Mbps
D-link DCH-M225 with audio port
Device with compact dimensions: 54x42x56 mm. Power is supplied from a 220 V network. Inside the case there are two antennas that guarantee stable data transmission. It works only on one frequency, which in most cases is enough. The declared speed is 300 Mbps. Protocol protection is standard (WPA2). Self-configuration is allowed, through a clear interface.It should be noted the presence of a standard 3.5 mm jack, which is used to connect speakers. A rare but necessary feature. The case is made of white plastic.
Price - 2000 rubles.
D-link DCH-M225 with audio port
Advantages:
- two built-in antennas;
- convenient and intuitive interface;
- good coverage;
- the possibility of self-configuration;
- 3.5mm jack;
- 2.4 GHz transmitter;
- compact dimensions;
- appearance;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
- the actual speed indicator differs significantly from that declared by the manufacturer.
Xiaomi Mi WiFi Amplifier 2
A budget-class repeater that is not equipped with auxiliary functionality. It has a stable signal. The model got into our rating because the modern buyer gets a really high-quality and reliable device for more than a moderate fee. If all the necessary conditions are met, the adapter delivers 300 Mbps, which corresponds to the 802.11-n standard. The transmitted digital signal is transmitted in the form of waves, which are intercepted by the device and amplified. This is the principle of its work. The amplifier will perform the designated tasks only at standard purity. It is allowed to connect a number of outdated devices. To set up, you need a smartphone and a proprietary application.
Cost - 800 rubles.
Xiaomi Mi WiFi Amplifier 2
Advantages:
- protection category WPA2;
- operating range 2.4 GHz;
- 802.11-n transmitter;
- corporate ecosystem;
- speed of 300 Mbps;
- powered by a home network of 220 V;
- optimal power transmitter;
- work stability;
- setup from a phone (smartphone or tablet);
- compact dimensions.
Flaws:
- complexity of the first setup.
Mercusys MW300RE
Cute bunny - this is what modern users call the modem. This nickname is due to the presence of antennae that resemble ears. The coverage area is wide, and the data transfer rate reaches 300 Mbps. There is a dedicated button to create a quick and efficient connection. The reception level has an LED indicator that lights up. A standard 220 V network is used for connection. However, the plug is made in such a way that it will not be possible to connect anything next to it. The settings are saved even after the power is turned off.
Price - 1100 rubles.
Mercusys MW300RE
Advantages:
- self-configuration;
- appearance;
- compact dimensions;
- saving the entered parameters after turning off the light;
- price;
- work stability;
- branded shell.
Flaws:
- enough power for home use.
Amplify the signal from the router yourself
Such a device is extremely useful for both home and business. However, if there is not enough money to buy such a device, then you can use some life hacks regarding creating a Wi-Fi amplifier with your own hands.
Set the power to the maximum
Some designs allow you to set this indicator manually. You can reach the function through the advanced settings menu. By default, the system raises this figure to 100%. However, the parameters can accidentally go astray, so it would not hurt to check them from time to time.
Proper placement of the router
In most cases, a person seeks to install a router as far as possible from prying eyes. We are talking about the most remote rooms and the hallway.This choice is obvious, because there is no need to stretch wires throughout the apartment. However, the signal transmission speed will suffer greatly. The room selected for installation should be equidistant (located in the center of the house). If you plan to use the Internet in only one room, then it would be more correct to install a router there. Then you don't need a repeater.
Special applications can come to the rescue when choosing an installation location. With their help, an assessment of living space is carried out, the degree of signal penetration through the walls. The system itself will show the optimal place for installation and provide the user with useful tips.
Firmware needs to be updated
The manufacturer's website has all the necessary information regarding this issue. If there is a low speed from the first days of operation of the router, then most likely the problem is in the firmware. The new software is able to fix the problem.
Change of working channel
If an old router is installed that does not know about the existence of the 5 GHz band, then it works from the standard 2.4 GHz. There are only 13 channels, and the user will have to choose the least loaded one from the attached list. For evaluation, a special application (free) is used. Extreme channels should not be connected, as they are the weakest, based on statistics. The apartments have high-speed Internet, so the availability of free channels is in question.
If nothing has changed
In this case, experts advise to purchase new router. Because even the most expensive amplifier can only amplify the existing signal, but not revive it from scratch.
Conclusion
To increase the range of a Wi-Fi signal, a repeater is used, which is also called a repeater or amplifier. Often this is the most effective way to solve problems with dead zones in both offices and residential areas. There are many reasons for such difficulties, however, often the signal is lost in thick walls or interrupted by neighbors. The main task of the repeater is to receive a signal from the router, amplify it and transmit it over a certain distance. In fact, the existing signal is relayed.