The Internet is one powerful tool indeed; it keeps the world connected, helps us get our work done, and keeps us entertained. Thanks to wireless networks, access to the Internet is possible from the most unimaginable places. Accompanying the benefits of Wi-Fi are the issues of privacy, security, and authority. To help you work around these issues, there’s the Wi-Fi jammer.
What is a Wi-Fi Jammer?
A jammer is a signal-blocking device that blurs the sensitive signal by transmitting synchronized radio waves simultaneously. It generates electromagnetic noise or a predefined white noise signal in specific bandwidths, thus interrupting any Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communications. Alternatively, the noise can overpower, disrupt, or just mask the electromagnetic signals that are communicated on it. This signal jammer can successfully block wireless signals in the 2.4 – 2.5 GHz wireless frequency range; it also blocks Bluetooth signals as they are of the same frequency range.
It can block all radio communications on any device operating on its range of radio frequencies (within its radius). This is achieved with the emitted radio frequency waves preventing the target device from establishing or maintaining a connection. In addition to blocking Wi-Fi connections, it can disable devices from connecting to 3G, 4G, GPRS, or cordless Wi-Fi networks.
The Need For One
Wireless networks aren’t just used for cell phones or laptops these days; several household devices, including smart sensors for alarm systems, network CCTV cameras, cleaning robots, digital photo storage, etc., are networked devices. Apart from homes, some companies deal with sensitive information and would prefer to prevent leaks. With a great deal of sensitive data being stored digitally, there are chances of being stolen by unauthorized access over a Wi-Fi network.
With Wi-Fi jammers, the signals in the area are jammed; this ensures there is no access to the data after-hours. Jammers would be advantageous when working on sensitive data at a remote location, like a hotel or public space. Whether you want to create maximum noise to prevent anything from being transmitted or go for subtle and undetected jamming, there are different models to achieve these varied needs.
If you’re wondering if jammers cause any harm to devices, they don’t. They disable the connection until they’re moved out of range or turned off. All the wireless network activity is automatically restored when the jammer unit is turned off. A Wi-Fi jammer added to the access point will cut off the signal right at the source when a Wi-Fi jammer is coupled with a phone jammer.
Buying a Wi-Fi Jammer
Before you buy one, you’ll have to decide if you want a portable model or a fixed one, following which you’ll also have to check your router settings. While basic routers usually have one or two settings, others provide advanced settings and more control. A Wi-Fi jammer is used to jam the same frequency that your Wi-Fi router uses for communicating with devices. Based on the same channels that your router uses, you can pick a jammer capable of jamming at least one of those channels.
If you have a router that can be manually set to function only over the 2.4 GHz range, you can get a basic jammer that blocks the 2.4 GHz range. However, if your Wi-Fi router’s channel can’t be controlled, you’ll have to look at a more advanced jammer. Especially using Wi-Fi in places apart from your home, with no knowledge about the Wi-Fi router’s capability, it would be wise to invest in an advanced device covering all bases.
Suppose you want multiple jamming functionalities in a single device. You might want to go for a hybrid scrambler that also covers GSM, cellular, and GPS signals, as well as Wi-Fi frequencies.
Check the Router Settings
Routers usually have the option to work on either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz channels, each having several channels to select from. While the 2.4 GHz frequency range has 14 channels, the 5 GHz has 23 channels. Although all wireless routers may not be able to choose from the entire range, it is possible for most to jump between some. Channels 1, 6, and 11 of the 2.4 GHz range are used by most routers. Basic jammers covering the channels within at least one of these ranges would be a suitable choice.
You’ll have to disable the automatic channel selection option in the settings for manual selection of the channel your router works on. You can manually select the channel from the available list, ensuring the jammer can work on it.
Set-Up
After ensuring your router is functioning on the correct channel, you can set up your new Wi-Fi jammer. Based on the model you’ve purchased, the set-up process will vary.
Basic Wi-Fi Jammers
The basic models run on a battery and can easily fit into your pocket. With these kinds of devices, you get portable jamming functions on the go. A portable, basic jammer would be beneficial if you tend to use wireless networks at hotels or other public places.
Suppose the basic model you have has only one option, simply turning on your Wi-Fi jammer will activate it. If you’re on the move, you could carry it in your pocket or its holster; else, you could set it up near your router at home.
Advanced Jammers
The advanced ones are usually heavy and bulky. Several attachments, such as antennas jutting out to block frequencies more effectively. These jammers can block more than one frequency range, apart from other communication forms such as Bluetooth.
