If you are one of the 6.93 million AT&T Fiber customers based in the US and want to extend internet coverage in your home, purchasing a WiFi Extender is the most affordable and simplest approach.
The best WiFi extender for AT&T Fiber operates on WiFi 6, supports at least 30 devices, and extends coverage by a minimum of 1,200 sq ft.
It makes sense to purchase a WiFi extender if you’re in a property smaller than 2,000 sq. ft and also don’t want to disrupt your existing home internet setup.
Mesh systems are superior in terms of performance but are significantly more expensive and most worthwhile in larger properties.
Do note that WiFi extenders do ultimately slow down internet performance as each device uses up to 50% of the total network bandwidth, so you want to avoid purchasing multiple extenders.
Our top choice for the best WiFi extender for AT&T Fiber is the TP-Link RE715X as it expands the WiFi in your home to reach the parts that are hard to reach using four high-performing amplifiers. Additionally, the external antennas ensure that you have a better signal reception. It enables you to enjoy smoother and reliable streaming, downloading, gaming, and more as it can achieve speeds of up to 3 Gbps and is equipped with the WiFi 6 standard.
The Netgear EAX12 is an affordable WiFi extender that is equipped with the latest WiFi 6 technology to provide WiFi coverage to the areas in your home that are hard to reach. It extends the range of your router by up to 1200 sq. ft. and allows you to connect up to 15+ devices at the same time. Additionally, the WiFi 6 standard delivers fast WiFi speeds of up to 1.6 Gbps.
Tenda A33 is equipped with WiFi 6 technology and dual-band antennas to deliver stable internet connection throughout your home without dead spots and help to extend your coverage up to 2100 sq. ft. It can achieve speeds of up to 3000 Mbps distributed as 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
Our team of network engineers have tested 21 WiFi extenders and have narrowed down the choice to the top 7 products for AT&T Fiber featured in this article.
Best WiFi Extenders For AT&T Fiber (2024)
- Best Overall: TP-Link RE715X
- Runner-Up: Netgear EAX12
- Budget Friendly: Tenda A33
- For Gaming: ASUS RP-AX58
- High Performance: TP-Link RE815X
- Best For Multiple Devices: Netgear EX7500
- Simple Setup: Linksys RE7000
Finding the best WiFi extender for AT&T Fiber helps your existing router to remove dead zones in your home by extending your WiFi range.
A WiFi extender will ensure that all your devices are connected to the network and there is full coverage throughout your home.
1. TP-Link RE715X (Editor’s Choice)
Design
The TP-Link RE715X expands the WiFi in your home to reach the parts that are hard to reach using four high-performing amplifiers.
Additionally, the external antennas ensure that you have a better signal reception.
The RE715X enables you to enjoy smoother and reliable streaming, downloading, gaming, and more as it can achieve speeds of up to 3 Gbps and is equipped with WiFi 6 standard.
Performance
The TP-Link RE715X eliminates weak home WiFi and allows you to connect multiple devices that are normally not within the range of your main router.
The OneMesh technology enables you to combine range extenders with a router to create a smooth and reliable WiFi network so that you do not have to alternate between networks or lose signals as you move around your home.
Setting up the RE715X is easy using the Tether app as it provides you with on-screen steps for you to follow.
For a better WiFi connection, the intelligent signal indicator helps to find the optimal location for the WiFi extender.
The RE715X works with any routers or access points as well as WiFi-enabled devices such as new AX phones and laptops as it has universal compatibility.
Beamforming technology accelerates the signal strength, creates a strong and targeted WiFi, and finds the direction of your devices for better connections and performance. OFDMA technology increases efficiency by integrating the data of different end devices.
For wider bandwidth and faster speeds than the traditional 80 MHz, the RE715X supports 160 MHz on the 5G band.
We tested the performance on this band and were very impressed with the smooth, uninterrupted network connection, even when streaming.
The Tether app allows you to choose between three levels of strength depending on your needs, for example, whether you want to keep your internet focused on one room or cover a whole floor.
You can easily change the wired connection to a high-speed wireless connection by connecting an ethernet cable to the port.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link RE715X is ideal for users who are satisfied with their existing router but need better coverage as it delivers fast 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz throughput to the parts of your house that your router’s signal cannot reach.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
- WiFi Coverage: Up to 1500 sq. ft.
