How to Detect a Wireless Interference

Wireless routers broadcast via antennas.

Wireless laptops that have a weak connection to a wireless network might suffer corrupted or lost data. The causes of wireless interference are sometimes in plain sight (metal wall), while others are invisible (two conflicting routers). You can use functions in Windows 7 networking to help detect wireless signal interference.

Instructions

1. Click on the Windows "Start" logo at the bottom of the desktop. Type "Network and Sharing Center" in the search box at the bottom of the Start menu. Press "Enter."

2. Find the section labeled "Signal Strength." If all five bars are shaded green and it states "Excellent," the wireless signal is strong with little interference.

3. Disconnect all cords and the power adapter from the laptop if the wireless signal is less than excellent, which means there is some interference. Pick it up and walk around until the signal strength improves.

References

• Microsoft: Wireless Networking, Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• Microsoft: Identify and Resolve Home Network Problems
• Microsoft: Why is My Wireless Signal Strength So Low?