Network Names And Connections (SSIDs)
SSIDs is the name given to the broadcast identifier of a wireless network. It stands for Service Set Identifier. So Falinge_Co-Operative-Freenet is one SSID, and Freehold Co-operative Freenet is another SSID, as is Co-Operative_Rochdale_Open_WiFi. If you install an extender to one of those SSIDs, it will be locked to that SSID. More importantly it will have the same name but add EXT to the end. For example one such extender on Freehold has the SSID of Falinge_Co-Operative-Freen_EXT.
It's worth thinking of the broadcast Mesh Network as similar to a Television signal. Your devices that can connect to WiFi have a built-in aerial. Obviously some aerials are bigger than others. The bigger the better. Also worth noting that the wireless adapters (aerials) in out devices deteriorate with use over time. This is why it is sometimes necessary to use an extender, or upgrade your device's wireless adapter.
One common problem we keep seeing is that users are often not actually connected to their WiFi Extender. It's often worth checking which WiFi Network you are connected too.
Optimal WiFi Extender Placement
After getting the best Wifi Extender suited for your need, your next task is to actually install it and place it in the right place. Having the wrong or bad physical placement is the number one reason why your internet disconnect or dropping connection often.
Placing the router closest to where the signal from outside is strongest is best practice. Often people plug in the extender nearest to where they want to work/play etc, but this is often too far away from the broadcast SSID, and leads to weak/intermittent connections.
You can setup your own SSID on an Extender. However, we will have to support these training requirements as and when needed.