14 DAY TRIAL // Setting up a wireless network in a home isn't all that hard nowadays, but making sure the signal reaches far enough, and is strong enough for all compatible devices to pick up on (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc), can be troublesome, so special additions are sometimes needed.
As it happens, Netgear is a purveyor of such additions, or perhaps we should say network-enhancement accessories.
The item it is promoting this time is called WN100RP and is a Wi-Fi booster that costs only $40 / 32.96 Euro (give or take)
As small as a night-light, it looks like a little box but, even so small and unassuming, it can nearly double the range of a Wi-Fi signal broadcasted by Belkin, Linksys, D-Link and other routers (including Netgear's own, obviously).
There might be some incompatibilities though, especially if the firmware of said routers have been altered or changed, so software modders should keep this in mind.
"Consumers today want the best connected experience, complete with the ability to enjoy online entertainment on their WiFi connected mobile devices throughout the home," said Damir Skripic, product line manager for connected entertainment at NETGEAR.
"The NETGEAR WiFi Booster for Mobile enables this experience by significantly increasing WiFi coverage in the home, which is ideal for roaming iPads, iPhones, Android tablets, Kindle e-readers, smartphones or any other mobile WiFi devices."
The WN100RP WiFi Booster turns on and off at the touch of a button and, thus, doesn't need to be unplugged from the outlet in order to save energy.
Finally, the device needs a simple, mobile-friendly browser-based setup and has LEDs that indicate signal strength, so that the best placement may be achieved.
Shipments should begin this summer, but we're not exactly sure when. Regardless, the time can be spent reading through the product page, located here.
As for other things that Netgear has to offer, the NeoTV Pro wireless media player with WiDi support comes to mind.