How to Boost Wireless Adapter Signals

Configuring the device properly will ensure best results.

Wireless router adapters act as an access point. The adapter allows for communication between the router's radio frequency signal and enables access to your local network or the Internet. The single most important factor in boosting an adapter's signal: setting up the router in the correct location. If the router remains visible, then your wireless adapter will have the strongest signal available. Other contributing strength factors involve the router's firmware and your wireless adapter's driver. Both devices need the latest functioning driver for best results.

Instructions

Changing Wireless Channel

1. Right-click the "Network" icon in the Windows Notification Area at the bottom right of your desktop, then click the "Open Network and Sharing Center" option from the menu.

2. Click the "Change Adapter Settings" link and right-click your "Wireless Network Connection" icon, then click the "Properties" option.

3. Click the "Configure" button, then click the "Advanced" tab.

4. Click the "Channel 802.11n/b/g" option from the menu, then type a new value between 1 and 11. Click the "OK" button to save the changes and close the dialog box.

Update Wireless Adapter Driver

1. Right-click the "Network" icon in the Windows Notification Area, then click the "Open Network and Sharing Center" option from the menu.

2. Click the "Change Adapter Settings" link and right-click your "Wireless Network Connection" icon, then click the "Properties" option.

3. Click the "Configure" button, then click the "Driver" tab.

4. Click the "Update Driver" button, then click the "Search automatically for updated driver software" option. Windows automatically searches for and installs the latest driver for your wireless adapter.

5. Click the "OK" button on both dialog boxes to save the changes and close the window.

Update Router's Firmware

1. Click the "Start" button, then click the "Computer" link.

2. Click the "Network" heading from the left pane, then double-click the "Internet Gateway Device" icon under the Other Devices section. Your default browser launches to the login page of the wireless router.

3. Type the username and password, then click the "OK" button to log in.

4. Click the "System" icon and then click the "Update" option. Click the "Yes" button when the wireless router configuration tool asks if you wish to search for the latest firmware on the Internet.

5. Log out of the router's configuration utility.

Tips & Warnings

• Move the router away from other electronic interference and solid objects. Establish a line of sight in the center of the room, if possible, where all wireless devices appear visible to the router.

References

• Daily Wireless: 10 Tips to Increase the Range of Your Wireless Network