- Number of Devices: Up to 50 devices
- Ports: 1 Ethernet
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Features WiFi 6 support.
- Adjustable wireless coverage.
- OneMesh compatible.
- Easy to use and set up.
- Great throughput capacity.
Cons
- Bulky.
2. Netgear EAX12 (Runner-Up)
Design
The Netgear EAX12 is equipped with the latest WiFi 6 technology to provide WiFi coverage to the areas in your home that are hard to reach by extending the range of your router by up to 1200 sq. ft. and allows you to connect up to 15+ devices at the same time.
Additionally, the WiFi 6 standard delivers fast WiFi speeds of up to 1.6 Gbps to enable you to transfer, stream, and download 1.5 times faster than ever before without any interruption.
Performance
The Netgear EAX12 has 4 WiFi streams that deliver two times the capacity of the previous WiFi standard.
More streams mean that your devices have more bandwidth and data to send and receive, which leads to a high-speed internet experience.
The EAX12 offers a sleek solution for extending the range of your router as you just plug it into any wall outlet and it stays out of sight.
The ethernet port enables you to connect your gaming console, streaming player, PC, and any other wired device and enjoy high-speed internet of up to 1 Gbps.
With Mesh technology, the EAX12 offers smart roaming as it allows you to stay connected using auto-switching to your best network and a single network name.
This means that you can move around your office or home without getting disconnected.
The Nighthawk app makes setting up and managing the EAX12 easy. You can also use the app to access network management tools and the list of connected devices.
This extender is compatible with any cable modem router or wireless router and is optimized for devices and routers with WiFi 6 technology.
Who It’s For
The Netgear EAX12 is suitable for individuals who are looking for an affordable WiFi Extender to increase the coverage of their router.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: 11ax
- WiFi Coverage: 1200 sq. ft.
- Number of Devices: 15+
- Ports: 1
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Eliminates dead spots.
- Works with any router.
- More capacity.
- Faster speeds and better performance.
- Smart roaming technology.
- Easy setup and management.
Cons
- Issues with 5GHz range.
3. Tenda A33 (Budget Friendly)
Design
Tenda A33 is equipped with dual-band antennas to deliver stable internet connection throughout your home without dead spots and help to extend your coverage up to 2100 sq. ft.
Tenda A33 can achieve speeds of up to 3000 Mbps distributed as 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
Performance
The latest WiFi 6 technology enables the Tenda A33 to have 1.5 times better performance in speed and latency.
You can easily connect more than 20 devices at the same time without experiencing issues like speed drop and network congestion.
We tested this out and confirmed that a range of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and consoles were all able to connect to the WiFi extender at the same time.
The ethernet port makes this device an all-purpose extender as you can use it for high-demanding tasks like gaming and streaming.
Also, the access point mode enables you to achieve high speeds from your network with no signal interference.
Tenda A33 uses your existing network SSID name by default to ensure that you are experiencing a seamless network throughout your home. The A33 works well with 99% of the routers on the market.
You can easily find the best point for the WiFi bridge using smart LED indicators to enhance the quality of signal extension.
It is easy to set up the Tenda A33 as all you need to do is plug it into the wall plug, create a connection using the WPS button, and enjoy high-speed signals.
The bridge pairing is successful when you see a solid blue or yellow color on the signal indicator.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for an extender that comes with WiFi 6 technology and delivers a decent throughput capacity and better performance, the Tenda A33 is for you.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
- WiFi Coverage: Up to 2100 sq. ft.
- Number of Devices: 20 plus
- Ports: 1 Ethernet
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Easy to set up and manage.
- MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous streaming.
- Reliable and consistent performance.
- Decent coverage.
Cons
- Minor network inconsistencies and lags.
4. ASUS RP-AX58 (For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS RP-AX58 is a dual-band extender that increases the wireless coverage of your home by up to 2200 sq. ft. and enables you to enjoy unrivaled performance throughout your home.
The RP-AX58 is equipped with WiFi 6 standard that offers better capacity, low latency WiFi, and efficiency.
The 160 MHz bandwidth on the 5 GHz channels doubles the surfing speed of this range Extenders.
