How Far Will WiFi Or Wireless Internet Go?

There are many variables involved in maximizing the range of a wireless network. I will discuss some of these and how some of them may be overcome.

The first obstacle to establishing a long range WiFi connection using traditional 802.11 wireless is the low power of most routers and wireless adapters. The first step to solving this problem is to use an antenna which increases the power of your router and adapter by focusing the signal in a very small band.

More Powerful WiFi antennas

The most powerful type of WiFi antennas are grid parabolic antennas. You can find these for sale on eBay. Look for one that has a high db gain factor, or at least 20.  Fixed directional antennas should only be used if you are not moving the location of the router and computer. You may use a directional grid parabolic on both the router and the wireless adapter. It takes a bit of time, and a willing helper with a cell phone on the receiving end to align the two antennas so you can establish a connection. You can use your Windows wireless utility or Netstumbler to analyze the incoming signal strength.

Panel antennas also provide a high db gain with a low profile. Panel antennas are highly directional and can offer over 14 db gain. Their low profile allows you to place them up against the wall of a building.

Always place your antenna as high as possible.

You will want to use a low loss coaxial cable to connect your router or adapter to the grid parabolic or panel antenna.

Increase The Power Of The Router and Adapter

Some routers allow you to tweak the transmit power by going into the setup menu. Consult your owners manual to do this. There are aftermarket WiFi boosters that attach between your router and the antenna. These can boost your signal up to a watt or more. On the receiving end, there are wireless adapters that are USB based, such as the one made by Engenius, that can boost transmit and receive power on that end of the system.

Factors You Can't Control When Establishing a Long Range Wireless Internet Connection

Obstacles such as trees, hills, homes, etc can block a WiFi signal. You may not be able to make the connection if there are too many obstacles in the way. If your path is clear, a system as described above can easily reach up to six miles or more. This will allow you to share an internet connection with a friend or family member.

For a complete How To guide to establishing a long range WiFi connection see: How To Get Free Internet With Long Range WiFi