How to Extend Wi-Fi Range: 5 Possible Solutions

Are you tired of weak Wi-Fi signals, slow internet speed, and frequent buffering? These common problems can be frustrating and may hamper even the simplest digital tasks. Fortunately, there are several ways to extend Wi-Fi range and boost signal strength. In this article, we’ll explore five possible solutions to help you improve your internet connectivity. From the best Wi-Fi range extenders to DIY methods and optimal router placement, let’s find out how to extend Wi-Fi range.

Best Wi-Fi Range Extenders

Wi-Fi range extenders can help you increase the signal strength and coverage area of your Wi-Fi network. Here are some of the top-performing Wi-Fi range extenders available in the market:

NETGEAR Nighthawk X6S Tri-Band WiFi Mesh Extender: This extender delivers up to 2.2Gbps Wi-Fi speeds and covers an area of up to 2,000 square feet. It is suitable for large homes and multi-story buildings.
TP-Link RE650 AC2600 Wi-Fi Range Extender: This extender delivers high-speed internet coverage of up to 14,000 square feet, making it an excellent choice for large homes and offices.
Linksys Velop AC2200 Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi System: This Wi-Fi system comes with three nodes that can cover an area of up to 4,500 square feet, making it ideal for large homes and offices.
Google Nest WiFi: This system delivers stable internet coverage and faster speeds by using mesh technology to connect multiple access points, thereby blanketing homes of up to 3,800 square feet in internet coverage.

Before buying a Wi-Fi range extender, consider important features such as compatibility with your primary router, coverage area, and maximum data transfer speed. Follow these steps to set up a Wi-Fi range extender:

Plug the extender into an electrical outlet near the router.
Connect the extender to your router using an ethernet cable.
Open a web browser and enter the extender’s web address.
Follow the instructions provided for setup, including entering your Wi-Fi network name and password.
Wait for the extender to connect to the main router and the status light turns solid green.

DIY Wi-Fi Range Extension

Do it yourself (DIY) Wi-Fi range extension is an affordable and creative way to extend signal coverage in your home or office. Here are some DIY methods you can use:

Aluminum Foil: Wrap aluminum foil around the router antennas to reflect the Wi-Fi signal back toward the desired location.
Coke Can: Cut off the top and bottom parts of a Coke can, leaving just the cylindrical part. Then, place it around the router antenna to act as a signal amplifier.
Wire Hanger: Straighten out a wire hanger and bend it into a parabolic shape. Place it around the router’s antenna to focus the signal wave in the direction you need.
Strainer: Place a metal strainer over the router’s antenna. The holes act as a signal diffuser, spreading signals in all directions.

While these DIY methods may sound funny and ineffective, they have proven to be practical and effective, especially for small home spaces.

Tips for Optimal Router Placement

The location of your router affects how far your Wi-Fi signal reaches and how well it penetrates walls and floors. Here are some tips for optimal router placement:

Place the router in a central location, away from walls and metal objects that can obstruct the signal.
Elevate the router to increase its coverage area. You can put it on a shelf or mount it on a wall.
Keep the router away from other electronic devices such as televisions, cordless phones, and microwaves, which can interfere with the signal.
Consider investing in a Wi-Fi range extender if your router is in a poor location that cannot be changed.

By placing your router in an optimal location, you can help to increase the range of your Wi-Fi signal and improve its speed and reliability.

Upgrading the Router Firmware

The router firmware is a software program that is installed on the router and controls its functionality. Upgrading your router firmware can improve router performance, security, and stability. Here’s how to upgrade your router firmware:

Log in to your router using a web browser using the router’s IP address.
Navigate to the firmware upgrade option in the router settings.
Download the latest firmware version from the router manufacturer’s website and save it to your computer.
Browse for and select the saved firmware file from your computer.
Click “Upgrade” and wait for the process to complete.

Upgrading the firmware can significantly improve your Wi-Fi signal’s stability, security, and overall performance.

Using Mesh Wi-Fi Systems

Mesh Wi-Fi systems are becoming increasingly popular among users who want extended Wi-Fi coverage and superior speed. Here are some of the best mesh Wi-Fi systems available in the market today:

Google Nest WiFi: A mesh Wi-Fi system that provides stable internet coverage and faster speeds by using mesh technology to connect multiple access points.
Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi system: Covers up to 6,000 square feet with a fast and reliable Wi-Fi signal using proprietary TrueMesh technology to minimize buffering and interruptions.
Linksys Velop: Covers an area of up to 6,000 square feet, making it suitable for large homes and offices. The system uses dynamic tri-band technology to ensure that users have access to an ultra-fast, dependable Wi-Fi network.

Mesh Wi-Fi systems, unlike Wi-Fi range extender, create a unified wireless network that allows easy movement between multiple access points or “nodes.” This makes it easier to get a strong internet signal in different rooms in your house.

Conclusion

Weak Wi-Fi signals can impact your online experience and hinder your digital productivity. By using the five solutions discussed in this article, you can extend your Wi-Fi range, boost signal strength and improve overall internet speed. Whether you opt for the best Wi-Fi range extenders on the market, DIY methods, optimal router placement, upgrading router firmware, or mesh Wi-Fi systems, always explore different approaches to find what works best for you.

Remember, retaining a strong Wi-Fi signal is essential for all your devices to function optimally. Make sure you try some of these solutions to ensure you don’t suffer from internet troubles anymore. With that said, it is time to enhance your internet experience and extend Wi-Fi range today.