Best option for extending WIFI network range

**K-B** · 01-16-2008, 12:14 PM

Alright, I have a Linksys WRT54G v5 wireless router. I need to increase the range. I bought a set of Linksy Hi-Gain antennas (7db gain). The range didn't improve much, the connection is too unsteady. So I was hoping for some recommendations on extending the range/boosting the signal. I've tried those DIY paper/foil reflectors - yes it did increase the signal strength, but not enough.
I'm looking at a repeater, something like a Linksys WRE54G. Would that be a good option? Only thing is the cost, at around $80 new it's getting close to double what I paid for the router. Are there any more cost-effective options? I really need a solution. Please don't suggest wired, that's not an option for me.

spike129 · 01-16-2008, 03:54 PM

I think the gadget for you is a bridge router from linksys it is designed to increase the range by a lot...

Splike129

**johnwill** · 01-17-2008, 11:14 AM

I'm not a fan of repeaters, since they frequently introduce more issues than they solve.

You might consider this Hawking [HSB2] Hi-Gain WiFi Signal Booster, which can be used on either end of a wireless connection to boost the signal power.

Another way to increase your signal strength is by the use of hi-gain antennas. You've tried the omni-directional models, but you may be able to use a directional antenna with a lot more gain, this Hawking [HAI15SC] Hi-Gain 15dBi Corner Antenna comes to mind.

01-16-2008, 12:14 PM	#1 (permalink)
K-B Mod. Linux, Wrench Turner Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: NY Posts: 2,890 OS: Vista, Ubuntu My System	Best option for extending WIFI network range Alright, I have a Linksys WRT54G v5 wireless router. I need to increase the range. I bought a set of Linksy Hi-Gain antennas (7db gain). The range didn't improve much, the connection is too unsteady. So I was hoping for some recommendations on extending the range/boosting the signal. I've tried those DIY paper/foil reflectors - yes it did increase the signal strength, but not enough. I'm looking at a repeater, something like a Linksys WRE54G. Would that be a good option? Only thing is the cost, at around $80 new it's getting close to double what I paid for the router. Are there any more cost-effective options? I really need a solution. Please don't suggest wired, that's not an option for me. __________________

01-16-2008, 03:54 PM	#2 (permalink)
spike129 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Indianaplois,IN Posts: 47 OS: Xp SP2, PS3, Wii	Re: Best option for extending WIFI network range I think the gadget for you is a bridge router from linksys it is designed to increase the range by a lot... Splike129

01-17-2008, 11:14 AM	#3 (permalink)
johnwill Manager, Networking Forums Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: S.E. Pennsylvania, US Posts: 41,940 OS: Windows 7, XP-Pro, Vista, Linux Blog Entries: 1	Re: Best option for extending WIFI network range I'm not a fan of repeaters, since they frequently introduce more issues than they solve. You might consider this Hawking [HSB2] Hi-Gain WiFi Signal Booster, which can be used on either end of a wireless connection to boost the signal power. Another way to increase your signal strength is by the use of hi-gain antennas. You've tried the omni-directional models, but you may be able to use a directional antenna with a lot more gain, this Hawking [HAI15SC] Hi-Gain 15dBi Corner Antenna comes to mind. __________________ If TSF has helped you, Tell us about it! or Donate to help keep the site up! Microsoft MVP - Windows Desktop Experience