Universal Wi-Fi signal amplifier. Signal amplifier TP-LINK TL-WA850RE: reviews

No matter how good modern routers are, every user can encounter a situation with insufficient coverage area. There are several solutions to this problem, and one of the simplest from the point of view of installation and configuration is the use of special network devices. On English language they are usually called "Range Extender", which is sometimes translated as "amplifier". From the point of view of operation, this is a completely understandable name, but in fact, the signals of the original network are not amplified in any way, but a new network is created, connected to the first and to another location of the antennas, which allows increasing the area of ​​reliable reception of clients. So in this article we will use the term “repeater” as it is more accurate.

On the pages of our resource we have already seen reviews of devices of this class, and today we will look at the TL-WA850RE model from one of the largest manufacturers of network equipment - TP-Link.

Delivery set, appearance and technical characteristics

The device is supplied in a standard cardboard box. It is decorated in light colors and looks stylish. The packaging provides information about the device, including a photo, use cases, specifications.

The delivery set includes a network patch cord, quick guide installation instructions in Russian and English, warranty card, mini-CD with electronic version documentation.

As you have already noticed, there is no external power supply in the equipment list. The fact is that the device is made in a rare version of the case, which is directly inserted into a power outlet.

It’s probably impossible to say unequivocally that this simplifies installation. On the one hand, this option has fewer components and connectors. On the other hand, the relatively large case of the model may be more difficult to place than a compact switching power supply.

External dimensions are approximately 110x65x75 mm. The body is made of white glossy plastic. On the front panel there is a circle of indicators, in the center of which the WPS button is placed. At the bottom there is a 10/100 Mbps wired network port for connecting clients and a hidden reset button.

All indicators have a blue glow and are quite bright, which is especially noticeable at night. Given that the repeater is difficult to hide or deploy in any way, this feature may be perceived negatively. There are a total of four status LEDs (connection to the main router, own Wi-Fi network, wired port, power) and a five-segment signal strength indicator from the router. The latter will be useful in determining the optimal location for the repeater.

During operation, our copy emitted a barely noticeable “squeak”, familiar from low-quality pulse blocks nutrition. This did not affect work in any way. Let's hope this is an isolated case.

The device supports wireless networks of 802.11b/g/n standards in the 2.4 GHz band at speeds up to 300 Mbit/s. In this case, networks can be open and also use WEP or WPA/WPA2. According to information from the manufacturer, the system is based on the Qualcomm Atheros AR9341 chip. Checking the broadcasts of multicast streams showed that the device supports them, but the stability of operation depends significantly on the main router and provider. In any case, multicast and Wi-Fi are not the most successful combination of technologies. The wired port can be used to connect additional clients, such as TVs, media players, game consoles. If necessary, you can use the switch to work with several devices at once. According to the manufacturer, the model's power consumption is about 3 W. Since no drivers are required for operation, the compatibility list includes all existing OS, including mobile.

The device was tested with firmware 3.14.4 Build 130313 Rel.63007n.

Settings and features

The easiest way to enable the repeater to work is to use WPS technology: plug the device into a power outlet, wait until it boots up, then activate WPS on the router and press the button on the repeater. The device connects to the network existing on the router, creates its own with the same parameters (channel number, network name and password will be the same), and receives its own IP address from the router. So the user does not even need to log into the web interface or enter any passwords. There is no doubt that this is a very significant plus for novice users.

If for some reason you cannot or do not want to use WPS on the router, then there is a second scenario: turn on the device, connect by cable or to an open network with a distinctive name, and access the web configuration interface. For the latter, you can use the address http://tplinkextender.net/, but note that the manufacturer forgot or was unable to occupy the “external” version of this domain, so it hosts a site unrelated to TP-Link. Through the web interface, you can quickly set up a connection to an existing network using the assistant. Note that it provides the ability to select a name other than the main network (SSID). IN full menu Oddly enough, there are no settings for such an option.

As a result, all clients who previously worked with the original router will be able to work within the range of the repeater without reconfiguration. You can also use the port for wired connection of devices, which is located on the repeater. And the repeater itself can be reinstalled in another outlet within the coverage area of ​​the main router.

The model's web interface is presented only in English. However, most users, in our opinion, will not need it. The status page provides information about the current state of the device: firmware version, main network parameters (name, MAC address, signal level), local MAC and IP addresses, network parameters (name, channel number, mode, maximum speed, MAC -address), packet statistics and operating time.

In the WPS section, you configure the connection of clients to the repeater’s own access point. Note that there is support for an option with a PIN code, and there is protection against code selection.

In the case of mobile use, when work is required as part of different networks, it makes sense to use pre-programmed profiles. Each of them contains a name, SSID, MAC and password. After this, you can quickly switch them through the web interface. In this same situation, the ability to set a fixed IP address for the repeater may be useful. Although in most cases DHCP will be sufficient.

Perhaps the most interesting group of settings in the interface is “Wireless”. It runs to six whole pages. The first contains the name and MAC address of the main network, as well as the choice of region and channel width. The last setting, however, does not seem to affect the operation of the repeater, which creates its own network in the same mode as that selected on the main router. Let us remind you that since there is only one radio block, the channel numbers of the original and new networks must coincide.

