Extending Wi-fi Networks – What you need to know!
At times wi-fi networks can be infuriating if you are suffering from slow throughput, poor range or a weak signal! If you aren’t getting the range you want from your office or home you may consider extending your wi-fi networks. In this blog we will look at some of the methods used in order to successfully improve your wi-fi network.
Method 1 – Power over Ethernet (PoE)
In order to get the best performance it is best to install data cabling from a network cabinet to a wireless access point (WAP) that will be used to extend the networks range. This cabling can also be used to provide power to the WAPs using power-over-Ethernet technology. This method is often the most difficult to install but offers the best possible wi-fi service. This method provides the highest possible network speeds, easier management, the most reliable operation and the cable infrastructure can be hidden from sight. Therefore for most organisations this is the method that is most popular and the one we recommend.
Method 2 – Power-line
Power-line networks can be used when it is not a viable option to install network cabling into a building. Power-line networks work by using electrical cables that are already installed in a building. They simply plug-in to a plug socket however they can often be unstable when compared to PoE as there is much more noise that can degrade the signal quality. Although this method is relatively easy to set up and inexpensive the method requires plug sockets in the area you want to boost the signal and the performance is not always consistent.
Method 3 – Wi-fi Repeaters
Wi-fi repeaters can be used to extend a network and only require a plug socket to be in range of an existing WAP to function – no other cabling is required. Wi-Fi repeaters are relatively simple to install and configure however as more repeaters are installed the signal quality begins to degrade. This may be suitable if you continue to expand your network in the future and installation only requires a plug socket. However that plug socket must be in the area you want to expand into and the performance can reduce significantly the more you repeat. It is also possible that if one wi-fi repeater stops working it could cause the other repeaters to lose connectivity.
To find out more about extending your wi-fi network why not give us a call on 0845 319 4887* or alternatively visit our Contact Us page and a member of our team will get back to you as quick as possible!
* Calls will cost 5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.
