"Can WiFi really go that far?"
Yes — with the right equipment. Regular WiFi routers use omnidirectional antennas that spread signal in all directions. Point-to-point links use directional antennas that focus all their energy in a narrow beam, allowing connections over kilometers.
Products like Ubiquiti's airMAX or LiteBeam are designed exactly for this. They operate on unlicensed frequencies (5 GHz) and can link buildings 2 km apart or more with a clear line of sight.
The key requirements:
- Line of sight — the antennas must "see" each other. Trees, buildings, and hills are your enemies.
- Proper alignment — a few degrees off and you lose the connection
- Height — mounting antennas on rooftops or poles makes a huge difference
Work in Progress
This section will cover how point-to-point links work, how to plan them, and what equipment to use.
Guide reference
For detailed antenna setup instructions, see Guide — Antennas.