
As we learned later, even picking up the Wi-Fi device we were tracking can cause a measurable signal spike. Like panel antennas, bumping or changing the angle of the antenna can cause the signal to degrade rapidly.

The radiation pattern of a parabolic dish antenna. These are simple, cheap, and work very well for what most consumers need. The standard antenna you'll expect to see on a router or network adapter is the " Rubber Ducky" style antenna that looks like a simple stick. They are popular on boats, remote sensor stations, and construction sites with remotely linked security cameras. You'll also find different types of directional antennas connecting long-range Wi-Fi links that can span over a mile with a clear line of sight.

Wireless network adapters frequently come with a small omnidirectional antenna attached, which can be replaced with an aftermarket antenna.

Antennas Expand What Network Adapters Can Do Using a high-gain omnidirectional antenna, a panel antenna, and a parabolic grid, we'll examine the effect on Wi-Fi signal strength for each category of Wi-Fi antenna. Many compatible adapters have swappable antennas, and there are several different kinds of specialized antennas you can add to a network adapter to increase its range and performance. When learning Wi-Fi hacking, picking a compatible Wi-Fi network adapter is the first step to learning to crack Wi-Fi passwords.
