Do I need a wireless bridge?

[batmeat]

I've got my internet connection hooked into a wireless router. I have a desktop connected to the router via ehternet cable, and I have a laptop connected to the router via wireless card. I only get internet access in about half of the house. Do I need a wireless bridege so I get access into other parts of the house? Stringing network cable to another part of the house and hooking it into an access point is not an option. Is there something out there that will pick up the wireless signal and repeat it so I get better access?

[kwebb]

Yes. An ap with a repeater function. Several SOHO ap's have this functionality. It's a poor choice however as you lose half your throughput on each hop. Adding aftermarket, higher gain antennas at the AP, boosting the dB is the better choice for expanding your cell coverage. If you must use a repeater then you'll need to stay with the same brand as it's not part of the standard.

Edit: You could also get a workgroup bridge, a wireless client device, to associate to your parent AP, then use a X-over to uplink a second AP. That'd be an expensive option perhaps but would work.

[batmeat]

So where can I find an aftermarket antennas to boost my coverage of my wireless network?

[batmeat]

NVRMND I just bought an antenna to boost the Db 7x what the standard is.

[John Prophet]

make sure u do a little research on wireless security...cuz once you increase the strength you of course increase the range where other peeps can spy/hack you etc.

[batmeat]

Not a problem. I use a wep key. NOt that it matters much, the closest house to me is about 300 yards away.

[kwebb]

boost the Db 7x what the standard is.

There is no standard for gain on AP's. Most do use omni's in the 2 dBi range however a few offer dipoles and 5 dBi. I assume by 7X you mean you got an antenna at 14 or 15 dBi. Lotta juice. A good directional will hit it from your 300 yard away neighbor. Change your WEP key periodically.

[batmeat]

Yes, it is an antenna with an output of 15dbi. Got the antenna and installed it on the Linksys router. It absolutely sucks. My range was cut down by about half. I don't get it. Any thoughts on this?

[M_Six]

I bought the Linksys signal booster and it worked for me. Extended my range and my signal strength.

Also, the wireless card you use in your laptop has a lot to do with range. I researched extensively and found the Orinoco cards offer the best range.

[batmeat]

The stackable one?