Wi-Fi technology is being extensively used worldwide as it is fast, reliable and most importantly it is pretty simple to implement. You just need a wireless router, connect it to your broadband modem and simply connect the required LAN ports to your desktop via an Ethernet cable.
However, one common problem that Wi-Fi users often come across is the limited range of Wi-Fi signals emitting from the wireless router. The root cause for this issue is the lengthy distance between your system and the router that weakens the signals. This problem can be solved when you extend your wireless network by following one or more of the methods which are mentioned below:
1) Install DD-WRT Firmware Or Tomato Firmware:
You can easily install DD-WRT firmware or Tomato firmware on your wireless router. This firmware might help you get increased range of your Wi-Fi signals. Furthermore, you can extend the signal strength by increasing the transmit power and disabling the “frame burst” and “after burner” option from the router’s web dashboard.
2) Use Wireless Range Expander:
Another thing that you can do to increase Wi-Fi signal strength by attaching a Wi-Fi Repeater, i.e. Wireless Range Expander to your router without putting any efforts to use cables. You should place the Repeater device within the range of your router so that it can reflect signals widely even to the places where signals were poor before. The Repeater has ability to connect wirelessly to both routers and access points.
3) Use Software Programs:
Some of you might have heard about InSSIDer utility. It’s a free utility that lets you detect the existence and strength of available wireless networks. You can install InSSIDer on to your system and look for the right place where your laptop catches the wireless signals. The app will show the place where you can get the best signal strength, hence you would be able to find a suitable place to place your router.
4) Use Access Points:
You have another option of using Access Points to boost up Wi-Fi signal power. This method is certainly suitable for big enterprises, universities and colleges where instant connectivity is required. Wireless Access points is relatively expensive than equivalent routers therefore big organizations can easily bear the cost.
5) Use Omnidirectional Antennas:
Most of the wireless routers usually come with omnidirectional antennas. But it is easy to replace them with unidirectional antennas which are more powerful. This will help you achieve the signals in all directions. If you are unable to find the compatible antenna for the version of your router, then you may consider a Booster antenna. Booster antenna is omnidirectional by nature, but it will enhance the range and strength of your wireless network.
The aforementioned are some easy steps to extend your Wi-Fi signal strength and power. Applying these methods would certainly help you get greater Wi-Fi signals throughout your home and offices.
==== About Author ====
M Faisal is an IT guy and owner of the Geeky Portal – a tech blog providing Android Tutorials, iOS Tutorials, Windows 8 Tutorials, Windows 7 Tutorials, and Top 10 Lists for Geeks.
