7 Ways to Extend WiFi Signal in Your Home

1. Mesh Wi-Fi Systems

What They Are: Systems like EERO or Google Nest that use multiple nodes to create a seamless, unified network.

How They Work: Nodes are strategically placed to ensure strong coverage across the home, with one main unit connected to the modem.

Pros: Eliminates dead zones, seamless transitions between nodes, and is excellent for large or multi-story homes. New outdoor weather-proof EERO units take your mesh network almost anywhere. 

Cons: More expensive than extenders.

Our Thoughts: Mesh systems are the ultimate solution for consistent, whole-home coverage, especially in larger homes or multi-story spaces.

2. Wi-Fi Extenders

What They Are: Devices that just amplify the existing signal.

How They Work: Placed between the router and the area with poor coverage, they rebroadcast the signal to extend the range.

Pros: Good for a small single device in a weak spot or temporary set ups. Cheap.

Cons: Can reduce speeds and create multiple network names (Service Set Identifiers or SSIDs) unless properly configured. Unstable under load.

Our Thoughts: Wi-Fi extenders are a cheap, stopgap measure, but they’re best for small fixes rather than whole-home solutions.

3. Additional Access Points

What They Are: Hardware like a second router or dedicated access point connected via Ethernet.

How They Work: Connects directly to the main router via cable to create a new signal in another part of the home.

Pros: High speeds and reliability.

Cons: Requires Ethernet cabling.

Our Thoughts: If you already have Ethernet wiring, this option is both cost-effective and powerful.

4. Upgrading Your Router

What It Is: Replacing an older or weaker router with a more powerful, modern one.

How It Works: Modern routers often offer better range, signal strength, and advanced features like beamforming to focus signals directly toward devices.

Pros: Can improve the entire network without additional hardware.

Cons: Doesn’t resolve coverage in very large spaces.

Our Thoughts: A strong first step if your current router is outdated, but pair it with other solutions for maximum coverage.

5. High-Gain Antennas

What They Are: An external antenna added to compatible routers to boost signal strength.

How It Works: Directs the signal to specific areas for better coverage.

Pros: Affordable and easy to install.

Cons: Limited improvement in signal range compared to other solutions.

Our Thoughts: A decent, low-cost option for small improvements, but it won’t solve bigger coverage issues. EERO outdoor a better option. 

6. Adjusting Router Placement

What It Is: Optimizing where the router is in the home.

How It Works: Placing the router in a central location, away from walls or metal objects, improves coverage.

Pros: Free and effective in smaller spaces.

Cons: Limited effectiveness in large or complex homes.

Our Thoughts: A simple, no-cost starting point that’s always worth trying before investing in new equipment.

Sometimes, no amount of tweaking or adjusting can fix a network that’s stretched beyond its limits. Here’s when it’s time to consider an upgrade:

Frequent Disconnects: If your devices often lose connection, even when near the router, your equipment might be outdated or insufficient for your needs.

Persistent Dead Zones: If you’ve tried extenders or better placement but still have coverage issues, a more robust solution like a mesh system may be necessary.

Growing Device Needs: Smart homes require networks that can handle dozens of connected devices simultaneously without slowing down.

Old Hardware: Routers typically last about 3-4 years. If yours is older, upgrading to a newer model with features like Wi-Fi 7 could be a game-changer.