What's the best way to Extend a Wireless Network?

Posted by: tonym on 20 April 2011

Hi folks, I'm after a bit of advice on how I can easily and relatively painlessly extend my wireless network.

 

I've currently got a Netgear modem upstairs and a Time Capsule downstairs which is ethernet connected, but despite relocating the latter i still can't quite gain enough coverage downstairs.

 

I've had a browse on t'internet but it seems the only way is to get another Netgear-type box. If this is the only way, so be it, but I naively thought I could just buy a bit of kit that would pick up the wireless signal, amplify it and relay it onwards.

 

Is this possible, or will I have to hard-wire another box in?

 

All advice gladly received.

Posted on: 20 April 2011 by lawoftrust
Though I am no expert this should work wireless with a Repeater and as far as I know the Airport. Express can be used as such.
Posted on: 20 April 2011 by Tony Lockhart
Right, I don't normally hijack threads, but here goes, and I'm sure Tony won't mind. Is there such thing as a simple gadget I can plug into the ethernet connection at the back of my Panasonic Blu-ray player to connect to my wifi router? There's no way I can have a cable permanently running to it.
Posted on: 20 April 2011 by Alfa4life

As lawoftrust suggests the Apple airport express is the solution for both of you.

 I have an Airport extreme with ntl modem connected upstairs and an airport express downstairs which extends network range and have my uniti plugged into the express with a cable to allow me to stream 24/96 files without drop out.

Posted on: 20 April 2011 by PJT

Tony,

 

You need to investigate a Wireless Network Access Point, which will act as a repeater.  Depending upon the model, they can be used wireless, or even wired.

 

Your local PC shop will be able to advise what would fit into your network the easiest.

 

Cheers

Pete

Posted on: 21 April 2011 by Derek Wright

or use a network over the mains circuit, OK if you do not have too many extension leads. Great for connecting TVs to the router without additional ethernet cables draped through the property.

Posted on: 21 April 2011 by Gavin B

Tony L

 

Search for Panasonic Wireless Dongle on Amazon - £80.  Looks just what you want.  I haven't got round to getting one for my TV yet - let me know how you get on.

 

Gavin

Posted on: 22 April 2011 by Tony Lockhart
Thanks for that, Gavin. I'll try and sneak it in without it being noticed.
Posted on: 23 April 2011 by tonym

OK, thanks for the advice chaps. I think the Airport Express is probably the best bet.

Posted on: 23 April 2011 by BigH47

Those dongles seem very poor VFM, £80, when AE is £83 for at least a larger package, that seems to have more uses.