Troubleshooting: Wireless Network Signal Problems

Have a WiFi network and not sure why you're not getting a good signal from the wireless access point (WAP) or router?  There could be several possible problems, for example:

• The WiFi device is too far away from the WAP to send or receive a radio signal. 
• Tip: Most WAPs use a type of vertical omni-directional antenna that broadcasts a signal that would look like a big doughnut.  Try pointing the antenna where the other wireless devices are located.
• The building structure (i.e. walls depending on their material) can prevent the signal from reaching the wireless device.
• Note: WiFi signals can be blocked by objects containing water (e.g. water heaters, fish tanks, water coolers, etc.)
• Electromagnetic interference from devices like microwave ovens or cordless phones all share the same frequency (2.4GHz) that is used by 802.11 networking.
• Too many other WAPs around the device, and they're causing interference.

With the free home version of the inSSIDer WiFi Scanner its possible to graphically see what is happening with all the other wireless signals around.  This may help find a channel in the local area that is being under utilized to get a better connection.  If necessary, try relocating the WAP or router to a different location to see if that solves the problem.

Watch the video to get more information, and to see a demonstration of the application.  The company does provide a more advanced version of the product for purchase, check out their site for more information.