The second page allows you to specify the network security mode. In addition, it is possible to install a MAC address filter for wireless clients connected to the repeater. Additional Wi-Fi options include setting the power level, enabling WMM, GI, and wireless client isolation.

A separate page provides a list of connected devices indicating the amount of received and transmitted data. And another one allows you to look at graphical form device transmission and reception speed. The only pity is that the data is reset if you leave the page, and the graphs are not visible in all browsers.

In some configurations the built-in DHCP server. In it you can specify the range of IP addresses that are issued to clients and parameters such as lease time, default router addresses and DNS servers.

The composition of the “System” group is traditional for this class of devices: updating the firmware, working with the configuration, rebooting, changing the administrator password. There is also an event log with local storage. Interestingly, the time indicated in it is almost correct (there is no zone setting); apparently, the device is capable of setting it independently via the Internet.

Testing

To check the maximum capabilities wireless module The model used a Netgear WNDR3800 router and an ASUS USB-N53 adapter. Both devices support connection speeds of 300 Mbps. The test server was connected to the router with a cable, and the client worked in the following configurations: via a USB adapter to the router, via a cable and TL-WA850RE to the router, via a USB adapter and TL-WA850RE to the router. The first group evaluates the speed of the USB adapter itself, the second - the work of the client through a repeater via cable, and the third - the work of the client through a repeater via Wi-Fi. Distance between router and wireless devices was about five meters. The USB adapter was placed no further than one meter from the repeater. The direction is relative to the client.

The results show that, in general, the repeater copes well with its responsibilities. When the client operates via cable, a speed of about 60-70 Mbit/s is provided. This should be enough for video broadcasting high resolution. Connecting via Wi-Fi expectedly reduces the speed by about half, since there are twice as many streams on the air.

Another configuration was used as a profile scenario in testing. Router ZyXEL NBG-460N provided access to the Internet and was installed near one of the walls of a wooden house. Under these conditions, it was possible to use Internet access inside the house and near this wall, but on the street on the opposite side the signal was already very weak. Therefore, we connected a repeater at the other end of the house at a distance of about 10 meters from the router. For convenience, a network was created on it with a name different from the main one.

To measure speed, we used the www.speedtest.net service with a fixed nearest server. Smartphones acted as clients Apple iPhone 4S and LG Optimus G. Note that in terms of latency, in all tests we obtained values ​​of 5–15 ms, so these figures are not shown in the graphs. The maximum reception and transmission speed was selected after several starts and rounded to whole Mbit/s.

As control points three were selected in the house and five on the street from the repeater side: near the router (at a distance of about 2 meters), at an equal distance between the devices (about 4 meters each from the router and the repeater), near the repeater (1.5 meters), on the street at distances of 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 meters from the repeater. Connecting smartphones to the router at a distance of more than 10 meters from the wall on the “inconvenient” side was already unstable due to a significant decrease in the signal level.

The results show that the TL-WA850RE successfully copes with the task of expanding the coverage area of ​​a wireless network, providing reliable reception at distances of up to 30 meters or more. Of course, the speed decreases with increasing range, but even such relatively weak Wi-Fi devices, like smartphones, are capable of working well through a repeater.

conclusions

The TP-Link TL-WA850RE wireless repeater is a rather interesting device for those users who need to increase their wireless network coverage area.

The most attractive aspect of the model is its ease of installation. The user may not even know the source network password for the installation. It is enough to use WPS technology to connect to the router, and all clients will be able to work with new network, since both the name and password will be saved.

If we talk about performance, then in tests the model showed good results in this class. Don't forget that Wi-Fi uses a shared medium, and any solutions when working on the same channel will reduce the speed.

TP-Link TL-WA850RE will be useful in cases where the router has a not very powerful wireless module and you need to ensure operation at a considerable distance from it. Or if the configuration of the room has clearly defined “complex” zones. In addition, it can be used as an adapter to connect to Wi-Fi TVs or media players.

We also note the unusual design of the device, good compatibility with routers from other manufacturers and stable firmware operation. It’s a pity that they didn’t implement the mode of operation as an access point.

Average retail price TP-Link TL-WA850RE in Moscow, current at the time you read this article, is $25().

Surely you have heard about such a device as a wifi repeater? The word comes from the English “repeater”, which means “repeater”, “repeater” or “amplifier” of a Wi-Fi signal. What is this anyway? The very idea of ​​a wireless network is that the Internet should not be limited to one room, but spread throughout the entire apartment, office or even a garden plot. But the greater the distance from the wireless distribution source, the worse its speed. And one of the devices that provides more stable operation over long distances is a WiFi repeater - a router signal amplifier for a laptop or computer.

How does a wifi router booster work?

The way the WiFi repeater works is very simple. First, we determine in which room the signal on the laptop is weakest or non-existent. This situation can most often arise in two cases:

After we have found out where we need to strengthen the wireless wifi signal, we find the place where the network receives, but not so well - by one or two divisions on the phone. That's where we put the repeater - its operating area is circular, which means it will pick up the signal from wifi router and pass it on.

