The modern connected world extends far beyond the walls of our homes. We expect to stream movies by the pool, monitor security cameras in the garden, and even work from the patio without a hitch. However, a weak or nonexistent WiFi signal can quickly derail these ambitions, turning your outdoor space into a digital dead zone. Enter the outdoor WiFi range extender, a powerful tool for broadcasting your existing internet connection into previously unreachable areas. Unlike their indoor counterparts, these devices are specifically designed to withstand the elements, offering robust performance and reliability in challenging environments. While newer models are available, exploring the top outdoor WiFi range extenders of two thousand sixteen provides a valuable perspective, offering established performance at often more accessible price points. This article delves into the best options from that year, helping you understand what to look for and how to choose the right solution to revitalize your outdoor connectivity.
Understanding Outdoor WiFi Range Extenders
Let’s start with the basics.
What is a WiFi Range Extender?
At its core, a WiFi range extender functions as a bridge, capturing the existing wireless signal from your router and rebroadcasting it to extend its reach. Think of it as a digital megaphone, amplifying the signal to cover a larger area. Technically, the extender receives the wireless signal, decrypts it, and then re-encrypts and transmits it on a new wireless network. This process introduces some latency, but the increase in coverage often outweighs the slight delay. In essence, it creates a secondary WiFi network that connects to your primary network, allowing devices that are too far from the router to connect seamlessly. The beauty lies in its simplicity; no new cables are needed, making installation relatively straightforward.
Why Outdoor Extenders Are Special
While indoor extenders focus primarily on signal boosting within the confines of a building, outdoor extenders face unique challenges that necessitate specialized design.
Weatherproofing is paramount. These devices are engineered to withstand rain, snow, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight. The Ingress Protection rating, commonly known as the IP rating, is a crucial specification. A higher IP rating indicates greater protection against dust and water. Look for extenders with an IP rating of at least IP sixty-five to ensure they can withstand typical outdoor conditions. Materials also play a vital role, with durable plastics and corrosion-resistant metals being essential for long-term reliability.
Antenna design is another key differentiator. Outdoor extenders often feature more powerful antennas than their indoor counterparts. Directional antennas focus the signal in a specific direction, ideal for point-to-point connections or covering a long, narrow area. Omnidirectional antennas, on the other hand, broadcast the signal in all directions, providing wider coverage. The choice depends on your specific needs and the layout of your outdoor space.
Mounting options are also important for outdoor extenders. They need to be securely mounted to a pole, wall, or other structure to ensure stable performance and prevent damage. Flexible mounting options allow you to optimize the placement of the extender for the best possible signal strength.
Finally, many outdoor extenders utilize Power over Ethernet. PoE allows you to transmit both power and data over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for a separate power outlet. This simplifies installation, especially in locations where power outlets are scarce.
Key Features to Consider
When evaluating outdoor WiFi range extenders, several key features should be taken into consideration.
The WiFi standards, such as eight hundred two dot eleven n and eight hundred two dot eleven ac, dictate the maximum theoretical speed of the wireless connection. In two thousand sixteen, eight hundred two dot eleven ac was the newer standard, offering significantly faster speeds than eight hundred two dot eleven n. However, eight hundred two dot eleven n extenders were often more affordable.
Frequency bands, specifically two point four GHz and five GHz, also play a role. The two point four GHz band offers better range but is more susceptible to interference from other devices, such as microwaves and Bluetooth devices. The five GHz band offers faster speeds but has a shorter range. Dual-band extenders, which operate on both frequencies, provide the best of both worlds.
Security protocols, such as Wi-Fi Protected Access two and Wi-Fi Protected Access, are essential for protecting your network from unauthorized access. Wi-Fi Protected Access two is the more secure protocol and should be preferred.
Throughput refers to the actual speed of the wireless connection. This is often lower than the maximum theoretical speed due to factors such as interference, distance, and the number of connected devices.
Ease of setup is crucial, especially for non-technical users. Look for extenders with user-friendly interfaces and clear instructions.
Finally, range is the most important factor for many users. Consider the distance you need to cover and choose an extender with a sufficient range.
Top Outdoor WiFi Range Extenders of Two Thousand Sixteen: Reviews and Comparisons
Before diving into specifics, let’s cover our reviewing criteria. These extenders were evaluated on their advertised range, speed tests conducted at various distances, durability assessments considering weather resistance, ease of setup, and of course, price point. The ranking considers a balance of performance, affordability, and user-friendliness.
