Wi-Fi is essential to almost every industry today, from schools to hospitality. Wi-Fi helps people communicate, share information quickly, and even help with security functionality. If the Wi-Fi in your business isn’t functioning like it should, a booster or extender may help.
BearCom has been providing Wi-Fi extenders and boosters for many businesses, school campuses, and other industries across Alberta and Ontario, Canada, for over forty years.
Below we’ll break down the differences between Wi-Fi boosters and extenders and the scenarios they’re best for.
What Are Wi-Fi Boosters and Extenders?
Both Wi-Fi boosters and extenders are Wi-Fi aids, but what are they exactly?
A Wi-Fi booster is a device that can increase the range of your Wi-Fi signal and improve coverage. It’s designed to remove dead spots and improve the overall functionality of the internet.
A Wi-Fi extender, also known as a Wi-Fi range extender, is a device that sits between the router location and a difficult-to-reach area for the Wi-Fi. It amplifies the signals coming from the Wi-Fi network to send out a better signal.
What’s the Difference Between a Wi-Fi Booster and Extender?
The Wi-Fi extender rebroadcasts the signal from a router, so the signal will travel further and reach those tricky spots. It establishes a second network.
A Wi-Fi booster simply amplifies the original signals coming from the router. It makes the original signal stronger, rather than adding an additional network.
When Do I Need a Wi-Fi Booster or Extender?
There are several scenarios where a Wi-Fi booster can be helpful, including Wi-Fi dead zones or a space with many obstacles that can obstruct Wi-Fi signals. This includes a variety of historically hard-to-reach locations, like those with cement floors or thick walls. Wi-Fi boosters can also improve the speed of your overall Wi-Fi network.
On the other hand, Wi-Fi extenders are helpful if the Wi-Fi signal doesn’t reach all parts of the building or campus. It’s additionally useful for outdoor areas and allows access to a singular network across an entire site or campus.
Symptoms of Poor Wi-Fi Strength or Speed
There are signs that can tell you if your Wi-Fi needs a booster or an extender.
Dead zones—where no Wi-Fi is available—can indicate you need to boost the signal to those areas.
A poor Wi-Fi signal can also cause Wi-Fi to be slow or unreliable. Slow Wi-Fi can indicate your modem or router is too far away from that particular area.
How BearCom Can Help You Get the Right Equipment for Your Wi-Fi
BearCom helps customers determine which type of booster or extender is needed. We have highly trained and certified technicians that can suggest boosters or extenders that meet your company’s needs.
Our technicians can survey your campus to locate dead spots and other locations that need improved wireless connection.
We can then design a Wi-Fi network that meets your business’s needs, remains within manufacturer requirements, and ensure it passes test plans before the system’s activated.
Installation and Maintenance
BearCom offers turn-key installation and repairs for wireless network solutions. We have over 350 wireless technicians available, with testing equipment to act as extended team support.
Everything is checked over once installed and before shipment. We’ll ensure integration with your current systems.
In addition, we offer preventative maintenance plans to reduce downtime and keep equipment in top condition.
Reach Out to BearCom for Your Wi-Fi Needs
BearCom teams will work with you to determine your Wi-Fi needs and the best products to fit your situation.
We have over 40 years of experience providing wireless network solutions to businesses and schools across Alberta and Ontario, CA.
Contact BearCom to discuss Wi-Fi extenders and boosters today.