Living and working remotely has made reliable WiFi more important than ever. But when it comes to outdoor areas like patios, gardens, and garages, WiFi signals often fall short.
Luckily, with the right equipment and techniques, you can extend your home’s WiFi network for full coverage outdoors. This allows you to get work done by the pool, stream movies during backyard BBQs, or even automate your lawn with smart sprinklers.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top options for boosting your outdoor WiFi in 2023, including:
- The best equipment for extending WiFi outdoors
- Expert tips for optimal placement and installation
- How to strengthen WiFi signals for maximum range
- Keeping your network durable and secure outside
- Key factors to consider for any outdoor WiFi project
Follow these proven methods to give your WiFi wings—no dead zones allowed!
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| Extending Your WiFi to Outdoor Areas |
Equipment Options: What's Best for Outdoor WiFi Coverage?
Boosting WiFi beyond your home's walls starts with the right equipment. Here are the top options to consider for your outdoor connectivity project:
Outdoor Access Points
Dedicated outdoor access points are designed specifically for exterior coverage. For example:
- Ruckus Wireless ZoneFlex R510: A commercial-grade outdoor AP able to withstand harsh weather and temperatures from -4°F to 131°F. It offers long-range wireless AC speeds up to 1.3Gbps.
- Aerohive AP250: This ruggedized, enterprise-level AP provides a weather-resistant IP67-rated enclosure and flexible antenna orientation. It's backed by Aerohive's robust HiveManager network management system.
Pros:
- Maximum range and performance
- Enterprise-level features like VLAN support
- Seamless integration with existing networks
- Flexible antenna direction and signal shaping
Cons:
- More expensive than home consumer models
- Often require professional installation
Key Tip: Enterprise-grade outdoor APs like the Ruckus R510 offer the best power, range, and resilience for large spaces. But they require more IT expertise to configure.
Mesh WiFi with Outdoor Satellites
Mesh systems like Eero Pro and Google WiFi blanket homes in WiFi by scattering access points or "nodes" throughout. Newer models include weatherproof satellites that can extend coverage outdoors:
- Eero 6 Extend: Has an IP54 weather-resistance rating and can be positioned outside to link with the main Eero router. It has two Ethernet ports for wired connections.
- Google WiFi Point: Google's hockey puck-shaped satellites connect wirelessly to the main router. They have some water resistance but work best under cover.
Pros:
- Flexible placement of satellites
- Simple setup without running cables
- Weather resistance (varies by model)
Cons:
- Less robust than commercial APs
- Satellites must link wirelessly back to main router
Experts Advise: Mesh systems make extending WiFi outdoors almost plug-and-play. Look for satellite units rated IP55 or higher for wet environments.
Outdoor WiFi Extenders and Boosters
Extenders grab your existing WiFi signal and rebroadcast it further. Models like the Linksys RE9000W feature weatherproof designs ideal for the back deck or garage.
Key factors when choosing an outdoor extender:
- Compatibility: Confirm it works with your router's WiFi generation (e.g. 802.11ac).
- Placement: Some must be within range of your main router. Others can connect via ethernet cable.
- Power source: Outlet, battery, or solar-powered.
Pros:
- Affordable way to spread WiFi outdoors
- No need to run cabling in some cases
Cons:
- Performance and range less robust than APs
- Dependent on main router's signal strength
Our Pick: The Linksys RE9000W offers great range and IP65 weather-sealing at under $200. Place it on the patio to easily blanket your backyard in WiFi.
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| Equipment Options: What's Best for Outdoor WiFi Coverage? |
Step-by-Step: Installing Outdoor WiFi Access Points
Once you select the right outdoor WiFi equipment, proper placement and installation are key for optimal performance.
Follow this step-by-step guide to professionally install outdoor access points:
Step 1: Choose the Ideal Mounting Location
Consider these factors when picking a spot:
- Elevation for better broadcast range
- Line-of-sight clearance from obstructions
- Avoidance of home electronics that could cause interference
- Nearby power sources for wired APs
The peak of your home or a backyard shed are often good mounting choices.
Step 2: Prepare the Mounting Surface
For brick, masonry, or siding surfaces:
- Use a drill to make pilot holes for lag bolts
- Foam sealant in holes prevents air/moisture gaps
For wood surfaces:
- Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent cracking/splintering
- Use exterior-grade wood screws
Step 3: Run Ethernet Cable to the Mounting Point
Outdoor-rated Cat5e or Cat6 cable is required:
- Run cable through exterior wall (drill hole and seal)
- Keep cable away from electricity lines
- Use cable conduits along walls for clean install
Tip: WiFi mesh nodes avoid cables, linking to router wirelessly.
Step 4: Mount the Access Point Hardware
Refer to the manufacturer's installation guide. Steps usually include:
- Securing mounting bracket onto surface
- Attaching access point device onto bracket
- Sealing holes and gaps properly
Angle brackets downwards to prevent moisture pooling.
Step 5: Connect and Configure the AP
- Connect Ethernet cable from wall outlet to AP
- Set up AP using computer or smartphone app
- Test signal strength to confirm coverage area
And that's it! With the right outdoor access point professionally installed, your WiFi is ready to thrive outside.
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| Step-by-Step: Installing Outdoor WiFi Access Points |
Boosting Signal Strength for Maximum Outdoor Range
Even premium outdoor WiFi gear needs optimal configuration for great performance. Try these tips to stretch and strengthen your WiFi signal outside:
Optimize WiFi Channels
Neighboring WiFi networks can cause interference if using the same channels.
- Download a WiFi analyzer app to scan local channel usage
- Switch your network to a less congested channel (e.g. from 6 to 11)
This improves signal quality and reduces interference.