For advanced models, the manual will have details about the jammer’s complete range of functions, along with the instructions for usage. Generally, the right settings must be chosen once the device is turned on, including the type of communication you want to block (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) and the frequency selection.
The Associated Benefits
Considering the many scenarios where wireless networks are used, their risks are as much. A Wi-Fi jammer might be considered for any of the following situations:
1. Parental Control
Keeping kids from using the internet late into the night or accessing what they shouldn’t is possible with these jammer devices; internet access can be controlled as and when needed.
2. Disconnection of Unwanted Devices
Jammers are beneficial for preventing unknown or unauthorized devices from sharing data. The presence of surveillance or spying equipment, such as cameras and microphones hidden in changing rooms, hotels, etc., is commonly heard of. The purpose of these is security, although, at times, these are used to violate your privacy.
With a Wi-Fi jammer, this unauthorized surveillance equipment can be blocked from sharing the recordings over the internet. It is also possible to prevent cyber-crimes such as webcam hacking, where someone can record you through your own laptop’s camera.
3. Avoiding Distractions
If you’re trying to get work done, distractions aren’t any help. With Wi-Fi jammers, these internet distractions can be stopped, allowing you, your employees, or students to work uninterrupted. During a meeting with employees, a Wi-Fi jammer will block out the internet, leading to their undivided attention to the task of strategizing on some project. This will also lead to improved creativity and productivity.
Wi-Fi jammers are quite common in educational institutions to stop students from using their devices while working on an assignment or during a lesson.
4. Confidential Meetings
For companies or businesses that deal with a lot of confidential information or technology, the leak of such sensitive content outside the company could lead to undesirable consequences. With a Wi-Fi jammer, the company’s information will stay where it should – inside. No phones or devices will be able to share audiovisual information over the internet or even put out any social media posts.
It isn’t uncommon for people trying to steal company information to try and hack into your presentation through the Wi-Fi or from anywhere outside the conference room. Jammers can avoid this from happening, including the risks of your own devices being accessed by outsiders.
5. Prevent Cheating
With many tests being taken online, these devices can be used to stop students from cheating on these tests by cutting off their access to the internet. Suppose they need to use their laptops for the test, the required document can be downloaded, following which the Wi-Fi can be blocked out. In case it’s a paper test, the use of cell phones to search for answers can be stopped.
6. Ensuring a Peaceful Surrounding
Services such as spa centers, meditation places, or quiet train cars can remain quiet and peaceful, with Wi-Fi jammers blocking the internet and notifications.
7. Prevent Hacking
Hackers can attack your data overnight, causing you to be unaware of a breach until much later. One way of combating this is turning off or unplugging the internet overnight. However, having to unplug and reconnect the internet daily can be quite a hassle. This is where Wi-Fi jammers come to the rescue.
Whenever your internet is not in use at any time of the day or night, turning on the jammer will stop devices from connecting to your router. Hence, there will be no breach of your network or unauthorized access to the data stored on your devices. Prevention is better than regretting later!
8. In Hospitals
The operation of medical equipment could be affected by interfering radio signals. The use of jammers in hospitals is common to avoid any unwanted interference.
Impact of Jammers on Home Security Systems
Jammers can disrupt the signals for the home security systems that work on cellular or Wi-Fi. While no damage is caused to the camera or sensors, the sensors will have a limited ability to transmit signals. However, it is unlikely for home security to get impacted. These days, most alarm companies are integrating wireless technology. This is because burglars often carry wire cutters, screwdrivers, or a hammer while attempting to break into a house. These are easily available daily household items. A jammer, on the other hand, is going to be an expensive and complicated item for a burglar to purchase.
In the rare event that a burglar does possess a jammer, it’s not guaranteed to work. Matching the security system’s frequency to jam the signal is difficult, as the cellular or Wi-Fi frequencies vary based on the provider and the model. Also, depending on the quality, jammers might have a limited range. Highly-priced jammers with a longer range are less affordable for burglars, who’re more likely to get a cheaper one. Rest assured, wireless home security can be considered secure and safe.
Smart Jammers
This jamming device can implement multiple jamming techniques and combine them to maximize the capacity of jamming while maintaining stealth strategically. With its monitoring interface that silently monitors the traffic, adaptive jamming traffic is injected by its stochastic engine. Generally, the design of a generic jammer to block out any configuration appears as a complicated, almost impossible task.
With smart jammers, especially those configured for a specific mission, the device first passively listens to the traffic and tries out a jamming scenario that it elaborates. The continuous adaptation of this jamming scenario optimizes its results eventually. Smart jammers are typically used in the following scenarios for blocking:
- all Wi-Fi channels completely,
- a single channel or a particular set of channels,
- an entire network with a specific SSID,
- a host with a specific MAC address or IP address, etc.
