Terminology » WLAN » WiFi Extender vs Router: Key Differences Explained

WiFi Extender vs Router: Key Differences Explained

wifi router extender wlan network

This article compares WiFi Extenders and WiFi Routers, highlighting the key distinctions between these devices in the context of WiFi standards.

Introduction:

WiFi devices adhere to WLAN standards defined by the IEEE 802.11 series of specifications. These include 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac (WiFi 5), 11ax (WiFi 6), and the emerging 11be (WiFi 7). The WiFi Alliance, a consortium of companies, certifies WiFi products based on a specific set of tests.

Common WiFi products include WiFi routers, WiFi dongles, WiFi extenders, WiFi switches, WiFi sensors, WiFi cameras, WiFi laptops, WiFi monitors, and WiFi smartphones.

Key Differences Between WiFi Extender and Router

The following table summarizes the differences between a WiFi extender and a router across several parameters:

FeaturesWiFi RouterWiFi Extender
CoverageImproved coverageBetter than router as it broadcasts WiFi signal to a broader area
Internet ConnectionCan be directly connected to wired fiber-optic or broadband line, or cellular (if it is a wireless router)Can be connected to a router for internet connectivity
Standalone OperationIt works independently.It does not work independently and requires a router for its operation.
Ethernet PortsMost routers support up to 5 ports. Wired IP devices can be directly interfaced with the router.Most WiFi extenders support only one Ethernet port. This port is mainly connected to a WiFi router for a wired connection.
CostExpensiveCheaper compared to a router
Examples• TP-Link Archer C64 router supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
• D-Link DIR-841 supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac		• TP-Link model TL-RE200 and D-Link model DAP 1610 both support 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
Vendors

As the table illustrates, both a router and an extender can work together to provide greater WiFi coverage for larger homes or office spaces.

A WiFi Extender picks up the router’s signal, amplifies it, and re-broadcasts it to reach areas where the original router’s signal is weak or unavailable due to distance or obstacles (path loss).