▾For perfect (or at least sufficient to meet requirements) coverage of a specific area with Wi-Fi signal, a variety of Wi-Fi antennas serve the purpose. You can find them in brick-and-mortar stores as well as in online shops. So which one will you finally decide on? It is necessary to consider what we require from the antenna, what our investment possibilities are, and many other details that may seem trivial but are very important.
It's Not Just About Covering a Large Area
You must not fall into the often accepted belief that more expensive is also much better in quality. The selection needs to be adjusted to the requirements so that you do not invest unnecessarily in an inappropriate type of antenna or have to consider another one shortly, which will complement the performance of the original, unnecessarily undersized one. The smallest antennas, which we mostly find included in the box with a card or access point, are not as bad as many claim. They are perfectly adequate for covering a typical apartment or small office, but they are not very suitable for outdoor use. Many factors can negatively affect them, such as adverse weather, obstacles in the signal path, or any interference on nearby frequency (most often in the 2.4 GHz band).
You should also be considerate and use directional antennas for greater distances, which will not cause problems to anyone in the vicinity. Obstacles make things a bit more complicated; some allow the signal to pass through without issue, while others weaken or completely attenuate it (the worst for this are iron-reinforced walls or metal structures). It gets a bit more complicated, for example, with trees. In winter (when bare, without leaves), they are not a serious problem, but if they are densely leafy and also wet, they can significantly limit the signal. Coniferous trees are problematic all year round.
Directing the Antenna? Yes, It Deserves Attention!
For simplicity, antennas can be divided into three basic groups based on their direction:
If you want to connect two points over a significant distance, a DIRECTIONAL ANTENNA is a suitable solution. This type of transmitting antenna emits the signal practically only in one direction and to a specific point. You can choose a parabolic one (most often with a wire grid) or opt for the type known as YAGI.
So-called OMNI-DIRECTIONAL ANTENNAS cover a full 360⁰, i.e., they transmit in all directions. They are often included with many Wi-Fi devices. In an apartment, we value them for connecting computers that are irregularly placed or for other devices whose position we occasionally change (notebooks, laptops, mobile phones, etc.). If they have higher performance, they can reliably serve to connect clients in various directions.
The third type is SECTOR ANTENNAS, which only cover a specific desired angle (most often from 30⁰ to 180⁰). Using these antennas can easily and effectively prevent signal propagation in unwanted directions.
Radiation Angle, Polarization, and Gain
These values are also very important for the antenna and should be considered when choosing. The radiation angle is given for the antenna in the horizontal and vertical planes (horizontal and vertical), which is the expression of the angle in which the antenna can provide reliable coverage. For sector antennas, this is usually just a certain segment of a circle, while omni-directional antennas most often cover the full 360⁰.
Polarization refers to the plane in which radio waves propagate, and matching polarization on both sides of the antenna is ideal for good connection; otherwise, significant losses and gain reduction can occur. However, by changing polarization, unwanted interference caused by other networks, when overlapping occurs, can be suppressed.
Gain can be simply expressed as the ratio between the strength of radiation in a given direction versus the intensity, which is the level of energy that can be received by the antenna.
When Choosing a Specific Antenna
The actual range of the antenna is a very important variable, which can sometimes differ significantly from the figures provided by the manufacturer, depending on local conditions. In a hilly terrain with obstacles, it is better to choose a type with slightly higher performance and therefore reach. You can orient yourself by considering that the greater the distance for the required transmission, the greater the gain the antenna should have. Most often, you will receive an ordinary, cheap version of the antenna with Wi-Fi equipment, which is mainly sufficient for home use. This typically does not have a gain higher than 1 to 2 dBi (decibels isotropic). For larger coverage, choose an antenna with greater gain and ensure its optimal placement. You also choose the antenna according to the method and difficulty of installation and connection, usually also considering its shape, size, weight, and color, but these things should definitely not be considered the most important. Home-made Wi-Fi antennas are also feasible, but very few people venture into it.
Lost signal? A satellite phone won't leave you disconnected
Losing signal in the middle of the mountains or on the open sea no longer has to mean a loss of connection to the world. A satellite phone works even where regular mobile networks end. In the article, you'll learn how the device connects via satellites, what types of networks exist, how much calls cost, and why satellite communication is becoming more accessible for ordinary users.
Leaked passwords: How to find out if someone has obtained your data
Data breaches happen all the time and can affect anyone. Even strong login credentials can appear in the database of leaked passwords circulating on the internet. In the article, you will learn how to perform a password check using verified tools and find out if someone has gained access to your accounts.
Internet via light or how does Li-Fi work?
With the growing number of connected devices and the increased volume of data being transmitted, new ways are being sought to speed up and improve network efficiency. Internet via light, referred to as Li-Fi technology, uses LED lighting for wireless data transmission and promises higher speed and greater security. Let's see how it works and where it's already being tested.
What will 6G internet bring – lightning-fast connection, smart cities, and artificial intelligence in the network
Mobile networks of the sixth generation will push the boundaries of communication and data transmission. 6G internet will offer speeds in the order of terabits, minimal delay, and integration with artificial intelligence. In the article, we explain how this technology works, how it differs from 5G, what frequencies it uses, and why it is essential for smart cities and modern industry.
Wireless charging: What are its benefits, limitations, and where is it heading?
Wireless charging has evolved from a luxury feature to a standard part of most modern phones. Simply place your mobile on the pad, and energy begins to flow without searching for a cable and connector. We explain how wireless charging works, what it entails, and why Qi and Qi2 technologies have become the new standard of convenience.
What is Wi-Fi 7? What changes does it bring and when does it make sense to switch
Today's home Wi-Fi network is under increasing pressure. It has to handle video calls, online gaming, and dozens of smart devices. The new Wi-Fi 7 standard offers a solution that takes wireless connectivity to the next level. We'll explain what this standard means in practice and why it might be crucial for the future of home and business networks.