PLC devices have become a very popular option to expand, in a simple, fast and economical way, the scope of our Internet connection. But nevertheless, its coexistence with Wi-Fi repeaters has placed them, on many occasions, in a more than unfair background.
It is very easy to understand. When a user wants to extend the range of their Internet connection, the first thing they usually think of is a Wi-Fi repeater. It’s normal, after all is the most popular solution, and the most widespread, but this does not mean that it will always be the best, in fact it is easy to find cases in which it is the opposite (the worst option).
I know that many of you still have doubts about this topic, and that is why I wanted to give shape to this article, where I am going to share with you a more in-depth analysis of PLC devices, but with a very specific focus: determining in which cases they are the best option. As always, if after reading the article you have any questions you can leave it in the comments, and we will be happy to help you solve them.
When and why is it better to choose PLC devices
We start from a simple idea, you want to extend the reach of your Internet connection, but you are not sure how to do it. Currently, you have two great options, Wi-Fi repeaters, which connect to a plug and take care of repeat the signal they receive from the router, expanding it and taking it to other corners of our home or office. For a Wi-Fi repeater to work well it must:
- Stand at a reasonable distance from the router.
- Not be surrounded by many obstacles or sources of interference.
- Cover a reasonable surface, since with distance the signal will lose strength.
What does all of the above mean? Well, very simple, that a Wi-Fi repeater can be a good option if we are going to cover, for example, a relatively small distance, within the same plant, and without too many obstacles. On the other hand, if we want to take our Internet connection to another floor, or to areas that are far away and in rooms with many obstacles and interference, a repeater will not be a good option, because the signal will not arrive well, if it arrives at all.
PLC devices are also connected to a plug, but they are linked to the router in a wired way, and carry the signal of our Internet connection through mains wiring. To do this, they have two devices, one input, connected to the router, and another output, which goes into the plug in the room where we want to take our connection. This makes them ideal for overcoming several floors, and also areas with many obstacles.
One of the most important limitations posed by PLC devices is that they force us to connect by cable, but this has been overcome thanks to the models that also integrate Wi-Fi repeater functions. PLC devices with a Wi-Fi repeater will allow us to enjoy the best of both worlds, and without having to make a huge investment.
