The WiFi signal range of any given modem varies significantly from device to device. Factors that determine the range of WiFi your router can provide include:

• the specific 802.11 protocol it runs
• the strength of its device transmitter
• the nature of physical obstructions and/or radio interference in the surrounding area

WiFi routers operating on 2.4 GHz band reach approximately 46 m indoors and 92 m outdoors. Older routers that run on a 5 GHz band reach approximately one-third of these distances. Newer 802.11n and 802.11ac modems that operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands vary in their reach similarly.

Physical obstructions in homes such as brick walls and metal frames or siding can reduce the range of a WiFi network by 25% or more.

In addition to the modem you are using, the devices you access the WiFi network with can also vary in performance. Some devices have better antennas or wireless capability than others. For example, a laptop WiFi antenna will likely give better performance than an iPod or smartphone.

If you need more juice (because you live in a mansion), then pop along to your neighbourhood electronics store (or Google) and ask them about wireless extenders.