Troubleshooting
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Troubleshooting
Placement of your router for optimal performance
Your wireless connection will be stronger the closer your computer is to your router. Typical
indoor operating range for your wireless devices is between 100 and 200 feet. In the same
way, your wireless connection and performance will degrade somewhat as the distance
between your router and connected devices increases. This may or may not be noticeable to
you. As you move farther from your router, connection speed may decrease.
Factors that can weaken signals simply by getting in the way of your network’s radio waves
are metal appliances or obstructions, and walls.
If you have concerns about your network’s performance that might be related to range or
obstruction factors, try moving the computer to a position between five and 10 feet from the
router in order to see if distance is the problem.
Note
: While some of the items listed below can affect network performance, they will not
prohibit your wireless network from functioning. If you are concerned that your network
is not operating at its maximum effectiveness, this checklist may help.
1. Placement of your router
Place your router, the central connection point of your network, as close as possible to the
center of your wireless network devices.
To achieve the best wireless network coverage for your “wireless clients,” (for example,
computers enabled by Wireless Notebook Cards, Wireless Desktop Cards, and Wireless USB
Adapters):
•
Make sure that your router’s antennas are parallel to each other, and are positioned
vertically (toward the ceiling). If your router itself is positioned vertically, point the
antennas as much as possible in an upward direction.
•
In multistory homes, place the router on a floor that is as close to the center of the
home as possible. This may mean placing your router on an upper floor.
•
Try not to place your router near a cordless 2.4 GHz phone.
2. Avoid obstacles and interference
Avoid placing your router near devices that may emit radio “noise”, such as microwave ovens.
Other objects that can inhibit wireless communication can include:
• Refrigerators
•
Washers or dryers
•
Metal cabinets
•
Large aquariums
•
Metallic-based, UV-tinted windows
If your wireless signal seems weak in some spots, make sure that objects such as these are
not blocking the signal’s path between your computers and router.
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