What is the difference between a wireless repeater and a wireless bridge?
The main difference between a wireless repeater and a wireless bridge is that a repeater simply extends the range of a network, while a bridge joins two networks. A client bridge connects the computers. A wireless repeater connects the routers. These simple definitions don’t cover what they do and why you may need them, so read on to learn more.
What does a wireless repeater do?
A wireless repeater is a device that creates an access point that sends a wireless signal to the main router. This increases the range of a wireless signal. For example, if your access point is on one side of your house and you want to use the network on the other side, but the signal is low or non-existent, then simply set up a wireless repeater at the edge of the range of your first access point. . Therefore, the wireless signal is extended.
What does a wireless bridge do?
A wireless bridge connects more than one signal network together. They are usually physically separate networks. It allows companies to connect different offices and floors of networks to make a seamless connection instead of overloading a single network with too many connections. Why wouldn’t you want to overload a single network with too many connections?
Think of a wireless network as a local highway. The more data you have, like cars, the slower the traffic. If you have routed that traffic correctly, you will avoid data congestion and maintain optimal data speeds. This is why it is essential to set up a separate network on each floor of an office building and then connect them, rather than setting up a repeater system.
However, it is essential to set up a repeater system within the floors, especially if the floors are large. Data tends to slow down the longer the cables or airspace is between devices. A repeater takes the data and forwards it at the original speed. So repeaters fire data between sender and receiver, while routers act like highways, directing that data traffic. Bridges are simply connections between different networks.
What to look for when buying a repeater?
Are the bridge, repeaters, routers, and wireless antennas compatible with each other? This doesn’t always mean the same brand, but it’s probably a good idea. Some equipment can only send and receive signals to other equipment of the same type, for example bridges with jumpers. Look carefully at the product you are buying and make sure it is compatible with your routers and if it offers repeater mode. Check for a removable antenna, external connector, and multiple Ethernet ports. And make sure you have point-to-point and multipoint nodes. Make sure the range between devices covers the distance you need in the location where you plan to install it.
What to look for in a wireless bridge
Bridges tend to be compatible only with other bridges of the same type of chipset and firmware. Before buying, make sure it is compatible with all your other equipment as well as other bridges. Also, check the same things you did on a repeater. Consider having a power line bridge penetrate concrete bricks, metal walls, metal shelving, and other obstacles that may hinder or stop a wireless signal. This allows the signal to get a boost traveling through electrical wires.
Basic configuration
Put your router in a central location. For a home, this would be in the middle of the common areas you use. For an office, locate it in the center of the building. Build out of it. Check where the router signal range is, then configure the repeaters so that their range overlaps the router signal. Set up bridges between routers on different floors or buildings and between rooms separated by wireless signal obstacles. Each brand of wireless device is different and has different range distances. And remember to configure all devices within a wireless configuration to the same wavelength.
It is important to fully understand how your routers and repeaters should be configured for optimal network service between all devices and the Internet in your home or business. The correct configuration will allow a fast and smooth connection within your network and to the Internet. It will also ensure a secure connection to transfer data and files within your network and to the Internet.