Best wireless solution for a oddly designed apartment.

[defuse]

Hi, I have an issue accessing a wireless signal in my apartment. The layout is kinda odd. I current have a modem/router combo from Time Warner that's currently in the hallway. I can only access the wireless signal from one side of the apartment, which is above the red line. I would like to access my wireless signal in all parts of the apartment.

What would you guys recommend in this situation? I was thinking of adding a router to the mix and disable the wireless signal for the router/modem combo.

I'm also concerned that just having a better wireless router still wouldn't solve the penetration issue.

Here is a layout of the place.

 

[stevech]

Of course, try to move the router nearer the weak signal area. And make sure it is not buried low and inside furniture.

Recommendation, based on the fact that the Cable Co. / DSL providers' combo modem/WiFi router are usually very poor.

Get Time Warner to tell you over the phone or on their web site FAQs, how to change their box to bridge mode.

Or as I do, I take their modem but not their combo modem/router product. In my area, they'd do that swap out at no charge, with a tech's visit or swap by going to local TWC shop.

Select a $50 or so 802.11n WiFi router (nothing fancy). Perhaps an ASUS RT-N12D1 (I have one; it's fine). Connect that to the new TWC modem or to the now-in-bridge mode existing TWC box. Setup your new router - WPA2 security, SSID, Channel. And you'll probably see an OK signal, assuming your distances are what I'd expect for an 800 sq. ft. apartment, or so.

I don't think you should have to put an Access Point (AP) in the bedroom. The distances are too short.

In office area, consider putting in an IP over power wiring device that mates with another like-kind located near the router.

 

[jlake]

I would look at something that could provide dual band since you're in an apartment. 2.4 ghz is notoriously difficult with neighbors so close. So 5 ghz might be an option to look at....although it has a shorter range, you might get better performance overall if you position things right.

http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wire...best-way-to-get-whole-house-wireless-coverage

 

[KGB7]

If you want dual band then take a look at n66u.

 

[L&LD]

You may be pleasantly surprised what a new router can offer in terms of coverage.

The RT-N66U is a standard with it's dual band three (external) antenna design. But it is also relatively expensive and getting 'old' with the new hardware coming out. Still great though; but I would recommend using it with RMerlin's 374.38_2-em firmware or for better 5GHz performance; the latest v2239 Beta from Asus.

While the RT-AC56U is limited by it's dual antenna (internal) design, it is also a great choice imo.


RT-N66U
http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showpost.php?p=100877&postcount=42

http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showpost.php?p=100542&postcount=33

http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showpost.php?p=98452&postcount=150



RT-AC56U
http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showpost.php?p=99500&postcount=365


The 'draw' with the RT-AC56U is that it is AC capable and is currently $99 until the 27th, while the older RT-N66U is at least $50 higher (here).

http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showthread.php?t=13805

 

[stevech]

It may be that a more costly dual-band WiFi router is an overkill.

 

[L&LD]

It may be that a more costly dual-band WiFi router is an overkill.

Possibly. But the hope is that it is an overkill with a purpose (and net reward).