How do I extend the wifi range on my laptop?

[Cathy2000]

I would like to be able to pick up wifi hotspots from home: say, get on the wifi network of the Starbuck's less than a mile away. There are woods around my apartment complex though; would that be a problem? How powerful would the antenna have to be?

 

[Paul NZ]

Probably have to put one on the roof

 

[USAFRet]

I would like to be able to pick up wifi hotspots from home: say, get on the wifi network of the Starbuck's less than a mile away. There are woods around my apartment complex though; would that be a problem? How powerful would the antenna have to be?

1. You have to convince Starbucks to install a more powerful WiFi source.
2. You have to move your receiver to the roof to pick it up.