One way to make a wireless network more effective is to use long range WiFi. Regular adapters and access points, such as those used in laptop computers and home connections, are limited in range and support only an area of approximately 100 square feet. This is almost one-third of the range it can cover in an open area. This happens because of the many obstacles that absorb the WiFi signal indoors and cause severe power loss as a result. These access points and adapters have weak antennas, also, that are not powerful enough to reach long distances.
It is usually not practical to have multiple access points. Not only do they consume a great deal of power, but if they are incorrectly set up, signals can overlap and create dead spots where there is no availability. Long range WiFi, on the other hand, makes use of high power WiFi adapters such as Ubiquiti WifiStation. Larger and stronger, these antennas detect a wireless signal and spread it further. Although the extra power comes from amplifiers, the power consumed is much less that that used by a supplementary access point. Therefore, these devices are actually less expensive to operate in the long run.
Long range access points such as Ubiquiti PowerAP N can also be used with directional antennas. This kind of antenna can be pointed toward the direction of the access point that generates connectivity. This focuses the connectivity and blocks out noise from the surrounding area. As a result, the system is more efficient because the power of the antenna is focused toward the device with which it is linking. This simplifies the system, as well, because connectivity does not rely on intricate network configurations. To improve range and connectivity of a network, long range WiFi is clearly worth consideration. It can provide better reception for less money and may be more easily maintained.