Use Access Point Bands Strategically
Dual-band access points transmit at 2.4GHz and 5GHz:
- 2.4GHz offers longer range but slower speeds
- 5GHz provides faster performance but over shorter distance
Place dual-band APs to use 5GHz for close-range devices and 2.4GHz for far-off reach. Or configure band steering to automatically optimize device connections.
Adopt Mesh Networking
Mesh WiFi systems have big advantages for outdoor networks:
- Multiple access points seamlessly hand-off devices as you roam
- No dead zones as satellites blanket the coverage area
- Wireless backhaul links satellites without cables
According to Juniper Research, mesh networks will grow 130% in enterprises due to coverage benefits.
Manage Outdoor APs through a Unified System
Centralized management platforms like Mist handle multiple access points:
- Remotely monitor performance across outdoor and indoor APs
- Receive alerts for any coverage gaps or signal issues
- Control settings, updates, and security policies from one dashboard
This brings enterprise-grade oversight to home and SMB outdoor networks.
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| Boosting Signal Strength for Maximum Outdoor Range |
Ensuring Your Outdoor WiFi Stays Strong
The outdoor environment can be harsh on networking hardware. Follow these tips to keep your exterior WiFi humming:
Seek High Ingress Protection Ratings
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings indicate device durability:
- IP54: Protected from limited dust and water splashes
- IP65: Totally dust-proof and resistant to jets of water
- IP68: Impervious to dust and immersion in water
Look for IP65 or better when choosing outdoor WiFi gear.
Use Weatherproof Enclosures
Adding protective cases and housings to vulnerable devices prevents weather damage:
- Nanostate IP66 Enclosures: Hardened cases for outdoor POE switches and routers
- Oberon Weatherproof Boxes: Polycarbonate domes to shield non-ruggedized APs
Pick an enclosure with ample ventilation to prevent overheating.
Inspect and Maintain Regularly
To achieve multi-year lifespan:
- Verify seals and connections are tight
- Check for debris/nests blocking antenna signals
- Re-coat exposed copper cabling with gel or sealant annually
- Confirm OS and firmware is updated on all devices
Taking preventative maintenance steps now avoids bigger issues down the road.
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| Ensuring Your Outdoor WiFi Stays Strong |
Locking Down Your Outdoor WiFi Security
While extending your network outdoors is convenient, it also expands your potential attack surface. Take these steps to keep backyard WiFi usage secure:
Mandate WPA3 Encryption
The latest WPA3 protocol replaces the dated WPA2 standard for stronger authentication and encryption. Enable it on your wireless router and access points.
Segment Outdoor WiFi into a Separate Network
Place outdoor clients on a distinct SSID (network name) and VLAN which routes through a firewall. Limit access between this “untrusted” network and “trusted” indoor devices.
Restrict Bandwidth for Guests
If allowing visitors onto the outdoor WiFi, contain their usage:
- Create a separate guest SSID with limited speeds (e.g. 10 Mbps)
- Set bandwidth quotas through QoS monitoring tools
- Require passwords and limit client device connectivity
This prevents outsiders from hogging your valuable internet bandwidth.
Use Client Isolation to Contain Threats
Client isolation blocks direct communication between wireless clients. This helps thwart malware from spreading across your network if a BYOD device is compromised.
Update Firmware Frequently
Vendors issue frequent firmware patches to address security flaws. Set outdoor access points and routers to auto-update for best protection.
Regularly monitor and tune your outdoor WiFi according to these security best practices. Your digital backyard bbq will be safer for it!
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| Locking Down Your Outdoor WiFi Security |
FAQs: Your Top Outdoor WiFi Questions Answered
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about extending your home's WiFi network outdoors:
Q: Which outdoor WiFi equipment is cheapest?
A: WiFi range extenders offer the most budget-friendly way to spread WiFi outdoors. Decent models like the Trendnet TEW-823DRU cost under $100. Place near a patio to easily blanket the area in WiFi. Just be aware range and speeds are limited compared to enterprise APs.
Q: Does outdoor WiFi require professional installation?
A: In many cases, no. Mesh satellites, boosters, and extenders designed for outdoor use can be set up DIY-style without any cabling. But for robust commercial access points, hiring a pro electrician is recommended, especially when running outdoor Ethernet cables. Pro installers can also optimize placement and configuration for maximum WiFi coverage.
Q: How far can outdoor WiFi signals reach?
A: With clear line-of-sight, commercial-grade outdoor APs can provide usable signals up to 250 feet away or more. Obstructions like trees and walls cut this range significantly. Boost range by elevating APs over the coverage area and using directional antennas. For the garage or front/backyard of a typical home, a standard mesh system with satellite is often adequate.
Q: Can I use the same WiFi network outdoors and indoors?
A: Yes, you can broadcast your primary home SSID into outdoor areas. However, security experts recommend segmenting outdoor WiFi access into a separate network or VLAN, especially for guests. This helps contain threats from any unsecured BYOD devices on the outdoor network from accessing indoor devices.
Blanket Your Backyard in Reliable WiFi
As remote work booms, having seamless WiFi in outdoor living areas is increasingly essential. Fortunately, with the range of robust outdoor access points and ease of meshed WiFi satellites now available, extending your network's reach outside has never been simpler.
By mix-and-matching solutions to find the right hardware and placement for each part of your property, you can banish spotty connections from your backyard. Just don't forget the sunscreen and drink umbrellas as you roam your outdoors office!
Got questions on choosing the ideal outdoor WiFi setup? Drop them in the comments below—we answer every question within 24 hours!
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