A network repeater is a device used to expand the boundaries of a wired or wireless (WiFi®) local area network (LAN). In the past, wired repeaters were used to join segments of Ethernet cable. They would amplify the data signals before sending them to the segment connected to the uplink, thus counteracting the signal decay that occurs over long cable runs. Modern Ethernet networks use more sophisticated switching devices, making the wireless style of network repeater a more popular device for use with wireless LANs (WLANs) at work and at home.
Network repeaters are often used in large office buildings.
WLANs offer great convenience, but one drawback of these systems is the limited area covered by wireless signals. Obstructions and other common electronic devices interfere and degrade signal strength. This can make it difficult to connect from a basement, back room, or upstairs office, depending on the location of the wireless router and other variables. A wireless network repeater may be the answer.
A network repeater can boost the signal of a wireless router.
A WiFi® repeater picks up the signal from a wireless router and amplifies it, spreading the signal strength to increase WLAN distance and coverage. For example, suppose an upstairs office receives only a weak signal from a router located in the basement. The building may have steel infrastructure, cordless phones, and other forms of interference. One option is to relocate the router to another floor to see if the entire building can be covered, but this is not always convenient.
Another option is to install a network repeater on the ground floor, midway between the basement and the upstairs office. The repeater should amplify the signal enough to get good coverage upstairs. If the building is very large, multiple repeaters can be strategically placed to ‘pull’ the signal when needed, although this concept has its limits. Devices that communicate with an intermediate repeater will have lower performance statistics than those that communicate directly with the router. This becomes more of an issue as additional repeaters are used online.
When shopping for a wireless device, there are a few things consumers should keep in mind. The first is compatibility: the repeater must be compatible with the router, so customers should refer to a list of compatible devices. You must also make sure that the repeater supports the correct type of wireless LAN. If the wireless network is protected with WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) or WPA (WiFi Protected Access), it is important that the device also supports it.
In addition, there are two types of repeaters available: those with an external antenna and those with an internal antenna. The former plugs into an outlet and is less obvious. The latter sits on a desk or table. In this case, a detachable hybrid antenna is preferable to a fixed antenna, while some models have two antennas. Other repeaters allow you to connect an external antenna, which can be an advantage when trying to cover a large building.
Network repeaters are available wherever computers are sold. Easy to install, they can be a valuable addition to your home or office WLAN.
