Boost your internet reach with Discovering the power of Wifi Bridge vs Extender. If you want to have internet signals in every corner of your home, office, and other places. Then you need to have any of these two gadgets. Yes, both devices have different functionality to provide you the internet signals. So, if you are confused, then you should go through the comparison.
Therefore, we are here to guide you. Yes, now you have reached the right platform. Here you will find every single detail that will help you choose the right gadget for you.
Before delving into the comparison of Wifi Bridge vs Extender. Let’s know what is Wifi Bridge and what an is Extender.
A Wi-Fi bridge is a device that is used to extend internet signals. This device is used where you have placed a wired network and it extends this wired network to the wireless network. So, it is placed where the running of ethernet cables is impractical.
On the other hand, a Wi-Fi extender is also used to extend the wireless network. It extends the wireless signal coverage area. It is also known as a repeater and booster.
Having this device lets you have the benefits of
- High coverage area
- Strong signals at every corner.
- Overcome the LAN running at your place
- Easy Management
So, one must know the benefits and disadvantages of these two gadgets. Therefore, let’s proceed further to know the details.
Wifi Bridge Vs Extender
A comparison will let you have an idea of the advantages, and disadvantages of the Wifi bridge and extender. So, knowing the comparison will let you choose the best gadget for you according to your requirements.
So, let’s proceed and know the details of Wifi Bridge vs Extender.
| Features | Wifi Bridge | Extender |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Connects two separate Networks | Extends Wifi signal coverage area |
| Network Extension | Worked as a bridge between two networks | Extends existing signals |
| Primary Use | Connecting Wired Device to wireless network | Enhancing Signal strength of existing signals |
| Signal Repeatability | Does not repeat Signals | Repeat the signals |
| Installation | Complex Installation and configuration | Easy installation |
| Bandwidth Impact | No loss | May loss bandwidth |
| Connectivity | Wired connection | Wireless connection |
| Interference | Less prone to interference | Interfered by walls and objects |
| Cost | Higher cost | Comparably Lesser Cost |
| Network Performance | Stable | Varies |
| Device Supported | Multi-wired Device | Wireless device only |
| Ideal For | Used for long distance connections | Applicable to extends signals for lower distance |
| Security | More Secured | Less secured |
| Mobility | Limited | Higher |
So, based on the above comparison. We hope you can get a clear insight into the difference between Wifi bridge & extender.
What is a Wifi Bridge?
Wi-Fi bridge is also known as a wireless bridge. This device is used to connect two or more networks. Today having a strong internet signal strength is essential.
So, if you have a wired internet connection in your area and you want to extend its coverage area. Then you can use this device. Also, you can use this device to spread the wireless signals from the wired network.
Therefore, there is no further need to run an ethernet cable to extend the coverage. You can use Wifi Bridge instead.
There are different types of Wi-Fi bridges.
Point to Point: It connects two locations directly. Two buildings in the same place are connected wirelessly with a Wi-Fi bridge.
Point to Multipoint: There is one central location and Wifi Bridge sends the wireless signals to multiple remote locations
Client Bridge: This type of Wi-Fi bridge connects the Wired device to a wireless network
Features of Wifi Bridge
Having this device lets you have certain advantages as described below.
- It provides higher performance and reliability.
- Especially used to establish a connection between two buildings in the same place.
- Works to extend signals to a wide coverage area.
- The Wi-Fi bridge requires a complex installation.
- It is costlier to install and maintain.
What is a Wifi Extender and its Features?
If you want to extend your wifi signal to your house or office by amplifying the signal. Then you should go with the Wifi Extender device.
It is a device that is used to extend the coverage area of pre existing wifi network. It receives the signals from the wifi modem and extends them to areas where the signal strength is low or weaker.
There are three different types of Wifi Extender
- Plug In Extender
As the name suggests, you can plug in your Wifi extender directly into the sockets. It is mostly used in houses or offices with small areas.
It is very easy to install and configure this device.
- Desktop Extender
These type of extenders provides the more stable and reliable signals.
- Mesh Wifi System
Mesh Wifi Extender uses advanced technology to spread seamless wifi signals all over the place. So, if you use this kind of extender then you will have stable and reliable connections all over the premises.
Features of WIFI Extender
The features are as follows:
- The Wi-Fi Extender is easier to install and configure
- Overcome the internet dead zones on your premises.
- Its performance can vary depending on the model variant and placement.
- It can extend the wifi signals to smaller areas.
Wifi Bridge or Extender, Which is better?
In today’s era, a strong & consistent WiFi signal is essential. Both the Wifi bridge & extender aim to enhance internet connectivity & unique benefits to all.
- When you want to ensure high-speed internet & large-area coverage. The suitable option is getting a Wifi Bride. However, for this, you need to invest more.
- But, if you are looking to improve Wi-Fi coverage in your office or home to a shorter area. Then, for you, a Wi-Fi extender is a suitable option.