Since the smart jammers have an adaptive nature, their detection is difficult since, on monitoring the spectrum, normal Wi-Fi traffic would be visible. A jamming attempt can only be detected with a deep analysis of each frame’s field. They’re also more complicated to neutralize unless they can be physically located and disabled.
Channel Muting
An effective yet complicated technique of jamming a Wi-Fi network is by preventing the transmission of one or all network stations. This halts the service while the spectrum turns quiet, allowing its reuse for other purposes. The victims of channel muting are tricked into believing a channel is about to be seized for a specific amount of time, advising them to refrain from transmitting on the channel.
Are Wi-Fi Jammers Legal?
Wi-Fi jammers are illegal to own and use in the U.S.A. The marketing, sale, or operation of a jammer that is designed to block, jam, or even interfere with any form of wireless communications is prohibited by U.S. Federal Law. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) states the use of any signal jamming device intended for intentional blocking, jamming, or interfering with authorized radio communications as a federal law violation. Additionally, it has been declared unlawful to advertise, distribute, or import jamming devices to consumers within the U.S.
Drawbacks
The negative side is that it doesn’t discriminate between desired and undesired communications. Yet another problem is that they’re very accessible, affordable, and at times, annoying. Apart from being available for under $30, there are DIY videos to build your jammer. There isn’t much that can be done to counter a Wi-Fi jammer, provided you even realize this is the issue.
Apart from this, Wi-Fi jammers are illegal in some countries, including the U.S., because they prevent your Wi-Fi device from connecting to the internet for several operations. This includes preventing you from receiving accurate positioning signals from a GPS device and also preventing a first responder from locating you in the event of an emergency.
Despite wireless communication and networking technology having significantly advanced over the last few decades, real-world wireless communication systems such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, cellular, etc., are highly vulnerable to jamming attacks.
Can You Block Someone From Jamming Your Wi-Fi?
Despite jammer use being declared illegal in several countries, including the U.S., some people possess one of these devices for malicious intent or as a good-to-have gadget. Unfortunately, you cannot block someone from jamming your Wi-Fi. With the jamming device, the attacker can carry out a de-authentication attack or even jam the entire spectrum of your Wi-Fi access points. The only way to stop this would be to locate and disable the attacker or the jamming device.
Take Your Pick
There is a range of devices to select from, including multiple functions. Here’s a list of some of the Wi-Fi jammers worth picking:
Jammer-Store
In their bid for privacy protection and prevention of information leaks for people and businesses, they have a range of jammer devices to select from.
Colibri – mini Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Jammer
With a 0.8 W power, this jammer is capable of disabling communication on the 2400 – 2500 MHz frequencies. This includes interfering with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wireless video devices. With a 1 – 5 meters range of interference, based on the signal strength, its battery can operate for 1 – 2 hours. It comes with a 220 V mains charger.
Alligator Powerful 10 Bands Jammer (10 W)
Alligator Powerful 10 bands Jammer (10W) (jammer-store.com)
This extremely powerful yet portable jammer is capable of disabling ten frequencies simultaneously. With 10 W power, the range of operation is around 10 – 30 meters. Alligator might just be the most powerful one in the market for a handheld jamming device. It can completely disable the 5 GHz frequency (5.3 – 5.9 GHz) within 30 meters. Being a portable gadget, it can be used anywhere to protect your privacy.
This device:
- prevents any GPS tracking device from finding your location,
- avoids GSM / 3G / 4G cell phones from violating the calm, and
- jams wireless cameras, spying devices, or listening bugs.
WB12 Handheld Bluetooth GSM 3G Wi-Fi Wireless Jammer
WB12 Handheld Bluetooth GSM 3G WiFi Wireless Jammer (jammer-store.com)
This handheld jammer has a spectacular implementation. It protects against a range of wireless threats. From protecting your wireless internet access from hackers to preventing webcam snooping and personal data leakage, this is a genuinely beneficial device. Your privacy, visual, textual, or location will be protected from unexpected spying.
Stalker 5G – 12 Bands Portable 5G Jammer
Stalker 5G – portable 4G/5G Jammer (jammer-store.com)
The result obtained is excellent, with a jamming power of 12 W and 12 antennas. An integral cooling fan and the openings on the case provide for heat extraction. An operating radius of up to 20 meters can block all types of mobile communication frequencies, satellites, and new 5G frequencies. The features associated with this device include:
- Choice of frequencies: The jammer can adapt to the choice of jamming frequency required to be blocked.
