After my TP-LINK N300 wireless extender started to fail, I decided it was time to upgrade to a more reliable wifi extender. One of the first websites I check for tech product reviews is The WireCutter. I decided to purchase the NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi Extender from their review. Overall I’ve been happy with the range and performance. I did have trouble with the first time setup because I was using my iPhone and couldn’t click some buttons. Once I tried from my laptop I was able to get everything setup.
I would only recommend a wifi extender if:
- You can’t move your current wireless router to a central location
- Own a high end wireless router but still have dead spots
- Running ethernet is not an option
A few additional thoughts:
- The NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi Extender has 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports and one of them can be used to wire your extender to your router. I would recommend this if you can run ethernet to the extender.
- If you interested in a more expensive option, I’d recommend the Eero Home WiFi System
- Wired networks will always be more reliable than wireless
- Wireless extenders work well for streaming and web browsing but are not great for copying large files
- If possible several wired access points would be a better option than a wifi extender.
- If you have an older wireless router, I’d recommend upgrading your router first.
Also published on Medium.
Tim,
Thank your for sharing – WiFi coverage at home / office is always an open issue and seems no one single solution can fit all.
Thank you and keep them coming.