Wireless Site Survey
A wireless site survey is crucial in planning and
designing a wireless network. It involves thoroughly evaluating a location
to determine the optimal placement and configuration of wireless network
components, such as access points. Here are the key aspects:
Purpose
- Coverage: Ensure the wireless network provides adequate coverage throughout the desired area.
- Capacity: Assess the network’s ability to handle the expected number of devices and data traffic.
- Performance: Optimize the network for the best possible performance, including data rates and quality of service (QoS).
- Interference: Identify and mitigate sources of interference that could affect the network’s reliability.
Types of Wireless Site Surveys
1. Passive Survey:
- Method: Collects data by listening to existing wireless traffic without connecting to the network.
- Use Case: Ideal for understanding the current wireless environment and identifying sources of interference.
2. Active Survey:
- Method: Involves connecting to the network and measuring performance metrics like throughput and packet loss.
- Use Case: Useful for validating network performance and ensuring it meets the required standards.
3. Predictive Survey:
- Method: Uses software to simulate the wireless environment based on floor plans and building materials.
- Use Case: Helpful in the initial planning stages to predict coverage and performance before physical deployment.
Process
- Site Inspection: Physically inspect the location to understand the layout and potential obstacles.
- Data Collection: Use tools like Ekahau, AirMagnet, or NetSpot to gather data on signal strength, interference, and network performance.
- Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify optimal access point locations and configurations.
- Reporting: Generate a detailed report with recommendations for network design and deployment.
Benefits
- Optimized Coverage: Ensures that all areas have adequate wireless coverage.
- Improved Performance: Enhances network performance by minimizing interference and optimizing access point placement.
- Cost Efficiency: Helps avoid over-provisioning or under-provisioning network resources, saving costs in the long run.