Network equipment explained.
A SWITCH
Connects wired devices on the same local network.
Adds ports. Does not provide internet access by itself.
AN ACCESS POINT
Provides wireless coverage, connected to your wired network.
Adding one extends coverage properly.
A RANGE EXTENDER OR REPEATER
Rebroadcasts an existing wireless signal.
Convenient, and it typically halves throughput and adds latency.
WHEN AN EXTENDER IS ACCEPTABLE
Light use in an area otherwise unreachable.
WHEN TO USE AN ACCESS POINT INSTEAD
Anywhere performance matters.
A wired access point does not suffer the same penalty.
MESH SYSTEMS
Several units cooperating to cover an area.
Better than extenders, and best when the units are wired to each other.
WHAT TO AVOID
Chaining extenders Placing an extender where the signal is already weak
THAT SECOND POINT
An extender rebroadcasts what it receives. A weak signal in produces a weak signal out.
WHAT DETERMINES COVERAGE
Placement, more than equipment.
