Choosing between a mesh network vs WiFi extender, then read on. Having a wireless network at home and in the workplace is critical. After all, everyone uses a variety of wireless devices, from laptops and smartphones to tablets and surveillance cameras.
Unfortunately, a wireless network doesn’t always work as well as you’d like. You might find that areas of your home or office receive a poor signal from your router, causing your devices to run slowly and your internet connection to lag. However, the good news is that there are surprisingly simple solutions to this common problem, and two of them are the mesh network and the Wi-Fi extender.
Which Setup Is Best Between Mesh Network vs. Wi-Fi Extender?
A mesh network and a Wi-Fi extender can improve a wireless signal so you can enjoy the benefits of a stronger connection that goes farther, whether you’re watching videos, hopping on a video chat, or doing research online. The first step is determining which option is right for you.
What’s the difference between a Wi-Fi extender and a mesh network? To help you figure out which one is right for you, here are some of the main properties of a Wi-Fi mesh network vs. a Wi-Fi extender.
Mesh Network System
What is a mesh network, and how does a mesh network work? This system can effectively cover your entire home or office with a solid wireless signal. It consists of a mesh router connecting with nodes to ensure a strong signal is spread throughout a property, creating a single network.
Because your devices can connect with the nearby nodes, this system can provide the right amount of coverage, regardless of the size of the space in question. If you have tried Wi-Fi extenders but have noticed that they don’t provide coverage throughout your home, a mesh system might give you the faster internet speeds you need.
Mesh Wi-Fi System Replaces Entire Wi-Fi Network
Once you have a mesh network, you’ll no longer need to use your old Wi-Fi network. You’ll have whole new equipment, from the router to the nodes, to give you the reliable internet connection you need.
When set up correctly, with all of the nodes placed at the proper distance from one another, you’ll be able to blanket a workplace or a house with powerful internet.
Node and Mesh Access Points Create Efficient Wi-Fi Signal Transfer
Whether or not you’re currently using Wi-Fi 6, upgrading to a mesh network isn’t tricky and might be what you need if you’ve been frustrated by slow internet speeds. You may also notice that your devices work better overall once the mesh network is in place because they can grab the signal more easily as they connect with the node closest to them.
A mesh network is designed to work smoothly and efficiently. Even if a node isn’t operating correctly, there will be others to keep your devices going. So, if it’s the speed you’re after, and you’re tired of dead zones, this upgrade might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Wi-Fi Range Extender
Another option to increase signal strength is a range extender. But how does a Wi-Fi extender work?
Sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi repeaters or boosters, extenders are products you can plug in to strengthen the signal in a particular area, such as your second-floor bedroom, where you might have noticed a weaker connection.
Wireless Device Paired With an Existing Wi-Fi Router
You can connect a Wi-Fi extender to your current router. Then, it will repeat your wireless network’s signal and create a network with its name. For instance, it may be the same name as your primary network, but with “EXT” at the end, you can distinguish between them.
Since an extender will create a new network, you can switch between multiple networks. In other words, when you use a wireless device, you can select the network that gives you the best signal, depending on your location in the building. And if you move too far out of range, your device may automatically switch to the appropriate network.
Eliminates Bad Signal Strength in a Simple and Affordable Way
The nice thing about a Wi-Fi extender is that it’s easy to install and use. It’s also affordable, making it a great option if you want a quick solution that fits your budget. Plus, you can set it up with a wired or wireless connection.
How To Choose Between a Mesh System vs Wifi Extender
Now that you better understand the differences between a mesh network vs wifi extender, it’s time to think about which option is best for you.
A mesh network is a smart solution for larger homes and businesses where Wi-Fi extenders cannot deliver the necessary signal strength. They’re also a good choice if you work with large files or stream many videos. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that a high-quality system might cost hundreds of dollars.
On the other hand, a Wi-Fi extender can work well in a smaller space where the signal doesn’t have to go as far. It can also be a good option if you need to increase the strength of your internet connection only in a particular area of your property. It might even cost less than $100, so it can be a low-cost solution to a weak signal.
If you’re interested in learning more about mesh networks and Wi-Fi extenders, or you’re ready to start using either of these to improve speed, Novotech is here to help. We can provide you with everything from cellular routers to mesh network modules to help you make the most of the connection from your internet service provider. Contact us today to get started.