Basic Range Extender

[Deleted User 298457]

Hi all,

I have a TP-Link Archer C80 serving WiFi to 60sqm. It works fine for the house but my small Echo Show struggles to connect (although it seems to have improved in summer, go figure) - I had a TP-Link WAE850 to extend the range but my devices easily get confused and it seems to be insufferable for latency sensitive applications (voice, Alexa [i.e. the Alexa in the other room responds as the one nearest gets beaten to the post]).

I have an "out in the open" socket where I'd most prefer to put the device but that limits me to the single-plug type devices. I also have a hidden socket which opens up options on more elaborate looking things.

Is there a recommendation for a decent extender that would work with the C80? Is there a configuration I should be aiming for?

I also have some spare Power of Ethernet plugs if that'll help solve the issue.

I have configured a separate WiFi network so I physically switch over from the C80 myself, but I don't believe this is the optimal solution and I don't think Alexa allows two separate WiFi networks?

 

[BigT]

Which WiFi network an Amazon echo device connects to is done on a per device basis so you shouldn't have to do the switching over yourself if you name them differently.

Powerline and extenders are really sub-optimal solutions. Probably the best solution, which I'm guessing you don't want to do, is run an ethernet cable to two roughly equi-distant points to cover your whole house, up on the first floor ceilings and mount two access points from the same manufacturer with a decent management ecosystem. Ubiquiti, TP-Link, Rukus all do the sort of thing which will give a balanced and seamless experience. But it's cables run places and then £300 for the access points.

If not that then in my personal experience I think I'd favour turning off the WiFi on the C80 and introduce a 3 node mesh system. That'll give you enough nodes to be flexible about where you place them and IME a better solution than either or a combination of extenders and powerlines. There's some pretty good deals on such systems today and tomorrow.

 

[Deleted User 298457]

Slight necro.

I have just ordered a TP Link AC1900 Range Extender. Seems TP Link are pushing their "OneMesh" system which my Archer router just coincidentally received a Firmware update for. Happy days. We'll see how we get on.