Ask A Geek

Q: I purchased and installed a Linksys Wireless-G range extender to boost my wireless signal so that I can get wireless access in other areas of the building. When I am in range of the wireless range extender I can see the wireless signal but it is not encrypted. So my problem appears to be that the range extender is boosting the signal but is not passing along the security that is needed. What can I do to resolve this problem?

A: Wireless range extenders are super easy to setup if your wireless network is not secure. Obviously it is a bad idea to have an unsecured wireless network though so most people have some kind of security. This just means you cannot use the “auto configuration” button on the wireless range extender to setup the range extender. You will have to either insert the CD into your computer and connect to the device or you will have to use your web browser to change the settings on the device. Read the rest of this entry »

Q: I share wireless with my landlord, yes this is trouble. Anyway, the router they use does not have great range and I have been unable to use the wireless from my desk.

To solve this problem , they just bought a wireless booster. The side of the booster simply say Linksys Wireless-G range expander.

My problem is now I can see the signal, but I cannot see that the signal is encrypted. This means I cannot connect to the wireless with my desktop.

I moved my computer to the room where we can actually pick up the un-boosted signal and now I can see that the signal is secured, and my comp will provide the key.

In short: My problem is the booster is boosting the signal, but is not passing along that a key is needed. Meaning, when I use the boosted signal I’m still locked out since the router will not connect me to the Internet.

Anyone familiar with this issue or how to solve it? I didn’t see anything on a quick Google or Ask A Geek search.

Q: My daughter has a new ASUS compact desktop computer using Windows Vista. It has a built-in wireless modem that is used to access a free wireless system that her community offers.

Unfortunately the wireless signal at her home is very poor where she has to locate her computer.

What can be done to improve the signal to her computer?

The wireless card is inside the computer and there is no external antennae connector such that an external antennae could be connected and placed in a better location.

Can some kind of a wireless device that would receive the signal from the towns wireless transmitter and then retransmit it to her computers small internal antennae?

Q: Is there a way to boost my WiFi reception for my devices like my laptop and iPod Touch?

A: There are a few things you can do to boost your WiFi signal. The first is a free option you can try which works without buying a WiFi booster so we suggest you start there. It might be possible for you to move your wireless router to a central location in your house or office. By moving your router to a more central location you should be able to cover more of your home or office, which might allow you get signals in spots you were unable to before. Read the rest of this entry »