Wireless Broadband Routers - 6 Ways to Improve Your Signal

We have all experienced the annoyance of our PC or Laptop losing its connection with the wireless router in our homes - this guide will help you to reduce the chances of this happening whilst also boosting the range of the router.

1 - Location of the Router

If possible it is best to place your wireless router in a location that is central to the area in which you wish to receive a signal.  If a router is placed at one end of your house the signal has further to travel to reach the other end - by locating the router is a central position this distance is reduced.

2 - Surrounding Area

It is advised that you do not place the router in close proximity to walls or large metal objects as these may drain the strength of the signal thus reducing its reach. Also be aware that some cordless home phones have been known to cause interference with wireless routers - the same is true of microwave ovens.

3 - Replace Your Routers Antenna

The antenna (or aerial) that comes as standard on most routers is "Omni directional - this means that it broadcasts the wireless signal equally in all directions (360 degrees). This is fine if you are able to locate your router centrally (as Mentioned in Point 1) - however for most this is not possible. By upgrading to a high gain antennae that focuses the signal in one direction you can boost your signal range and strength significantly.

4 - Install a Repeater

A repeater simply boosts a wireless signal and sends it on its way - no more no less. These devices require no extra cabling - to impleMent a repeater you simply find a suitable location (for example halfway between the wireless router and the area that has a weak signal) and power the repeater on. It's that simple!

5 - Upgrade Your Routers Firmware

Wireless router manufacturers regularly upgrade the firmware (the built in software) in their products to increase signal range and performance. These upgrades are usually free. To upgrade your routers firmware visit the manufacturers website and follow the instructions for your router model.

6 - Use EquipMent from a Single Manufacturer

Whilst all routers and adapters are designed to work with each other you can often see performance improveMents when using both a router and adapter made by the same manufacturer. This is mainly down to the fact that some router manufacturers utilize signal boosting techniques that only give optimal performance when used with adapters made by themselves.

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