How Can I Boost the Range and Strength of My Wireless Internet?

Increase wireless signal strength

Its easier than ever to connect all your devices to an Internet network. With advancements in wireless technology, it's easy to get the most out of your computing and wireless needs. According to Pew Internet, 34% of internet users have logged onto the internet with a wireless Internet connection at home or at the office. Ensure an optical wireless radio strength that can cater to your browsing and technological needs.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless repeater
• Wireless adapter
• Antenna

Instructions

1. Move the wireless router or access point into a central location in your home. Move the signal away from walls that can buffer the strength of the signal and lower reception strength. Users that are connected to the wireless signal will see a marked improvement in wireless reception.

2. Keep the wireless router away from metal fixtures. Metal, floors, and walls will interfere with the radio signal. The closer the wireless router is to metal, the weaker the wireless signal. Keep the wireless router in an elevated area away from metal fixtures. Move closer to the router if possible to increase wireless reception.

3. Use a wireless repeater. Wireless repeaters expand and strengthen the wireless signal without cumbersome wires or equipment. Place the wireless repeater between your router and your computer. The wireless repeater will relay the signal into a larger area, increasing signal strength and increasing the reception of your wireless devices.

4. Upgrade your notebook's wireless adapter. Sometimes wireless routers produce efficient signal strength, but the wireless adapter in your notebook or desktop may not be able to receive and send data streams efficiently. Improve your notebook's reception by purchasing a high-gain external antenna. Linksys, Buffalo Technology, and D-Link manufacture external antennas that can increase radio reception. Check the Resource section for links to commercial antennas and boosters.

5. Change the wireless channel on your router. Wireless signals broadcast in different channels. Like a radio channel, some wireless channels can be clogged with interference or be clearer than others. In the United States, the wireless channels are 1, 6, and 11. Test out each channel by configuring your router via its configuration page. The wireless devices will automatically tune into the wireless channel you choose.

6. Reduce wireless interference. If there are many wireless signals turned on, your device may have a hard time attaining the signal emitting from your router. Install a wireless home phone that uses the 5.8GHz or 900MHz frequencies to avoid radio interference.

Tips & Warnings

• Clear your browser's cached files. Cached files are files that your browser collects as you surf the internet. However, cached files can slow down your browser and even make it unusable. Go to your browser's configurations page and delete cached files.

References

• Microsoft: 10 tips for improving your wireless network
• Daily Wireless: 10 Tips to Increase the Range of Your Wireless Network

Resources

• View Sonic: Wireless Adapter
• Buffalo Technology: Wireless-G MIMO Performance Notebook Adapter
• Linksys By Cisco: High Gain Antenna
• Microsoft: How and Why to Clear Your Cache