Quick Wireless Network Question

[DarkAmeba]

I just set up a wireless network for my parents. They would like to use the laptop outside, so range is a consideration. I didn't want random neighbors connecting to the network however, so I enabled WPA-PSK. Does this encryption have any effect on the router's maximum range?

 

[febuld]

I've never heard of encryption affecting range...It can possibly delay speed by a second or two, but range should be fine. Also, there might be a lot of disturbances outside to get a good connection in general. If so, I'd suggest Belkin's Pre-N router. It's a bit expensive, but it's compatible with most, if not all, G and B equipment, and it has extended range and possible speed increases even for the non-Pre-N stuff...

 

[JackMDS]

Yeah it might.

It depends on the hardware some hardware might lose considered amount of bandwidth when using encryption and that would affect the range.

Newer hardware is better in this regard, you would know unless you try.

Adding an additional Access Point near the outdoor might easily compensate for it.

Link to: Extending the Distance of Entry Level Wireless Network.

Link to: Wireless Security for the Home User.

:sun:

 

[DarkAmeba]

thanks guys!

 

[ktwebb]

Wrong. Bandwidth isn't going to affect your range, at all.

 

[JackMDS]

Yeah, you are at the edge of the coverage and your bandwidth is just enough to allow Internet surfing.

Bandwidth is dropped (WEP, Changes in envioroment what ever) No more Internet surfing.

You move closer to the source Bandwidth increases. Internet comes back.

Well in some places in the Galaxy we might call it Distance variation.

:sun:

 

[ktwebb]

Just enough to allow internet surfing? Either you have an association or you don't. There won't be an "just enough to surf". Encryption does not affect range, period.