Extending Wireless Networks Setting up a home wireless network is easy, affordable, and may be the best money you spend on home technology this year. But even the newest wireless networks are not without limitations. Walls, ceilings and other electronic appliances can interfere with the way you want your system to work. If you’re finding dead spots in your setup, or simply want to add a new hotspot, consider wireless extenders and bridges. These are smaller devices that are meant to spread your wireless network around your house better than the original access point. A bridge can help you add an odd device to your network in a far-flung corner of your home, while extenders can add range to your existing setup. Check with the manufacturer of your main router or wireless access point. See which extenders and bridges would work best with their equipment and the wireless protocol you’re using. Figure on about $80-$100 per device. Please note, Helpful.com, Helpfulboard, and Helpful Computer Consulting do not assume any responsibility or liability to any party who wishes to follow these tech tips. |