How to Get a Better Connection Using a Wireless Laptop

A wireless laptop gives you greater mobility while still being able to connect to the Internet.

The connection on a wireless laptop is determined by how strong of a signal the laptop is receiving and also by how fast the actual connection speed is. The closer the laptop is to the wireless router that is sending the signal, the better the connection will be. In addition, any obstructions between the router and the wireless laptop can result in a degraded signal. Changing some of the wireless router's settings could help the laptop receive a better connection as well, and upgrading both the router and the adapter on the wireless laptop can improve connection quality.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless router
• Wireless laptop (with wireless adapter)

Instructions

1. Move the laptop closer to the wireless router or install wireless range extender. Either method will increase the strength of the signal the wireless laptop is receiving.

2. Move the wireless router to a central point within the area you are using the wireless laptop, but away from walls, the floor, metal objects (such as refrigerators or filing cabinets), and devices that could cause interference, such as microwaves and wireless phones.

3. Change the wireless router's antenna to increase signal output. Unscrew the old antenna from the back of the router and replace it with a high-gain antenna.

4. Change the wireless router's broadcast channel using the router's Web utility. Connect a computer to one of the LAN ports with an Ethernet cable, then enter the router's address in a Web browser (usually "192.168.X.X"). Login to the router using the information in the router's user guide, then click on the menu that is normally labeled "Wireless" or "Wireless Settings." You can change the channel from the drop down menu there. Save the settings and exit the router utility.

5. Update the router's firmware. Login to the router utility using the instructions in Step 4. Navigate to the router settings, where most routers have a firmware update feature. You may also need to go to the manufacturer's website to download the latest firmware, then upload it to the router.

6. Change the router and the wireless adapter on the laptop to 802.11n, which is faster than older protocols such as 802.11a/b/g.

7. Use a wireless adapter and router from the same manufacturer.

References

• Microsoft.com: 10 tips for improving your wireless network