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2 Easy Ways to Extend Your Home Network

Product: PowerLine AV+ and My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender

Did you find the most comfortable place to use your laptop, but your wireless network is too weak to reach? Perhaps you occasionally want to do some online gaming from the carport? Hey, I'm not here to judge. I have found that, from time to time, I need Internet access in some unusual places. Don't give up hope; there are a couple of things that can help you out...

My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender:

Following the introduction of its first line of wireless home networking products, WD's acclaimed My Net family of HD dual-band routers, the selectable dual-band My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender provides faster, stronger and more reliable wireless network coverage to computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, media players, smart TVs and other Wi-Fi connected devices that suffer from a weak Wi-Fi signal within the home.

My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender's power comes from its 3x3 multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) antenna array design, versus the 2x2 design used by most competitive products. This design enables customers to significantly extend the Wi-Fi signal from their existing routers or gateways, letting them enjoy HD streaming movies, online gaming and video calls in remote areas of the home with the fastest wireless-N speeds possible. The range extender also features a Gigabit Ethernet port, providing a high-speed Internet connection for distant, wired-only entertainment devices.

Setup of the My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender is a simple two step process, with no installation CD or software needed. Customers can use Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) to connect the range extender to their existing home network with a push of a button. Then they can use the convenient Wi-Fi signal strength indicator lights on the front of the range extender to find the optimal signal-boosting location in their home. Once all the indicator lights are lit, the My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender is in the best location to provide maximum performance. The My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender is compatible with all Wi-Fi certified routers and gateways, as well as all wireless Wi-Fi standards, from 802.11a to 802.11ac.

"Today's home is filled with multiple Wi-Fi connected devices simultaneously streaming movies, music and TV shows on services such as Netflix, Hulu Plus, VUDU and others. The My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender provides faster speeds at greater distances, enabling HD streaming to the outermost areas of the home."
- explains Scott Vouri, general manager for WD's connected life solutions group.

PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter Starter Kit (DHP-309AV):

This starter kit instantly extends the reach of your current home network by utilizing your home's existing electrical wiring to extend your network to locations with limited or no Wi-Fi connectivity. PowerLine technology delivers a high-performance, stable and secure signal throughout the home and connects a desktop, laptop or wired entertainment device in those hard-to-reach spots in your home, outdoor, and entertainment centers.

Performance is enhanced by delivering speeds up to 35 percent faster than standard PowerLine devices, enabling fast access to email, files, and the Internet in the farthest reaches of your home. With its compact design, the PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter does not block a second electrical outlet and is perfect for locations with limited space. With an easy Plug-and-Connect installation you can extend the range of your current home network in just a few minutes.

The PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter Starter Kit Features:

  • 2 PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapters (DHP-308AV)
  • 2 Ethernet Cables
  • Push and Secure encryption button
  • Plug and Play installation
  • Supports a 128-bit AES encryption for network security
  • Uses your home's existing electrical wiring by plugging into existing power outlets

While we haven't tested these products (yet), we did test a power line-based networking product made by ActionTec (see review link below) and we were quite pleasantly surprised in its performance, so power line-based connectivity could be a good solution to your seasonal remote corner-of-your-house-or-yard Internet needs.

Pricing & Availability:

My Net Wi-Fi Range Extender is available now at select U.S. retailers and online at WDstore.com. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $89.99 USD.

The PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter Starter Kit (DHP-309AV) is available now for $59.99 throughout D-Link's network of e-tail and retail outlets, including Amazon.com and Frys. The product will also be available at Office Max and Office Depot starting in November.



-Geck0, GameVortex Communications
AKA Robert Perkins

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