The operation of wireless networks of the Wi-Fi format is influenced by many factors, the main of which is the equipment installed for operation. Thus, the range of the network is determined by the characteristics of the devices used for data transmission - routers. The range of the network is also affected by physical obstacles in the path of the wireless signal.
Wireless data transmission technology
To transmit data within wireless networks, radio waves are used, which are transmitted through their source - a router (router), which transforms the signal coming over the Internet wire into a radio wave format with a certain frequency and characteristics. Thus, the range of signal transmission, as well as within the framework of other radio channels, is affected by all kinds of interference.
There are several standards for wireless data transmission in wifi networks, which differ in range and frequency. The most commonly used device is 802.11g and is supported by most network cards. A router with standard gain (antenna with a frequency of 2 dB) allows you to broadcast a signal up to 50 meters indoors and 150 meters outdoors. The presence of walls in a room seriously affects the signal transmission range, significantly limiting it.
Other important signal parameters include not only the type of protocol, transmitter power and antenna amplifier, but physical obstacles and interference from other devices.
Signal obstacles
Metal structures and brick walls seriously reduce the transmission range of radio waves, taking about 25% of the total signal. The amount of data lost can be determined by the standard used. So, an access point operating in the 802.11a standard uses radio frequencies higher than 802.11g or b, which means it will be more sensitive to such obstacles. Microwaves also absorb signal due to interference from them. The maximum range will be provided by an access point operating in the 802.11n standard, which allows reaching a communication range of up to 70 m at home, and in open areas to obtain a large coverage of up to 250 m with close to ideal conditions for radio signal transmission.
Another obstacle is often the foliage of trees, which contains water, which absorbs the waves transmitted by the router at a certain frequency. The range is affected by heavy rain, weakening the transmitted signal, or by thick fog.
The range of signal transmission by a router can be calculated using a special calculator, which indicates the basic parameters of the equipment used.
An increase in the range of a network, limited by one of the above reasons, is achieved by combining several routers into one chain. Also, the antenna can be replaced on the device, which can also increase the transmitted signal by several tens of meters.
