Weak WiFi? Boost It With A Repeater

In today's fast paced world, where more than one computer is being used in almost every home, words and phrases like WiFi antenna, wireless repeater, and WiFi booster are fast becoming common household terms. As more homes become outfitted with this connection technology, interference issues routinely arise. There are numerous methods for minimizing signal interference and boosting the strength of a home WiFi network.

What is WiFi?

Currently there are three wireless data standards used in contemporary devices with 802.11b being the most common and 802.11g, which is faster, catching up quickly. By connecting a wireless router to a broadband modem and using devices outfitted with wireless adaptors or receivers, home user can establish a network for sharing broadband connections across multiple computers, gaming stations, and entertainment peripherals like DVRs or even music streaming units. The beauty of the wireless system is that it accomplishes all of this without yards of cable being strung throughout the house.

What can cause a weak WiFi signal?

If you establish a wireless network only to discover that your signal strength is weak, you will need to reposition the router. A number of things can disrupt signal strength including walls, cordless phones, metal in furniture or construction components, microwave ovens, and people. It is also possible that you are trying to operate your computer system at too great a distance from the wireless router itself.

To determine the true nature of your signal problem, use a laptop computer with a wireless adaptor. (If you don't have a laptop, con a friend into coming over to help.) Start your test standing by the router with the signal meter showing on the computer. You should see a strength rating of "excellent." Begin to walk away from the router. Note the distance at which the signal drops. If it's under the range indicated for the router, the source of your weak signal is probably some kind of physical interference.

Remove or turn off other wireless devices in the home and repeat your experiment. If you have cordless phones in the house and your network signal improves when the phones are unplugged, there's your culprit. You'll need to weigh the cost of new phones against various network signal boosting methods to determine which is the better solution to your problem. If the microwave is the problem, your family may need to get in the habit of issuing a warning before they pop their popcorn or warm their taquitos.

Continue to: What are other Methods for boosting a Weak WiFi Antenna Signal