- 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network jamming: In addition to blocking data transmission on high-speed networks, hidden video cameras and microphones will also not work in the jammer’s radius.
- Cellular communication and mobile internet frequencies are blocked.
- Active cooling system: Two cooling fans installed in the jammer prevent overheating and failure risks, promoting longer-term use.
- Satellite navigation systems blocked: Any device that tracks location through satellite positions, such as GPS trackers, will be blocked by this jammer.
APJ-16 Portable All in one Jammer
APJ-16 – portable All one jammer (jammer-store.com)
This is possibly the first portable jammer capable of jamming all frequencies in the 164 – 5900 MHz range. With such a broad range of frequencies that can be disabled, this device helps in protecting privacy and prevents confidential information leakage. It is appropriate for offices, conference rooms, showrooms, etc.
The impressive part is that the jamming radius can be manually adjusted for every 16 bands. This lets you select which frequencies you’d like to jam at a particular time and place without jamming the other frequencies. An LED indicator shows the status of each frequency band. This jammer is capable of disabling all major frequencies worldwide.
HPJ20-H – All Frequencies Desktop Jammer (20 Bands)
HPJ20-H – All frequencies desktop jammer (20 bands) (jammer-store.com)
With the capability of jamming frequencies in the 130 – 5900 MHz range, the operational radius spans 20 – 60 meters. All 20 bands can have their jamming radius manually adjusted. Each frequency has an LED indicator that indicates the status of the band. It works on the total output power of 155 W.
The Signal Jammer Products
They specialize in jamming products beyond the cell phone jammer; and include Wi-Fi jammers, spy camera jammers, and Bluetooth jammer devices.
Wi-Fi Mini
WiFi Jammer Mini Signal Blocker 2.4GHz WiFi and Bluetooth (thesignaljammer.com)
This mini Wi-Fi jammer can be conveniently kept in the pocket, just like a cell phone. This device blocks the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but not the 5 GHz Wi-Fi. When the light turns green, it implies that the device is on and jams Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals up to a radius of 10 meters.
It consists of a standard Nokia cell battery that runs continuously for two hours when fully charged. It can be placed in a dark green case that comes with it and can be charged in four possible ways: a car charger for on-the-move, an outlet charger for hotel rooms, a USB charger, or a standard Nokia type charger. Another positive feature is that it automatically shuts down to avoid overcharging.
Handheld MEGA 16 5G
Handheld MEGA 16 5G Cell Phone WiFi and GPS Signal Jammer (thesignaljammer.com)
An extremely effective cell phone jammer, this device is capable of jamming 16 channels of cellular, Wi-Fi, and GPS. Each of the 16 channels has a 1 W output power and a battery lasting up to 3 hours. The jammer doesn’t heat up as well with the advanced technology utilized in its making. The provision of side switches gives you the flexibility to select which channels to operate or even block everything at once.
In addition to blocking 3G, 4G, and 5G, it can also effectively block the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi channels, with a jamming radius of 10 – 30 meters.
Wi-Fi Bluetooth 5 GHz
2.4GHz 5GHz WiFi Jammer Protection Bluetooth Blocker (thesignaljammer.com)
This device can block all Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi with an operational radius of up to 15 meters. This jammer does not disrupt cellular phone signals. The compact size makes it suitable for keeping in the pocket or concealing in a briefcase. The difference between this jammer and most of the others is that there are no external antennas in this. With built-in rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, it can operate for about 180 minutes when fully charged with the universal charging adapter provided.
It has three bands, with an output power of 1 W per channel. The operational radius is about 15 meters for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth jamming.
Handheld MAXX 5G
Handheld MAXX 12 Channel 5G Cell Phone and GPS Signal Jammer (thesignaljammer.com)
This powerful, comprehensive jammer can jam 5G cell phones, GPS, and Wi-Fi. There are 12 channels, each with an output power of 1 W. The battery, when fully charged, lasts up to 4 hours. The side switches let you choose which channels you want to operate. If not, block everything at once. With a jamming radius of 10 – 30 meters, stronger coverage is achieved where the signal is weaker.
TSJ PH5
TSJ-PH5 Tactical Handheld Jammer with 5GHz WiFi Coverage (thesignaljammer.com)
This tactical yet powerful combination jammer works on the total output power of 10 W and can block 10 channels, including 5 GHz Wi-Fi. However, the unit doesn’t cover 5G signals in North America and other select locations. It includes a tactical cover and has lower operational temperatures.
