How Can I Extend the Distance for Receiving WiFi From Open Internet?
Wi-Fi signal range depends greatly on the quality, style and height of the antenna it uses; even acquiring more transmitting power may not have the range-boosting effect of modifying or relocating the antenna. Adjusting the settings on the open wireless equipment is not always possible, but many local solutions (antenna height and equipment location) can greatly extend the range of most Wi-Fi devices. These Wi-Fi modifications can improve the signal distance considerably and take about 20 minutes.
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Instructions
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Replace the stock antenna with one of superior design. The small black rubber style antenna that comes with most wireless networking hardware usually has a rating of 2dB, which is low on the signal to noise scale. More advanced types can have a signal ratio of 20 dB or higher, but often an inexpensive directional with a rating of 10dB will dramatically improve range. Wireless network equipment comes with an N-type antenna adapter (routers), or a smaller R-SMA jack. Even cellular and Wi-Fi cards made for laptops (PCM/CIA) commonly have external antenna plugs for upgrading. Both adapter plugs turn clockwise into their respective receptacle and come with longer antenna cables.
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Direct the antenna toward the open Internet access point's location, especially if it a directional antenna. Omnidirectional antennas, like the standard rubber mast, have a decreased lateral range, but their mast can be pointed at the source for better reception. Mounting the rubber mast antenna onto a reflective surface can also improve the range by turning it into a directional.
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Raise the antenna as high as possible in relation to the open Internet access point. By using antenna extension cables, lofty heights can increase the range of even the cheapest Wi-Fi antenna. Most Wi-Fi cable extensions will come in 6 feet or more, with R-SMA being the predominant adapter style. Smaller antennas can be secured to poles or trees, spreading their effective range hundreds of feet. The industry standard for most wireless networking equipment is 300-400 feet, but distances of up to 1,200 feet are possible by mounting the equipment or antenna 30 feet high.
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Maximize the internal firmware settings for wireless Internet. With Wi-Fi routers, this is normally done through a browser interface, with most common brands allowing adjustable power settings under the "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" menus. Wireless LAN cards for desktop computers and laptops will have adjustable power settings in their device configurations. With Windows machines, this can be in the Device Manager section of the Control Panel's "System" settings or in proprietary software provided by the manufacturer.
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Remove obstacles from the wireless access point and the wireless device by changing locations. Simply moving from an area blocked by a building or trees to one within a direct line of sight to the access point will improve the signal.
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Tips & Warnings
If the wireless internet device is contained in a laptop without an external antenna jack, simply raising the laptop to higher ground could improve the signal.
Modifying the settings of an open internet device is often not appreciated by others using it.
References
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