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Many Wi-Fi antennas come with an extender jack that plugs into both the receiver and the USB port of a laptop or desktop computer. Using the extension allows for movement of the antenna to a better reception location.
Boosting Wi-Fi reception is a matter of creating a bigger surface for capturing the Wi-Fi signal. A soda can is an excellent choice due to its highly flexible material.
Cut the top off of the can and place the Wi-Fi receiver inside. Raising the can high within a room will also extend the range of signals it can receive. If the source of the Wi-Fi signal is coming from outdoors, placing the booster in an open window can further boost reception. -
One method of creating an antenna is to use a wireless pigtail cable. Wireless pigtail cable can be purchased from electronic supply stores and can be fitted with a Type-N connector and a potato chip can to create an antenna. Purchasing the materials to make the antenna can rival the cost of an inexpensive USB adapter, so be sure to compare pricing.
Another option uses a length of male-to-male USB cable with one end plugged into the computer and the other punched through a metal pie tin. Pointed in the direction of the wireless signal, this method can be effective in picking up a strong Wi-Fi signal, but you may have less success with weaker signals. -
It is important to note that wireless antennas that are commercially available are tested to ensure that they do not damage computer components. Homemade antennas are not tested, and may cause problems with components in the USB or wireless card.
Additionally, using a homemade or commercial wireless antenna to pick up a signal that you are not authorized to access is against the law in many regions.
