WiFi Interference Problems in Urban Environments?

EagleEyez asks: "We're running a wireless network (802.11g) in our apartment: four computers connecting to a Linksys wireless router. But living in a high-rise building in a major city (NYC) there are at least 3 other wireless networks nearby, plus numerous microwaves and cordless phones in the apartments around us -- all of which make the wireless network less than stable. We've pumped up the signal strength on our router, but we lose the connection from time to time disrupting our internet connection and LAN games. What other options are there to help ensure a consistent and reliable network connection? We've tracked the channels the other networks use and chosen one that doesn't conflict, but there's little we can do to prevent the interference from cordless phones, in other people's apartments. As more and more people go wireless, especially in denser urban areas, there has to be some sort of solution..." If you've run into this problem before, did you find any way to solve (or at least mitigate) the outside interference?

Comments

Shielding

[k4_pacific]

Consider lining the walls of your apartment with aluminum foil or aluminum window screen (don't use the fiberglass stuff). Be sure to ground it well and install it in accordance with all FCC regulations and local building codes.

Hope this works for you!

The only thing that worked for me

[Hardwyred]

I have a similar problem, but due to SBC giving out free wireless hardware to people that don't need it. The only success I had was when I decided I would just out power everyone else. I picked up a pair of 7db gain antennas, smacked one on my AP and the other on my laptop. I then switched to channel 9, nothing seemed to be using that channel. While it's not the most friendly, It works. Unfortunatly, the next step involves an op-amp and figuring out a way to insulate my toaster.

interference

[poindextrose]

given the option, I'd borrow a spectrum analyzer, and have a look see at what else is going on. turn off your router and let the spectrum analyzer sit on peak hold. often you'll find that the channel(s) you were trying to use were either

a) in use, or
b) taking a lot of interference from external factors (like microwaves)

if you can't find a free channel, first step is to stop it at the windows. try and position your router without a view to the outside -- pagers are notorious for sideband splash on their 1000 watt transmitters.

... unless of course you don't work for a wireless telecom provider or don't have access to a nice IFR otherwise ;)