You may have heard about a technique that involves wrapping your Wi-Fi router in foil to boost its signal strength. However, for this hack to work effectively, you will also need a 3D-printed reflector. Researchers at Dartmouth College have developed a program called WiPrint, which creates a personalized reflector shape for your home based on factors such as the layout, router location, desired signal increase areas, and desired signal decrease areas.

The WiPrint program takes this information and generates an optimized reflector shape within approximately 23 minutes. This shape can then be 3D printed for around $35. The final step involves covering the reflector with aluminum foil, which is the most affordable and easily accessible material compared to copper or silver.

During testing, the researchers discovered that using a 3D-printed reflector and aluminum foil increased the Wi-Fi signal in target areas by up to 55.1% while decreasing it in others by -63.3%. This system not only improves Wi-Fi efficiency but also enhances security by limiting the signal’s reach to specific areas of your home, making it more challenging for hackers to access.