Models of wifi repeaters

So, we found out that a wifi repeater, which is also called a repeater, serves to repeat the existing signal coming from the access point, and thereby strengthen the signal and increase the range of wifi. It does not carry any other functions, so, apparently, it is in the shadow of a more well-known wireless device - a router, which, by the way, can also. But for the function of extending the reception area, it is simply irreplaceable, both for home and in the office, especially since in most cases it is designed as some kind of charger plugged into an electrical outlet.

WiFi signal repeaters are produced by the same companies as the rest network hardware— Asus, Zyxel, Tenda, D-Link, TP-Link and others. The photo below shows the model TP-Link repeater TL-WA850RE, which the company kindly provided to us.

Here are the main technical characteristics:

How to connect and configure a WiFi signal amplifier for a TP-Link router

There are three ways to connect and configure a TP-Link wifi repeater:

1. Through automatic connection repeater via WPS
2. Via WiFi using a smartphone, tablet or laptop
3. Through a computer connected to it via twisted pair

Automatic connection of a TP-Link WiFi repeater to the router using the WPS button

Like most modern models of wireless network devices, the TP-Link TL-WA850RE wifi amplifier supports tuning to the signal of an existing access point in automatic mode. To do this, the router must also have such a function - the “WPS” button (“QSS” on TP-LINK devices) is responsible for turning it on.

We press on it and on a similar large button on the amplifier, after which it should pick up wifi and start distributing it.

Setting up a router WiFi signal repeater from a smartphone

I prefer to be in control of the whole process, so I in an automatic way I never use the repeater settings, but do everything manually. In order to configure the amplifier from a phone or tablet, we also click on the central button on the device, turn on WiFi on the smartphone and find in the list of available networks for connection the network called TP-LINK_Extender_7320BA - this is the SSID that is programmed into the device by default.

Let's connect to it.
Immediately after the connection we will be redirected to the authorization page in the admin panel for initial installation— a window will open for entering your login and password. By default in this model it is admin/admin - yours may have others, so look either at the instructions or at the sticker on the bottom of the repeater - it usually contains all the access data.

Setting up a WiFi signal repeater from a computer or laptop via cable

This configuration option can also be implemented in two ways

1. with help installation disk, which comes with the wifi repeater,
2. or via the web interface.

The second one is closer to me, so we’ll take it as the main one in this instruction.

So, if you don’t have a smartphone at hand, then we connect the computer to the repeater directly using a twisted pair cable - the “Ethernet” light on the device will blink.

Here we need to select “Local Area Connection”. Right-click on it and select “Properties”. Here, as always, we are interested in the “Protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Properties” item.

If you already have a local network configured through the router, then write them all down on paper and save them, but for now, set all the checkboxes to “Automatic”:

We save and go to the browser at http://tplinkextender.net, which we also recognized from the magic sticker on the case. The already familiar authorization page will open, where we enter the login and password “admin”.

We get to the admin panel. Everything is very easy here - follow the step-by-step guide, entering the necessary data.
First, select the country, after which the device begins scanning available networks. If your wifi is found, select it. In the same case, if the security settings on the router hide the SSID, then you can check the box “Specify the SSID and MAC address manually.” And click the “Next” button.

In the next step, we need to select the encryption type of your existing network (set in the router admin panel) and enter the password for your Wi-Fi.

Here you can also choose whether the repeater will clone the name of your network (SSID) or whether it will have its own name, which you will set manually. In this case, the local network will remain the same, that is, your main one may be called Network 1, and the second Network 2, but in essence it will be the same thing, and no matter which of them you connect the PC to, it will see other devices, connected to the network.

And finally, in the last step we see our entire configuration, after which we apply it by clicking on the “Finish” button. After rebooting, the wifi repeater will begin distributing the Internet from your router, thereby increasing the wireless signal reception range.

Also after a quick configuration it will become available left menu, in which you can configure the repeater in more detail - change the encryption key, disable the DCHP server on it, manually set the IP address, enable MAC filtering, update the firmware, view statistics, etc.

That's it. Now you can return the network settings on your computer to their original settings and disconnect the cable that connected it to the repeater. By the way, if you noticed, the PC also began to receive the Internet - via a cable from the repeater, that is, it can also work in client mode, receiving the Internet via wifi and distributing it via twisted pair to the computer. Now even in the farthest corner you will have stable reception!

Testing Internet speed via WiFi repeater

Since a new link has appeared in the chain of receiving Internet from the provider to the computer in the form of a WiFi repeater, our review would be incomplete if we did not check whether it reduces the speed. In other words, how different is the speed of information transfer between computers connected through this repeater from the speed when connecting directly to the router.

For the test, we made three measurements using the TP-Link TL-WA850RE repeater inside a local network between a computer and a laptop using the AIDA32 Network Benchmark utility.

1. The first test - this will be the starting point in our experiment - such a “litmus test”. Let's measure the speed inside a local network without a wireless signal amplifier - the computer is connected to the router via twisted pair, the laptop is connected to it, but via WiFi. At the same time, for the purity of the result, there was no radioactivity near the transmitter, such as a mobile phone, TV or anything else, and the laptop was located in close proximity to the signal source.