Performance
The ASUS RP-AX58 features the AiMesh WiFi system that enables compatible devices to have seamless, secure, and stable wireless connections in any part of your home.
Additionally, you can use the features of the connected ASUS routers to the entire mesh network.
The RP-AX58 gives you the option of using one or multiple WiFi names. You can use a single SSID for your entire network for seamless roaming or assign individual names to each frequency band for different purposes.
You can set up the RP-AX58 in minutes with a few steps using the ASUS Router app or ASUS Extender app.
When you are connecting a non-ASUS router or non-AiMesh, you use the ASUS Extender app but when connecting a AiMesh router, you use the ASUS Router app.
This range extender can be used with pretty much all WiFi routers, cable routers, and modems, available in 2024.
The ethernet cable enables you to connect the RP-AX58 to your router and use it as an AiMesh node or in Access Point mode.
This backhaul creates more stable and reliable connections by reserving the entire 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for your wireless devices.
Who It’s For
The ASUS RP-AX58 is ideal for users who are looking for a WiFi Extender that will deliver fast speeds and reliable performance for their gaming needs.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
- WiFi Coverage: 2200 sq. ft
- Number of Devices: Multiple
- Ports: 1 LAN
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Supports AiMesh technology.
- Has good parental controls.
- Strong WiFi performance.
- It is simple to set up.
Cons
- Only has one LAN port.
5. TP-Link RE815X (High Performance)
Design
The TP-Link RE815X is equipped with 6 powerful FEM and 4 external antennas to expand high-performance WiFi to reach hard-to-cover areas and offer better signal reception.
The WiFi 6 technology and tri-band WiFi speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps (574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 2402 Mbps on Dual 5 GHz) enable you to connect up to 96 devices and enjoy more reliable and smoother downloading, gaming, streaming, and more.
Performance
The TP-Link RE815X allows you to connect more devices to the network that are out of range from your main router and eliminates weak WiFi signal in the home.
The gigabit ethernet port enables you to connect your favorite device and experience wired reliability and speed anywhere in your home.
The OneMesh technology enables you to create a seamless WiFi network using compatible range Extenders and routers so that you do not have to change networks or lose signal as you move around.
Beamforming technology enables your devices to have stronger connections by detecting their location and focusing WiFi toward them.
A separate 5 GHz acts as a wireless backhaul to minimize interference and response time.
The TP-Link Tether app (iOS, Android) helps you to set up and manage the RE815X using easy and quick steps.
Find the best location to put your extender for the best WiFi connection using the intelligent signal indicator.
The RE815X can be used with all Wi-Fi routers and devices or access points as it has universal compatibility. It even supports laptops, new AX phones, and other devices.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link RE815X is suitable for users looking for a high-performance WiFi Extender that delivers stronger connections and broader coverage.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: 11a/b/g/n/ac, 802.11ax
- WiFi Coverage: Broader Coverage
- Number of Devices: 96
- Ports: 1
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Has a broader coverage.
- Stable and stronger connections.
- Larger capacity.
- Smart roaming with OneMesh technology.
- Easy to set up and manage.
Cons
- Issues with the 2.4 GHz band.
6. Netgear EX7500 (Best For Multiple Devices)
Design
The Netgear EX7500 uses patented FastLane3 (TM) and tri-band technology to deliver speeds of up to 2200 Mbps for multi-player gaming and heavy-duty 4K HD streaming.
The EX7500 extends WiFi range coverage by up to 2300 sq. ft. to cover all the areas in your home both indoors and outdoors.
It connects up to 45 devices like speakers, smartphones, laptops, tablets, IP cameras, IoT devices, and more.
Performance
The Netgear EX7500 uses Mesh technology to provide smart roaming so that you can stay connected using one network name and auto-switching to your preferred network.
The EX7500 intelligently chooses between three bands to maximize speed and minimize interference for a home full of smart wireless devices.
The tri-band technology provides a dedicated WiFi band that communicates with your router to maximize speed to your devices.
The five-minute setup enables you to connect your current router by pressing one button. The Netgear WiFi app allows you to access the parental controls which help you to set schedules and control WiFi access by device.
The Netgear WiFi Analyzer app helps you find the optimal location for placing the WiFi Extender.
