A weak signal from a home router in an urban environment is no longer news, but every active network user has faced the question of how to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal of a home router. There are several reasons for such problems with reception, these are: malfunctions of the device itself, interference created by other electrical appliances operating in the house, and other reasons. It should be recalled that there are no less ways to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal on a router; the services of a specialist are not needed.
Often, the transmitter power of a router is adversely affected by electrical appliances located nearby. For example, microwave ovens, Cell phones, possessing powerful electromagnetic radiation. It’s easy to strengthen the router’s wifi signal if you place the equipment away from each other.
The router needs an open space that is freely accessible, not behind a closet or sofa. If for some reason the microwave is located close to the router, you need to strengthen the signal using a second router (additional). It's a win-win.
Strengthening the signal in the router settings
In most cases, this, of course, does not solve the problem, and the signal is still rather weak. The ability to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal of your router is in the device and its settings. The signal of insufficient strength is “designed” in the default home router settings; this happens due to the reluctance of users to change them individually for themselves. I often don’t want to tinker with the settings, read anything, or delve into the process. Therein lies the problem. Neighbors living across the wall think the same thing, and their devices located nearby operate at the same frequency, which leads to system slowdown.
Increasing the router's transmission power
You can improve a weak signal by increasing the transmit power of your home router. True, regulators are not installed on all devices and it is recommended to do this only if other methods do not help. Uncontrolled intervention in the system may damage or overheat the device. Therefore, before resorting to this method, you should carefully read the instructions (after all, read them), remember that the power indicator should not exceed 45 mW. And improve the signal strength as follows:
- In the settings, open the “Advanced network settings” section.
- Go to the perimeter Wireless Transmit Power – “Transmission power”.
- Values are expressed either in “%”, or High – high, Medium – average, Low – low.
- In the first case, you need to increase it to the maximum: 100%.
- In the second, select “High” and set the value to “20”.
Changing the channel to free
It is also possible to strengthen a weak Wi-Fi signal by switching to a free transmission channel. If the router is configured by default, there is a high probability that no actions were applied to the neighbors in this direction. This is one of the most common reasons for slow network speed. Being on the same channel with devices located nearby, its radius is significantly reduced. In order to increase communication speed, it is recommended to select several options for changing the channel:
- In the network settings, set the router to “Auto mode”.
- In the same settings, set one of the static channels.
- Use programs like inSSIDer or Acrylic that monitor free channels.
Changing the router broadcast mode
How to strengthen a weak signal from a wi-fi router in the settings is not so difficult to figure out. All that is needed is to change the existing standard of wireless networks, which usually operate in b/g/n mode. The new devices are configured according to the modern standard – 802.11ac, which is considered the most advanced. However, the outdated 802.11n is capable of increasing both the transmission speed and the network coverage range. But this will not work if the wireless router only has one antenna, or it does not support these standards.
Switching the network to the new-old mode is simple:
- Go to the settings at the router address: 192.168.1.1.
- Open the Wireless section – “Wireless network.
- Go to Mode – “Wireless Network Mode.”
- In it, select the value N only – Save – “Save”.
- All that remains is to reboot.
Strengthening with additional devices
You can strengthen the router's signal by taking advantage of the capabilities of other devices specially created for this purpose. Additional antennas, amplifiers, and adapters will help to significantly increase the range and range if your home router has USB ports. Often these options are more effective than other means, especially in the case of outdated wireless devices.
Replacing the Standard Antenna
If the router has a removable antenna, replace it with a more powerful one. Although slightly, the range of the network increases. This is, of course, not the best option. The effect of such changes is insignificant, but when other methods do not help, this one becomes an alternative.
TP-Link is considered one of the best antennas for wi-fi routers: high-quality and relatively inexpensive. But not suitable for all devices of this type. For the result to be noticeable, you need to choose an antenna that has a gain of at least 8 dBi.
It will help to strengthen the router’s wi-fi signal by installing another antenna or even two, but this is only possible if the device itself supports them.