Calculating Wifi bridge vs Extender differences, both have their separate functionality to spread or extend the Wifi signals.
Also, they have different features. So, in a nutshell, it all depends on your requirements. If you are required to extend signals in wide coverage then go for Bridge mode.
On the other hand, if you want to extend signals in a limited range then go for an extender device.
In this article, the features, differences & benefits are discussed. So, thoroughly read the details and choose the suitable option that is best for satisfying your internet needs.
Key Differences between Wifi Extender and Wifi bridge
Now we know about both the devices and technology. So, it is time to know how to find the which is the right device for you. Both the devices have their pros and cons. Now you will need to select one which suits you perfectly.
In short, if you know the difference between Wifi bridge vs Wifi Extender then it will become easy for you to choose the right device. So, let’s proceed further and know the difference.
- Primary Function
Wifi Extenders is a device which is used to extend and wifi signals. So, if you have a dead zone area or a larger area to cover. Then you can choose a Wi-Fi extender.
On the other hand, a Wi-Fi bridge is used to connect two different networks. It can bridge the wired network with the wireless network.
- Distance and Range
Now if you have multiple buildings and you want to connect these buildings with a single internet connection. Then you need to choose the Wi-Fi bridge.
On the other hand, if you have a smaller space or a medium-sized area, then you can get a Wi-Fi extender. In short, we can say that if you want to extend your signal within the same building then go with a wifi extender.
- Required Network Speed
The wifi extender receives the wifi signals from the main modem and rebroadcasts them further. So, it reduces the network speed. Therefore, if you require high-speed internet then this device is not recommended.
On the other hand, the Wi-Fi bridge does not rebroadcast the signals. Though it bridges the connection. So, it does not reduce the internet speed.
- Network Reliability and Scalability
The Wi-Fi extender is not scaleable and stable. But Wifi bridge provides a stable network.
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Conclusion
In final words, we have discussed the comparison of the WIFI Bridge vs Extender. Therefore, Now you can compare the devices easily and select whichever suits your better.
In short, both devices have their USP, advantages, and disadvantages. So, it all depends on your requirements. If you require to extend signals for smaller areas then go for Extender.
On the other hand, if you want to extend your signals to a larger area, then you should proceed with the Wifi bridge.
So, if you still have confusion or doubt. Then you can ask in the comment section. We are happy to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wifi Bridge make your internet faster?
This device is used to extend the network by connecting separate network segments. So, it can not increase the speed of your internet. But it can improve the connectivity and reduce latency.
So, that you can have a stable network connection.
What are the disadvantages of Wifi Bridge?
The disadvantages of wi-fi bridge is as follows:
1. Complex installation and configuration require a professional technician. So, if you are a nontechnical user then it becomes difficult for you to install this device.
2. Maintenance of the Wifi Bridge device is costly.
3. If you require to extend signals in smaller areas then it is not compatible.
What are the disadvantages of a WIFI extender?
The disadvantages of a Wifi extender are as follows:
1. It reduces the performance of the internet.
2. It also increases the latency.
3. One must have to check if your extender is compatible with your Wifi modem or not.
4. Low coverage area.
Among Wifi Bridge vs Extender, Which is better for home?
When deciding between a Wifi bridge vs Extender for a home. First of all, you need to list down your specific needs and devices you want to connect to Wi-Fi.
For most of the home, the Wifi extender is the better choice. The reasons are as follows:
1. They are cost-effective and easy to use.
2. They are quick to install and improve your wi-fi coverage.
3. Also, they eliminate the dead zones of your home.
However, if you have a big house or a large property. Then, go with the Wi-Fi bridge option. That is a suitable option for you.
Name the list of best Wi-Fi extenders for your home.
Here is the list of best extenders for homes as follows:
1. Netgear EX3700 AC750 Wi-Fi Range extender.
2. TP-LINK RE650 AC2600 Wi-Fi extender.
3. ASUS RP-AC55 AC1200 Dual Band Wi-Fi Range Extender.
4. Netgear Nighthawk X6S EX8000 Tri-Band Wi-Fi Extender.
These are the best extenders in the market. However, if you know better extender names, let us know in the comment section below.
Name the best Wireless Bridge for the office.
Here is the list of the best wireless bridges for offices as follows:
1. Netgear WAC104.
2. Cisco Aironet 1572EAC.
3. TP-Link CPE710.
4. Ubiquiti Nanostation M5.
Among them, you can choose the suitable option for you.
What is the price range of the Wifi Bridge vs extender?
The price range of Wifi bridge & extender is as follows:
The Wi-Fi bridge provides connectivity to longer distances and high-speed performance. They generally range from $50 to $200.
Whereas the extenders are used to improve the internet connection in smaller places such as homes. They range from $30 to $150.
Its basic models can be found at lower prices too.
