Distance of wireless signal

[youkad]

I am using Verizon's DSL internet service with a wireless Actiontec modem/router.  It replaced a Westell modem/router that went bely-up.  I have a workshop which is in another building on the property.  The building is about 30 feet from the house.  I have been trying to get internet access on my laptop in the shop, but with very minimal success.  The signal is simply to weak.  The distance between the modem/router and the computer in the shop is about 60 feet.  Moving the modem/router closer to the shop is not an option.  Is there anything that can be done to get my wireless signal into the shop?  Do I need a different modem/router?  If so, what should I be looking for?  Does Verizon offer more powerful modem/routers?  Could I use a modem/router from some other source such as Motorola?

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[walt178]

In addition to the distance issue, you have to deal with barriers.  From house to shed I'm going to assume at least 2 walls.  And that your house's exterior wall will provide greater blockage.  In my home, going from the dining room to the back porch (about 7 feet) cuts my speed from 45Mbps to about 5Mbps.   I doubt that any router Verizon sells has the range to satisfy your need.   I'm certain you can get a non Verizon router that will be better, but again I doubt it will be sufficient.

The first option that occurs to me is a wireless range extender.  Some plug into electrical outlets.  So if you have an exterior outlet on the same side of your house as the shed, I believe that would be better than replacing the router.  

[smith6612]

Even though the distance is 30 feet, you could be coming up across a problem caused by the type of insulation being used in both the garage and the house. If it's aluminum-based or has any sort of metal, you're best running a cable between the house and the garage and setting up a low-powered AP in the garage, or hardwiring the laptop.

Otherwise, if the ActionTec is in the basement of your home, it's best to move it to the first floor. Since that's not an option, if your ActionTec router has an External antenna, and you're able to swap it, look around online for a high gain antenna. I don't have any specifically to recommend but they don't run for much at all.

Other than that, you can consider looking around for a repeater, which can help in this situation but will cut the available Wireless bandwidth in half. Also, make sure the channel your wireless is on, is clear.

[mechanics300]

I had a similar problem and purchased an Alfa Network AWUSo36H long range USB adapter.  All you need to do is plug the cable into your USB port on the laptop.  I improved my signal from 1 or 2 bars to a solid 5.