Modern technology isn’t only about development but also competition. Take a look at the emerging devices you can use without an Ethernet cable. Here – we’re given two options: the WiFi extenders and powerline adapters. But, which of these two is the best for you?
You might hear that WiFi adapters are the best or others would argue that powerline adapters are much better. Well, let’s first take a look between the two for you to have an idea of which of these technologies is the best.
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Powerline Adapters vs. WiFi Extenders
Computers have become a staple in most homes. They offer us a connection to the outside world and a way to stay entertained. However, one of the biggest issues we face with computers is the loss of signal strength. This often happens when we are trying to connect to the internet from a far distance.
And you might admit that your day wouldn’t be complete if you don’t use the internet. What if you need to use the internet badly, but you can’t use an Ethernet cable?
The solutions are the WiFi extenders and the powerline adapters! Both these technologies have the same goal – to provide a reliable internet connection over long distance. But, what’s the difference between the two?
What is a WiFi extender?
A WiFi extender is a device that can amplify an existing wireless signal and help to extend the coverage of your home or office network. They are often used to boost the signal in areas where it is weak or patchy, such as in a basement or far corner of a room. WiFi extenders typically come in the form of small boxes that can be plugged into an electrical outlet.
What is a Powerline Adapter?
A powerline adapter is a device that helps to extend an electrical network by using the existing wiring in a home or office. It consists of two units: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter unit is plugged into an outlet, and the receiver unit is plugged into the desired location.
The two units then communicate with each other, sending electrical signals along the power lines. As a result, the receiver unit can receive power from the outlet, even if it is located some distance away.
ne adapter, you need to use two outlets that are connected in your home. Powerline adapters could be connected wired or wirelessly on a router. The adapter sends the signal through the wiring of the home. From here, the signal would travel outside of your residence through a wide distance.
The differences
Powerline adapters and WiFi extenders are both devices that can be used to improve the signal strength of your home network. However, there are some key differences between the two technologies.
- Powerline adapters use your home’s existing electrical wiring to create a network connection, while WiFi extenders rely on radio waves to extend the reach of your wireless signal.
- In terms of performance, powerline adapters tend to be more reliable than WiFi extenders, but they require that you have a working electrical outlet in every room where you want to connect to the internet.
- WiFi extenders, on the other hand, are more flexible in terms of placement, but they can be more susceptible to interference from other electronic devices.
Which is the Best – WiFi Extender or WiFi Extender?
It’s very annoying if you have a low internet signal in your home and you have to finish reports right away. Don’t worry because you can use a powerline adapter and a WiFi extender to get a high signal. Most PC owners would choose the technology that has more great features than the other. Some users might favor the technology that their family or neighbor uses.
If you haven’t decided yet on the item you want to buy here is pros and cons of WiFi extenders and powerline adapters:
WiFi Extenders
Pros
- WiFi extenders can extend the WiFi signal successfully in your home.
- The signal comes from a single location.
Cons
- Since the internet signal only comes in a single direction, it adds to the network’s latency and lowers the internet speeds.
- Wall, ceilings, and furniture inside the house could affect the strong signal.
Powerline Adapters
Pros
- In using powerline adapters, the signal that comes from your router is carried to your computer directly.
- Powerline adapters are superior to WiFi extenders regarding the latency of the signal. The internet speed you would get depends on the electric quality of your home. So, if the electrical wiring is excellent, you can gain a good internet signal.
Cons
- The WiFi signal in your computer is for use only, and other people in your home or office couldn’t use it.
Homeowners with good quality electrical wiring can use powerline adapters as it’s close to the Ethernet cable. You also achieve easy access to using the internet when you use an adapter.
A good tip would be to buy a powerline adapter, and then use a WiFi extender if you’re having trouble with the internet speeds. Since the signal travels through the electric wiring, you’re sure that no person inside the house gains access to the connection. You wouldn’t also experience any interference as you use your computer.
The fast speeds are enough reason for you to use the powerline adapters. But, you might still use a WiFi extender if you’re comfortable with it. After all, it still depends on your preference, comfort, and satisfaction with which technology you’re going to use.
