Wireless Networks have exploded into our homes and offices due to their ease of installation and low cost. They are convenient and increase productivity, allowing us to browse the internet and access our files wherever we have signal. Wireless routers have a limited range, this is fine for smaller homes and offices, however if you have low or poor signal your connection will be slow and drop out which can be very frustrating. Most wireless networks are not secured, this allows anyone within range of your network to have access to your internet connection, personal files, and browsing history. If you’re thinking of setting up a wireless network or have an existing wireless network we can configure it for you by selecting the correct 802.11a/b/g/n protocol, configuring encryption and extending its range if necessary.

802.11a/b/g/n Protocols

Wireless Networks have evolved since being introduced in 1997. 802.11a was the first popular wireless standard. 802.11a offers a maximum data rate of 54Mbps however it operates in the 5GHz spectrum which has less interference but does not penetrate walls as effectively as 2.4GHz limiting its indoor use.

802.11b offers a maximum data rate of 11Mbps and operates in the 2.4GHz spectrum offering better indoor range but less data throughput. Many devices can interfere with the 2.4GHz spectrum such as microwaves, cordless phones, and other wireless devices.

802.11g offers a maximum data rate of 54Mbps and operates in the 2.4GHz spectrum. It offers the best of both protocols, high throughput and improved range, however it suffers from the same interference issues as 802.11b. 802.11g wireless cards are usually backwards compatible with 802.11b.

802.11n offers a maximum data rate of 248Mbps and can operate in either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz spectrum however many manufactures limit their routers to the 2.4GHz spectrum for backwards compatibility with 802.11b/g wireless cards. Early benchmarks show 802.11n routers perform similarly to 802.11g in range and throughput however that’s likely to change as the next generation of 802.11n routers come on the market.

Choosing the correct wireless protocol depends on the physical environment and your network demands. We evaluate which protocol matches your needs and environment then configure your router accordingly so you get best performance possible.

Wireless Security (Encryption)

By default, routers don’t have security/encryption enabled which leaves your internet connection, files, and network traffic accessible to anyone within range of your wireless network. Even if encryption is enabled you might be at risk if it’s not configured correctly. Older encryption protocols like WEP have security holes which if exploited allow attackers access to your network. If needed we will look at your wireless network and secure it for you.

Range Extending

Wireless Routers have an average range of 75ft depending on the number of walls or solid objects between the client and router. Wireless range can be extended by placing your router in a central location, using hi-gain antennas or with wireless repeaters. If your wireless signal is weak we can evaluate your wireless network and improve your signal coverage.

Wireless Bridging

Wireless Bridging allows you to convert a wired device to a wireless device, this is helpful if you have an existing network device that you want to make wireless such as a network printer or game console. If you have an Ethernet device like a wired printer and want to turn it into a wireless printer, give us a call.