Extending wireless network range..

[Street]

I'm trying to set up a wireless network that spans a large hall with lots of thick walls in between. They currently have a crappy Thompson wireless router that I wish to replace.

I've been down and tried to extend the range with a Netgear WAP in the hall. However, due to the walls, I only get a pitiful signal when I set it to repeater mode and associate it with the router.

What would be the best way of making this work?

I was thinking of replacing the current router with a Netgear one and replacing the aerial on the Netgear router with a decent Hawking one. Then replacing the aerial on the Netgear WAP with a Hawking one as well and setting it as a repeater again.

Are there any other better ways of doing it? Or can anyone recommend me some decent kit? Also, do the aerials come off on the newer Netgear routers, I remember a while back having a problem because one didn't come off! If not, are there any other decent brands people can recommend?

Thanks,
Andy

 

[Street]

How does a Netgear DG834GT with a Hawking 7db omni directional antenna linked with a Netgear WAP with Hawking 7db omni directional antenna sound?

 

[MikeHiow]

Sounds like a decent plan.

Might be worth looking at kit that allows you to increase the output power, also.

 

[errata]

very expensive why not link the AP to the router by using ethernet over the mains ie homeplug, zero configuration and should work if the power outlets go to the same fuse box.

 

[Street]

Didn't think to do that! I'd already bought the kit.. Nevermind, its not me thats paying anyway!