   
   

   This is what we got.

   

   We note that there is a small amplitude of speed fluctuations; on average, it was at the level of 2200 kV/s (17 Mbit/s).

2. The second test is that the computer remains connected to the router via cable, and the laptop remains connected via WiFi to the repeater, for which we made our own network SSID, so it is impossible to confuse it with a signal from the main source. In this case, the amplifier and laptop were in the same place, that is, next to each other.

   
   

   Result:

   
   

   The speed dropped slightly - to an average of 1600 kV/s (12.5 Mbit/s). Also, the spread between the minimum and maximum values ​​is not particularly different, which is also very good.

3. The third test was to leave the laptop connected via WiFi to the router, and the PC via an amplifier, but connecting them with a patch cord. Thus, we use the second opportunity of this model - to act as a WiFi adapter.

   
   

   We get:

   
   

   Fluctuations between the minimum and maximum values ​​are also insignificant, that is, the connection is quite stable, but the overall speed has become even slightly lower, to 1100 kV/s, or 8.5 Mbit/s.

4. And finally, the fourth test - we connect both the PC and the laptop to the repeater, but the station PC with a cable, and the laptop wirelessly.

   
   

   

   Unstable speed with large fluctuations, average high - at the level of 4800 KB/s = 37.5 Mbit/s.

Conclusions about the operation of wifi repeater

Summarize. As you can see, the presence of one more link inside the local network between two computers in the video wifi repeater still reduces the overall speed, which was not a surprise to us, since the presence of any additional device, be it a repeater, powerline or some other adapter, will affect it. The most interesting thing was to see in which mode these losses would be the least.

As it turned out, the highest average speed was in that scheme (No. 4), when the computers were connected to each other through a repeater, bypassing the router - 4800 Kb/sec compared to 2200 that WiFi gave without a repeater. This is quite logical, since between them there was not that extra “knee” in the chain, in the form of a router, whose role in this case was played by today’s hero. Although the spread between the largest and smallest values ​​is a little annoying - the connection is not stable.

But most of all from this test questions arose to my ASUS router RT-N10U - why does it output only 2 MB per second?? It turns out that in my network it is he who is the weakest link - it’s worth thinking about, as in one famous program, saying “goodbye” to him and looking at another model.

The second place in speed went to scheme No. 2, in which one of the computers was connected to the router using a patch cord, and our repeater distributed a signal to the laptop. Although, as we found out, the router played a disservice to us here, this does not affect the overall picture in any way, since after that we tried to use TP-LINK as an adapter (No. 3), receiving a wireless signal and sharing it on the PC - with this he did the worst job.

Range of wifi amplifier

Regarding the distance to which this model The repeater expanded the signal from the main source and strengthened WiFi. I connected it in the room farthest from the access point in an ordinary “Brezhnev” three-ruble note - it turned out that it directly passed through 3 plasterboard walls at a distance of about 10 meters. I couldn't even get internet in this room. iPad Air, whose wireless module has no complaints - it sees wifi even where it is no longer available on other smartphones. Our Extender from TP-LINK also caught it (two antennas make themselves felt). And without any problems I began to extend it all the way up the staircase. I agree that the initial location of the Point is not very good, but for our experience it was just right.

Numerically, this is expressed as follows. When there was no repeater, in the far corner of the apartment the Internet speed from the router was as follows:

When we connected the amplifier, this is what we got for the wifi signal zone:

Of course, these results are only relevant for my network - they were also influenced by the characteristics network card PC, and laptop wireless module, and router hardware, and even the radiomagnetic environment in the room, which we brought as close as possible to a calm everyday one. But they certainly represent the overall picture, so you can safely use these conclusions in your practice when designing your networks.

Well, the TL-WA850RE coped with its task perfectly, and I can recommend it to my subscribers as a effective way expand your WiFi reception area.

Thank you! Did not help

Device capabilities

The TP-Link WiFi repeater is designed to expand the coverage area of ​​a wireless network and increase the strength of the wireless signal, as well as to eliminate “dead zones”. Data transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps, small size and the ability to mount on a wall, Range Extender button - all this will help you easily expand your wireless network coverage area.

Wireless signal booster with data transfer rates up to 300 Mbps

WiFi TP-Link serves to quickly and conveniently expand your network coverage area, increase signal strength, and eliminate “dead zones.” The TP-Link WiFi repeater provides data transfer speeds of up to 300 Mbps, which is convenient for video transmission High Quality, streaming music and online games.

Easy to use

Thanks to its compact and convenient housing, the amplifier is easy to install and carry. In addition, the profile saving function remembers the wireless networks to which the device was previously connected, so there is no need to reconfigure the amplifier when changing the router.

Plug and Play support

The user can easily increase the wireless network coverage without installing additional cables by simply pressing the WPS button on the router and then pressing the Range Extender button on the TP-Link WiFi repeater or vice versa. An additional press of the Pair button will quickly set up a secure connection with the user's devices.

