Satellite C655 question...

I have this laptop and i want to increase its wireless range, ive read about multiple usb network adapters and antennas but i dont know much about em. My cousin bought the same laptop a week ago and she is getting more signal from hotspots than mine, i have this laptop for about 1 year and a half, is it because my laptop is older (just asking?). I already changed my power saving setting to maximum performance and i dont see any difference on it, i want something to really improve my wireless adapter so i can get signal from a decent range.

>Atheros AR9285
>Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter

 

USB adapters will work. If you do, get a micro-dongle like this one [just an example, not pointing you to necessarily buy this one]. Micro-dongles are easier to manage and less likely to cause damage to your USB port from accidental snagging.



You can also try upgrading your mini-pci wireless adapter. Of course, no guarantee this will improve your range/speed, and there's no guarantee it will be compatible.
If upgrading, aim for an Intel branded card [imo they make the best]. Here's an example of an Intel mini-pci wireless adapter that ALSO comes with BlueTooth [added bonus if you don't have it].

Amazon.com: 6230 IEEE 802.11n (draft) Bluetooth 3.0 - Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Combo Adapter (Bulk): MP3 Players & Accessories
Also, when upgrading, you need to install the drivers from the company that makes the card [in the above example from Intel], or else it will NOT work.
Support for the Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6230


Your model is tricky. In order to access the wireless card, you need to remove the keyboard. Here's a set of dissasembly instructions with pictures, provided by Irisvista!
How to disassemble Toshiba Satellite C655 or C650 laptop >> Page 1.

Once you get the keyboard off, here's your Atheros WiFi card [says ANATEL on it]






Good luck and let us know which route you go with.