Have you ever wanted to watch your desktop screen on your smart TV but found your network connection too weak or unreliable? If so, you’re not alone.
Many people face this issue when trying to stream their favorite videos, games, and presentations from their computer to their TV.
Fortunately, there is a solution to overcome this challenge by using a power adapter.
Helen, from Clyde, Michigan, is writing to ask for advice on how to connect her desktop to her Sony smart TV using a powerline adapter.
“I need an extender to connect my desktop to my Sony smart TV. The network monitor (Xfinity) is on the bottom tier on the other side of the house, and the TV is on the top tier on the other side of the house.”
Your WiFi extender must support the same or higher WiFi standards than your router. (cryo360)
How to save money with high-speed internet at discounted prices
To extend your network so you can view your desktop on your TV, you will need a powerline adapter.
Please give me some advice regarding wall outlets for internet networks. thank you,”
Helen, Clyde, Michigan
Helen, we can help. Learn how to set up and use the powerline adapter. We also provide some tips and recommendations on how to get the best performance and experience from your powerline adapter. We also provide information on using WiFi extenders to improve internet access in different areas of your home.
What is a powerline adapter?
A powerline adapter is a device that uses existing electrical wiring to extend network signals to any room in your home. It works by plugging one adapter into an outlet near your router and the other adapter into an outlet near your TV.
You can then connect your device using an Ethernet cable or WiFi. This allows you to enjoy fast and stable network connections without drilling holes or running long wires.
Another version of a powerline adapter is one that transmits the signal over WiFi. Unlike wired powerline adapters, wireless powerline adapters do not require an Ethernet cable to connect to your TV. However, you’ll need to plug it into an outlet near your TV and pair it with another unit near your network monitor.
Check out our top picks for the best powerline adapters.
What is a WiFi extender?
Helen could also consider using a WiFi extender to improve the WiFi signal in her home. A WiFi extender is a device that amplifies the internet signal from your router and retransmits it to areas with weak or no signal. For optimal performance, your WiFi extender should be placed between your router and the dead zone.
There are two types of WiFi extenders: plug-in extenders that plug into a wall outlet, and desktop extenders that have an Ethernet port. Some WiFi extenders use the same wireless network as your router, while others create separate networks that require a switching device. The WiFi extender must support his WiFi standard as good or better than the router.
Check out our picks for the best WiFi extenders
Key Differences Between Powerline Adapters and WiFi Extenders
A WiFi extender is a device that amplifies the internet signal from your router and retransmits it to areas with weak or no signal. (TP link)
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The main difference between powerline adapters and WiFi extenders is that powerline adapters use a wired connection, while WiFi extenders use a wireless connection and do not require electrical wiring or Ethernet cables. Both devices can help improve internet access in different areas of your home, but each has different advantages and disadvantages.
Powerline adapters and WiFi extenders: pros and cons
Strong Points
Powerline adapters can provide a more stable and faster connection than WiFi extenders.
Cons
It depends on the quality of the electrical wiring and the distance between the plugs. If your home’s wiring is old or defective, or if you have too many devices connected to the same circuit, your powerline adapter may not work well.
Strong Points
WiFi extenders are easier to set up and use than powerline adapters.
More information: How to speed up your Wi-Fi and internet connection
Cons
It may not be as fast or reliable as a wired connection.
WiFi extenders can cause interference with other wireless devices and networks, and can themselves be subject to interference.
WiFi extenders also use some of your original WiFi network’s bandwidth to communicate with your router, so they can also reduce that bandwidth.
Option to upgrade to mesh network
Alternatively, Helen can upgrade to a mesh network. This might cost her a little more money, but it could be the easiest and best solution to getting a good internet signal everywhere in your home. In this way, a strong signal could be received in every corner of the 1927 brick house, both indoors and outdoors. Good WiFi is required to support wireless security cameras.
This third mesh option definitely strengthens the WiFi signal in her home. A mesh network is a group of connected devices, such as her WiFi router, that act as a single network, so there are multiple connectivity sources around your home instead of a single router.
Mesh networks can provide better coverage, performance, and reliability than a single router or WiFi extender. However, it can also be more expensive and complicated to set up than other options. To ensure optimal signal strength and avoid interference, you should purchase compatible mesh devices and place them strategically around your home.
A photo of the Wyze smart plug that connects to WiFi and saves money on your energy bills. (Credit: Wise) (Credit: Wise)
If you’re not checking what’s going on on your wireless network, you’re making a big mistake.
You may also need to configure your mesh network using an app or software, which varies by manufacturer. Mesh networks are ideal for large homes with multiple floors and rooms, or homes with thick walls or other obstacles that block the WiFi signal.
Click here to see the top mesh network winners.
Cart important points
What you use to boost your home’s WiFi signal ultimately depends on how your home is set up and what works best as a result.
If the electrical wiring makes it possible, then definitely yes. power line adapter It provides better WiFi coverage with much less effort than. WiFi extender Maybe.
A third possible option is mesh network. Note that although this is the most expensive option, it is the recommended method to receive a stable signal throughout your home.
Where is the most difficult place in your home to receive a WiFi signal? What have you done to resolve your coverage weaknesses? Email us. Cyberguy.com/Contact
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