Extender One: The Ubiquiti Networks AirGateway LR
This extender consistently ranked highly in two thousand sixteen for its robust performance and impressive range.
Key Features: Long-range capability, designed for outdoor use, passive Power over Ethernet support.
Pros: Excellent range, reliable performance, durable construction.
Cons: Can be complex to set up for non-technical users, lacks some advanced features.
Performance: Demonstrated long-range coverage with stable speeds for streaming and browsing.
Price: Competitively priced within the mid-range category in two thousand sixteen.
Best For: Users needing to cover a large outdoor area, such as a farm or large property.
Extender Two: The TP-Link CPE two hundred ten
Another popular choice for extending Wi-Fi to outdoor spaces.
Key Features: Directional antenna, weather-resistant enclosure, central management software.
Pros: Easy to install, offers good value for money, suitable for point-to-point connections.
Cons: Limited range compared to some other models, lacks some advanced features.
Performance: Reliable performance within its specified range, suitable for basic internet access.
Price: Affordable option for budget-conscious users in two thousand sixteen.
Best For: Extending Wi-Fi to a detached garage or shed.
Extender Three: The Netgear WN three thousand seven hundred RP
This extender offered a balance of performance and ease of use.
Key Features: Dual-band support, easy setup, compact design.
Pros: Simple to set up, offers good performance for its size, supports multiple wireless standards.
Cons: Limited range compared to dedicated outdoor models, not as weather-resistant.
Performance: Decent performance for general outdoor use, but not suitable for very large areas.
Price: Mid-range pricing in two thousand sixteen.
Best For: Smaller outdoor spaces, such as patios or balconies.
Extender Four: The Hawking Technology HOW two thousand three hundred
A robust option known for its extended range and reliable connectivity.
Key Features: High power amplifier, detachable antenna, rugged enclosure.
Pros: Extended range, reliable performance in challenging environments, versatile mounting options.
Cons: Higher price point compared to some other models, can be bulky.
Performance: Excellent range and signal strength, suitable for demanding applications.
Price: Premium pricing in two thousand sixteen.
Best For: Larger properties requiring extensive coverage and reliable connectivity.
Extender Five: The Amped Wireless High Power Outdoor Range Extender
This extender was specifically designed for outdoor use.
Key Features: High power amplifier, weatherproof enclosure, multiple antenna options.
Pros: Strong signal strength, durable construction, easy to install.
Cons: Can be expensive, limited feature set.
Performance: Excellent range and reliable performance, ideal for demanding outdoor applications.
Price: Premium pricing reflecting its specialized design in two thousand sixteen.
Best For: Users needing to cover a large area with a strong and reliable signal.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Extender for Your Needs
Selecting the right outdoor WiFi range extender requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances.
Assessing Your Outdoor WiFi Needs
Consider the size of the area you need to cover. Larger areas require extenders with greater range and more powerful antennas. Identify any obstacles, such as trees, buildings, or walls, that can interfere with the signal. These obstacles can significantly reduce the range and strength of the WiFi signal. Think about the number of devices that will be connected to the extended network. More devices require an extender with higher throughput and better processing power.
Budget Considerations
Outdoor WiFi range extenders varied in price considerably in two thousand sixteen. Determine how much you are willing to spend and prioritize the features that are most important to you. Consider the long-term value of the extender. A more expensive extender may offer better performance and durability, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Installation Tips
Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the performance of your outdoor WiFi range extender.
Place the extender in a location that is high and clear of obstructions. This will help to improve the signal strength and range. Ensure the extender is securely mounted to prevent it from being damaged by the weather. Familiarize yourself with security best practices and secure your extended network with a strong password to prevent unauthorized access.
Conclusion
Extending your WiFi outdoors can dramatically enhance your lifestyle, enabling you to enjoy all the benefits of connectivity in your garden, patio, or pool area. The outdoor WiFi range extenders of two thousand sixteen offered a variety of solutions for different needs and budgets. While newer models are available, these established options provide a solid foundation for understanding the key features and considerations for extending your WiFi outdoors. Each of the models listed above provide a unique experience tailored to various needs. If you are seeking a simple and affordable extension for basic needs, the TP-Link device is a solid option, but for those with larger properties or more demanding applications, the Ubiquiti and Hawking Technology devices may be a better fit. Ultimately, do your research and carefully consider your specific needs before making a purchase. By understanding the technology and carefully assessing your requirements, you can choose the perfect outdoor WiFi range extender to transform your outdoor space into a fully connected oasis. Now is the time to take control of your outdoor connectivity.
