Category: WiFi

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How To Extend Your Wi-Fi Range

In the age of connectivity, Wi-Fi has become as essential as electricity in homes and businesses. However, even the most powerful routers can have difficulty covering an entire area with a strong signal. This is where Wi-Fi extenders come into play. A Wi-Fi extender, also known as a repeater, boosts the signal from your router to extend its reach to those hard-to-reach places.

A Wi-Fi extender works by receiving the existing signal from your router and re-broadcasting it to areas where the signal is weak or nonexistent. This process is relatively simple and can significantly improve your Wi-Fi coverage. However, the placement of the extender is crucial. It should be positioned halfway between your router and the dead zone for optimal performance.

When selecting a Wi-Fi extender, it's essential to match or exceed your router's Wi-Fi generation to ensure compatibility and performance. Modern extenders support newer Wi-Fi standards like 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), which offer improved range and speed over older standards.

Setting up a Wi-Fi extender is typically straightforward. Most extenders come with a setup guide that involves connecting to the extender's network, accessing its setup page through a web browser, and following the on-screen instructions. This process includes selecting your existing Wi-Fi network and entering the network password. Once configured, the extender will reboot, and you'll be ready to enjoy an extended Wi-Fi network.

WiFi Extender Tips:
-Place the Extender at the Half-Way Point - To avoid overlap with the router's signal or a weak connection to the extender, find the sweet spot roughly halfway to the dead zone. Some extenders will indicate whether the link is too weak, in that case move the extender closer to the WiFi router.
-Place It Up High - Wi-Fi signals travel better when the extender is placed in a higher position, away from obstructions and large appliances.
- Always use a Dual-Band Extender: A dual-band extender can provide a separate channel for communication, reducing interference and improving performance.
- Always, Always, Always use the 5GHz band over 2.4Ghz for the backhaul link as well as for general WiFi use.

Larger Homes
For those looking for an even more robust solution, mesh Wi-Fi systems offer an alternative to traditional extenders. These systems consist of multiple units that work together to create a seamless network.

Wi-Fi Extenders vs. Mesh Systems: Understanding the Differences
In the quest for a robust home Wi-Fi network, two popular solutions often come up: Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems. While both aim to improve Wi-Fi coverage, they operate on different principles and are suited for different types of environments.

Wi-Fi Extenders: Bridging the Gap
Wi-Fi extenders, also known as repeaters, work by capturing the existing signal from your router and rebroadcasting it to areas with weak or no signal. They are simple devices that can be plugged into an outlet and are relatively inexpensive. The key to their effectiveness is placement; they need to be located within the range of your router's signal to be able to extend it further.

However, extenders have their limitations. The signal they rebroadcast is typically weaker than the original signal, and the further the extender is from the router, the more the signal degrades. This can result in slower internet speeds in the extended network area. Additionally, most extenders create a separate network SSID, which means you may have to manually switch between your main network and the extender's network as you move around your home.

Mesh Systems: Seamless Connectivity
Mesh Wi-Fi systems, on the other hand, consist of a series of nodes or satellites that work together to form a single, seamless Wi-Fi network throughout your home. Unlike extenders, mesh systems are designed to communicate with each other, creating a unified network with the same SSID and password. This allows for seamless roaming, as your devices automatically connect to the strongest signal without any manual intervention.

Mesh systems are generally more advanced than extenders, offering features like self-healing networks, where the system automatically finds the best path to route data in case one node fails. They are also scalable, meaning you can add more nodes to cover larger areas. However, this sophistication comes at a higher cost compared to traditional extenders.

The Best Way To Extend Your WiFi: WiFi Access Points
In the realm of networking, a WiFi access point (AP) is a pivotal hardware device that bridges wireless devices to a wired network, using radio frequencies to establish connectivity. This device is essential in creating a wireless local area network (WLAN) or connecting to an existing wired network, such as Ethernet. The AP serves as the central transmitter and receiver of wireless radio signals.