Informative signal indicator

The LED indicator shows the strength of the signal that the TP-Link WiFi repeater receives from the router, which will help determine the optimal location for the repeater, where the signal is strongest, to ensure maximum coverage of your network.

Universal Compatibility

The TP-Link WiFi repeater works with all 802.11b/g/n wireless devices and supports Windows 8.

Peculiarities

• Range Extender Mode allows you to transmit a signal to previously inaccessible areas and places where cable installation is problematic
• The compact and convenient design makes the amplifier easy to install and carry
• Expand coverage at the touch of a button
• Signal strength indicator light will help you find the optimal place to place the device 300 Mbps - ideal speed for working with streaming video, online games and Internet telephony
• Authorization support by domain name(http://tplinkextender.net) for more detailed settings
• Compatible with all 802.11b/g/n devices
• Supports 64/128/152-bit WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption modes to protect your network from Internet threats

Characteristics
Buttons	RE button (extend wireless coverage area), Reset button (reset settings)
Standards wireless transmission data	IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b
Antenna	2 built-in antennas
Dimensions (WxLxH)	110.0 x 65.8 x 75.2 mm
Socket type	EU, UK, US
Energy consumption	About 3 W
Frequency range	2.4 - 2.4835 GHz
Signal transmission speed	11n: up to 300 Mbps (dynamic) 11g: up to 54 Mbps (dynamic) 11b: up to 11 Mbps (dynamic)
EIRP (Wireless Signal Strength)	< 20 дБм (EIRP)
Sensitivity (reception)	270 Mbps: -68 dBm at 10% PER 130 Mbps: -68 dBm at 10% PER 108 Mbps: -68 dBm at 10% PER 54 Mbps: -68 dBm at 10% PER 11 Mbps /s: -85 dBm at 8% PER 6 Mbps: -88 dBm at 10% PER 1 Mbps: -90 dBm at 8% PER
Operating modes	Strengthening the wireless signal
Wireless Features	WMM (Wi-Fi Multimedia) MAC address filtering Wireless network statistics Domain name authorization function
Wireless Security	64/128/152-bit WEP WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption
Certification	CE, RoHS
System requirements	Microsoft® Windows® 98SE, NT, 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7, 8, Mac® OS, NetWare®, UNIX® or Linux.
Environmental parameters	Operating temperature: 0℃ - 40℃ Storage temperature: -40℃ - 70℃ Operating relative humidity: 10% - 90%, non-condensing Storage relative humidity: 5% - 90%, non-condensing

We've all encountered the problem weak signal from the router. Some people immediately think of changing the router, because it seems that the problem lies there. However, this is not quite true. If configured correctly, you can ensure good quality connections and Wi-Fi signal coverage. But if you still decide to buy a repeater to strengthen the signal, we will help you make the right choice.

What is a Wi-Fi repeater and how does it work?

In this section we will talk about what is called Wi-Fi signal amplifiers (they are also called repeaters, repeaters, repeaters) and what they are needed for.

It often happens that after purchasing and installing a router at home (office), you discover that the signal does not reach the the right place. Of course, you can install the router closer, then the signal will reach the computer, but if this is not possible, you have to buy this device.

The principle of operation of this device is clearly shown in the picture below. It extends the received signal from Wi-Fi and directs it to the location you need. The Internet speed remains the same.

The principle of operation of a signal amplifier for a Wi-Fi router

As a rule, this device is quite compact and operates from an ordinary outlet. You can buy it from any online store and install it in your apartment the same day.

Some features of using the amplifier:

• The repeater creates a network similar to the existing one. All your devices (computer, phone, tablet) will automatically connect to the network with the best signal. For example: The router is in the kitchen, and the repeater is in the living room. If you go into the kitchen with your phone, the signal will be received from the router, in the living room - from the amplifier.
• Can be configured without problems local network. All devices will be connected to the same network, regardless of the signal source.

How to strengthen the Wi-fi signal with your own hands?

Overall, this device is very useful for the home, however, depending on the model, you will have to pay a pretty penny for the amplifier. Don't want to spend money? Then use our tips to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal in your home or office:

1. Place the router in the center of the apartment/office.

Many people install a router in the hallway, or in the farthest room. This is certainly a convenient location, and there is no need to run the cable throughout the apartment, but the Internet will suffer greatly because of this. Therefore, we recommend installing the router initially in a room that is equally distant from all others (as shown in the picture below). If you only need Internet in one room, then install the router in it. In this case, you do not need to buy a repeater.

The picture shows an example of good and bad location of the router in the apartment. If you do not want to provide your neighbors with your Internet, then it is better to place the Internet source in the middle of the apartment.

They will also help you place the router correctly special programs for analysis. WiFi program Analyzer You can measure the points where the Internet reception is worst and best. Based on the data obtained, it is easier to choose the right place.

2. Change the channel your router is running on.

Unless you are the proud owner of a modern dual-band router, then your router operates at 2.4 GHz. The trouble is that there are only 13 channels in this frequency. Among them, you need to select the least loaded one and connect to it. A simple program called inSSIDer will help with this.

