Placement Of Your Wireless Networking Hardware For Optimal Performance - Belkin F5D9000 User Manual

Introduction
Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for
Optimal Performance
Your wireless connection will be stronger the closer your computer is to your
wireless router (or access point). Typical indoor operating range for your
wireless devices is between 100 and 200 feet. In the same way, your wireless
connection and performance will degrade somewhat as the distance between
your wireless router (or access point) and connected devices increases. This
may or may not be noticeable to you. As you move farther from your wireless
router (or access point), connection speed may decrease. Factors that can
weaken signals simply by getting in the way of your network's radio waves are
metal appliances or obstructions, and walls.
If you have concerns about your network's performance that might be related
to range or obstruction factors, try moving the computer to a position between
five and 10 feet from the wireless router (or access point) in order to see if
distance is the problem. If difficulties persist even at close range, please
contact Belkin Technical Support.
Note: While some of the items listed below can affect network performance,
they will not prohibit your wireless network from functioning; if you are
concerned that your network is not operating at its maximum effectiveness,
this checklist may help.
1. Placement of your Wireless Router (or Access Point)
Place your wireless router (or access point), the central connection point of
your network, as close as possible to the center of your wireless network
devices.
To achieve the best wireless network coverage for your "wireless clients,"
(i.e. computers enabled by Belkin Wireless Notebook Cards, Wireless Desktop
Cards, and Wireless USB Adapters):
• Ensure that your wireless router's (or access point's) antennas
are parallel to each other, and are positioned vertically (toward
the ceiling). If your wireless router (or access point) itself is positioned
vertically, point the antennas as much as possible in
an upward direction.
• In multistory homes, place the wireless router (or access point) on a floor
that is as close to the center of the home as possible. This may mean
placing the wireless router (or access point) on an upper floor.
• Try not to place the wireless router (or access point) near a cordless
2.4GHz phone.
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