The extenders and boosters are similar networking devices. Here, you will get to know about the key differences between the extender and booster (WiFi extender vs booster).
WiFi Extender
The WiFi extenders are one of the small and impactful networking devices which you can connect with home router. Basically, the work of extender is to boost and expand the router signals and network in your home. Let’s see how it is setup in home;
- 1.Connect the extender with the router which is possible with cable as well as without cable.
- 2.To connect with the cable, you have to use the Ethernet cable, insert it in to the extender and router ports, and then turns it on.
- 3.If you don’t want to cables, then you can use the WPS button, turn on the Extender and router. Then press the button on the devices.
- 4.After the connection, you have to configure the device which you can do from the Netgear extender setup page in your computer.
Now, let’s see what a network booster is and how it is set up with the help of simple instructions;
WiFi Booster
WiFi signals boosters are some of the small devices, which only boost the router internet signals throughout the home area. Some boosters connect with your router without cable, but most of them connect with wire or cable. Have a look at its setup and connection process;
- 1.To connect the booster with the cable, you have to use the Ethernet cable, insert it in to the Booster and router ports.
- 2.Then, turns it on by plugging the booster’s power cord or adapter in to the electric wall socket.
- 3.If you don’t want to cables, then in some of the booster the WPS option is given.
- 4.You can use the WPS button; turn on the booster and router. Then press the button on the devices.
- 5.After the connection, you have to configure the device which you can do with the help of the IP address like 192.168.1.250.
Above, you have read the definition and setup of the extender and booster. Now, have a look at some of key differences between the extender and booster.
WiFi Extender vs Booster
| WiFi Extender | WiFi booster |
| The WiFi extenders can be plugged in direct in to the power outlet. | Most of the boosters are connect to power with power cord. |
| Extenders brands provide URL as well as the IP address to reach to the interface. | Usually, the device provides IP address to the user for configuration. |
| WiFi extenders are small and cover low area in your home. | Boosters are also small and cover very low area of your home. |
| Boosters are also small and cover very low area of your home. | You can connect the booster with router with the help of cable as well as the WPS. |
| Examples for setup are: Netgear from mywifiext GUI, Linksys from Linksys interface. | Examples are: Virgin media boosters, Netgear Nighthawk boosters. |
Conclusion
Here, you have seen and learned about the differences between the extenders and boosters (WiFi extender vs booster).
