Travel Router To Boost Wifi Signal On Apple Devices

[gemz4the1]

Hello all,

I hope you had a lovely Christmas.

I have been looking online for possible solutions to my wifi issue.  Basically, we have the Virgin SuperHub and before that we had a Virgin modem with a Netgear Router.  I have found that since the iPhone 5 was released, the Virgin/Netgear Routers do not like the Apple devices (iPhone and iPad).  The signal has been poor even when the SSID is changed.  The wifi signal is strong when I am right next to the router, however in my room, which is furthest from the router, the wifi signal drops.  In order to get the signal again I usually have to walk aimlessly on our landing until the iPhone or iPad picks up the signal.

I have read online about using travel routers such as this TP Travel Router

I do not want to use it as a new router.  I read that it is possible to have it in rooms where the wifi signal is poor (such as my room) as a way of boosting the current router.  It is not a huge boost that needs just a bit and since it is on offer at the moment I thought it is a good idea to look into it.  I know the saying "you get what you pay for" but all I'd like is just a bit of a boost so that the signal is better in my room.

It says it can be plugged in and work right away without a set up and there's about 4 options which it can be used for (reapter mode).

Has anybody got a TP Travel Router or another type of travel router? What is your opinion? Would it be possible to boost the signal? Would it be compatible with iPhone 5s and iPad mini?

All of your opinions would be appreciated.

[adamtemp64]

see full manufacturers info here http://uk.tp-link.com/products/details/?categoryid=2244&model=TL-WPA271KIT

[gemz4the1]

Are extender and adapter the same thing?

Is this the same as what you suggested or is it a different thing?

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/networking/networking/powerline-home-networking/tp-link-tl-pa411kit-av...

[adamtemp64]

that kit is ethernet only no wifi in room 2

You need a wifi enabled unit in room 2 like the kit I suggested please follow the link to the manufacturers website for full info

[gemz4the1]

Thanks for your help @adamtemp64

[gemz4the1]

Just to update, I haven't had a chance to purchase it yet to see if it will work but when I do I will update you all.

Thanks for your help

[gemz4the1 · Accepted solution]

I browsed more articles online regarding signal issues in the home when using a router.  I read about some common sense things such as putting the router in a place where there are no obstacles (such as walls or other electronic devices) and also in a central place in the home so that the signal is more even in all rooms.

Therefore I decided to give it a go before going crazy at the shops buying something that I may not need.

It's only been a few hours but up to now the signal has improved slightly in rooms where there seemed to be a 'black spot.' I feel a bit silly for not considering this in the first place as it seems so simple and I didn't realise how much difference a wall would make.

Fingers crossed it will continue to be stable otherwise I will have to purchase one of the items that you suggested.

Thank you everyone for your advice and suggestions.