Should I Have a Cell Booster or a WiFi Booster on My Boat?
20 February 2021 · 5 min · 14K views
What this video covers
Wi-Fi boosters and cell boosters serve distinct purposes for marine data connectivity, and neither guarantees high-speed internet access. A Wi-Fi booster extends the range of a local network, such as a marina’s access point, to a boat anchored further away.1:34 However, it cannot improve internet speeds if the marina’s gateway is congested by other users or lacks sufficient bandwidth.2:25 Conversely, a cell booster amplifies an existing cellular signal to improve data reliability on board.2:58 It requires an initial signal to function and cannot create connectivity in areas blocked by terrain, such as the mountains and fjords of British Columbia.3:20 Because these systems address different connectivity challenges, many boaters install both to maintain flexibility between marina environments and remote cruising grounds.4:08 A Wi-Fi booster improves local network reach, while a cell booster strengthens weak cellular signals.
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