How do I set up an amplified wifi system for my condo building?

Question

I live in a somewhat large, 14-unit 3-story condominium building. We'd like to set up a wifi network that we can all use so we don't have to all get our own. What equipment do we need in addition to the router? I see there is the Linksys Rangebooster, is that any good and would it be suffiicent? Is there something else we should consider? Thanks for any responses!

Answer 1

If you already have a few routers on each floor that can "see" each other and are able to run/install DD-WRT (see first link) you're in luck!

I, and others, recommend Linksys WRT54G vL (see fifth link) -- $70 each but other routers are great too... Just make sure they are on the list.

You basically only need to set up DD-WRT -- this can be a little intimidating and might brick your router if you mess up -- see second link

And set up its wireless sharing features (see third link)

Then you might have to get a couple of extra antenna's on some of those routers to make sure you have enough range (see fourth link).  These cost 40$ --less or more depending on the strength-- each but work wonders.

This should work great but will put heavy load on home internet service.  You might have to have a few people who subscribe to internet service providers and are sharing their access through the "community WiFi".

I do not think that only one router will be able to reach to the far ranges of the building.  You'll have to check the range for the model of router you are using.  A laptop--to check signal strength, a friend, and a cellphone--to communicate) will allow you to do this test.

One router with both antennas replaced with the "bigger" ones might give better range down a shared hall.

Make sure you buy from a retailer that will allow you to return items.

You'll also have to think of wireless security.  I suggest using WPA on all the routers.  WPA is less breakable than WEP.  Please change your key monthly if not weekly. Your network will be very appealing to intruders.

You should ask more detailed questions on the ddwrt forums if you wish to proceed.

Think twice before doing this.  It's very complicated and time consuming.  You have to be able to install non-default firmware (which might void your warranty -- read all about your router _before_ buying it) and configure it. But once it's setup you won't have to do much, except maybe ward off hax0rs and other intruders.  The multiple Internet Access points could be paid for by some HOA fees.  

Maybe the whole thing will cost 350$ USD one time setup -- if you can "install the routers" yourself (hang them off the wall) in a shared hallway.  How i got that number? 70 * 3 + 40 * 2 = 290.  You might spend more or less depending on your exact setup.  But I think one router per floor should be more than enough.  Why only two antennas?  I'm assuming that one floor has less condos in it.

Then you'll just have to pay for three internet lines (or fewer -- depending on the internet load you expect to have) a month.  These can be added or removed at a later period.

What is wrong with the above post (by joephoneman)?  There is no such thing as WPN encryption, for one.  

Most WiFi Routers are less costly than 80$USD -- check last link -- a lot less costly.  Some of the cheaper ones will not work with DD-WRT though.  I know that the WRT54G version 5 (less than 50$USD) even works -- though you have to be extra careful with this router (it needs a smaller firmware version).

Filtering by MAC is almost useless.  You can sniff MAC addresses of connected computers. VERY VERY easily. check second to last link.

I'm not exactly sure how this Answers thing works.  But If its like other forums we'll just keep posting replies and you'll ask questions.  Hope to hear from you soon.

Answer 2

The best and least expensive way to do this is to use more than one wireless router behind the router that is connected to the WAN. For your range I think 2 more wireless routers will be sufficient. You must run CAT5 wires from the main router to the new routers. Connect the WAN of the 2 new routers to the LAN of the router connected to the Internet and program the WAN settings of the 2 router to the LAN of the Internet router. These are called Access points. It acts as an extended antenna and it uses the same one DSL connection. Wireless routers are at about $ 80.00 each. I use NETGEAR 300N. It has excellent range. Email me for a diagram if this is not clear [e-mail]. The 2 new routers may be places anywhere in the building where additional coverage is needed. You can place more than 2 if needed. You can use WPN for security. You can also filter by MAC address to prevent unauthorized use if you would like to share the cost. Good Luck. Le me know how it goes.