Extending range of my Netgear DG834GT

ScarySquirrel · 29 Mar 2011 at 11:32

Hi all,

I'd like to extend the wireless range of this router. I understand I need an access point, but I wondered if there were any better methods?

It only needs to cover an extra 20 feet or so, so I am hoping for something I can just plug in at a half way point and be done with it. Do access points need to be connected to the phone line, or do they just get powered up and synced with my actual router?

What one would you recommend?

Thanks

EDIT: Looks like a 'wireless range extender' is best for me.

Is this one any good? http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=NW-028-TP

Tealc · 29 Mar 2011 at 12:49

That's the extender I use. It was a little tricky to get set up because it lives on the 192.168.1.x IP range where my DG384GT lives on the 192.168.0.x. I had to configure the Netgear to be able to access the web interface on the TP Link and from there it was just a matter of selecting the SSID of the Netgear, entering the password and rebooting the access point.

It now bounces a signal from my first floor to the top floor boosting range from 10% to 70% up there.

ANDARIAL · 29 Mar 2011 at 17:18

Higher gain antenna maybe

Default one is about 2dbi I have seen 10dbi or higher on the bay

Tealc · 29 Mar 2011 at 17:21

ANDARIAL said:
Higher gain antenna maybe
Default one is about 2dbi I have seen 10dbi or higher on the bay

I have one on mine and to be honest it doesn't make much difference. Signal seems stronger in the immediate area around the router but still tails off. Maybe a decent (non eBay) antenna would be better. You might be able to do it with a directional yagi or sector antenna but these compromise the reception in other directions.