Installing a wi-fi amplifier (booster)
Strengthening the signal of a home router is possible using repeaters such as Range Extender Booster. These are good Wi-Fi signal amplifiers with superior antenna performance capabilities, and are cheaper. Other benefits of the booster:
- Suitable for all broadcast mode standards.
- Improves and expands the signal up to the edge of the coverage area.
- Supports the power of wireless devices from 2.4 GHz.
- Boosts transmission speed up to a maximum of 300 Mbps.
- Stable and safe to use.
Repeater installation
Repeater (repeater) is another signal amplifier, similar in principle to a booster, but much inferior to it. The repeater is capable of significantly increasing the signal, but this is where its capabilities end. And the booster, in addition, is able to expand the reception range. By the way, there is no need to buy this device; another router can act as such a repeater.
There are other ways to boost the signal. This may be possible using laptop settings or using improvised means or making an antenna yourself. It is possible to amplify a router without an antenna if you follow simple rules:
- Set it high.
- Do not place near flat metal objects.
- Avoid radio interference.
Setting up the receiver on a laptop or computer
Few people have thought about how to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal on a personal laptop and whether this is even possible. The solution to a problem, unnoticed by anyone, often lies on the surface. Often, users put their laptop into power saving mode to save battery power. At home, this is of no use, since the beech can be easily connected to the power supply at any time, but Wi-Fi networks “lose” significantly due to this, hence the weak signal. To strengthen it, just change the power settings:
- Open "Control Panel".
- Go to the “Electrical control” section.
- Select "High Performance".
Homemade antennas
How to slightly strengthen the signal of a wi-fi router with your own hands, without resorting to standard means, many people know. What is characteristic is that the methods work. Increasing the range of the device is possible by making unique wi-fi repeater repeaters with your own hands. This does not require anything special: the manufacturing scheme is quite simple. You need to take a piece of foil or cut an empty tin can, give it a curved shape and install it behind the router, preferably near the wall, artificially creating a directed wave. By reducing the angle, the waves are reflected from the surface of the improvised antenna, the signal is slightly amplified.
Replacing the router
If none of the suggestions help, then the problem lies in the device itself. In this case, there is only one thing left: replacing the wireless router.
Actually, after this, problems are eliminated provided that users do not skimp on the purchase, otherwise they will again have to look for the cause from the outside or do “handicrafts.” It is better to purchase a modern Wi-Fi router that supports operation at a frequency of 5 GHz, then you can forget about a weak signal once and for all.
Conclusion
Strengthening the signal of a router in an apartment with your own hands is an activity that does not require any special knowledge. You just need to delve into these recommendations and it will become clear that doing this at home is as easy as shelling pears.
Nowadays, the computer has become an integral attribute of progressive life. It is used to perform a variety of tasks, not least to access the Internet. Since almost everyone at home has several devices with this capability, a router is used to meet the interests and needs of each family member.
But when several users simultaneously use the same access point, problems with Wi-Fi reception may occur. In order not to suffer from poor communication and not to run around the apartment looking for a signal, you can carry out some equipment upgrades. We would like to show you how you can increase the quality of reception with your own hands.
Reasons for a weak signal
Typically, a router with a built-in antenna has a coverage radius of a maximum of several tens of meters, and often even less. This is due to the fact that a cheap router has a low-power transmitter that is unable to provide high-quality Wi-Fi reception over the entire coverage radius. Also, when installing the router near sockets to which other devices are connected, radio signal interference may occur, which will affect the quality of reception and the wave propagation range will deteriorate.
Correct placement of the router indoors
To ensure uninterrupted reception of the wireless signal, you need to position the Wi-Fi router correctly. The operation of the network is affected by the walls located in the apartment and their thickness, the location of the computer, and the operation of electrical appliances.
The router should be placed as high as possible and close to the center of the apartment or house
The router should be installed in such a way as to minimize the number of walls the radio signal can overcome, because each of them significantly reduces the coverage radius. It is better when the signal passes perpendicular to the wall, and not at an angle.
Routers operate at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, which is also used by almost all other household appliances - refrigerators, microwaves, televisions. Therefore, try to place Wi-Fi equipment a few meters away from other equipment.
