Sharing Wi-Fi signal: update

nigelmercier

nigelmercier

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Live in Kent, boat in Canary Islands
www.bavariayacht.info
Some time ago I wrote some blurb on sharing an external Wi-Fi signal with other devices that can't receive it, or indeed sharing any internet connection via Wi-Fi. http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthrea...rs-from-one-wifi-signal&p=4088870#post4088870

During the discussion that followed, this perfectly valid suggestion came up:
Mistroma said:
Yes, I've used Alfa units for many years now and they are very useful. However, your link shows a 2000mW NH model. I still believe that the 1000mW H is a better unit for most people. It can't handle a new "n" AP but most are still "b/g" in places I've been visiting.
Click to expand...

I figured it was worth a try, so I bought one of these Alfa AWUS036H 1000mW units to try: http://amzn.to/1ovCeIn

The first problem that occurred was that it insisted on loading its own Wi-Fi Utility, which I didn't want. I did a system restore then found the drivers inside the install folder. Then the problems really began.

The local Wi-Fi that I rarely have a problem with would fail to connect, or partly connect but with no IP. I messed around for two days thinking perhaps they are having a problem, and eventually reached a system where it would connect about half the time. I almost accepted this, as when it did connect the signal was one "bar" stronger, but out of interest I plugged in the old unit, which I had previously deleted.

It connected straight away, no messing around, and has continued to do so every time for the last two days. The Microsoft Virtual Wi-Fi is also happier with this unit, no failures so far.

I therefore will stick with the Alfa AWUS036NH 2000mW model http://amzn.to/1ovBIdw

Incidentally, I've found a clearer explanation on how to set up the shared network, to be read in conjunction with my linked post above. One day I will get round to writing my own https://blogs.ncl.ac.uk/isg/?p=437

[Later] Other models to consider, thanks to DipperToo below:
ALFA Tube-U(N) 2.4 GHz 802.11b/n/g Outdoor Long Range Antenna Wireless Wifi USB http://amzn.to/1gjBv9m
Same, but with antenna http://amzn.to/1cHysTN

#Alfa #AlfaWiFi
 
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Good 'real life' info. There has been a lot of debate about the different models.

I fitted the Alfa Tube(N) which also has the same chipset as the AWUS036NH should you want to use an outdoor solution. I mounted mine on the pushpit and it works really well. When used in conjunction with the R36, this creates a local 'hotspot' effectively acting as a repeater (you still need to log onto the 'repeated' wifi). Bit of fiddling around but once you understand the settings (and lack of decent documentation) it is an OK solution for the budget conscious. As a bonus, the R36 will also accept a 3G Dongle to share (supported 3G dongles on the Alfa site http://www.alfa.com.tw/products_show.php?pc=51&ps=11). Be aware that there is different firmware required for either the AWUS036H or AWUS036NH support as the chipsets are different - that in itself is an interesting exercise to avoid 'bricking' the device!
 
A few months on.

I have had an Alfa type unit for a couple of years and it's just about OK for logging on to the marina wifi but it's time to upgrade as I do work when I'm on the boat and need a reliable connection.

Cost is really a secondary consideration to efficiency and power so can you point me towards the best Alfa solution at present?
 
May I ask if these units mentioned would let me extend the range of my wi-fi so that I could offer my broadband to some friends and neighbours elsewhere in the yard?

I know that they could install some Alfa kit but I would quite like to extend my range to the pub on the other side of the river. :cool:
 
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