Main Functions of a WiFi Access Point:
-Connectivity: It allows WiFi devices to join a wired network, enabling devices to access the internet or other network resources.
-Coverage: APs can extend the wireless coverage of a network, ensuring that connectivity reaches all corners of a space, eliminating dead spots.
-Capacity: They support multiple wireless connections simultaneously, making efficient use of the wired network connection.

Advantages of Using WiFi Access Points:
-Scalability: Easily add more APs to handle an increasing number of wireless devices without degrading performance.
-Flexibility: Accommodate a variety of devices and usage scenarios, from small home networks to large enterprise environments.
-Management: Centralized management of network settings and policies, especially when deploying multiple APs.

WiFi access points are integral to modern networking, offering a seamless and efficient way to integrate wireless devices into a network. Whether for personal use or within a corporate setting, understanding the role and functionality of APs is crucial for anyone looking to establish or expand a wireless network.

The choice between a Wi-Fi extender, mesh system and WiFi Access Points depends on several factors, including the size and layout of your home, the number of devices connected to your network, and your budget. If you're experiencing dead zones in a small to medium-sized home, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system might be a sufficient and cost-effective solution. For larger homes with many connected devices, investing in a professionally installed WiFi Access Point System is the best solution.

 

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Wi-Fi 7: The Next Generation of Wireless Connectivity

What is WiFi 7?

Wi-Fi 7, also known as 802.11be, is the next generation of Wi-Fi technology. It’s a significant leap forward in terms of speed and performance. Here’s what you need to know:

Lightning-Fast Speeds: Wi-Fi 7 offers nominal peak data rates of over 40Gbps, which is more than four times faster than Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E. Even Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) is left in the dust, maxing out at 6.9Gbps.

Reduced Latency: Wi-Fi 7 employs new technologies to reduce latency, making it ideal for applications like virtual reality (VR) and low-latency gaming.

Increased Network Capacity: It can handle more simultaneous connections, making it suitable for homes and offices with multiple devices.

Backward Compatibility: Wi-Fi 7 devices will work with Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 5, and older standards, but to unlock its full potential, your client devices need support for 802.11be.

In the ever-evolving world of wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7 is emerging as the next big leap forward. Officially known as IEEE 802.11be, Wi-Fi 7 is set to redefine the standards of wireless connectivity with its promise of extremely high throughput (EHT), potentially delivering nominal peak data rates of more than 40Gbps. This represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, Wi-Fi 6, which itself is capable of maximum data rates of 9.6Gbps.

What sets Wi-Fi 7 apart is not just its astonishing speed, but also its ability to handle more connected devices with lower latency, thereby increasing network capacity and boosting efficiency. These improvements are crucial in an age where the number of devices per household continues to grow, and the demand for seamless, high-speed connections is at an all-time high.

Wi-Fi 7 achieves these feats by employing new technologies such as wider 320 MHz channels, higher-order 4K-QAM, and Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows simultaneous transmission across multiple bands or channels to optimize performance and reliability. This means that activities like virtual reality (VR) experiences, low-latency gaming, and high-quality video streaming will benefit greatly from the enhanced capabilities of Wi-Fi 7.

Despite the excitement surrounding Wi-Fi 7, it's important to note that the full potential of this technology won't be realized until compatible devices and infrastructure become widely available. As of early 2023, the development of Wi-Fi 7 is still ongoing, with router manufacturers like TP-Link announcing their upcoming Wi-Fi 7 gear. It is anticipated that by 2024, Wi-Fi 7 will be more commonly adopted, changing the way we connect to the internet and each other.

The backward compatibility of Wi-Fi 7 with older standards ensures a smooth transition for users as they upgrade their devices. However, to unlock the full potential of Wi-Fi 7, client devices will require support for the new specification in their circuitry.