In addition, the following may cause interference:
- glass and mirrors;
- aquariums;
- soundproofing of walls;
- metal constructions.
Selecting a communication channel
To transmit the signal from the router to other devices, 11 communication channels are used. The router automatically changes the channel, choosing the optimal one. But sometimes the channels are not selected entirely correctly, which is why they overlap each other and the signal weakens. You can change the channel manually.
- Enter the router settings mode. To do this, enter the router's IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), login (usually admin) and password (usually admin or password) in the browser.
- Go to the Wireless Network - Settings tab. In the Channel line, select one of the 11 available channels.
But which channel should you choose? You can use special utilities, for example, Free Wi-Fi Scanner on a laptop or WiFi Analyzer on Android. They will show which channels are free and which are busy.
Launch the utility on your laptop. Its task is to scan all available networks and show which channel each of them operates on. Information about each connection is displayed in chart form. Please note that some channels may overlap, which may impair reception. Connect to a completely free channel, then don’t forget to click the Save button.
Selecting a broadcast standard
All Wi-Fi equipment operates in one of four standards: 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n. The most common of them are b, g, n. The latter provides better gain and stability. In the router settings you can determine which standard your device will operate in.
- Enter your router settings.
- Go to the Wireless network - Settings section, in the Mode line select 802.11n.
Wireless option Wi-Fi networks“Mode” – allows you to select the broadcast standard
Attention! Not all devices support this standard, so it is better to choose automatic standard selection.
During continuous operation, the router may malfunction due to heating of the board or software errors, for this reason Wi-Fi begins to work worse. It is best to reboot through the router’s web interface, for which you need to go to the settings mode, the System settings section, where you will find the corresponding button.
Making a booster antenna
Option 1. Parabolic antenna. We will need a metal beer or drink can, or food foil. We cut out a piece of foil as wide as the height of the router antenna, or we cut out the bottom and top from the can and cut it on one side to make a rectangle. The jar is already curved, but if we use foil, bend it so that it becomes parabolic. Now we need to attach our creation to the antenna. This way you can increase the coverage range, and Wi-Fi will be less scattered.
Parabolic antenna for router made from aluminum can
Option 2. Focusing attachment. You will need copper wire with a diameter of 0.8–1 mm and a piece of cardboard or plastic. We cut the wire into lengths of 48 mm (2), 50 mm (2), 52 mm (1) and 59 mm (1). They are attached to the cardboard exactly in the middle at a distance, as indicated in the diagram. We cut out the cardboard and attach the structure to the antenna. It will help to significantly enhance signal reception and coverage range. If the router has two antennas, we make an amplifier for each.
This method is suitable if the router has a weak translator or if the router is located at a sufficiently distant distance from the devices, due to which the connection is not stable and the network is constantly interrupted
Signal repeater
If no method brings the desired result, you should try a scheme with two routers, one of which will act as an amplifier. To improve reception in this way, you can buy a special device, but if you have an old router lying around, you can use it.
- Enter the router setup mode.
- In the Wireless network section, find the Operating mode item.
- Select the “Universal Repeater” mode.
- Click the "Search" button to find the network of your main router. Connect to it and reboot your device.
- Select an encryption algorithm and reboot again.
Conclusion
There are really many ways to strengthen your home Wi-Fi signal. To increase the coverage radius of your home network, a specific method is suitable for each user. For some, it will be enough to rearrange the router, while others will have to make an amplifier. But the truth is that you don’t have to resort to the services of specialists to do this.
How do you improve the signal quality of your wireless connection? Share your ideas in the comments.
Today wireless communication is the most popular among latest technologies. If the user is tired of looking around the apartment for a place where excellent internet is available, you can try to strengthen the router’s wi-fi signal with your own hands.
Methods for improving work with a wireless network are combined into three main groups: program settings on equipment, changing the location of communication devices, and hardware reinforcement. The best effect is achieved by the third way, which has several embodiments.
