Can I improve my laptops WI-FI reception?

[chubbycent987]

I recently purchased a Lenovo ThinkPad L540 (Windows 8) and am wondering if there are any tricks, apps, or even antennas that can boost my laptops WIFI reception. I get a perfect connection at my house but I also like to use my laptop in my truck when I get to school or work early and can only get 1-2 bars; causing internet to be veryyy slow. I turned off all power saving options and checked in the "Network Adaptors" properties for anything, but to no avail. If there are not any possible solutions, how reliable are WIFI dongles and how much do they typically cost per month (I live on Long Island, NY)? I am not the best when it comes to computers and any help will be appreciated. Thanks!

[Raymond]

make what is called a cantenna,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXZtPWRmya0

[HonestCanadian]

You can always purchase a USB Wireless adapter that has a better connection to their router, or simply is a better model then your internal one. (Make sure to disable your internal one if you go this route)
http://www.bestbuy.ca/en-CA/category/wir...26056.aspx

Wifi dongles are typically expensive and they typically get similar access to your phone, which works great in 90% of areas assuming the weather is perfect... the instant it is cloudy may the force be with you.

Cheers and Good Luck

[WayneH]

Doubtful. The Wi-fi antenna in laptops is a very long wire enclosed in the screen bezel. Antennas in dongles are almost microscopic. They plug into a USB port. You'll not find a way to get better reception. Since the dongles are fairly inexpensive you could try it. But don't hold your breath.

[David]

You're probably just too far away from your router. You should buy a good long-range router or a wifi extender. Make sure you put the extender well inside your current range to get optimal results.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4cLFyw-k88

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSgePNzge3I&