Part 2 will cover Site Survey, Professional Installation, Network Operation Validation, and Various Best Practices.

Site Survey

Working with a professional, start with a preliminary design and then have a site survey performed. Network devices four years or older should be replaced with upgraded equipment.

Typically, a site survey begins by positioning an access point to test wireless coverage. In addition, a site survey utilizes specialized Wi-Fi scanning hardware and network design software to discover EMI sources that can severely affect your network. In addition, wall attenuation will be measured for effects on wireless signal propagation.

Scanning hardware can also test whether the least capable but most important endpoint device can still function properly.

Professional Installation

The most notable deficiency of many Wi-Fi networks is improper installation. For example, installing access points near large metal equipment or structures such as air ducts, metal filing cabinets, structural steel columns, and trusses can degrade their functionality.

Designed to be installed with a specific orientation, a ceiling-mounted access point improperly affixed to a wall will not perform well. An experienced installation team will be aware of this, so work with a network designer who will oversee equipment installation.

Network Operation Validation

It is important to conduct a post-installation site survey that validates network operation. Although this is an extra cost, it will verify your installation was done correctly and that your facility has the expected level of Wi-Fi coverage. Validation will set the baseline from which you can gauge future Wi-Fi network coverage and performance.

Various Best Practices

Ensure that your facility has Wi-Fi-protected access with WPA-2 security protocol or greater. If your endpoint devices support it, utilize WPA-3 instead for superior protection.

As a courtesy, have a conversation with neighboring companies regarding cooperating on the Wi-Fi design. An initial site survey will reveal whether businesses nearby will interfere with your network. Please consult with your network designer and these companies on designing a network that will benefit them and your company.

Where feasible, utilize your network’s 5 GHz and 6 GHz channels. As the wireless signal propagation of these frequencies is shorter, interference from adjacent sources should be minimized. Although fewer access points will be needed, network performance should be higher.

Alpha Business Support

Choosing an expert computer technical support provider is important for your business. Alpha has been a trusted partner of many companies in the Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis areas since 1990. For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha today at (410) 295-9500.