Interference. Wireless communications can be weakened by any electrical devices. Here you need to strengthen the wi-fi signal using a second router. Another option is to place the devices further away from each other. You can strengthen your wireless Internet by changing the location of the router. Install it in a free, open space.
Often this action helps improve Internet speed. In-depth research is required to identify the problem. The old firmware may have overheated. Rebooting it once a day helps to strengthen the signal of a Wi-Fi router in an apartment. It is carried out automatically or manually.
DD-WRT firmware is also used as a signal amplifier for a wi-fi router. By performing this action, we get additional functions, the operation of the router is noticeably improved.
Installing DD-WRT firmware
Internet access speed is affected by:
- downloading movies;
- participation in games played online;
- sitting in video chats.
If this is your case, configure "QualityofService or QoS". Thus, prioritize the more necessary programs.
Set a password on the router. This action will protect the Internet from neighbors connecting to it.
Homemade screen. An additional router design will help make the Wi-Fi signal stronger. Take a beer can and place it as a reflector, directing the waves from the amplifier in your direction. This simple solution is considered one of the workable ones. Installing a screen will not affect the radiation emitted by the device. The energy will be directed into a confined space and will create a signal amplifier for the Wi-Fi router.
Homemade screen from a can for a router
Change channel. When neighbors share the same connection, the routers' radio waves can overlap each other. The speed drops noticeably. You can increase your Wi-Fi signal by changing the data transfer channel. Change the settings on your computer. When the “power saving mode” is on, Wi-Fi reception is not 100%. Switch the power mode. Find “signal strength”, set it to maximum, save this parameter.
Setting the signal strength
As you can see, there are many tips for strengthening Wi-Fi with your own hands. What exactly each user chooses depends on the operation of his network, capabilities, and desires.
Hardware amplification
The wi-fi network depends directly on the distribution power and distribution conditions. The presence of screen-like barriers between the router and the receiving device can negate the positive characteristics of the former. The opposite situation is also true. Consequently, increased range and improved quality are achieved in different ways.
Using a repeater to strengthen the wi-fi signal
Powerful antenna for wi-fi
How to increase the distribution of a wi-fi router using additional devices:
- organize a system of repeaters or repeaters;
- connect the antenna via cable to move to the most advantageous place for signal propagation;
- use an amplified antenna for a wi-fi router;
- buy a powerful router. This method is more expensive than others, but it is effective and simpler. There is one catch - routers larger than 100 mW cannot be sold as household appliances.
Devices such as a repeater and antenna to strengthen the signal of a wi-fi router will help expand the coverage area if a convenient location is inaccessible. A replacement antenna for amplifying the wi-fi signal will change the shape of the coverage area, making it wider, but smaller in height. The gain will be several meters in range, and will not be suitable for providing Internet at different levels.
DIY antenna
How to strengthen the antenna of a wi-fi router? The simplest technique is to install the screen on the side opposite to the location of the receiver devices. This will ensure improved signal propagation in the desired direction.
You can make a Wi-Fi signal repeater with your own hands from a second router if it has the WDS function. Special repeaters are powered from the mains and in operation are not much different from a router.
The advantage of this method is that a router with a wi-fi signal amplifier makes it possible to bypass obstacles that create an impenetrable screen. In a large house, installing repeaters will provide coverage in the most remote places.
Gain with adapter
To get satisfactory Internet performance via Wi-Fi, there is special equipment - a Wi-Fi adapter. The device detects wireless communication, and is connected via a USB connector or PCI slot.
To solve the problem with communication quality, the easiest way is to initially purchase a powerful adapter. The size of the antenna is directly proportional to the quality of information reception, so when purchasing you don’t even have to study the characteristics. Sometimes the device is already available, but the power is not enough. There are two options: connect via cable to your computer and strengthen the wi-fi signal on the modem.
In the first case, the cable will allow you to locate the adapter in the area of best network distribution. The only limitation is the length of the wire, which is difficult to find more than three meters.
To strengthen the signal of the wi-fi adapter with your own hands, purchase another antenna. But this will help if it was originally provided on the original device.
