6 computers running slow

[cottoncandysky]

okay, so i have 3 computers upstairs (2 laptops, 1 desktop-which the router is hooked to), and 3 computers downstairs i just added (all desktops). we just upgraded the cable plan to 7mbps download speed and 800k upload speed. the computers downstairs fade in and out of signal. the 3 upstairs are fine. what do i need to get the computers downstairs working better? they all have wireless USB adapters. im afraid once theyre all hooked up 1 or 2 will use all the bandwidth....can i assign each computer a certain bandwidth? do i need to put a hub downstairs, or an antenna somewhere? the router i have now isnt one of the top of the line models, maybe, $40 at walmart.
thanks in advance for the help!!

 

[Trizoy]

First of the USB hookups are always a little toucky... But you may try placing the wireless router, or access point in a closer proximity to the downstairs computers.

You may try a wireless range extender.

 

[dragon2309]

3 words, "high gain antenna" that should sort your signal problems out. as for he bandwidth distribution, no, you cannot manage that at all, the router does it, if someone is downloading a 600Mb video and one is browsing, it will automaticlaly give more to the one downloading the video. there is nothing you can do to deter this, unless you make your own internet server and run all connections through there, then perhaps there might be a program that can limit certain connections etc....

dragon