WiFi Antenna Basics

This is not just about the antenna!
If you are first logged in without reading the Getting Started FAQ, go back and do this. Unless you understand the core principles of the WiFi system, you will be confused.

Which antenna do I choose?
The antenna that works well depends on the features you need to perform. Not all antennas are the same. In addition to the performance differences of different manufacturers, the antenna is divided into two different parameters. Omnidirectional and oriented.

What is the difference between the omnidirectional VS direction?
simple. An omnidirectional antenna is like a light bulb. Although the directional antenna works in the same way as a flashlight. The Omni sends a signal in all directions, and the directional antenna sends a signal where you point.

What does dBi mean and how does it affect the range?
The dBi rating tells you how many signals will travel. The higher the dBi, the farther the signal travels. The antenna manipulates (does not increase) the signal to function in some way. Which way depends on the antenna.

Is the signal manipulated? what does that mean?
The WiFi signal from the antenna changes only based on the design. More power is done by increasing the radio strength. For example, when the directional antenna dBi level becomes higher, it focuses the signal beam into a narrower path. More range can be achieved by narrowing the path of the signal. The trade-off is that the signal covers fewer areas.

Distance or area? this is the problem.
An omnidirectional antenna transmits/receives signals in a 360-degree disk around the antenna. The directional antenna sends/receives signals from the area you point to the antenna. Use directional antennas for longer distances or when using known signal locations. The omnidirectional antenna is transmitted/received from all directions. A typical use for this situation is when creating hotspots.

Is the antenna received or transmitted?
All. Although the WiFi signal consists of information transmitted and received by both parties, it is important to know that the role of the antenna is to increase the chances of successful connection to the radio. Whether it’s a router (sending a signal) or a USB adapter (receiving a signal), it only improves the chances of sending or receiving the radio.

Can I get a Panel, Yagi or Grid?
The answer depends on the direction in which you need the antenna. Some people may think that they are as directional as possible, but it’s important to remember that you may need to find the signal more difficult and lose the signal more easily after installation. This is because the antenna is as narrow as the grid.

From: http://www.hj-antenna.com/wifi-antenna-basics/