Wi-Fi PLCs are a good option for improving your home’s connection. They work through your electrical wiring and allow you to extend coverage from one part of your home to another. Some models only allow wireless connections, but others also have a network cable. Now, what speed should you choose for these devices? We’ll discuss that in this article.
Several factors come into play here. Some are fixed, immovable elements, but others will be variable, depending on the conditions. For example, the contracted fiber speed, the maximum speed that Wi-Fi PLCs can achieve, and possible interference and similar problems must be taken into account.
How to choose the speed of Wi-Fi PLCs
Keep in mind that it’s always important to buy a quality product. Therefore, beyond going into details, always check that you’re purchasing a model that’s reliable and allows you to achieve good speed and stability.
What do you need it for?
The first thing you should consider is why you need Wi-Fi PLCs. What are you connecting? That’s going to be the basis. From there, you could choose one model or another. If you’re simply connecting home automation devices, such as plugs or light bulbs, you don’t need a lot of speed. On the other hand, you would need quite a bit if you’re going to stream content or use the cloud.
If you have any doubts or if you think you might need more speed in certain situations, it would be best to purchase devices that allow you to have a greater margin.
Keep in mind that it is a theoretical speed
It’s essential to know that the maximum speed of Wi-Fi PLCs is theoretical. What does this mean? For example, if you buy a 600 Mbps model, it means you could reach that speed. But it doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get that speed, even if you have a 1 Gbps fiber optic plan.
The reason is that other external factors will come into play. For example, potential interference, the quality of the electrical wiring, etc., can affect your experience. This means that, for example, you’ll go from a theoretical speed of 600 Mbps to 300 or 400 Mbps. If you really need those 600 Mbps available, it would be best to opt for a 1200 Mbps model, which, in real-world speeds, is closer to those 600 Mbps.
Check your contracted rate
The rate you have contracted will also be a determining factor in whether you are interested in one PLC device model or another. If you have 300 Mbps fiber optic cable, for example, and you don’t have a very large home and aren’t affected by interference, a 600 Mbps model would be more than sufficient.
On the other hand, if you have a higher-speed fiber plan and want to get the most out of it, you’d have to upgrade. Therefore, you’ll also have to adjust based on your speed.
Ultimately, keep all of this in mind if you’re going to buy Wi-Fi PLC devices to improve your home internet connection. It’s important to always choose products with a warranty.
