[kwlug-disc] Extending WiFi Range

[Khalid Baheyeldin]

WiFi reception in my house, using the OpenWRT powered D-Link DIR-835, is
generally adequate, but could be better in some spots. Reception is
intermittent in the backyard, where I am pondering a project that would
need it. Perhaps the basement's concrete is interfering?

I like OpenWRT and plan to stay with it. Also the router itself has lots of
storage (flash) and RAM, so will be here for the future. It is in the
basement, near the cable modem, and other equipment, and connected to the
UPS in there.

Moving it to the main floor is not likely since it would involve finding a
power outlet and running Ethernet, as well as losing the UPS connection.

So, my questions are:

1. What does one do in this case? Do you buy another router, possibly one
capable of running OpenWRT and turn off the router features, and keep it
only as a WiFi hotspot and put it near the spots where good reception is
needed?

2. If so, what are good routers that you tried this on?

3. How did you turn off OpenWRT routing ...etc. on it?

4. Does the new WiFi hotspot have its own SSID or can it use the same SSID
as the main router?

Any other thoughts/ideas welcome.
-- 
Khalid M. Baheyeldin
2bits.com, Inc.
Fast Reliable Drupal
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wrong." -- H.L. Mencken
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