Ask the Wi-Fi Guru, Episode XV: Power Poaching, Wi-Fi Troubleshooting

"Q: I have a PS3 and a Nintendo Wii and I use my neighbor's Wi-Fi to use the ‘Net. My question is, can I boost his signal from my apartment without plugging into his router? --Jack

"A: Let's assume, for the sake of ethics and neighborliness, that the prior conversation with your neighbor went something like this...

"You: "Hey neighbor, can I use your Wi-Fi signal for my PS3 and Nintendo Wii? In return, I will walk your dog!"

"Neighbor: "Sure you can use my Wi-Fi signal, but I don't have a dog."

"You: "Thanks! Can I plug into your router to boost your signal?"

"Neighbor: "Nope!"

"So the question is, how would a totally ethical person behaving entirely on the up-and-up improve signal reception from a generous and fully-informed neighbor?"

Complete Story

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