Neighborhood Networks

Networking across an entire neighborhood may seem like a difficult task at first, which is probably why few have attempted it in Trinidad and Tobago so far. But with wireless routers becoming so common place in homes it is only to be expected that home users will start to wonder why they cant connect to the neighbour down the street with the same ease as they surf the internet on the front porch with their laptop.

Well it can be that easy, if you have the right equipment. All you need is:
1) An access point device on one end
2) A Client device on the other
3) Powerful enough antennas (located in line of sight of each other) to send the signal both ways.

Obviously its not that complex to figure out. The difficulty starts to mount though when you realize that most consumer wireless routers are incapable of making this type of connection, and items like external antennas and cables can be complicated and expensive to purchase.
To simplify things I recommend using this all in one solution I have personally researched.
Of course you are free to go out and purchase any access point, client bridge and antennas you want and post your results with them on this site as well.
The intention here is not to sell you a product, but to provide you with a convenient, affordable, flexible solution.

Off the shelf products

If cost is not a factor then an off the shelf solution is definitely the way to go, and there are many options available to get the job done, ranging from the item mentioned above, to military grade towers and radio transmitters.
From a networking perspective, what you choose will depend on the level of reliability you need and your project budget.

DIY Options

For the enthusiast or casual user who may not want or need such rugged equipment the DIY option can be very interesting and enjoyable.
The main requirements remain the same: Wireless devices on both ends capable of establishing a connection to each other.
If the computers you intend to link are in the house next door, it can be as simple as opening the network configuration software your computer, selecting the neighbors network and clicking on connect.
If the signal strength is weak you could try moving the access point or computers close to an open window, or anywhere there might be a stronger signal.
If there is no signal at all then you will need to get inventive. You need to move your access point or routers to a spot that is in line of sight from each other and/or boost your signal strength.
Extending the network cable that runs from the router to your computer is easy, and it can be safely extended for as much as 250ft. (Shorter is always better) You can purchase one ready-made to the length you need, or you make one yourself. See the tutorial video.
If your choice of location has a convenient power source to plug in your wireless router then you're in luck.
If not you will need to provide power as well. There are a couple ways to do this which are discussed on the pages linked below. The Power Over Ethernet method is my usual choice though.