You can download this program completely free of charge. With its help you will see a minimally loaded network. We do not recommend choosing the outermost channels (1st, 2nd, 12th and 13th). As a rule, they are the weakest, so no one wants to connect to them.

Nowadays, every apartment is equipped with high-speed Internet. Therefore, there may simply not be any free channels. If you are unlucky, then move on to the next point.

3. Set the maximum signal power.

On some models you can set the strength of the transmitted Wi-Fi signal. You can view this setting in “Advanced settings”. As a rule, this parameter is set to 100% by default. But the settings might have gone wrong, so it wouldn’t hurt to check them.

4. Update your router's firmware.

Go to the manufacturer's website and look for the latest firmware for your device. If you have a problem from the very beginning, then most likely this is the reason. Manufacturers never fix problems during the development/testing of new devices, so they update them with new firmware.

5. If all else fails.

TOP 7 best amplifiers for home and office

Here we come smoothly to the most important part of our article. Below we will review the best repeaters of 2017 according to users. To do this, we have selected the TOP 5 best devices from different manufacturers.

Category	Name	Rating (based on user reviews)	Price
The best low-price amplifiers		9.5 / 10	1,580 ₽
		9.3 / 10	865 RUR
		9.5 / 10	1,350 RUR
Best Mid-Range Amplifiers		9.5 / 10	2 160 ₽
		9.9 / 10	RUR 3,590
The best high-end amplifiers		10 / 10	RUB 21,140
		9.9 / 10	11,090 RUR

Asus RP-N12

Very good amplifier signal for home and office. Its functionality includes the functions of a repeater, access point and network bridge. You can connect it to any outlet in your home, and it can be configured with one click on the WPS button. Two powerful antennas will provide an uninterrupted Wi-Fi signal to any point in the house.

Determine the most optimal point for placement of this device The indicator on the front panel will help. If the signal from the router is good, the green indicator will light up; if it is bad, the red indicator will light up.

Advantages of the amplifier according to user reviews :

• Very easy to connect and establish a connection.
• Two powerful antennas that provide a good range.
• Maximum connection speed: 300 Mbit/s.

Flaws :

• Sometimes it loses connection with the router, so you have to reboot.

Xiaomi Mi WiFi Amplifier

The most compact repeater that you can easily take with you on trips/travels. You can install and configure it in a few minutes. Just connect it via USB and the device will sync itself within a few minutes.

This device is capable of doubling the router’s coverage area. The connection speed for such dimensions is 150 Mbit/s, which will be sufficient for most routers.

Pros of the repeater according to user reviews :

• A compact device that can be carried in your pocket.
• Almost doubles the router's coverage area.
• Automatic synchronization.

Minuses :

• Automatic synchronization occurs only with Xiaomi routers. For all others you need to use special application Xiaomi Smart Home.

TP-Link TL-WA850RE

A convenient repeater for your router that will quickly and easily increase your Wi-Fi signal coverage area. Connecting and setting up the device is very simple. Plug in and press the Range Extender button on the amplifier, and the WPS button on the router.

TP-Link TL-WA850RE will provide the most complete coverage in your apartment and eliminate “dead zones”. The signal transmission speed can reach 300 Mbps, which will be enough for games, videos and movies.

pros :

• Easy to set up, can be connected anywhere.
• Good signal; removes “dead zones” where there was no Internet.
• Saves the profile so there is no need to reconfigure when reconnecting.

Minuses :

• Not detected.

TP-Link AC750

This repeater will be an excellent option for those who need to increase the signal coverage radius in two bands. TP-Link AC750 operates in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands, thereby providing data transfer rates of up to 750 Mbps.

Connecting the amplifier is not difficult. Plug it in, press the Range Extender button and the WPS button on the router. In a couple of minutes the connection will become active. When connected, it completely copies the router address.

Advantages :

• Provides complete signal coverage over long distances.
• Quick setup and connection.
• Beautiful design.
• Works stably on two frequency ranges: 2.4 and 5 GHz.

Flaws :

• High price.

TP-Link Re350

This amplifier is one of the leaders in our rating. It can operate on two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz (speed up to 300 Mbit/s) and 5 GHz (speed up to 867 Mbit/s). Installing the amplifier takes a few minutes. Plug it into a power outlet, sync it with your router and select the appropriate frequency.

The indicator on the front panel shows the signal strength from the router. If the blue light is on, then the signal level is good enough and there is no need to reinstall the repeater. If the light is red, then connect the amplifier closer to the router. Two antennas provide good Wi-Fi coverage. You can configure the TP-Link Re350 to work with almost any router.

Benefits according to user reviews :

• Operates on frequency ranges: 2.4 and 5 GHz.
• Thanks to two powerful antennas, it transmits the signal far.
• It's easy to find the optimal repeater location thanks to the LED indicator.
• Beautiful design.

Flaws :

• High price.

Netgear Orbi AC3000

If you lack the power and coverage of previous models, then you should take a closer look at this model. When you buy the Netgear Orbi AC3000, you get two portable devices (a router and an amplifier) ​​that connect together and provide speeds of up to 1500 Mbps. The coverage area of ​​this amplifier is much larger than in standard models. It is ideal for use in country houses or large offices.

