How does a WiFi signal booster work?

A WiFi booster essentially takes the current signal from your router and 'boosts' it to reach further areas of your home, helping to eliminate pesky dead spots.

How exactly this works will depend on the model you choose.If you're shopping for a new booster, you'll often see the terms ‘repeater' and 'extender' used. These are the two main types of boosters, and each works differently, so understanding them can help you find the most suitable option for your home.

To keep things simple, we've broken down how each type works.

How do WiFi repeaters work?

A WiFi repeater works by wirelessly connecting to your router and rebroadcasting the signal to expand its range. You can think of it like having a second mini-router in your home. Repeaters don't create a separate network; instead, they extend the existing network, allowing you to move seamlessly between areas without reconnecting your devices.

However, it's worth noting that repeaters can sometimes reduce speeds slightly, as they rely on your existing WiFi connection.

How do WiFi extenders work?

A WiFi extender connects to your router via a wired connection, usually through an ethernet cable or powerline adapter. By using a wired connection, extenders offer a stronger signal that's also more stable — making them a great choice for larger homes. Extenders usually create a separate network with their own name (SSID), which means you may need to switch networks manually as you move around your home.

How do mesh WiFi setups work?

A mesh WiFi system uses multiple devices, called ‘nodes’, to create a single network that covers your entire home. These nodes communicate with each other to provide a consistent connection – no matter where you are.

Unlike a traditional setup with a single router, you can place these nodes strategically around your home to ensure there’s full coverage in every room. This makes mesh WiFi ideal for larger homes where traditional routers or boosters might struggle to deliver reliable coverage.

So, which model do you need? Whether your home requires an extender, repeater, or mesh whole-home WiFi mostly depends on the layout of your property and your specific connection needs.

For example, if you need a stronger, more stable connection for larger areas, an extender is your best friend. On the other hand, repeaters can be ideal for covering smaller dead spots, like attic or basement office conversions. And, if you’re working with a larger property — including taller Victorian terrace homes — mesh WiFi is a great option for reliable connection in every room.

How do I know if I need a WiFi extender?

If you constantly experience slow internet speeds and dropped connections, a WiFi extender could be a good solution.

Here are some other common scenarios where you may need a WiFi booster:

• Home office — If you work from home, having a stable WiFi connection is essential for video calls, large file uploads, or accessing cloud-based tools. A WiFi extender can eliminate any weak spots in your office area, helping you stay connected.

• Outdoor spaces — Whether you’re relaxing in the garden or working in an outdoor space like a shed conversion, a booster can extend the signal from your router, so you can stay online while enjoying the fresh air.

• Streaming and smart TVs — If you’ve noticed buffering or slow loading times while watching your favourite shows on a smart TV or streaming device, a WiFi extender can boost the signal in areas where your router struggles to reach.

• Online gaming — Gamers need a fast, reliable connection to avoid lag and interruptions. A WiFi extender can help deliver a more consistent signal to gaming consoles or PCs located further from your router, keeping your sessions frustration-free.

• Smart home devices — From smart speakers to security cameras, many smart home devices rely on a strong WiFi signal. An extender can help these devices stay connected, even in areas where your router’s signal is weaker.

How to connect a WiFi extender

Whether you're a tech wizard or a total novice, setting up a WiFi extender is a straightforward process. 

1. Choose a location – Finding the right spot for your booster is the key to getting the best coverage. Ideally, you should place the extender halfway between your router and the area with a weak signal.
   If you're using a repeater, it should be close enough to your router to connect properly and also near enough to the area you want to cover. However, you'll be more limited with where you place an extender, as these need to be plugged directly into the router using an ethernet cable.

2. Check the device instructions – Once you've found the right spot, read the manual for specific setup instructions. Most models are plug-and-play, allowing you to connect by pressing the WPS button on your router and extender at the same time, or following a simple setup process through a mobile app or website.

3. Test the speed – After you've set up the booster, run a quick speed test to ensure the connection is working as expected.

4. Make any adjustments – Then, adjust the extender's position until you get the best results.