As we look to the future, Wi-Fi 7 stands as a testament to the continuous innovation in wireless technology, promising to deliver a faster, more reliable, and more efficient networking experience. It's an exciting time for both consumers and industry professionals alike, as we stand on the cusp of a new era in connectivity. Stay tuned for more updates as Wi-Fi 7 moves from concept to reality.

The Evolution of Wi-Fi: From Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 7

As we navigate through the digital age, the demand for faster and more reliable internet connectivity has never been greater. Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, made significant strides in meeting these demands by providing increased speeds and efficiency. However, the technological landscape is ever-evolving, and with it comes the advent of Wi-Fi 7, or 802.11be, which promises to take wireless connectivity to new heights.

Wi-Fi 6 introduced us to higher data rates, increased capacity, and performance in environments with many connected devices. It operates on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands and offers speeds up to 9.6 gigabits per second (Gbps). The subsequent introduction of Wi-Fi 6E added the 6 GHz band to the spectrum, providing more bandwidth and reducing interference, albeit with a shorter range due to the higher frequency.

Wi-Fi 7 is set to build upon the foundation laid by Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, offering even more remarkable improvements. One of the most significant enhancements is the introduction of Extremely High Throughput (EHT), which allows Wi-Fi 7 to support theoretical speeds up to 46 Gbps, nearly five times that of Wi-Fi 6E. This leap in speed is facilitated by the use of wider 320 MHz channels and higher-order 4096-QAM modulation, enabling more data to be transmitted with each signal.

Another key feature of Wi-Fi 7 is its Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows devices to transmit data across multiple frequency bands simultaneously or switch dynamically between them. This not only improves the connection quality and reliability but also reduces latency, making Wi-Fi 7 an ideal choice for applications requiring real-time responsiveness, such as gaming or virtual reality.

The benefits of Wi-Fi 7 extend beyond speed and latency improvements. It also increases network efficiency and capacity, allowing more devices to connect without compromising performance. This is particularly important in our increasingly connected world, where the Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming more prevalent, and homes and businesses are seeing a growing number of Wi-Fi-enabled devices.

Despite these advancements, Wi-Fi 7 hardware is currently expensive and not as widely available as Wi-Fi 6E devices. As the technology matures and becomes more mainstream, we can expect the costs to decrease, making Wi-Fi 7 more accessible to the average consumer.

In conclusion, Wi-Fi 7 is not just an incremental update but a significant leap forward in wireless technology. It promises to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability, catering to the burgeoning needs of modern internet users. As we await the widespread rollout of Wi-Fi 7, it's clear that the future of wireless connectivity is bright and brimming with potential.

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Extend WiFi Range At Home

Are you tired of slow internet speeds and dropped Wi-Fi signals? Do you have wireless dead zones in your home where the internet just doesn’t seem to reach? There are several ways to extend your Wi-Fi range and improve your internet experience. From repositioning your Wi-Fi router to installing a Wi-Fi extender or booster. If you have a larger than average sized home then the best way to extend Wi-Fi throughout your property is with Wi-Fi access points.

Extending Wi-Fi by repositioning your Wi-Fi router

A simple and affective way to extend your Wi-Fi range is to reposition your router. Wi-Fi signals travel easier through open space, so make sure your router is out in the open and free from obstructions. Don’t hide it in a cupboard or behind your TV. Try to elevate it because Wi-Fi signals are less absorbed through open space. Install your Wi-Fi router at least 2 meters off the ground.

Make sure to keep the Wi-Fi router away from fish tanks, water tanks and metal surfaces as these can absorb or reflect the Wi-Fi signal. Keep the Wi-Fi router as far away from other 2.4GHz and 5Ghz devices like Microwave ovens, baby monitors, cordless dect phones, wireless home security cameras and base stations. These devices will most likely interfere with the Wi-Fi router signal and cause dropouts.

If the Wi-Fi router has external antennas experiment using different angles. Sometimes having all antennas upright works better than having then angled at a V. Your mileage may vary.

