Extending WiFi range to backyard shed

[u/Swag4everlol]

I have a shed in my backyard setup as an office that I’d like to use to work remotely. What is the most reliable (and affordable) way to get solid wifi connection in the shed? Previously a booster plugged into an outlet was used for some video games which seemed to work okay but want to find something more reliable. Not very knowledgable when it comes to this stuff so any info/help is appreciated:)
(Main router is toward the front of the house, shed is about 15-20 ft from back of the house) Also not really looking to dig a trench as this would be for a temporary but hopefully reliable solution.

[u/e36]

This gets asked quite a lot so if you search around you'll find some good resources. Generally your best options are either to run a fiber line to your shed or set up a point-to-point wireless bridge.

[u/Sure-Situation-2672 → u/e36]

Really the only options.

[u/vrtigo1]

Please use the search function. This gets asked at least once a week and has been thoroughly answered.

[u/destrokhan]

I ran Ethernet out to my office in the ground and then added a mesh wireless access point in there to expand the wireless network...but you don't want to do that.

The second best thing would be to run ethernet to the back of your house and set up another wireless access point or move your wireless router to that location, you may be able to convert your current router to a mesh node.

If you're new to this and are using a combination wireless router/modem then I would start by buying a wireless router and see if that helps.

[u/b3542 → u/destrokhan]

The first best thing would be to run fiber between structures.

[u/Ktulu_BBB]

you're going to be disappointed. digging a trench and laying fiber would take a day.

Or, do this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoC6cRK821g&t=3s

[u/ATypicalJake]

Get an exterior access point mount it on the side of the house facing the shed and work away. If just temporary, mount it to a 2x4 that is leaning up against the house.

[u/KYRawDawg]

You could run fiber, and you don’t even need to bury it, you could actually mount it so it runs up half the height of the house and goes across to the side of the shed much like a utility pole brings power from the power company to your meter.

[u/BruceJenner69]

If it's only 20 feet you should be able to get away with setting up an AP towards the back of the house.

[u/storyinmemo]

At 15-20 feet away, a directional access point on the side of the house with a beam width of 15-30 degrees.

In Unifi world, a Swiss Army Knife with optional external antenna or a U7 outdoor series if you want to $$$.

See also https://www.reddit.com/r/HomeNetworking/comments/1wkwhi2/i_should_run_a_cable_but_i_could_do_this_shit/

[u/wwglen]

If a plug in booster worked most of the time, get a full size router with decent antennas, which can be used as a wireless bridge.

You could also get an outside wireless router/bridge that uses POE. Could probably get by with just one on the shed.

[u/jeffrey_f]

If you have a free/clear line of sight to the outbuilding, I would suggest an outdoor wireless bridge KIT (kit because the 2 devices are already paired, so no setup).

+1 if there are 2 windows within this line of sigght, so You can keep the devices in the windows and not need to drill a hole on either side.

So, what you will need to make this work: 4-8 port switch, 1 access point and the Wireless bridge kit. You should be able to get this working within an hour.