How Can I Improve My Wi-Fi Signal?

There are many reasons for a weak Wi-Fi signal, so the process of eliminating problems may include some trial and error until you find the solution.

The first thing to look at is the position of your wireless router. It should be off the floor – the higher the better – and away from walls and metal. Even the thin sheet of metal in a mirror can interfere with your signal.

Next, check what type of antenna your router has. Most routers come standard with an omni-directional antenna, meaning that the signal is broadcast in all directions. If the router is near a wall leading outside your home or office, you are effectively losing half of the signal. If necessary, you can upgrade to a hi-gain antenna that allows you to direct the signal where you need it most.

If that still does not help, check where your router is in comparison to that of your neighbour. If your routers are near each other, say on either side of a wall in an apartment building, and you are both broadcasting on the same channel, you are effectively sharing the channel and losing signal power.

Make sure that other wireless devices such as a cordless telephone are far from your router, and check that they use a different frequency, or you will get interference on your signal.

A wireless repeater can be installed – this acts as a signal booster. Position it halfway between your router and where you need the signal.

You may find that the problem is with sending, not receiving, and this means that your computer’s wireless network adapter may need to be upgraded. The easiest way to do this is with a wireless USB adapter that will improve your range.

Sometimes changing the channel can solve signal problems. Just like some radio stations have a weak signal in some areas while others do not, changing the broadcast channel can often improve the power.

The newer networks such as Wireless N or Wireless G standards offer better signal strength and speed than 802.11b and 802.11g, so you may need to upgrade your devices if signal problems persist. Check regularly for firmware updates for your router, as well as for software updates for the network adapter driver. Buying the router and adapter from the same manufacturer is believed to provide superior performance too.

If none of these suggestions make a difference, you will have to contact your wireless network provider, as they may not be providing the coverage they promised.