Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 5: Look for interference
• Method 2 of 5: Choose a different channel
• Method 3 of 5: 802.11n
• Method 4 of 5: Move the router
• Method 5 of 5: Upgrading the router
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

A wireless router normally has a range of 30 meters or more. However, there are factors that can lower this range.Interference can be caused by metal, other routers, or other devices that use wireless frequencies (such as cell phones and microwave ovens). Fortunately, there are ways to amplify your signal. Here are some of them.

To step

Method 1 of 5: Look for interference

1. Move devices that could interfere in the 2.4 Ghz frequency range. Optionally, you can buy a device with which you can analyze the wireless network, so you can easily find the interference source. Here are some examples of possible jammers:
   • DECT telephone.
   • Microwave.
   • Baby monitor.
   • Burglar alarm.
   • TV remote control.
   • Garage door openers.
2. Check the signal strength of your router in combination with these devices. Switch the devices off and on and see if there is a difference, this way you can check whether a particular device is causing the problems.

Method 2 of 5: Choose a different channel

1. Change the channel on the router. Routers can transmit on different channels, from 1 to 11. Choose a channel that gives you the least interference from other wireless networks.
2. Use software to analyze which networks in your area are using which channel and configure your system to use a channel that no one else is using.

Method 3 of 5: 802.11n

1. Check which protocol your router uses. The 802.11n standard is the best choice, because then you have a longer range and a greater signal strength than with older standards such as 802.11 a / b / g.

Method 4 of 5: Move the router

1. Choose a different location for your router. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. All you need to do is find a good location for the router.
   • Place the router as high as possible to increase its range.
   • Place the router in the center of your house so that you have coverage everywhere.
   • Move the routers closer to the computers if possible.
   • Do not place the router near metal objects such as metal cabinets or desks.
   • Do not place the router near a microwave or a DECT telephone, they use the same 2.4 Ghz frequency.
2. Place the router as far away from the neighbor's router as possible. This is especially important if you live in a building where each floor has its own router.

Method 5 of 5: Upgrading the router

1. Increase the broadcast strength of your router. Check the router's manual to see if you can increase the strength, i.e. the strength with which the signal is sent. With most routers you can increase this to 50 mW. Make sure the router does not overheat.
2. Replace the antenna. Remove the antenna from the router and replace it with a stronger antenna. This is not possible with all routers.
3. Install a repeater. A repeater is a device with which you can expand the wireless signal. The repeater takes the signal from the router and sends it out amplified.
   • Wireless repeaters are getting cheaper, you can easily find them on the internet or at the computer shop around the corner.
4. Install a WiFi booster. Connect a WiFi booster, also called a booster, directly to the router. A booster is often cheaper than a repeater because only the signal is amplified and not the range.
5. Make a reflector from cardboard and aluminum foil. Note: the signal is amplified, but also narrowed.
   • Take a piece of aluminum foil and stick it on a piece of paper or cardboard.
   • Stick another piece of paper to the inside of the reflector so that it curves slightly inward.
   • Make two holes in the piece of paper so that you can attach the reflector to the antenna.

Tips

• The building itself can also affect the router signal. Buildings with a metal construction often suffer more from interference than, for example, wooden buildings.

Warnings

• Make sure your router does not overheat.

Necessities

• Router
• Aluminium foil
• Cardboard / paper