How does one extend the router's range?

Question

I have WEP enabled as a security thing because my router's signal barely makes it out the the front door. My backyard however has a poor signal but enough to have internet access. Now I really want to put it to use..  I want to extend my router's range. What kind of equipment do I need in order to achieve my goal? Once I get the equipment what steps should I take to get it properly working and protected from other ppl trying to use my internet? Thank you very much.. :D

NemesisDB · Answer

I'm assuming you meant to say WEP is disabled?

Anyway, you have several options for extending range. You can buy wireless repeaters which basically act as independent access points. Or, if you want to cover an area like a yard, you could consider buying an external antenna. Some combination of the two might also work -- say a repeater with a high-gain antenna aimed at the yard...

As for security, you have a bunch of options. It will really depend on what your router supports. Good standard measures are turning on MAC filters and enabling the highest level of encryption you can (WPA if ALL your hardware supports it, if not then 128bit WEP). You might also try turning SSID broadcast off. Make sure the SSID is not set to the default name. Also, make sure your router's password is hard to guess or crack.

GreenFlames09 · Answer

Thanks =)

Does it matter what kind of repeater? It doesn't have to be the same company as my router, right? I have a Linksys wireless router. Would I have to worry about compatibility issues with other kinds of hardware not made by Linksys?

NemesisDB · Answer

My answer is 'probably not.'  If you're running some form of proprietary(sp?) protocal you will have issues though.  If you're using straight up 802.11b or 802.11g you shouldn't have issues.  Check the documentation of whatever you plan to buy online though, before you do in fact make a purchase.

johnallg · Answer

You could always try this first.  They do work, and are cheap.

NemesisDB · Answer

There are also sites that show how to make them for your wireless clients ... which are also good for war-driving, should you ever feel the need

GreenFlames09 · Answer

HmM.. does the tin foil actually work?? what does that link mean by the reflector surface.. i dont know where to put the tin foil.. I'm willing to try it because I'm trying to save my parents some money.. .lol..  thanks..

johnallg · Answer

On the inside of the curve formed by the rectangular piece. If you could find thin cardboard that has a foil surface (I remember it was common many moons ago in my youth) that would work fine. I have just taken spray adhesive (3M) and lightly sprayed the rectangle then laid Renolds Aluminum Foil over it then trimmed it when dry.

More experience - then making the "6-legged turtle" piece, cut the "legs" (tabs) extra long so they can be folded over after pushing through the rectangle and taped in place to keep the rectangle reflector to the correct curvature.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

How does one extend the router's range?

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