Cheap way to extend Wi-Fi range using a Wi-Fi extender

A cheap option to extend Wi-Fi range is to use a Wi-Fi extender or booster. A Wi-Fi extender picks up your router’s Wi-Fi signal, and rebroadcasts the signal. This can help improve Wi-Fi coverage in areas where the signal is weak.

Wi-Fi extender placement is very important, too far away from the main Wi-Fi router and the speed will be slow and dropouts could occur. Most decent Wi-Fi extenders have a signal indicator light indicating if the Wi-Fi extender is placed in an optimal settings.

Another important aspect when using a Wi-Fi extender is to choose one that is dual band, i.e.. 2.4GHz and 5Ghz. When setting up the extender you will get way better speeds when the extender connects to the main Wi-Fi router on the 5GHz band.

Extend Wi-Fi range in a home using Wi-Fi access points

Using a wired Wi-Fi access point is the best way to extend Wi-Fi, using this method will give you the best speeds and greatest reliability. A Wi-Fi access point allows Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network. It serves as a central hub for Wi-Fi devices. You can wire in additional wireless access points, which offer better speeds and performance, but may involve running cables through the walls. This allows you to create a wireless network within your existing wired network.

What is a Wi-Fi access point?

A wireless access point (WAP) is a networking device that allows Wi-Fi enabled devices to connect to a wired network. It creates a wireless local-area network (WLAN) by serving as a transmitter and receiver of wireless radio signals. It allows easy access to the Internet over the air. A Wi-Fi access point can be incorporated into a wired router or be a stand-alone device 2. It is simpler and easier to install WAPs to connect all the computers or devices in your network than to use wires and cables. Wi-Fi access points are different from extenders in that they use a wired (ethernet) backhaul instead of Wi-Fi - this greatly enhances the speed, coverage and reliability.

How much does it cost to install Wi-Fi in my home?

The cost of installing Wi-Fi devices to enhance Wi-Fi coverage in your home can vary depending on several factors such as your home’s size, location, number of connected devices and speed requirements. The cost of an essential upgrade, such as adding a DIY Wi-Fi extender can start at about $60 for a basic Wi-Fi extender to about $200 for a better dual band Wi-Fi 6 extender. Upgrading your home Wi-Fi to a commercial grade Wi-Fi access point system can start at about $450, but this is again dependent on home size, number of devices, speed requirements etc.

How do I get a professional, commercial grade Wi-Fi system installed in my home?

To get a professional, commercial-grade Wi-Fi system installed in your home, you can contact a company that specialises in home and commercial Wi-Fi installation services. Our recommendation is to go with a trusted, reliable technically proficient Wi-Fi installation company that can install high-performance, business-grade Wi-Fi to ensure clear, even coverage throughout your home.

Contact a Wi-Fi installation company now.

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Extend WiFi To A Shed – Australia

Outdoor WiFi installation

If you are Australian, having a shed is like having kids, almost everyone has one. Need WiFi in your shed? Read on...

Getting internet to an outdoor building isn't always as straight forward as it should be. WiFi is a low output power and high frequency medium that does not penetrate well or reach far. In order to make WiFi effective it must be in close proximity.

Network cable isn't always a solution either as ethernet cable length is limited to max 100 meters. So how are you supposed to get internet to an outdoor shed /office?

How To Extend WiFi/Internet to a shed or outdoor building

If the outdoor building is within 100 meters then the best solution is to lay an ethernet cable, this gives the best performance and zero latency. But, sometimes this isn't possible or cost effective. Lets look at the wifi alternative.

To extend internet to an outdoor shed the most obvious solution is to make use of an outdoor point to point WiFi link. This involves installing ethernet cabling from the main house router to the roof where a point to point WiFi bridge unit is installed.

On the outdoor building/office/shed the same has to happen, an outdoor WiFi bridge unit is installed on the roof with ethernet cable leading down in to the shed. At the end of the ethernet cable a single device can be connected or if needed a WiFi access point can be installed that will provide WiFi coverage to that area.

