I need to amplify wireless signal/set second access point

Here's the situation: My house's internet is set up so our cable modem and wireless router is downstairs. The two roommates' computers downstairs don't have wireless and are connected by lan cables, so the router has to stay downstairs in their room. For some time now, the roommates upstairs (including myself) get disconnected frequently, and now we're tired of having to deal with it.

Is there a way to wirelessly set a second access point upstairs so the signal can be amplified/repeated? The goal is to avoid wiring, and frankly I don't know enough about routers/hubs/repeaters/what have you.

Help is greatly appreciated.

Most amazing jew boots

I just so happen to have a Linksys WRTS4G so I'll look into that.

Also I've discovered these neat little wireless bridges/Access Points that seem to function quite well.

Thanks for the quick response.

edit: if anyone knows how (or can link me) to flash the linksys firmware w/ 3rd party firmware, that'd be great.

There's nowhere I can't reach.

Yea we did. And frankly, it's been happening for, no joke, about 8 months. I guess we poor college folk had more tolerance than most, but today I decided this just can't go on.

Well I returned with two range-extender antennaes for the router, and it just boosted my loading speed by at least 2 fold. While I can't tell if it's just my mind fucking with me, I'm actually convinced this will work (time will tell). I was only separated from $10 during this ordeal, so all the better.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.