TSJ 255C
TSJ 255C 105W 5G Cell Phone WiFi GPS 12 Band Desktop Jammer (thesignaljammer.com)
This is an incredibly powerful 12-band jammer that can be used at a fixed location and on the go. It has a dedicated six-band phone jammer covering cellular, GPS, and Wi-Fi. The operational radius is approximately 60 meters, and it can work non-stop. It can be powered by a wall outlet or even a vehicle power source. An additional battery pack could be added for portability.
The impressive feature of this product is that it can be powered on/off with an IR remote that has a range of up to 5 meters. The 38 cm long external Omni antennas are included, while additional directional patch panel antennas can also be purchased.
TSJ Wi-Fi 5GH
TSJ WiFi 5GH Tactical Handheld 5GHz WiFi Bluetooth Jammer (thesignaljammer.com)
The coverage achieved is incredible with this powerful Wi-Fi and Bluetooth jammer handset. There are four channels on this device. The two channels that block 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth have an output of 8 W per channel, while the remaining two channels that block the 5 GHz Wi-Fi have an output of 2 W per channel. The Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi jamming coverage is about 250 M, while the 5 GHz Wi-Fi jamming coverage is approximately 60M.
With such a powerful output, this device can provide coverage over a larger perimeter. It is ideal for guarding you against wireless surveillance cameras or hidden cameras, popular with law enforcement entry teams. Though it can operate while on a charge, it stays operational for about 40 minutes when fully charged.
TSJ 5G 2090
5G Cell Phone Jammer TSJ-5G-2090 | 5G Cellular 5GHz WiFi (thesignaljammer.com)
This desktop jammer offers a complete jamming solution by blocking cellular and 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi while offering a significant amount of protection. Operating on the total output power of 24 W, it has an average operational radius of about 40 meters. The 8 Omni-directional antennas cover different frequencies for jamming, including CDMA, 3G, 4G, and 5G, along with Wi-Fi. The output power for each channel can be adjusted from zero in the off state to the maximum. This device is capable of running 24/7 and 365 days of the year. For portability purposes, there is also a vehicular power cable.
Jammer-buy.com
Among the range of drone, portable, military, and desktop jammers also have efficient Wi-Fi jammers.
Portable Cell Phone GPS LoJack Training Blocker
8 Bands Handheld Jammer Jamming GSM 4G LoJack GPS WiFi (jammer-buy.com)
This handheld Wi-Fi jammer, with eight antennas, can jam multiple signal types. Apart from blocking all cell phone signals, Lojack GPS tracking signal and Wi-Fi signals are also among their shielding frequencies. This reliable device is designed for optimal performance and reduced battery consumption. High output power and an inbuilt cooling fan keep it functional for a prolonged time. Its portability makes it suitable for jamming use indoors and outdoors, with an operational radius of up to 30 meters.
Portable GPS Tracking Jammer GSM 3G 4G Wi-Fi Blocker Devices
5 Bands Handheld GPS WiFi Mobile Phone Jammer, Cheap and Multi-Functional (jammer-buy.com)
A multi-functional and portable jammer with five bands, it can function as a GPS jammer as well as a cell phone jammer. The target uses are car tracking and camera spying for privacy protection. With a car charger, it can be conveniently charged and used when on the move. A longer operational time is achieved with the cooling effect inbuilt within it. The range of this device’s blocking is functional up to 20 meters and also supports the frequencies of wireless alarm systems or wireless network cameras.
6 Bands Desk Mobile Phone GSM 3G 4G Jammer
Buy WiFi GPS Mobile Phone Desktop Jammers,Anti Cell Phone Signal Blockers (jammer-buy.com)
This multi-signal jammer unit can effectively block all cell phone frequencies as well as Wi-Fi, GPS, and UHF/VHF frequencies. The jammer’s range is effective within a 50-meter radius based on the signal’s strength. This high-power jammer is commonly used in courts, hospitals, offices, school examination rooms, etc. It has a long-time stable functioning due to high heat dissipation performance.
Desktop Adjustable Phone Jammer Block
Portable Multi-fuctional Jammers, Jamming Cell Phone,GPS,WIFI etc. (jammer-buy.com)
This configurable jammer functions as a cell phone jammer with an adjustable radius to jam cell phone frequencies, including GSM, 3G, and 4G. Even the GPS and Wi-Fi frequencies are configurable. The white aluminum shell of this jammer results in heat dissipation, causing it to function for a long time continuously.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for increased privacy and security, or an outing with no devices interrupting your peace, Wi-Fi jammers are the answer to these needs. Considering that most jammers are multi-functional and block cellular, GSM, or even Bluetooth along with Wi-Fi, it is worth the investment.
