Though two wireless extenders can run off the same router, connecting them to each other is typically a bad idea that will wreak havoc on your signal.
I have spent many years using a range of different WiFi extenders. It is that experience, mixed with additional research on the devices, that gave me the tools to properly cover the numerous questions tackled in this guide.
The following article provides insight into WiFi extenders by analyzing the way they work, why some users may want to use two at once, as well as the cons that come from having such a setup.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- It’s more than possible to run two wireless extenders off of each other. However, doing so will likely cause dropped signals, massive slowdowns, and extreme lag to the point where your internet isn’t entirely usable.
- Using two wireless extenders and running them off a single router is a great way to increase general internet coverage and ensure you get a strong signal no matter where you are in your home.
- When setting up two wireless extenders to run off a main router, it’s critical to keep them on different channels and ensure they don’t have the same SSID.
Daisy Chaining Two WiFi Extenders
Wireless extenders are some of the most useful devices for people who want a way to get more out of their internet. They greatly increase a signal’s range and they are able to boost a weak signal to all corners of your home. They are simple to use and set up as well.
Not only that, but using multiple extenders can provide you with even better coverage. That’s especially true for people with large residences. However, it’s important to note that such coverage has to be done in a specific way.
That’s because, while you can technically connect two WiFi extenders to each other, it’s not going to lead to great results. In fact, it’s most likely just going to slow your internet speed down to the point where it’s almost unusable.
Extenders are great on their own, but they come with a specific speed penalty when paired together. So, while it may seem like a great idea to run two off of each other, the second one will likely just cause latency, speed, and overall performance problems.
The two devices may interfere with each other as well. That can cause signal drops and make it so your WiFi doesn’t connect at all. The general rule to follow is, the more extenders you have connected to each other, the more devices your signal has to run through.
Each time it gets amplified by a device, it loses a good chunk of its bandwidth. As such, while it might not lose a ton of power when going through the first extender, going through the second one may completely decimate it. When trying to get the most out of a signal, less is often more.
Using Multiple WiFi Extenders
The issue of running a WiFi extender off of another one might cause some users to avoid having two at the same time, but there are some good reasons to run both off of a single router rather than through each other.
One, multiple routers increase general coverage. There are many scenarios where WiFi doesn’t quite reach all of the corners of your house. Getting a second extender can better split up the signal and prevent any dead zones.
Using two extenders is also a great idea for those who need coverage both in and around their house. Getting a signal in the yard isn’t always easy, but it is useful. Hooking up a two-extender configuration makes that possible.
Just be sure to always connect the extenders back to the main router, and keep them on different channels. If you put them on the same frequency, it’s only going to cause problems and make both devices interfere with each other.
Additionally, never give the extenders and main router the same SSID. Though it might be tempting, as that seems like it would be easier to get between them, it may cause the extenders to connect to each other rather than the router. That then drops your internet completely.
Hooking up both devices via ethernet cables gets around that issue, and is a great solution for users who don’t mind having a few extra wires around their setup. Always go with a wired connection if your space allows for it.
FAQs
The following are some of the most asked questions regarding daisy chaining two extenders.
How Many WiFi Extenders Should I Own?
That completely depends on your situation. If you need a lot of coverage or have an extremely large house, it’s best to get two or three extenders. If you have a smaller space, or even a medium-sized one, then one is typically more than enough.
Do Multiple WiFi Extenders Slow Down Internet Speed?
Though having two extenders connected to each other can cause issues, having more than one extender in your house with both running through a single router won’t be a problem.
Is There a Limit on How Many Extenders I Can Have?
Yes. All routers come with a specific limit to the number of connected devices (including WiFi extenders) that they can handle. Always consult the manual or the router manufacturer’s website for the exact number.
Final Words
Daisy chaining two wireless extenders might seem like a good idea at first, but it’s only going to end in disaster. If you want more coverage or a boost, there’s nothing wrong with having multiple in your home. Just be sure their signal goes through the router, not each other.
Have you ever used more than one WiFi extender? Why did you need two and what were the results? Let us know below!
