How to Fix a Weak WLAN USB Adapter Signal

Wireless USB adapters are susceptible to wireless interference.

Wireless local area network (WLAN) adapters are often designed to connect to a computer's USB port. These adapters send and receive information to a router, which passes the information on through the network's modem or to other network devices. The wireless networking technology used in WLAN adapters and routers is based on the broadcast of radio signals that transfer digital information. Weak signals can produce slow or unreliable connections and may be caused by a variety of issues, including distance and interference. There are a few things you can do to strengthen the signal of your USB WLAN adapter.

Instructions

1. Read the specified operating range of the wireless router to which you are connecting. This will inform you as to how far you can expect to be from the router and still have a reliable connection. Many wireless-N routers will connect to WLAN adapters from over 150 feet away. Move the router to within its operating range for best results.

2. Locate and remove any obstacles that may cause a weak connection between your wireless WLAN adapter and your router. Common items that may cause weak signals include refrigerators, industrial building materials, such as large metal beams, and thick walls. Thick or large furniture including mirrors and cabinets may also cause signal degradation.

3. Remove any items using the 2.4-GHz radio band from the path of your wireless signal. Many wireless networks use this band, and other devices sharing the band can cause network trouble and weak WLAN signals. Items that commonly use this band include microwaves, remote control cars, cordless phones and walkie-talkies.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider installing a network device that extends the reach of your wireless signal. Booster antennas for routers, wireless access points and network repeaters may all be of benefit to strained wireless networks.

• Additionally, consider switching the operating channel of your wireless router. This may reduce network issues that arise from signal interference of other nearby wireless networks. Many routers operate on a range of channels and some even offer a 5-GHz broadcast.

References

• Cisco: Getting Poor or No Signal on a Linksys Wireless-G VPN Router
• Microsoft at Home: 10 Tips to Improve Your Wireless Network
• Belkin: N+ Wireless Router: User Manual (PDF)

Resources

• Windows: Install a Wireless Network Adapter
• Microsoft TechNet: Networking Hardware