Externally, the Netgear Orbi AC3000 looks quite attractive, so it can be connected in a visible place. If the amplifier does not reach the place you need, you can buy another device that will connect to the router.

pros :

• By purchasing the kit, you receive a router and an amplifier.
• Very large range.
• High data transfer speed.
• Beautiful design.

Minuses :

• High price.
• You cannot create a chain of repeaters.

Asus RP-AC68U

The main task of this device is to increase coverage Wi-Fi networks. It copes with this task 100%, because it provides an uninterrupted connection on two bands: up to 1300 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz range and up to 600 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz range. Four internal antennas provide large coverage area.

The device can operate in several modes: amplifier, bridge, wireless access point. Setting up the work is very simple. Sequentially press the WPS buttons on the router and repeater Asus RP-AC68U, and you can get to work.

pros :

• High bandwidth wireless network.
• Can serve as an amplifier, bridge and access point.
• Does not reduce the speed of the wireless network.
• Unusual design.

Minuses .

Content

Scope of application wireless technologies the transmission of information is constantly expanding. At home and at work, you need WiFi for high-quality and reliable operation of your smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer with a WiFi adapter on the Internet. In a situation where, due to the low power of a router or a small antenna in remote areas of an apartment or office, Internet reception deteriorates, a WiFi signal amplifier will help. This device is otherwise called a repeater.

What is a WiFi signal booster

To increase the operating area of ​​the router, it is necessary to pick up the signal emitted by it, amplify it and transmit it further. This is the principle of operation of a WiFi signal amplifier. Most older routers operate at a transmission frequency of 2.4 GHz. More modern routers use the 5 GHz channel. If the same devices are operating within the coverage area of ​​your router, the signals they emit in each frequency channel reduce the speed at which all subscribers receive information. A WiFi signal repeater is capable of receiving on one frequency and relaying it on both frequency channels.

How does it work

A Wi-Fi signal amplifier for a router is a device that plugs into a 220V outlet. When the router is turned on, the WiFi signal repeater receives its signal, amplifies it and transmits it to its radiating antenna. The repeater does not increase the Internet speed, but increases the transmission range. The repeater has an indicator of the received signal strength. If it lights up red, this indicates low signal strength and you need to move the repeater closer to the router. If the signal from the router is reliably received, the indicator lights up green or blue.

Types of WiFi signal amplifiers

Technical means of reception and transmission differ in their power and additional functions. Based on this parameter, repeaters are divided into three main classes:

• Personal – for working on the network wireless internet If the reception level is weak, it is possible to use a compact amplifying repeater in the form of a USB device.
• Home repeaters are designed to operate in wireless networks 1-5 receivers, coverage radius is no more than 10-20 m.
• Industrial or office repeaters are full-fledged access points. These are modules with several antennas and are designed to provide a stable signal for up to 50 consumers, connecting computers and phones to the Internet.

Router signal amplifiers are sold by computer showrooms in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities. Internet users have the opportunity to order promotions, sales, discounts and buy a WiFi signal amplifier in online stores. All goods are delivered by courier services or, cheaper, by mail.

WiFi amplifier TP-Link

One of the leaders among manufacturers of communication equipment is TM TP-Link. To solve the problem of dead spots and provide wireless and Internet in places where cable installation is difficult, TP-Link offers a signal booster WiFi router:

• name: TL-WA860RE;
• price: 1,750 rubles;
• characteristics: speed 300 Mbps, frequency 2.4 GHz, protection WEP, WPA, WPA2, types
• WiFi 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g;
• pros: two antennas increase the coverage area;
• cons: not noted.

The use of dual-band repeaters can reduce interference (mutual overlap) of router signals. The TP-Link TM line includes a WiFi signal repeater, which on a 5GHz channel is capable of providing a data transfer rate of 867 Mbit/s:

• name: RE305;
• price: RUR 2,690;
• characteristics: Wi-Fi standard 802.11a, speed 300 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz band, 867 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz channel;
• pros: high data transfer speed;
• cons: expensive.

Repeater Zyxel

In the device market wireless communication One of the leading positions is occupied by ZyXEL. In its product line, in addition to expensive models, there are cheaper products with good characteristics:

• name: ZyXEL Keenetic Lite III;
• price: RUB 1,927;
• characteristics: 802.11n, MIMO, 300 Mbit/s, router, 4xLAN switch;
• pros: Wi-Fi hotspot access;
• cons: not noted.

TM ZyXEL offers a universal Internet center that can operate in access point, amplifier or router modes. The proposed model has a mass additional features and is capable of automatically detecting the type of receiving devices, selecting a channel to work with them and strengthening the WiFi signal:

• name: Internet center ZyXEL Keenetic Extra II;
• price: RUB 3,590;
• characteristics: managed Ethernet switch, Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz – 300 Mbit/s, at 5 GHz – 867 Mbit/s, four 5 dBm antennas, support for IPTV and Smart-TV, Yandex.DNS and SkyDNS protection;
• pros: universal model;
• cons: high price.

