Range Extender

A range extender is a device that can be placed between two connection points in order to bounce a wireless signal from one device to another. Range extenders work great for large offices and factories that need high-speed Internet throughout the premises without running cables or purchasing satellite Internet. Range extenders can be used with virtually any router or access point and various models offer different features. In order to compare products, we will list several range extenders that are available on the market.

Belkin Wireless G Universal Range Extender
The Belkin Wireless G Universal Range Extender serves as both an access point and a range extender for wireless networks in large office buildings, factories, and other institutions. When connected to a DSL modem, the device can broadcast a 54 mbps high speed, wireless Internet connection for any computer, printer, fax machine, or mobile device in the area. Likewise, the device can be setup in between a router and a device in order to bounce the wireless signal from one device to another.

Linksys Wireless G Range Expander WRE54G Repeater
The Linksys Wireless G Range Expander WRE54G Repeater is a range extender made by Linksys that does not need to be plugged into a modem nor a router. The device can simply be plugged into a power source located within the range of the current wireless network and it will automatically relay the wireless signal. The Linksys Wireless G Range Expander works with both B and G networks and can be used with the Linksys WAP54G Access Point, the WRT54G Router, and the WRT54GS Router.

D-Link Wireless N Access Point DAP-1360
The D-Link Wireless N Access Point DAP-1360 is a wireless access point that also serves as a range extender. The device includes two external antennas and build upon the 802.11n standard. The device is also backwards-compatible with the 802.11g, 802.11b, and 802.11a standards. The device uses multiple data streams to simultaneously transmit and receive data faster than most routers can. The D-Link Wireless N Access Point DAP-1360 only needs to be connected to a power source in order to pick up wireless network signals from a separate device and rebroadcast those signals to much further distances. The device ranges in price from $60 to $80.

Netgear WGXB102 Powerline Wireless Range Extender
The Netgear WGXB102 Powerline Wireless Range Extender is a small, sleak device that simply plugs into an electrical outlet and immediately begins to extend any existing wireless network to up to twice its range. The product consists of two separate devices, the first being a small box that connects to the user’s router or modem and a power supply. This device broadcasts the Internet connection to any PowerLine device in the area. The second device is similar in design but has no wires, cables, or ports of any kind. This device simply plugs into an electrical outlet and instantly provides a wireless connection from that spot.

D-Link AirPlus G DWL-G710 Wireless Range Extender
The D-Link AirPlus G DWL-G710 Wireless Range Extender is a wireless range extender that works with D-Link routers and with other brands as well. The device wirelessly connects to the user’s router and can be placed anywhere within the range of that router. The device then rebroadcasts the wireless network to a much further range and can cover any average-sized office building. The D-Link AirPlus G DWL-G710 Wireless Range Extender supports both 802.11g and 802.11b standards and has good signal sensitivity. The device does have its disadvantages, however, as it does not come with very detailed instructions and has a complicated login procedure for configurations.