How Do I Increase the Range of My Laptop to Pickup Wi-Fi Signals?

Question

What device is recommened to increase the range pickup for a laptop(PC) for wi-fi access???

Help and thank you.

Answer 1

There are a couple solutions to your problem, you can buy a high gain antenna for your wireless card, or you could always make an original "Pringles" can directional antenna, there are plans and materials for it all over the internet, it is easy to make and it costs about $10

Answer 2

Well, there are a few ways to broaden your range from your laptop. Mostly it's "luck of the draw" on a good wireless card be it internal or external.

This is considered ok by many for reason of network security. Hence, wireless networks are built with coverage in mind. This is done to ensure your users have coverage, but is also one of the most fundamental defenses that even a novice can employ to reduce the amount of people who "Wardrive" or basically jump on other people's wireless networks without permission.

If you are in fact trying to Wardrive on to a neighbors wireless, beware there are ramifications if you are caught. If you just want more freedom of mobility within your own network, get extended range antennas for your wireless router or access points.

Answer 3

There are none. If you boost the ability to receive you would also have to boost the ability to transmit. The wireless units broadcast on unlicensed radio and the power of the broadcast is limited legally.

If you are having a problem in your home, perhaps you need more than 1 wireless access pointed connected by cable to your network switch.

Answer 4

You can try using wireless ethernet adapter which uses external antenna. Try to choose antenna which has higher gain, you should be able to increase your range that way

Answer 5

a better antenna