1,6, and 11. Likely your easiest upgrade to your home wireless network.

When you open your laptop at home and search for wireless networks do you get a pagefull? Then how is it possible that your coverage and strength can be so bad when you're so close to so many antennas?

The answer is overlap and cancellation. Just like any other frequency that can be interfered with (radio waves, sound, etc.) so can the 802.11 WiFi freqs as well.

Although it doesn't tend to be part of the "easy" out-of-the-box instructions that you get in a wireless router from your local Best Buy or Office Depot changing the wireless frequency from the factory "6" setting can be the easiest way to get the better reception you've been looking for. And, if you have multiple routers in one house to compensate for coverage (i.e. you're in a REALLY big house), you may find that staggering the settings among the 1, 6, and 11 settings with aid in giving you the unabated coverage you're looking for. you may even find you need fewer routers once you complete these changes.

How do you make the change? The articles below review some of the options (if you want to really geek it out check out the one with IEEE references - those guys really know how to party) but you'll likely need to refer to the manufacture's website for detail on changing your routers settings. Still need help? Catch up with me and I'll get you in touch with some professionals in your area - this goes for personal and larger networks too.


http://www.microsoft.com/athome/setup/wirelesstips.aspx

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.11

No more driving and texting in Virginia

As much as I'm a fan of the tool of a wireless device this seems like a good idea. It also looks like a much easier way to get pulled over and donate generously to the locale...

http://www.ssentinel.com/index.php/news/article/no_texting_while_driving_law_takes_effect_july_1/