Scientists have discovered an affordable and easy method to enhance your WiFi signal and boost security.
This technique, costing under $40, could even outperform expensive antennae that cost thousands.
How a tin foil ‘hat’ for your router can improve wifi performance
The technique involves using a 3D-printed reflector wrapped in aluminum foil.
This reflector directs WiFi signals toward specific areas and away from unnecessary spaces. While the optimal results come from using 3D-printed materials, cardboard can also serve as a substitute.
By shaping the WiFi signal, users can improve coverage in areas where it’s needed most.
This approach reduces interference from building materials and minimizes signal dead zones. Additionally, it strengthens the security of the network by limiting the WiFi signal to specific spaces.
This simple hack addresses multiple wifi challenges
According to Xia Zhou, an assistant professor of computer science at Dartmouth, this solution improves both signal strength and security.
The reflector creates a ‘virtual wall,’ providing better coverage in multi-room spaces.
He said: ‘Through this single solution, we address a number of challenges that plague wireless users.’
‘Not only do we strengthen wireless signals, we make those same signals more secure.’
How the reflector was developed and tested
The team built upon previous research that used an aluminum soda can to strengthen WiFi signals. They created an algorithm to optimize the reflector’s shape for more precise coverage.
The team also simulated how signals interact with objects in the environment.
The algorithm can design the best reflector shape in just 23 minutes by analyzing the space, access points, and target area.
After printing the structure, it’s covered in reflective material, like aluminum foil. For those without a 3D printer, cardboard can be used as a substitute.
While cardboard can work as a substitute, it’s more challenging to bend and mold into the required shape. Cardboard may also lose its shape over time, which could affect performance.
How this hack outperforms expensive wifi solutions
In tests, the WiFi reflector vastly improved coverage, even when using off-the-shelf WiFi access points.
With a modest $35 investment, a custom-built reflector can outperform high-cost antennae.
Researchers are working on creating reflectors from different materials. This would allow the device to adapt to changes in interior layouts, ensuring ongoing effectiveness as spaces evolve.
This simple, affordable solution offers a significant upgrade to your WiFi coverage and security.
With minimal investment and basic materials, you can improve your signal and prevent unnecessary interference, all while protecting your network.