Asus

One of the leading manufacturers of computer equipment, the Asus brand creates models of routers and repeaters in a price range accessible to most buyers. The proposed model will provide good reception and amplification WiFi signal in any room of an apartment or small office:

• name: Access point with repeater mode Asus RP-N12;
• price: 649 rub.;
• characteristics: LAN speed 100 Mbit/s, WiFi:802.11g, 802.11n, frequency range 2.4 GHz, 2 antennas;
• pros: good value price quality;
• Cons: 2.4 GHz band only.

For a large office you need powerful amplifiers and antennas capable of operating over long distances. TM ASUS has in its arsenal a model for large enterprises:

• name: Access point Asus RP-AC68U;
• price: RUB 4,390;
• characteristics: access point, 5 LAN ports, speed 1000 Mbit/s, WiFi: 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, frequency bands 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 4 antennas;
• pros: black column design;
• cons: not noticed.

Xiaomi

Manufacturers of Wi-Fi signal amplifiers advertise their products in different ways. TM Xiaomi simply indicates the gain parameter is 2 times. If your router worked at 20 meters, with this repeater the maximum range will be 40 meters:

• name: Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Amplifier 2;
• price: 649 rub.;
• characteristics: double gain;
• pros: does not require settings;
• cons: not noted.

TM Xiaomi offers many products in economy class. A similar device is the repeater model proposed below:

• name: Access Point Xiaomi Wifi amplifier;
• price: 289 rub.;
• characteristics: WiFi:802.11g, 802.11n, frequency range 2.4 GHz;
• advantages: low cost;
• cons: not noted.

Netgear

Communications equipment manufacturer Netgear pays great attention to the design of its products. Many users computer equipment Model you might be interested in:

• name: Netgear WAC120;
• price: RUB 5,263;
• characteristics: LAN speed 1000 Mbit/s, WiFi:802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, frequency range 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 1 antenna;
• pros: black stylish vertical design;
• cons: high price.

When purchasing computer equipment, many people like universal models. The proposed model from Netgear is both a repeater and an access point:

• name: EX6200;
• price: RUR 3,917;
• characteristics: 5 LAN ports, LAN speed 1000 Mbit/s, WiFi: 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 2 bands 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 2 antennas;
• pros: stylish black body with red trim;
• cons: not noted.

D-Link

Some of the best-selling router models on the market are routers from D-Link. For those who use equipment from this company, the repeater is well suited:

• name: DAP-1353;
• price: RUB 3,335;
• characteristics: 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 3 removable dipole antennas, antenna power 13 dBM, 2.4 GHz;
• pros: 3 antennas will provide large quantity Internet consumers;
• cons: high price.

If you need to purchase an access point with an amplifier function, it will do multifunction device. D-Link offers a repeater with good magnification power:

• name: DAP-2360;
• price: RUR 2,884;
• characteristics: WiFi 802.11g, 802.11n, frequency range 2.4 GHz, 2 antennas;
• pros: can work as an access point;
• cons: high cost.

Totolink

Totolink products are known for both cheap and more expensive models. Among the publicly available is a repeater - a Wi-Fi extender:

• name: TOTOLINK EX300;
• price: 497 rub.;
• characteristics: speed 100 Mbit/s, WiFi:802.11g, 802.11n, 2.4 GHz, transmitter power 20 dBM, 2 external antennas;
• pros: high power;
• cons: not noted.

For professional use, Totolink produces broadband routers with four antennas. The proposed sample provides WiFi speeds of up to 1167 Mbps.

• name: Repeater wireless router TOTOLINK A850R 1200M;
• price: RUR 2,247;
• characteristics: QoS, 4 LAN ports, speed 1200 Mbit/s, protocols 802.11ac, 802.11b, Wi-Fi 802.11g, Wi-Fi 802.11n, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, 4 powerful antennas;
• pros: high transfer speed;
• cons: not noted.

Netis

To create a highly efficient mobile office or entertainment network with a wide coverage of users, use TM Netis equipment. The model below increases the coverage area by 100 meters:

• name: Netis E1+;
• price: RUB 1,190;
• characteristics: 1 port 10/100Base-TX, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n 2.4 GHz, 300 Mbit/s;
• pros: good gain;
• cons: not noted.

TM Netis produces equipment using WiFi technology next generation 802.11ac. The proposed sample operates in two frequency ranges with signal level amplification:

• name: Netis WF2780;
• price: RUR 2,690;
• characteristics: at 5 GHz speed 900 Mbit/s, at 2.4 GHz – 300 Mbit/s, transmitter power 100 dBm, 4 omnidirectional antennas;
• pros: high power;
• cons: expensive.

How to choose a WiFi signal booster

When purchasing, you should choose repeaters based on your requirements for its power. It’s not worth overpaying and buying a powerful transmitter that will output a signal outside your premises. This will interfere with other people's work and cause other signal sources to interfere with your channel. Therefore, choose a repeater according to the scope of application:

• Models from the simplest to dual-band and dual-antenna options are suitable for an apartment.
• For an office with a large assortment of used receivers, it is worth choosing dual-band models with 4 antennas and a power of at least 60 dBm. It is advisable to choose equipment with the 802.11ac protocol to enable new and emerging applications.