Most modern equipment has a built-in modem, for which these methods are not suitable. But there is a device for strengthening the wi-fi signal, which connects via USB to computers and laptops.
Depending on the relative position of the router and gadgets, one or another method is applicable. It is important to determine the reasons for the poor signal before choosing a specific type of amplification. A variety of equipment will allow you to choose the optimal solution for each specific case.
Gain without antenna
Signal amplification methods. This problem can be solved using a number of means that enhance the signal. They are simple and do not require any additional effort to make your router work better.
How to strengthen the signal of a wi-fi router without an antenna? Here you need to know that the operation of the router is affected by various interference from other devices: cellular telephone, microwave oven, computer. These factors must be taken into account, but it is possible to increase the signal using certain methods.
Boosting a signal without an antenna
How to strengthen the signal of a Rostelecom wi-fi router without an antenna:
- place the router in the highest place in the house (for example, on a closet);
- do not allow the router to stand next to metal structures - refrigerators, safes, cabinets, etc.;
- if your computer or laptop does not have a very powerful Wi-Fi card, it must be replaced with a USB adapter;
- place a repeater between the router and computer;
- change the signal transmission channel; to do this, select a more suitable signal in the router configuration;
- Avoid radio interference if possible.
The listed methods are the main and most common. In addition to these methods, it is recommended to update the drivers.
How to replace the antenna on a router? Antennas on routers are designed so that they transmit signals in all directions at once. In such cases, part of the signal will disappear, the power of the router will work at half. Then a replacement antenna with an increased signal coefficient is required. To create a parabolic surface that directs the signal in the desired direction, you can use an aluminum can as a material.
You can boost the signal from a Rostelecom router if you install the router correctly in your apartment, pointing its antennas at 45° angles and setting the 802.11 B/G mixed mode. An effective means of strengthening the signal is to install an access point in any part of the house.
Nowadays it is difficult to find a smartphone, laptop or tablet that does not support wireless networks - Wi-Fi. Not only them, but also many modern household appliances can be connected to the network. Even multicookers are connected to Wi-Fi, so it is important to ensure good reception in all corners of the apartment or house. But a significant problem is the excess of wireless networks. In this article we will look at how to strengthen the signal of a Wi-Fi router with your own hands.
Reasons for a bad signal
Before we consider ways to strengthen the signal, we will talk about the reasons for its fading. The main ones include:
- Wall material. The most common problem is a significant difference in signal levels in different rooms of an apartment with concrete walls.
- Router location. In order for the Wi-Fi signal to be uniform over the entire intended coverage area, you need to place it in a place equidistant from all the far corners of the coverage area. Otherwise, every wall, cabinet, shelf or other piece of furniture will degrade the Wi-Fi signal.
- Antenna gain. Cheap wifi routers usually have one 3 dbi antenna installed - this is a rather weak option.
- Incorrect router settings.
- Bad Wi-Fi receivers.
- Many networks running in parallel.
How to strengthen Wi-Fi
Now that we already know what leads to deterioration in the propagation and reception of a Wi-Fi signal, let's look at each problem and its solution separately. To strengthen Wi-Fi you need:
- Find the ideal place to install your router.
- Set its operating mode.
- Replace the antennas with more powerful ones.
- Install reflectors.
- Install repeaters or strengthen the network with another router.
Correct location of the router
If you want to boost your Wi-Fi signal, before you do anything, make sure your router is positioned correctly and minimize sources of interference and reflections. The router must be located so that a normal signal level is provided in each room.
If you have chosen the optimal place, but did not get the desired results, pay attention to the recommendations:
- Microwave ovens, remote controls and other equipment operating at high frequencies, in particular 2.4 GHz. If such equipment is located nearby, move either it or the router.
- Neighborhood Wi-Fi. You can improve the situation slightly if you install the router in a place where the signal level is the lowest. You can determine this if you walk around your apartment with your smartphone and pay attention to the level of signal reception from your neighbors. You need to install the router where all signals will have the lowest level. The Wifi Analyzer program for Android will help you with this.
