Netgear wireless devices are known to woo users for their outstanding Wi-Fi range as well as signal strength. However, these devices are equally known to pose challenges like poor signal strength and range etc. at times. Don't worry! We have designed a comprehensive guide that will let you fine tune your Netgear device for the desired results on your own. This essentially means that you would not need help of your Netgear router support service.
Positioning – It plays an extremely important role in having good range of the wireless connection. Choose a location that is free of obstacles, electrical equipment like microwave ovens, fax machines, mobile phones, and computers etc. You can choose to place the router in the centre of the room or home for even and omni-directional range. You can also mount it on a wall that is empty of electrical, phone wires or metal objects as well as those mentioned above.
Point the antennas (of your Netgear router) upward in line as well as view of one another. If your router came without antennas, then buy one or two as per your choice from a third-party manufacturer. If you are using an external antenna, then it is recommended to place it high as well as away from physical touch with equipment and obstructions etc. If there is a multistory building, then position it at least 45 degrees (or more) high from the ground.
Attach an Antenna – As said earlier, you can buy and attach an external antenna to your device in order to enhance the signal strength & range. Follow the instructions mentioned in the above step for the right positioning of the antenna.
Choose a strong channel – There are total of 11 channels (13 in Europe) for 802.11g and 802.11b wireless router versions. You can select any one of them for your Netgear device. 802.11g and 802.11b protocols just have three non-overlapping channels. Choose that channel, which is not being used by anyone else in your neighborhood.
Attach a Powerline Extender – Buy a powerline extender from Netgear (it does offer these little, powerful gadgets) and plug it directly into your router with another end into a power outlet. The extender doesn't require configuration and is low priced. It simply uses a power line to transmit signals instead of an Ethernet cable.
Upgrade Equipment – If your router is an old genius, then it is better to get it upgraded now. Old devices are prone to transmit weak signals and thus make your wireless connection perform real slow and sluggish. Look Netgear's official website for upgrade options and help.
Additional Tips:
RangeMax products of Netgear come with multiple antennas and hence usually don't pose such problems. Advanced users can also choose to setup their Netgear device as an access point, use a repeater, or site survey etc. If the issue persists after performing all these steps, we recommend contacting Netgear router support.
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