We often refer to being out of Wi-Fi range or having a low signal when troubleshooting wireless apps or phones. Signal strength is a key component of connectivity and is related to the range of a network. So what is the range of an average Wi-Fi network? How close should you be to your router or wireless access point to get a sustained connection?
Wireless networks use radio signals that degrade the further the signal is from its source. It can also be inhibited by thick walls, metal objects, electrical objects, and interference. There are many aspects to setting up a wireless network and signal strength is only part of it.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about your wireless network and how far the signal extends.
Wireless network standards and their signal strengths
The 802.11 wireless standard was created and is currently maintained by the IEEE. Each version has a different range, so it will affect your wireless signal. Currently, there are 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n. There is 802.11x, but it is more of an additional layer of security for networks than a wireless network standard.
- 11a has a range of 115 feet indoors and 390 feet outdoors.
- 11b has a range of 115 feet indoors and 460 feet outdoors.
- 11g has a range of 125 feet indoors and 460 feet outdoors.
- 11n has a range of 230 feet indoors and 820 feet outdoors.
- 11ac has a range of 115 feet indoors.
Wi-Fi frequencies and channels
Typical Wi-Fi networks operate on two main frequencies, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, the main reason being FCC standards and the assigned frequencies that something, like a radio station, home network, or CB radio, can legally transmit. in.
The 2.4 GHz frequency has three non-overlapping channels and is generally considered stronger than the 5 GHz range. The higher frequency is faster but is interrupted more easily and is susceptible to thick walls and interference.
Determine the range of your router’s wireless access point
The router you use has a big influence on the range of the average Wi-Fi network. The signal strength your router can generate, the sensitivity and number of antennas, and the wireless channel and frequency are key to determining its range.
To be a bit pedantic, most routers used in homes today are SOHO (Small Office Home Office) routers that contain a modem, a switch, an access point and a router all in one device . Therefore, Wi-Fi range depends on your router’s wireless access point (WAP) and the good quality of its antenna. The range is also influenced by the building and the version of the 802.11 standard. Each of these three things will influence exactly the range or strength of the wireless signal.
Different manufacturers use different antennas and signal strengths, so I can only provide averages, but as a general rule, an 802.11a-compatible router has a range of 115 feet indoors. A router with 802.11n reaches up to 230 feet indoors. Outdoor kitchens are longer because there are generally fewer walls or interruptions to the outdoor spaces.
Some router firmware includes signal strength sliders. Third-party Tomato firmware allows you to adjust your wireless signal to the maximum that your router can output. Otherwise, your stock firmware will probably have a safe maximum that won’t stress the hardware while still giving you maximum practical range.
You can change the antenna that comes with your router if you don’t get the range you need. The manufacturer may offer them or a third party may manufacture them. These long range antennas will slightly extend the range depending on what affects it. Otherwise, you can increase the range by using a wifi extender.
There are many things that influence the range of a wireless network. The make and model of the router, the building it is located in, the frequency and standard it uses, other wireless networks, and even your appliances. It’s a fascinating topic but one that needs a lot of research!
Causes of Wi-Fi interference
Radio waves can be interrupted or slowed down by all kinds of things. With Wi-Fi, these are generally thick walls, metal objects or sheets, certain types of insulation, other electronic or electrical objects, and other radio sources.
It is rare for anyone to experience the full indoor range of any wireless standard, as the signal weakens with every obstruction it encounters. Every time you have to pass through a wall or a floor, every time you have to deal with electronic interference or pass near appliances, the signal weakens. This can significantly reduce the signal range.
The signal strength I mentioned above comes from the attenuation of the waves. The lower the frequency, the lower the attenuation. If you look at a radio wave, lower frequencies have a lower, slower wave on an oscilloscope. Higher frequencies have a much more pronounced waveform and are much closer together. Lower frequencies tend to be louder because of that slower wave.
Lower frequencies are also more susceptible to interference. More devices use radio in the 2.4 GHz range than any other. So if you live in an apartment block or dorm, you may find many other devices competing for airtime in the 2.4 GHz range. Typically, you’ll want to set your wireless connection to the 2.4 GHz range. 4 GHz and only change it to 5 GHz if you have too much interference on too many channels at that lower frequency.
When in doubt, use 2.4 GHz whenever possible. Provides a stronger signal and the ability to connect more devices within range. If speed is your priority, 5 GHz is faster but has half the range and is more susceptible to interference.
Frequent questions
Can I use a second router as a Wi-Fi extender?
Yes, you can set up a second router to act as an extension of your main router’s wireless network, known as a Wi-Fi extender. All you need to do is configure the same network on the second router, that is, use the same SSID and password as the main router. For best results, place the second router in another room or floor of the house, apartment, etc.
Wireless network ranges
Although the theoretical range of a Wi-Fi network is well known, interference from the environment will most likely prevent it from reaching its full potential.
Share your experiences with network ranges in the comments below.
