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Forum Discussion
Extend WiFi Network Without Creating Additional Networks?
I'm trying to extend my existing WiFi network to some dead areas of my home. I have two of these and they work great, but now I have 5 different networks. I was hoping these would simply boost my existing network. The problem with having the multiple networks is that if I log on to one of the new EXT networks on one part of my house, my devices stay connected to the new EXT network even when I move back close to my router.
I'm finding I'm constantly having to switch WiFi networks depending on what of the house I'm in. Have I set these up improperly, or is this how they work?
Thanks!
1 Reply
When using consumer-grade Wi-Fi routers and range extenders, the decision to switch from one network to another is entirely up to the discretion of each device. Apple devices, for example, will virtually stick to a network for dear life and will only search for a better network when the signal drops below -70dBm (source: link). If the coverage of your many Wi-Fi networks overlap in such a way that any signal never drops below this threshold, then an Apple device may never switch, even if there is a stronger network.
In regards to network names, it is possible to configure the extenders to broadcast the same SSID as the main router, but this is only advisable when the extenders are connected to the main router via Ethernet (or Powerline). It is not advisable to do this wirelessly because the extenders could improperly connect to each other, cause a loop and temporarily render this useless.
Hope this helps.