Configuring the router correctly
Before you run to the store for a new antenna, Wi-Fi receiver or router, let's go to the settings and check what parameters are set there. To do this, you need to enter the address of the router in the address bar of your browser; it is usually indicated on a sheet pasted on its bottom. Most often this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1
First of all, you need to look at the standard in which it operates. In different models of Wi-Fi equipment, settings and web interfaces differ significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer. Therefore, we will try to give general recommendations.
You need to connect to the router via the web interface and find the list of modes. Their names begin with the numbers 802.11, followed by letters, for example, 802.11b/g/n. To strengthen the router’s Wi-Fi signal, you need to select the item with the type name:
802.11n only
You should already see an increase in the Wi-Fi signal.
After this, you can try to increase the transmitter power; to do this, look in the settings for an item called transmit power type. It can be specified either as a percentage or as:
- High;
- Medium;
In any case, you need to set the maximum possible percentage value closer to 100% or High.
We have completed the basic settings for signal amplification. Now let's check the computer. If you have a laptop, check your power mode settings. In power saving mode, the signal gain from the built-in receiver is reduced, which causes problems with unstable connections and reduced speed. Set the mode to "normal" or "high performance".
Duplicate the network
If you need Wi-Fi reception at 100 meters or more, then you won’t achieve this with a regular router. Their coverage range also depends on the number of obstacles, transmitter power and antenna gain. On average you can count on 30-50 meters. The easiest way to strengthen the signal is to install a Wi-Fi repeater. This is a signal repeater that simply plugs into an outlet.
The outlet should be located in an area where the signal is not too bad, but not next to the router. You can amplify the signal with one or two repeaters to obtain a larger coverage area. But you need to configure it - select a network and enter a password for it. This reception distance is often required in a private home in order to have a signal in the yard.
The second way is to increase coverage with another router. Some models support operation in repeater mode. This can also be done by connecting the first and second routers with a simple network cable with rj-45 type plugs, as you would do when connecting the cable to a computer’s network card.
Upgrading or changing the antenna
If the router does not have an antenna, then the only method of amplification is software; we have already considered the optimal settings. The next option to boost your Wi-Fi signal is to experiment with antennas.
Experiments could be as follows:
If you are a fan of constructing something, then a biquad antenna can help to strengthen the signal for Wi-Fi reception at 200 meters; its drawing is shown in the figure below:
And this antenna, a Wi-Fi gun, will help transmit the Internet over 1 km or more (depending on the installation height and the accuracy of the signal direction). Its developer claims that he managed to achieve reception at a distance of up to 10 km.
In this way, it is possible to organize communication between houses remote from each other, or an apartment and a dacha, for example.
Important! It is not correct to talk about the range of the antenna. This figure depends not only on its design, but also on the installation location, the number of obstacles, and, importantly, the antenna of the device that will receive the signal. If in the field a regular router with a standard antenna can transmit a signal over 50-100 meters, then in concrete buildings there are problems with communication when moving to the next room.
We looked at the main available methods to strengthen the signal of a Wi-Fi router, as well as increase the coverage area. If you follow all the recommendations, you will achieve an improved signal, but you need to take into account the quality and serviceability of all equipment. For example, if after all the manipulations done, the quality of signal reception on the phone leaves much to be desired, it may be due to a weak Wi-Fi module and built-in antenna.
Materials
Sometimes it happens that if there is a wireless network in a building of 2-3 floors, the WiFi signal does not reach some rooms, or there is a signal, but the connection speed is weak. One of the reasons why this may happen is an incorrectly selected wifi antenna for the router.
WiFi is a technology that only works well in a “line of sight” environment. Any obstacles in the form of walls, cabinets, mirrors, etc. have a very bad effect on the propagation of the wireless signal. Therefore, comfortable operation on the network will depend on a reasonable choice of antenna for the router.
What types of WiFi antennas are there?
All WiFi antennas can be divided into two types: directional or omnidirectional antennas, which, in turn, are divided into indoor and outdoor.
