How to Increase the Wireless Signal on a Computer
Computers can connect to the Internet using wireless, or Wi-Fi, signals if they have a wireless adapter. Wireless Internet can be much more convenient than a wired connection because computers can be networked over longer distances and through physical obstructions without the need for wires. One drawback of wireless connections is that connectivity depends on the strength of the wireless signal. A weak signal can cause a computer to lose an Internet connection or lead to slow downloading speeds. Consider these methods to help improve your wireless signal strength.
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Instructions
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Position your router and computer so that they are closer together. The closer your computer is to your router, the better the signal strength will be. If you have a laptop, you can simply use your computer in the same room as the router. Keeping the router elevated and away from large metal objects may help improve signal strength.
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Remove physical obstructions. If there are physical obstructions between your router and computer that can be removed, such as closed doors, furniture and filing cabinets, open or move them to create an unobstructed path between the devices.
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Update your wireless adapter's drivers. Click "Start," "Run," type "devmgmt.msc" into the run box, click "OK," double-click on "Network adapters" and then right-click on your wireless card and choose "Update driver software ..." The manufacturer of your wireless adapter may also host driver downloads on the company's website.
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Install a wireless repeater between your router and PC. A wireless repeater can increase wireless signals.
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Eliminate wireless interference. Certain devices, such as cordless phones or other wireless technology, may reduce signal strength. Remove these devices from the area where you are using your network.
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Tips & Warnings
Replacing old network hardware such as your router or the wireless adapter in your computer may improve signal strength.
Network bandwidth may be limited if there are many computers connected to the same wireless router. If other computers are using the router and downloading large amounts of data, it can make a connection seem slow, even if the signal strength is good.
References
- Photo Credit Wireless image by Haris Rauf from Fotolia.com
