How to Make My Laptop Wireless Signal Longer

USB wireless adapter.

Although most laptop computers have a built-in wireless receiver that gives you the ability to connect to a Wi-Fi network, you may find the signal isn't strong enough to pick up some wireless networks that are too far away. It isn't possible to go into the computer and tweak the receiver to extend the range, but you can connect a USB adapter with an extended range to increase your chances of connecting to a wireless signal.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• USB wireless adapter

1. Purchase a USB wireless adapter. The device packaging should tell you the range in feet the computer can be away from a wireless signal and still receive a signal.

2. Insert the USB wireless adapter into any available USB port on your computer. A light pops on once you insert the USB device in completely.

3. Right-click the wireless icon in the lower-right corner of your desktop (upper right if using a Mac) and select the "Enable" option. With a Mac you click on the wireless adapter you have connected.

4. Right-click the wireless icon again and select the "view wireless networks" option. A list of all the wireless networks appears. Hopefully you will see more networks now that you have extended range.

5. Click the network you want to join, type in the password (if required) and click "Connect."

References

• USB Wireless Adapter: USB Wireless Information and Options
• Netgear: Increase Range USB Adapter
• 3com: USB Adapter Increase Wireless
• Citrus Micro: Intellinet Range Wireless