How to Connect External Wifi Antenna to Router (Guide)

In this guide, we will show you the simple process of how to connect wifi antenna to a router or modem with the correct steps.

With the advancements in technology and the need for having the internet at the palm of our hands 24/7, a solid and secure wifi connection installed in our homes is a necessity these days. Every typical home has a variety of gadgets that connect to form a wireless network. A router manages internet traffic on the network and systematically provides an uninterrupted connection.

There are numerous internet service providers which provide you with a wide variety of internet plans. Before enjoying steady internet connectivity, one must know how to set up their routers correctly. Those who are unlettered in this technical world can rely on the information given below to connect their wifi antenna successfully to the router.

How To Connect Wifi Antenna To Router?

Antennas are vital for Wireless Local Area Networks. They transmit radio waves to form connections. The power output can be easily adjusted, so even if you use a longer external antenna, it does not significantly affect the power factor of the wireless signal. Choosing the perfect position for your wifi setup is very crucial. It would be best to find the place where it is the strongest and reaches a larger area.

An Indoor to outdoor wifi system will help you to cover a larger area and transmit better wifi signals efficiently. There is also an option of a wifi extender that allows you to spread the existing signal and rebroadcast it to a second network. This is useful in cases when your existing connection isn’t strong enough and is causing you a lack of speed and performance.

Let’s Have A Look At The Different Types Of Antennas Available:

Below we have discussed the two main types of different types of Antennas.

Omnidirectional Antenna:

Most wireless routers support an omnidirectional antenna to transmit wireless signals in all directions. They work at a 360-degree coverage area but have a limited range. They work like a lamp, are cylindrical, and can reach up to 1 mile. If the placement of the omnidirectional antenna is near an outer wall, you are less secure, and unauthorized users can easily hack your network connection.

Directional Antenna:

The other option is a directional antenna, with which one can direct maximum power output in the required direction. This type of antenna is preferred since it strengthens the signal. It works like a flashlight that reaches up to a greater distance.

  • These antennas might cover less area but reach farther in length. The region covered is up to 8 miles. One must keep in mind that the longer the reach, the smaller the transmission figure. It is, therefore, a compromise between farther reach and area coverage.
  • Thus, directional antennas are devoted to reaching farther but covering less area. Omni antennas are mediocre performers that cover more space compared to them.
  • Specialized high-gain antennas are helpful in increasing the broadcasting range, giving precise control of the direction and a significant boost in signal speed.

Also, Take Note of The Following Points:

  • dBi, which is a term you might come across while choosing the right antenna, measures the potential strength and reach of the antenna. The choice of the suitable antenna solely depends on your specified usage.
  • Long Range wifi connections consist of an Ethernet cable and a coaxial cable. Ethernet cable connects a router to another router, whereas coaxial cable connects the device to the antenna.
  • Ethernet cable, being a digital cable, can reach up to 328 feet without any significant dB loss.
  • Coaxial cable usually reaches up to 100 feet and is an analog cable with a higher dB loss.
  • Ethernet and coaxial cables are not interchangeable and can’t be converted without a radio converter in between.

Following Are The Steps on How To Connect Wifi Antenna to Router And High-Gain Antenna. 

Let’s Get To The Main Process:

Step 1:

Disconnect any existing connections on your router.

Step 2:

Meticulously, open the module and look for the UHF connectors, which are very small in size. Most high-gain antennas come with either SMA or TNC connectors, with simultaneous connections on the router. After opening up your module, you will be able to figure out the exact type of connection.

Step 3:

Connect the UFL pigtail connector to the antenna’s connector. Place the pigtail connector over the antenna connector, which is empty on the router’s circuit board, and press the connector down until it snaps and gets placed in the antenna connector. The connection will rotate in two directions but will remain fixed.

Step 4:

Choose a spot on the router’s body and place the external connector from the pigtail by drilling out the hole and sanding down the edges.

Step 5:

Take the nut and connector out and push the external connector through the hole.

Step 6:

Assemble the router again.

Step 7:

Screw the antenna to the new external adapter. If you have a USB modem, which does not support antenna coupling, you will need a special adapter that terminates in an SMA connector.

Step 8:

Orient the antenna in the best position so that signal is transmitted in the direction of your wireless devices.

Final Thoughts:

Now, connect to devices to the wifi connection and enjoy a hassle-free internet connection. Thus, with the information provided above, you will be able to make the perfect internet setting for your household. Routers are vital to ensure secure internet activity in our houses. Make sure to get accustomed to the working of your router and satisfy your internet needs from the comfort of your home or working space.

David Peter
Hi, this is David Peter from California, USA. By profession, I am working as an Telecommunication engineer with a reputable Telecommunications Company here in California. I am a tech savvy person, and that is why I love my job. This blog is my part time hobby, and I love to write reviews about different products based on my own knowledge and experience. When you go through my reviews, you will feel that they are unbiased reviews as they come direct from my heart for tech lovers. The purpose is to help and guide people who are looking to buy or upgrade their electronic gadgets like modems and routers etc. Enjoy and give your feedback in comments!
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