The EX7500 works with any gateway, wireless router, or cable modem with WiFi. It supports WEP and WPA2/WPA wireless security protocols.
Who It’s For
The Netgear EX7500 is recommended for users with multiple devices that need fast and stable speeds as well as seamless roaming and ultimate WiFi performance.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: 11ac
- WiFi Coverage: 2300 sq. ft.
- Number of Devices: 45
- Ports: N/A
- App Support: Yes
Pros
- Has easy parental controls.
- Tri-band technology for maximum speeds.
- Five-minute setup.
- Designed for heavy-duty streaming.
- Smart roaming.
- Wider coverage.
Cons
- Issues with customer service.
7. Linksys RE7000 (Simple Setup)
Design
The Linksys RE7000 enables you to stream HD and 4K movies, download music, play online games, and use all your favorite apps without interruption.
The RE7000 increases the range of your current router to up to 2500 sq. ft. and boosts the signal in areas that are hard to reach in your home.
The dual-band RE7000 delivers a combined speed of up to 1.9 Gbps which is twice the performance of a single band.
You can assign older devices to the 2.4 GHz band and newer wireless AC devices to the 5 GHz.
The crossband technology creates a stronger signal by allowing information to be received on one band and sent on the other simultaneously.
Performance
The Linksys RE7000 is easy to set up as it automatically syncs to your router using the Push Button Connect feature.
The Spot Finder technology helps you to put the extender in the right place in your home for optimal performance using your tablet, laptop, or smartphone.
You can use the RE7000 as an AC WiFi access point to reduce dead spots and extend your home network by adding WiFi capabilities to your wired network.
Use the Gigabit ethernet cable to connect the access point to your router or other wired internet adapter and put it where you need a wireless boost.
The MU-MIMO technology ensures that your devices have a more efficient and faster connection.
This technology enables everyone in your home to simultaneously stream HD movies, surf the internet, play online games, or more with no lag or buffering.
The RE7000 is compatible with all WiFi routers including those provided by ISPs. Additionally, when installing this extender, you do not need to adjust the settings of your router.
Beamforming technology concentrates WiFi signal to every device for increased coverage and signal strength.
This means you can check emails, listen to music, play games, stream movies, and more without worrying about signal drop-off.
The Gigabit port enables you to enjoy up to 10 times the data transfer speed of fast ethernet on your wired devices including Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, streaming players, or smart TVs.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a WiFi Extender that is easy to set up, the Linksys RE7000 is the option for you as all you need to do to get it working is to press the Push Button Connect feature and it will automatically sync with your router.
Specs
- WiFi Standard: 11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11ac
- WiFi Coverage: 2500 sq. ft.
- Number of Devices: Multiple
- Ports: 1
- App Support: N/A
Pros
- Has Beamforming and MU-MIMO technology.
- Fast ethernet connections.
- Removes dead zones while increasing WiFi range.
- Easy setup.
- Faster and reliable speeds.
Cons
- Issues with the 5GHz band.
Factors To Consider When Looking For A WiFi Extender For AT&T Fiber
WiFi Coverage
The main reason for purchasing a WiFi extender is to boost coverage within the home because your existing router setup is unable to reach all areas. WiFi extenders connect to the main AT&T router and generate a new WiFi access point where users log in separately.
The coverage, expressed in square feet, refers to the total area that a signal from a WiFi extender can theoretically reach.
WiFi extenders can generate coverage ranging from 1,200 sq. ft to 2,800 sq. ft. Generally, products offering greater coverage typically cost more.
When we say that the coverage advertised is theoretical, we mean that it is an estimate and does not factor nuances within the home such as the location, presence of thick walls, or obstacles that can reduce home network coverage.
The coverage generated by a WiFi extender is also dependent on the quality of the router it is being paired with.
A router that generates a weak or poor-quality signal, will also have a weak extended signal.
When reviewing products for their coverage, you should assume that an extender can reach anywhere between 70% and 120% of the advertised coverage.
WiFi Speed (WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6)
The majority of routers on the market are designed with WiFi 5 or WiFi 6 standards. WiFi 5 routers are universally compatible with internet-using devices, cheaper, and are best for lower-speed internet plans of up to 500 Mbps.
