Can I unplug my Wi-Fi extender and move it
Sometimes, you may notice that your Wi-Fi extender is not in the best location and you may want to move to a better location. Most likely, this Wi-Fi extender was installed by a professional and the question you first ask yourself is, can unplug my Wi-Fi extender and move it?
Yes, you can unplug your Wi-Fi extender and move it as long as you’re within a reasonable range from the wireless base station.
When you decide to move your Wireless extender, you have to determine the best location and you can’t just move it anywhere in the house. The placement location is very vital for a better signal. It’s good to map out your house and identify the dead zones and the power outlets. Since a Wi-Fi extender needs power to work, identify a power outlet that’s approximately halfway between your router and where you wish to send the Wi-Fi extender’s signals to.
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What if the power outlet location isn’t ideal for the extender?
Sometimes, the power outlet position won’t be the best place to set up the Wi-Fi extender, or where you wish to set it up doesn’t have a power outlet. This shouldn’t hold you back in your quest to get the best internet connection around your house. In this case, try using an extension cord and get the Wi-Fi extender to the best location.
How do I get the ideal location?
Getting the best location can be a game of hide and seek. First, make sure the place that you intend to place the extender is within range of the wireless base station. Check your connection and ensure the connection bars are full on either your phone or PC. This ensures the Wi-Fi extender signals are strong. To optimize the location, try placing the extender on top of a tall wardrobe or bookshelf depending on where you are, and check the connection. Avoid obstacles that will either absorb the signal or reflect it. Walls, masonry, and closets are such objects that absorb the signals while mirrors might end up reflecting the signals. Also, you need to avoid a location with stray radio-frequency signals from devices such as refrigerators, microwaves, baby monitors, etc as they may interfere with the signals.
Installing the Wi-Fi extender
Unplug the Wi-Fi extender from its current position and then plug it into the power outlet. Since Wi-Fi extenders have different manufacturers, they may differ in terms of setting up. Follow the instructions on your extender’s user manual to link it to your router. Once the Wi-Fi extender is up and running, go to the intended dead zone areas and check if speeds have improved there. You can check the speeds using several speed-test apps such as Fast.com, speedtest.net, etc. available online via your browser.
And if it still isn’t working?
Sometimes, the internet connection doesn’t improve despite optimizing the location. If the Wi-Fi extender has adjustable antennas, then you can reposition them and get a better wireless signal. Furthermore, try swapping the antennas for amplified ones if they are removable to boost their sensitivity. Besides, you can also try using a Wi-Fi reflector to direct the signals to where you need them to go. If you can’t afford one or want a quick fix, then use an empty soda can or aluminum foil and make one for yourself.
After you’ve set up the extender, you can choose to either keep the same network name and encryption passcode or change it. When you keep the same login credentials as with your router, it gives you a seamless experience when you switch between the two. However, this poses a challenge when you find yourself in places where both your router and Wi-Fi extender have coverage since there will be a signal overlap. It’s advisable to change the network name and passcode on your extender to differentiate it from the router.
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How to Fix |
How to get the most ideal location for a Wi-Fi extender |
Look for a power outlet and ensure the location is halfway between the router and the dead zone. Using a wireless device such as your phone or tablet, check the wireless signal, and make sure that it’s strong. Also, check the area and make sure there aren’t obstacles or devices like microwave ovens that might interfere with the signals or mirrors that may end up reflecting the signals. If you need to move the location away from the power outlet location, then use an extension cord. |
FAQs
Can radio frequencies reduce the Wi-Fi signals?
Yes, radio frequencies from devices such as microwaves can cause interference with the Wi-Fi signals.
How can I increase my network coverage?
You can use a mesh if you want more coverage and do away with both the router and Wi-Fi extender. A mesh works as both a router and extender.