Omnidirectional antennas
The class of these antennas is fundamental for building wireless networks. The majority of “home” routers are equipped with these antennas. They evenly distribute the WiFi signal throughout their entire range. Basically, omnidirectional antennas are a regular rod that distributes a WiFi signal in a plane perpendicular to its own axis.
Internal omnidirectional antenna option
Please note that omnidirectional antennas should only be installed vertically. Then the signal will propagate in the correct way, and the wireless network coverage area will be maximum.
Sometimes it happens that you need to cover a large area with a wireless network, for example, some kind of production facility. Then an external omnidirectional antenna with a gain of 8 dB is installed on the central building. Such an antenna is capable of transmitting a WiFi signal within a radius of 600 meters at a speed of 54 Mbit and to 1800 meters at a speed of 1 Mbit.
Outdoor omnidirectional antenna option
Directional Antennas
This class of antennas is used to organize a point-to-point Wi-Fi network. Those. they work well if you only need to connect to one access point or one computer.
An example of how directional antennas work
An example of how directional antennas work
Inside a building, a directional antenna can “break through” impenetrable walls for a WiFi signal. A good option would be to use a panel-type directional antenna. This antenna is a flat rectangle capable of emitting radio waves in one direction. In this case, the gain can reach up to 6 dB.
Internal directional antenna option
But if you need to transmit a signal, for example, to a neighboring house, then you can use an external cylindrical antenna. It is installed horizontally and directed towards the place where the receiver is located. With such an antenna you can achieve a gain of up to 18 dB.
Outdoor directional antenna option
If suddenly you are not entirely sure where you need to place your antenna, then you can use the universal directional option. This type of antenna is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation. The gain is about 8 dB.
Universal directional antenna option
Principles of placing a wifi antenna
The power of a wifi antenna is influenced by many factors.
- If the antenna is omnidirectional, then it must be placed in the center of the building.
- It is better to install the antenna or the router itself above the furniture level.
- Check the router firmware, it should be the latest version.
- It would be a good idea if the antenna is located away from windows, mirrors and steel structures.
Connecting the router to an external antenna and setting it up
For example, the MikroTik RВ751U-2НnD router was selected.
Connecting an external antenna
We take the router and look for the MMCX connector on the rear panel.
MMSH connector
To connect an external antenna, you will need a special adapter that will connect your router to the antenna. Typically these adapters are small in size, approximately 20 cm, so you can use two or three of them. You can purchase one adapter, but it is long. Now we make the connection, as shown in the figure below.
Antenna connection option
After making a physical connection between the router and the antenna, it needs to be configured so that it “sees” it.
Configuring the router to work with an external antenna
To configure the router, use the WinBox utility. We launch it on a computer connected to the router and in the Connect To field, select your router.
Choosing a router
To enable the use of an external antenna, perform the following steps:
- Open the Wireless menu.
- In the menu – Interface, go to the NT tab.
- From the Antenna Mode list, select the operating option – antenna b.
- Click – Ok.
Setting up the router
After making the settings, the external antenna should work in parallel with the internal ones. If you suddenly want one external antenna to work, then uncheck the box - chain0, and leave chain1. Don't forget to click Apply to save the settings.
Example of setting up an external antenna
Setting the transmitter power
This router has the ability to programmatically adjust the power level of the Wi-Fi transmitter. This feature can be useful if you need to transmit a signal from an external antenna over a long distance.
To set the power, perform the following steps:
- Open the Wireless menu.
- B Wireless Tables we specify the Wi-Fi interface wlan1.
- In the Interface menu, click the button – Advanced Mode.
- Select the tab..., and there is the item Tx Power.
Setting the transmitter power
In the window that appears, you can adjust the transmitter power. In Tx Power Mode you can select the power setting mode, and in Tx Power you can specify the power itself.
Selecting power setting modes
Types of installation modes:
- Default – in this mode, the power is selected from a table located in the router’s memory.
- card rates – power selection mode using a special algorithm using the power value specified by the user.
- Manual – here you can set your own power for each speed.
- all rates fixed – the power is the same at all speeds, it is specified by the user.
Boosting your WiFi signal is simple and easy