WiFi 6 includes advanced security and performance features, supports more devices as well, and provides faster and more reliable internet speeds. WiFi 6 routers are equipped to operate on gigabit internet plans.
When looking for the best WiFi extender to suit your household setup, you should be looking to align the extender with the WiFi standard of your router to enable optimal performance.
If you own a router operating with WiFi 5, you don’t need to purchase a WiFi 6 compatible extender.
If you are unsure about which standard your router operates, check underneath your router and see if the protocol is displayed. WiFi 5 will display 802.11ac, while WiFi 6 will show 802.11ax.
Number Of Supported Devices
Similar to routers, WiFi extenders will also present the number of devices the extender can connect to at any one time.
If there are more devices connected to the extender than the figure presented, the signal reliability and speed will drop.
The majority of WiFi Extenders can handle up to 30 connected devices, but some can handle more than 50.
These figures are estimated and assume low-consumption usage across the connected devices.
To work out which is the ideal number of connected devices you need for a WiFi extender, first work out the total number of internet-using devices in your household, then add 10% to 20% premium to arrive at the figure.
WiFi Extender vs Mesh WiFi System
If you’re weighing up investing in a WiFi extender or a mesh WiFi system, you need to understand the main trade-offs.
In terms of coverage, practicality, and reliability, mesh systems are superior to WiFi Extenders as the mesh router and nodes form a unified network which allows users to log in to one household network and have their connections automatically passed between router and nodes to ensure you are connected to the nearest WiFi access point.
WiFi extenders are more affordable and easier to setup compared to mesh systems as they typically consist of a single plug-in unit that then connects to your existing router.
This is ideal for those who want to boost coverage without needing to significantly change their existing WiFi setup.
In terms of usability and performance, WiFi extenders are less practical as users will need to log in separately to the extended network whenever they are in range.
Also, an extender can use up to 50% total network bandwidth which can reduce the quality of the internet connection.
We recommend WiFi extenders are best for households who are happy with their existing setup but want to extend coverage to a specific area of the house.
Mesh systems are targeted at households that are larger than 2,000 sq. ft and therefore need the advanced technology offered by a mesh system to reach all parts of the home.
FAQs
How Do You Set Up A WiFi Extender With AT&T Fiber?
To set up a WiFi extender with AT&T Fiber, first, download the app from the app store or access the interface via att.com/smarthomemanager.
Next, log in and select the Network. After this, click the Home Network Hardware and select the Add Extender icon.
Then identify and select the Extender mode you are using and then follow the prompts to complete the setup.
Once connected, place the Extender in the most strategic location in your home to improve network coverage.
Should I Get A WiFi Extender Or A Mesh WiFi System?
Mesh systems perform better in terms of reliable internet speeds and coverage but they are expensive, ranging from $200 to $500 and disrupt your existing household internet setup.
We recommend a mesh system only for properties larger than 2,000 sq. ft.
For smaller properties, a WiFi extender should suffice in terms of extending your coverage with the home.
Extenders are affordably priced, ranging from $50 to $80, and can be easily connected to your existing router.
Are All WiFi Extenders Compatible With AT&T Fiber?
All WiFi extenders should work with AT&T Fiber so compatibility should not be a significant issue.
When reviewing a product, double-check that there are no compatibility issues with fiber internet.
Will A WiFi Extender Slow Down My Internet Speed?
WiFi extenders do not directly slow down the internet speed received from the internet service provider.
That said, WiFi extenders do affect bandwidth, as they can use up to 50% of total network bandwidth once connected. This in turn can impact the speed and quality of the internet that is accessed by users.
Final Words
Hopefully, you can now decide which WiFi extender to get to extend the coverage of your home internet. However, if it is still difficult to find one, here is our recommendation:
Our top choice is the TP-Link RE715X as it expands the WiFi in your home to reach the parts that are hard to reach using four high-performing amplifiers.
Additionally, the external antennas ensure that you have a better signal reception.
It enables you to enjoy smoother and reliable streaming, downloading, gaming, and more as it can achieve speeds of up to 3 Gbps and is equipped with WiFi 6 standard.
Do consult our buying guide for more information on the factors you should consider when purchasing a WiFi extender for AT&T Fiber.
