What is the most that I can extend my WiFi connection's range without spending a lot of money?

[TazExprez]

I currently have a Linksys 802.11b WiFi 4 port router, which I will be replacing soon with a 802.11g router. I wonder what is the most that I can extend the range of my 802.11b router without spending much? If possible, I would like to extend my range for a couple of blocks. I would like to establish a neighborhood "HotSpot" of sorts. Also, is it possible to keep people from checking my files on the home network? Thanks for your help in advance.

 

[JackMDS]

Link: Wireless Security for the Home User.

Couple of Block?

On Extending Entry level Wireless coverage.

Extending the range of Entry Level Wireless depends on many Environmental variables, thus there is no one simple solution. These solutions need additional work and material (i.e. more money) in top of the initial buying of the Entry Level hardware.

Scenario 1: One floor house, the living room has a cathedral ceiling, and all the rest of the house is basically around the Living room.

A Ceiling Antenna is installed few feet bellow the Apex of the ceiling; it covers the whole house and 60' around the outside. (The Wireless Router is near the computer, the Antenna is connected with extension coax).

Scenario 2: In an other setting, a "normal" two floors house. The AP sits on a high pedestal near the staircase in the hallway. The AP is connected to a Wired Router with long CAT5 cable and covers most of the House and almost nothing outside. Initially when it was placed in the computer room it covered only the Computer room and direct rooms next to it sideway and above.

Repeater solution - This solution is similar to Scenario 2. However by using a Repeater you do not have to connect the WAP via CAT5 to the Wireless Source.

What is a Repeater? Link: Wireless Network - Configuration Modes.

Repeater actually cuts the Bandwidth by half. (Since it has to Flip-Flop between Transmit, and Receive with a single Radio).

However if used correctly it increase the Distance.

The following is for illustration purpose, actual numbers in your settings could be totally different than the following.

Let say you get 1Mb/sec. (1Mb/sec. is probably the limit for Internet surfing) at 80'.

Assuming that the bandwidth at 60' is 2Mb/sec. You put a Repeater at 60', it cuts the bandwidth but it will transmit for another 60-80' so all together you will get the 1Mb/sec. at about 150'.