How to set up WiFi network to play LAN games

Are you stuck in the house but want to play video games with friends? If everyone lives near each other, such as in the same building, you can do this using WiFi.

Wireless networking is ideal when you don't have the time, power, or ability to route Ethernet cables. All you need is a wireless network, game software and friends to play with.

This is how to play LAN games with WiFi so that your friends and neighbors can join.

Do you want to play LAN games over WiFi?

It doesn't matter if you want to play fast-paced shooters like Doom 3 or Quake Arena, or something smarter like Civilization 6. If you want to play multiplayer games with a specific group of friends, then They need access to the game server.

The game server can be a server rented on the Internet or a computer on the network. If it's an online computer, your multiplayer group needs to be able to access that computer.

Bringing a computer to your place to join is an option, but what if one or more of you can't get out of the house, or someone's home has an Internet speed that's not suitable for gaming?

Whatever the reason, connecting to the local network using a dedicated wireless connection is better than playing online.

Wireless network configuration for guests

If the game server is connected to the router, you are ready to configure the wireless network. However, this is not simply that everyone connects to the router with a password. First, you'll need to create a guest network, then make sure the router is in the optimal position.

Remember that this has nothing to do with your Internet connection, so this will be a completely separate network.

The smartest way to do this is to create a secondary guest network. Doing so will ensure that anyone you are provided with the password will not be able to gain unauthorized access. Instead of creating a backdoor for the network, create a separate network for guests.

Not all routers support the second network, so take some time to check the documentation that comes with the device. If the router can run a parallel wireless network, you should use the 2.4Ghz option. Although slower than 5Ghz, but 2.4Ghz has a larger range, ideal for people in neighboring apartments.

Set a recognizable name as the network SSID, along with WPA2 security level. Before you start playing, remember to share this guest network password with your friends.

Find the optimal location for the router

Location will determine the success of others when accessing the network.

First, find the center point between all houses or apartments. You need a central point for all machines to get the best wireless signal possible. Put the wireless router in that central position. Point out any antennas on the router in different directions and away from walls or other obstructions.

After setting up the wireless router, start the PCs that will connect to the wireless LAN to play games. Scan wireless networks to check signal strength (having more than 3 bars would be ideal).

Weak WiFi signal? Here is the way to enhance it

With the router in the best position for all players, the signal may still be weak.

There are many different ways to increase WiFi signal, but perhaps the best solution is to use WiFi booster (you may need one or more of these devices).

The goal here is for people to play at the same basic speed, say 100 Mbps, instead of some players struggling at 50 Mbps, while others can play at up to 300 Mbps. At the same basic speed, network latency can be handled, giving all gamers a level playing field.

However, keep in mind that older computers will be more difficult. Those players may need to upgrade their PC hardware.

Find great LAN games to play online

There are some games that support multiple players, over the Internet or on a local network. When creating a local wireless network for your friends and neighbors, you'll need to know where to find the right games.

You need a game server, whatever it is, from a PC running server software to a game server that can run on the modest Raspberry Pi.

If you're looking for something else, try this LAN Party Games list:

https://store.steampowered.com/curator/6859938-LAN-Party-Games/

Stay in touch with other players

Playing multiplayer games is fun, but without a voice chat system, it's like playing alone.

Various voice chat systems are available, the most popular being Discord. Discord can be installed on Android and iOS, as well as on PC. In addition, you can install Steam Chat, a voice chat tool on mobile devices, for Steam gamers.

Of course, if all the gamers are near each other, you can leave the window open and shout loudly. The conversation will help increase the attraction when playing.