Is there a way to extend a wireless network that I don't own?

Question

I recently found that I have a few faint wireless network signals in the upstairs corner of my house. I am wondering if there exists a device that could pick up those signals (I'm not sure where they are coming from) and amplify them in my house so that I could use my MacBook downstairs also.

Does anyone know a device capable of this given I don't know where the signal is from or what type of router is broadcasting it?

No, I'm not James Bling.

Sorry, not James Bing*

Answer 1

its called a repeter but for your pc in the cornet i recomend a wireless card with smart antena techmology and then when you get connected go into the router seting and boost the siganl most people put it low.

Answer 2

Even if u scan the frequency and bost up the signal its in vein since physical layer connectivity is not enough to provide IP layer or Application layer access. Even if u get such signals they might be WEP encrypted or some type of PN (Pseudo -Noise) code must have been implemented to secure the network.

And even if u go through these, u might be caught in MAC Address based authentication, the service provider must have been efficient to set IP based authentication and authorization as well. So its a very little chance to browse in until u have got a spy to gain u all these information.

Farrukh

Answer 3

You could replace your existing antenna with a directional antenna and then experiment by turning the antenna in different directions to receive the better signal.

You may also be able to get a network extender, which would receive the signal and then "rebroadcast" it. It too may have to have a directional antenna.

The type of router shouldn't matter as long as it's not a secure network.

Answer 4

R U James Bing?

Answer 5

You need to invest in a high gain directional antenna to add to your wireless card......Small price to pay for free internet! lol

Answer 6

So basically you want to steal someone else's connection and use it.