If you've already tried repositioning your router to a central location in the home and played with the angle of its antennas, it may be time to move on to more drastic methods for improving the signal strength on your wireless network.

First, consider changing the WiFi channel number on your router. Most home networks transmit at 2.4GHz with a choice of channels from 1 to 11. Consult the manual that came with your router and try experimenting with different channel numbers to see if your signal improves. If it does not, consider upgrading the antennas on your router.

PC wireless technology present in routers relies on built-in omni-directional antennas that radiate signals equally well in all directions. Some manufacturers sell replacement antennas for routers that broadcast the signal more strongly. These antennas are normally larger than the ones included on the original unit and may be connected to cables so they can be positioned at greater distances from the box itself. (With any WiFi antenna the greater the length of the antenna itself the better signal it will produce.)

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If none of these methods work, try adding another router to your network. This option may not be attractive because it will involve connecting your primary wireless router to the second unit with Ethernet cable. A better option may be a WiFi signal amplifier or a WiFi signal booster. These devices attach to the wireless router and, like replacement antennas, serve to enhance signal strength.

For many households, however, the solution of choice is a stand-alone WiFi repeater positioned within range of the wireless router. These WiFi range extender serve as a two-way relay station device for WiFi signals. These devices can be positioned discreetly in the home and no wiring is involved - and you can use as man repeaters as you need.

While it may take a little patience, especially in a large home, to get a wireless network functioning exactly the way you want it, you'll never be sorry once you experience the flexibility of this technology. An investment in a wireless repeater or two is nothing compared to the ease of access offered by these home networks. For most people however, a good wireless router and a decent WiFi antenna are all that's required to start sharing broadband Internet access effectively and efficiently with the whole family.

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