What is the best/cheapest way to strengthen or boost my linksys wireless G signal in my multi level home?

Answer 1

Some of the previous answers are good, recommending both high gain antennas as well as repeaters (range extenders). But use caution, I want to warn you about some tradeoffs and some trial and error you might have to endure.

First, note that for every repeater or range extender you add to your network will cut your performance by about 50%. Realize that because of the way the wireless protocol works (shared CSMA/CA) even on a 54Mbps wireless G only network, you'll never get above 25Mbps throughput. Add a repeater and you might cut that in half. Something to think about if you're transferring files and stuff between your wireless PCs, you might only get a few Mbps between them.

Second, note that using high gain antennas might actually give you WORSE performance in your multilevel home. There are many factors that will affect the RF signal within your home. But the standard antennas have a radiation pattern shaped much like a donut. The higher gain antenna pattern is more flattened out, shaped more like a pancake versus a donut, and this can actually give you a weaker signal for example if your AP is in the basement and your PCs are on the 2nd floor.

So it might be trial and error, just consider the tradeoffs when trying each. The ideal solution for you is to run some Cat5 wiring between the floors, and use a 2nd AP. This way you will not need high gain antennas or repeaters, just an additional AP, the hard part is running the wiring to it. This is what I did in my own home, one AP in the basement office, ran Cat5 wiring along the plumbing vent & ductwork between basement and attic, then came down through the wall into a 2nd floor bedroom and used a 2nd AP there, works great. If doing this, make sure to place each AP on a different channel, choose from 1,6,11.

Answer 2

well depanding on the material used to make your house if its hard concrete all the way, i would say getting the antenna linksys have is rather useless. even if you manage to get signal it will most like be weak and slow.
antenna is the cheapest solution, not recommended for multi storey homes.

other solution are to buy new routers. linkys have a wireless N router or SRX routers. these 2 have pretty good range for multi storey houses. however this is slightly costly

Answer 3

Linksys has a product called "Wireless-G Range Expander". That may be an easy fix to your issue.

Also, placement of your current access point is essential for maximum range.

Answer 4

the BEST way is to get what is caled a REPEATER.
it sits between 2 systems or a system and the access point and repeats everything it hears.
So if the access point (or router) is too far from the laptop, or there is too much "floor and ceiling" in between them, strategically placing a repeater between them is a great answer.
Airlink is one manufacturer.
D-link makes one that acts as either an access point or a repeater called the AirPlus XtremeG.

Answer 5

Try purchasing the new antennae that they have, nearly twice as long!! Then move from the range extender to transmitting signal via your electrical lines....

Look here:

http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C1&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1115416939789&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper

Scroll down to "Range Expanders & Antennas"

Answer 6

move your router to the middle floor of your home and place it at the center most point, that will allow your whole house to be in range and if not then you need a repeater, in which case you will want to put the router on the ground floor and the repeater on the middle floor to maximize coverage.