Often people encounter problems connecting to the network, and a number of factors affect the quality of the Wi-Fi signal. These may be landscape or architectural features, interference from other electromagnetic networks, improper router location, or distance from the base station. The Wi-Fi signal booster is designed to increase the network coverage area. If you are looking to improve the signal in your home with a Three signal booster, this article is for you.
Table of Contents
Types of Signal Amplifiers
First, let’s look at the purpose of the Wi-Fi amplifier. Normal network operation and fast Internet speed depend on many factors:
- router power;
- configuration and area of the room;
- materials of walls, roofs, and other architectural elements in the house;
- device location;
- the presence of electromagnetic interference (microwave ovens, other networks, radio telephones, etc.).
The problem with electromagnetic interference can be solved independently by switching to another broadcast channel, eliminating conflict with neighbouring wireless networks. But with obstacles, the situation is more complicated, it is unlikely that you will arrange redevelopment and destroy walls that jam the signal. In this case, you can not do without additional equipment.
The Wi-Fi signal booster receives the data stream from the main router, amplifies it, and relays the high-quality signal to the receiving devices. Wi-Fi repeaters differ in characteristics, on which the final result depends.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Repeater
Using a Wi-Fi signal amplifier for a router has a number of undeniable advantages that can fully satisfy all user needs:
- the equipment is capable of distributing a signal at a speed of 150-300 Mbps;
- the coverage area sometimes reaches several hundred metres;
- the device is small in size;
- it is sold in digital and electronic equipment stores;
- affordable cost;
- ease of operation.
A Wi-Fi signal booster is needed in the following cases:
- poor coverage in remote areas;
- you need to speed up the Internet without buying excess equipment;
- it is necessary to conduct the Internet to another room without drilling walls and laying cables;
- you need to combine several gadgets into one network.
Functionality
Most modern Internet amplifiers support MU-MIMO and Beamforming technologies, which provide high-quality uninterrupted communication for several devices at once. For some models, developers offer mobile applications for remote control of phone settings. You can configure conventional Wi-Fi amplifiers through a browser.
For ease of setup, the repeaters are equipped with a WPS button. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) technology allows you to quickly set up your device.
All models of Wi-Fi amplifiers have a signal quality indicator on the case. A green or blue light indicates that the distance between the repeater and the router is correct, and the signal is being transmitted at a high level. If the red light is on, then the repeater is too far from the router. In this case, you need to move the device until the green indicator lights up.
Devices differ in the type of connection to the power supply. If you do not want to spend a lot of time on settings and calling a wizard, you can choose a universal socket option, portable equipment is directly connected to the outlet and does not require complex settings. The upside is that you don’t have to deal with unnecessary wires.
Number of Antennas
To increase the potential for better signal distribution, choose devices with multiple antennas. Repeaters can have internal and external antennas. External antennas are more sensitive and powerful, the signal directivity can be adjusted. Expensive repeaters can have up to 4 antennas with support for MU-MIMO technology.
Features of LAN Ports
Wi-Fi repeaters may or may not have Ethernet ports. What is it, what is it used for and how does it work? Ports are needed to connect gadgets using a network cable. This feature is useful if you have a TV without Wi-Fi or an old-generation desktop computer within reach. A wired connection is always more stable than a wireless one. Therefore, those who feel the need for maximum channel stability prefer this type of connection.
Transfer Rate
The quality of the connection depends on the transmission speed. When choosing a booster, you should carefully evaluate its technical characteristics. The maximum possible speed is indicated in the passport of the device. By the way, the speed depends on the frequency range, it can vary significantly on different channels.
Range Support
Amplifiers can be single-band and dual-band. The first version operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz and has a low price, the second modification supports two frequencies at once 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. A single-band repeater is worth buying if the budget is tight. In other cases, it is better to give preference to more advanced models.
A dual-band device can connect to the router at two frequencies at once, or form a connection at one frequency, but at the same time distribute two Wi-Fi networks. Obviously, dual-band repeaters are more functional.
Mesh Technology
In addition to dual-band Wi-Fi signal amplifiers, there are more advanced devices. Mesh technology builds a seamless network, so switching between a router and an amplifier is instantaneous and seamless. However, for this function to work, you need to take into account that all devices (router, amplifier, client) must support Mesh.
A Three mobile signal booster is worth buying if you are tired of constant disconnections, low download and data transfer speeds, infinitely long loading pages, and more. Sometimes such problems are temporary, but if their source is insufficient signal quality, then buying an amplifier is an effective solution. This is a long-term investment that will make using the network as convenient as possible.
Final Thoughts
If you have problems with the quality of the Wi-Fi signal, then it’s time to think about purchasing a special device that will help fix it. It’s about the amplifier. The device allows you to amplify the signal to expand the coverage of the wireless LAN. We recommend that you contact Uctel if you want to install a signal booster for Three, Vodafone, Tesco, or another UK operator.
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