What can I do to improve the wireless range between my Vodafone modem and my
computers?
Wireless modem/routers use a frequency spectrum that is shared with many other wireless
electronic devices such as other wireless networks, video senders or microwave ovens. Although
the modems are designed to cope with a certain level of interference, in some environments it
can be difficult to achieve optimal performance.
There are several measures you can take to minimise interference and improve the range
between your wireless modem and computers.
1. Most wireless problems are due to interference from other network or appliances. You can change the
wireless channel used by your modem to try and avoid those interferences. Start by trying channels 1,
6 or 11, then try all channels in between if necessary. Wait for 60 seconds each time after changing
the channel to verify if the signal has improved. As all environments are different, there is no easy
method for doing this other than trial and error.
2. Position the antenna vertically on your wireless adapter (ignore this step if you use a laptop with a
built-in wireless network adapter).
3. Locate the modem in a central place in the house (where telephone socket allows).
4. Locate the wireless modem over or on your desk/table, not under it.
5. If the wireless modem is on the ground floor and range is a problem upstairs, try positioning it on a
shelf.
6. Where available on the wireless adapter, use cables or antenna extension provided to locate wireless
adapter away from your computer and other sources of interference. Ignore this step if you use a
laptop with a built-in wireless network adapter.
7. Move all wireless devices away from potential sources of interference such as microwave ovens, metal
sheets, cordless phones, cordless keyboards and mice, video senders, etc. Switch them off or move
them away to identify which one interferes. Some devices such as video senders offer the possibility to
change their channel of operation so if possible try configuring an alternative channel on the other
devices too.
8. Interference might be intermittent (for example, if a video sender is only used in the evening, or when
a microwave oven is being used). Therefore you might need to check for electrical devices that are only
used at certain times.
9. Some laptops with a built-in wireless adapter will provide lower wireless performance than an external
wireless adapter such as a USB dongle. Consider upgrading to a USB wireless adapter or borrowing one
for testing where possible.
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