Wireless routers are a great way to use your broadband internet anywhere in the house or office. But sometimes the internet connection becomes slow or you start getting notifications of “Limited Availability” on your computer. For one reason or another, wireless signal from your router has been lost or is very weak to reach your computer.
The weak signal from the wireless router could be range from many factors. One of the most important factors is the amount of obstacles. This could range from walls, buildings and materials. Putting your router in the basement will weaken the signal if you are connecting to it from the second floor. This is because the wireless signal has to travel through 2 floors and walls before it reaches your laptop or computer.
The other way router signals can weaken is because of the frequency. Many routers emit the signal on a certain frequency (The frequency is different depending on the brand of the router). The problem is that other electronic devices in your house could be working on the same frequency. As other devices use up the frequency, there will be more interference with the wireless routers signal. The best way to get around this is to change the frequency of your wireless router. Make sure to read on the router’s manufacturer’s website about how to change the frequency of your router.
How to fix your wireless booster?
Age: Your router could be outdated or very old. As time goes on, the antenna gets scratched or loose. Always check the router to make sure the antenna’s well connected and that it is not scratched or broken. It might be time to buy a new one.
Location: The point of wireless router is to not be seen, but this does not mean you put in a close off area. Make sure you put your router in an open space where the signal has the least obstacles to travel. All router antenna’s are omni-directional, meaning that the signal will travel in all directions. Find an open space and put your router there.
Antenna: As mentioned, the antenna is omni-directional. If you are placing your router near the window or wall, then majority of the wireless signal is being transmitted outside. You can buy a high-gain antenna which is directional and only transmit’s signal in one direction. This will provide the most signal strength.
Network Card: The problem could be in your computer or laptop. If you have an old computer or laptop, then your wireless adapter could be outdated. Signals need to be captured by strong wireless network cards. Sometimes the internal card cannot get the signal due to interference. Getting a USB wireless adapter increase signal strength because it has an external antenna.
I hope these tips helps.