The strength of your wireless signal is an important factor in the overall success of your wireless network.  If your wireless signal is weak it can significantly affect your Internet connection due to the low bandwidth which prevents a reliable connection between your router and the Internet access point.

How to Improve a Wireless Connection

There are many different factors that can cause a wireless signal to become weak so we will focus on the main ones that can cause a wireless connection to become weak and unreliable.

• Router Antenna: If your router contains a standard antenna that transmits wireless signals in more than one direction, this can cause your wireless signal to become weak.  Try deploying a directional antenna which focuses the signal on a specific location.  A directional or high gain antenna is capable of transmitting more power to the receiving end which will increase the signal strength of your wireless connection.

• Implement a Wireless Repeater: If your wireless signal is weak or intermittent, try deploying a wireless repeater which will help to extend the range of the wireless signal without having to add additional access points.  A wireless repeater is placed between the access point and the end-user to act as a relay between the two points.

• Router Placement: Make sure your router is placed in a central location where it is free of any obstructions.  If you have it placed near walls, additional wiring, or metal objects these factors could be playing a role in the weak wireless signal.

• Check the Distance: Wireless routers have a limited distance of usually around 100 feet.  Make sure that your PC is located within 100 feet of the router and that the connection is not obstructed by walls and ceilings.

• Change the Frequency: If you have other wireless appliances such as a cordless phone, make sure they are set at a different frequency from the wireless router.  If the two devices are set at the same frequency they will interfere with one another when being used simultaneously.

• Change the Router Channel: Routers contain different channels which are similar to radio station channels.  Sometimes one channel will work better than another one.  Try changing the channel to see if it improves the strength of the wireless signal.

• Perform Router Upgrades: A lot of router manufacturers publish the latest updates and upgrades on their website.  Check the website frequently for the latest upgrades that can provide a boost in your router’s performance.  These updates are known as firmware and can help to optimize the performance of the hardware.

• Check the Network Adapter: If it was necessary to install a network adapter, check it to make sure it is recognizing the wireless signal.  Also, make sure you choose a network card that is compatible with the type of wireless connection you have established.

Related posts:

1. How to Obtain and Connect to Wireless Internet
2. Wireless Networks: How Do They Work?
3. Securing Your Wireless Internet Connection
4. Home Wireless Network Security Issues
5. Differences between Wi-Fi and the Wireless Internet