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How to Extend WiFi Range

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Written by:

Lawrence Bonk
Updated August 9, 2022

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If you are experiencing issues with your wireless network, you may wonder how to extend the WiFi range. The best routers can experience range and connection issues for a variety of reasons, after all. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help extend your network’s range.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • There are a number of ways to extend the range of your wireless router and wireless signal, including simply moving the current router to a central location.
  • You can also invest in a Wi-Fi range extender or another form of Wi-Fi extender, or even a mesh router.
  • Other options include contacting your ISP for a full usage report and using the 2.4GHz band of your wireless router, which features a better range than 5GHz.

For more helpful guides on networking, you’ll want to read about how to disable NAT acceleration in your router, how to use a router as a WiFi extender, and how to make a WiFi router faster.

Extending Wireless Network Range

If you are getting frustrated when router dead spots appear throughout the home, you will want to extend the range of your wireless network. Here are a few simple ways to do just that.

Method 1 – Restart the Router and Modem

  1. The first thing you should do is restart your router and modem.
  2. Start by unplugging both devices from the power outlet.
  3. Wait 30 seconds to one minute, and then plug the modem in.
  4. Wait for the modem to fully power on and then plug the router in.
  5. Once both devices are connected and transmitting signals, test the wireless range in various rooms throughout the home.

Insider Tip

Keep an eye on your signal strength and make a list of what time of day it is strongest and weakest.

Method 2 – Move the Router

  1. Routers, such as Linksys Mesh vs Orbi, should be placed in a central location in the home, so they can deliver signals to as broad of an area as possible.
  2. Move the router to the center of your home.
  3. Place the router high on a shelf or countertop, as they do not do well on the floor.

Method 3 – Use Extender Devices

  1. There are various network extender devices out there, including wireless extenders, network boosters, and more.
  2. Purchase whichever one is right for your setup.
  3. Install the device according to the instructions, connect to your router, and begin extending your wireless range.

Method 4 – Use a Mesh Network Router

  1. Mesh router systems can drastically improve the range of your wireless network.
  2. Purchase a mesh router and various hubs, placing them throughout the home.
  3. Connect to the router via approved methods.

Method 5 – Call Your ISP

  1. The issue could simply lay with your Internet connection, and not your router.
  2. Call your Internet service provider (ISP) and check on the status of your connection.
  3. You can also ask them to check your data usage, which could come in handy.

Method 6 – Use a Different Band

  • Though 5GHz bands offer a speedier and more reliable Internet connection, 2.4GHz bands boast a longer range.
  • Switch to 2.4GHz to see if your connected devices operate further away from the router.
  • You can always switch back and forth at will.

F.A.Q.S

Who needs a Wi-Fi extender, booster, or repeater?

Anyone experiencing wireless network issues via their WiFi networks could benefit from a Wi-Fi range extender. In other words, if your wireless devices are struggling to connect to your Wi-Fi network, try one of the above devices.

Does my Wi-Fi extender need to be the same brand as my router?

No, WiFi extenders do not need to be the same brand as your router to access better WiFi coverage and more reliable Wi-Fi signals. WiFi networks tend to be universal.

How to fix Wi-Fi dead zones?

To eliminate dead zones in WiFi networks, try moving the router, investing in range extenders, or purchasing a Wi-Fi 6 router. The latter offers the most reliable and fastest WiFi connection for WiFi networks.

STAT: Drywall can reduce speed up to 50% while a concrete barrier can put a complete halt on signal trying to pass through. (source)

Lawrence Bonk Profile image
Lawrence Bonk
Lawrence Bonk is a copywriter with a decade of experience in the tech space, with columns appearing in Engadget, Huffington Post and CBS, among others. He has a cat named Cinnamon.