Network detection with Linksys wrt54GX2 (srx200 wireless router)

[stvrich]

I have a Linksys wrt54GX2 (srx200 wireless router) (I have the cd)
can you use this to DETECT outside wireless connections?

This router has just been sitting here in my hardware pile- -doing nothing. Been wondering if I can put it to good use improving my connection to the local (free wireless inet) network connection that is shared in my apartment building.

I've always used a router/switch to just DISTRIBUTE or share out, a wireless or internet connection. As most homes do.

I was just wondering if you can also use this router TO DETECT a general (unsecured) internet connection.

I would think so, but I've only begun to search for info (on the web) about this. So far I haven't found much / anything that was terribly relevant. Mostly stuff about wardialing with mobile hardware. That's not my intent. I just was wondering if I can use it to better receive a weak signal, right here. (since I don't have access to the router and cannot change it's output or physical location).

Also, if someone has a favorite or known software or utility programs that function well with this router in alternative uses of network activity/security/detection/analysis. I appreciate any suggestions

just go ahead and comment upon the possibilities.
With Many thanks

[stvrich]

Another (related) topic may be, if there is any way to tweak basic settings for a Wireless NIC that would improve reception in fringe or border regions of a router. My nic is also a Linksys: WMP54G .
I've got a laptop with another Linksys pci card I want to setup and fire up to test if my NIC in the pc is just bad/broken antenna or something. b/c I USED to get an excellent signal here.

[UrbanKhoja]

Another (related) topic may be, if there is any way to tweak basic settings for a Wireless NIC that would improve reception in fringe or border regions of a router. My nic is also a Linksys: WMP54G .
I've got a laptop with another Linksys pci card I want to setup and fire up to test if my NIC in the pc is just bad/broken antenna or something. b/c I USED to get an excellent signal here.

Evening,

With regards to the former, I'm not sure of that exact model but only a few routers will do what you're asking. As mostly they're designed to send data and provide an AP not connect to one.

Belkin do a number of products in a reasonable price range that may do it, something like a Belkin Gaming Adaptor with a higher gain aerial attached.

Onto the latter issue, a standard 54G wireless card isn't ideal for what you're using it with. A MIMO or even N card would be far superior, even though it's probably only a G router the better adaptor would still boost your receiving power somewhat.

Hope this helps,

Regards,

Dazza :cool:

[stvrich]

Thank you, I was hoping that someone knew of a way to turn it into a poor mans repeater. I guess that is what I was aiming at. A "bridge" or "repeating" function. And a "hack" that'd turn a common router into one. ......... If it's just not (ever) suited then, No. Or, if it's beyond my skill... then, No.

[stvrich]

An "n" card eh? Thanx Darren. I'll get one. STILL curious if there is a way to "hack" that router tho'. I know that SOME of Linksys's routers ARE the topics of software upgrades that the manufacturer didn't exactly specify.

[stvrich]

I did some experimenting. I re-setup my old laptop with IT's network card. A Linksys WPC54GS removable pci. And it was able to hook up perfectly well. Usually 54-36 MBps with a good/strong signal. So it's either the network card in my main machine, or the machines physical location, etc. I STILL would be curious and interested in finding a way to use a router like mine to DETECT networks. IF it were possible. Thank You.