This particular WiFi point to point link can reach as far as 5km's as long as the buildings have line of sight (No obstructions in the way). Greater distances are achievable with different equipment.

                                                

Interested in a pre configured WiFi point to point kit shipped to you in Australia?

Interested in a DIY project? We can pre configure all the needed hardware and post to you. All you need to do is drill holes and mount the antenna poles, zip tie the point to point WiFi devices to the pole mounts and then plug in all the cables. All of this should be doable in an hour if you have the correct tools.

The pre configured kit includes all the equipment necessary to create a point to point WiFi link to your shed that then provides WiFi access in the shed via a plugin dual band WiFi extender. All you need is a drill, ladder and screwdriver.

Alternative Solution: Long Range Extenders Based on 802.11AH HaLow Standard

What is 802.11 HaLow?

IEEE 802.11ah is a wireless networking protocol utilising sub 1 GHz license-exempt bands to provide extended range Wi-Fi networks, compared to conventional Wi-Fi networks operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

Devices operating on the 802.11ah standard have longer range than the usual 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi devices due to the propagation characteristics of lower frequencies.

What does all of this mean?

A Wi-Fi product based on the 802.11ah standard will get better range and object penetration than traditional wifi systems. BUT, at the expensive of lower speeds.
The speed of 802.11ah systems designed for Australia is limited to maximum of 15 Megabits per second. Whilst modern 802.11ax (WiFi 6) can do multiple hundreds of Megabits per second.

How usable is 802.11ah speeds?

As the speed limit is around 15 Megabits per second on 802.11ah, it should be enough for up to 3 simultaneous HD Netflix streams, as Netflix requires 5 Megabits per HD (High Definition) stream.
It will however not meet the requirements for a UHD (Ultra High Definition aka 4k) stream which requires 25 Megabits.

What range can I expect from 802.11ah devices?

In our testing we found that in open air direct line of sight, 802.11ah extenders connected at up to about 600 meters in urban areas.

We also tested having one extender unit in a brick house connecting to another 802.11ah extender up to 100 meters away.

Can an 802.11ah extender work better than a traditional Wi-Fi extender?

Yes, 802.11ah have better penetration and longer range at the expensive of lower speed. If you have an outdoor building, shed or granny flat where traditional Wi-Fi just doesn't reach then 802.11ah would probably work.

 

WiFi To Shed - Frequently Asked Questions

How do I extend WiFi to my shed?

There are a bunch of ways. The best way is with ethernet cable, but you are limited to 100 meters and it could be costly to dig trenches.

The second best way is with a Wi-Fi Point to Point Link, the WiFi link creates an "invisible cable connection". This type of connection is explained in the article above.

What speed can I expect across this point to point WiFi link?

Speed on the Wi-Fi point to point link can reach up to 200Mb/s in one direction which is more than enough to extend WiFi/Internet to a flat, shed or house.

We also have 802.11ah long range Wi-Fi extenders that can reach 600 meters in open areas (line of sight) and a maximum speed of 15 Megabits per second.

Is there a cheaper way to extend WiFi to a shed or flat?

Maybe, it really depends on how far your shed is from the main router and if the signal can be boosted with a directional WiFi client bridge unit.

How does it work you ask?

A WiFi client bridge with a powerful directional antenna  can be placed on the shed roof that grabs the weak WiFi signal from your main WiFi router. The grabbed signal is then  re-broadcast with a WiFi access point in your shed. This sort of acts like a traditional WiFi extender on steroids.

Also see our new addition: 802.11ah long range WiFi extenders ,these units are plug and play should be usable in a shed within about 30 meters away.

Can a regular WiFi extender work in my shed?

Most likely not. You would need a solution with high gain antennas, as explained above.

Need Onsite WiFi Assistance?

Are you in Brisbane and need onsite WiFi assistance? Click on the link to our WiFi Installation Service

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