People are just now realizing that Wi-Fi speeds are getting an instant boost with a “second network” hack that makes it possible to select a stronger signal

If you have a slow Wi-Fi connection, a few simple tricks can help boost the speed.

You may not know this, but various things can hinder your WiFi connection.

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“Wi-Fi is not perfect,” notes communications company Verizon website.

“The signal becomes weaker the greater the distance between you and the Wi-Fi router or the more physical obstacles – such as a corner or a wall – between your device and the router.”

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to increase the speed of your network.

And one of the best ways is to use a WiFi booster.

What is a WiFi booster?

Two different types of simple home devices can help improve your network’s Wi-Fi strength: a Wi-Fi extender and a Wi-Fi repeater.

Both are often referred to as Wi-Fi boosters, Verizon revealed.

“These Wi-Fi boosters can be simple desktop accessories or plug directly into power outlets,” the company said.

Once set up, boosters essentially create a secondary network that your devices can access.

In particular, your device automatically accesses the signal that is stronger.

WiFi extender

The first Wi-Fi booster is a Wi-Fi range extender that takes the signal sent by your router and extends it.

This is possible without negatively affecting overall internet speeds.

“For example, if you have very poor service on the second floor and want to watch YouTube TV at night, you can place a Wi-Fi extender in a bedroom or bathroom,” Verizon said.

“And you can use multiple Wi-Fi range extenders to increase signal strength in different areas of your home.”

When purchasing a Wi-Fi range extender, be sure to check your router’s signal.

In order for it to work properly, you need to find a suitable WiFi extender.

WIFI REPEATER

A WiFi repeater is the second type of WiFi booster.

“This hardware actually has two Wi-Fi routers – one that captures your existing network and a second that uses that signal to create an extended network with a larger coverage area,” Verizon explained.

To function properly, a WiFi repeater should be placed in a location where a strong signal is already received.

The repeater, in turn, can increase the network strength to one deck, allowing you to work at home when the weather is nice.

Verizon noted that one downside is that the signal is generally strong with a Wi-Fi repeater, but the bandwidth may decrease.

This may cause a delay in WiFi speed from time to time.