Wi-Fi network measurements and audits
Wi-Fi network measurements and audits
A well-functioning wireless network requires more than just the right number of access points. Its quality is influenced by factors such as the building’s structure, the placement of devices, how the space is used, the infrastructure configuration, radio interference and the type of end devices using the network.
At Q4Net, we design, measure and optimise Wi-Fi networks based on real-world radio data and our engineers’ many years of experience. We use the professional Ekahau solution and Ekahau Sidekick 2 measurement devices, which enable the analysis of networks operating in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.
Wi-Fi network design and simulations
We can begin designing a wireless network even before the building is constructed or the network infrastructure is installed. Using the building floor plans provided, we create a model of the radio environment, specifying, amongst other things, the type and attenuation of walls and other obstacles.
We then simulate signal propagation, select suitable access point models and determine their optimal placement. The design takes into account requirements regarding coverage, network capacity and the type of devices that will use the network.
However, simulation is no substitute for actual measurement. Even an accurate model cannot fully replicate the three-dimensional layout of rooms, equipment, machinery, shelving or materials located inside the premises. It is, however, a very good starting point for network deployment and is often the only way to design the network at the investment stage.
Pre-implementation measurements
If the premises already exist, we can verify the design using ‘AP-on-the-stick’ measurements. We temporarily install an access point at selected locations and carry out real-world measurements of its signal propagation.
For this purpose, we use Cisco access points of various generations, designed for both indoor and outdoor use. This allows us to check the actual behaviour of radio waves in offices, production halls, warehouses and outdoor spaces.
Pre-deployment measurements are particularly useful when building a new network and when we wish to verify whether installing an additional access point in a specific location will actually eliminate an existing coverage gap.
Measurements and audits of existing networks
Once the network has been deployed, we carry out measurements to verify its actual performance. Among other things, we analyse signal strength and quality, signal-to-noise ratio, radio coverage, interference and channel utilisation.
This enables us to identify areas with insufficient coverage, excessive cell overlap, incorrect placement of access points, or third-party networks affecting the radio environment. During the measurements, we can also identify unwanted Wi-Fi sources, such as end devices or printers broadcasting their own wireless networks.
Radio spectrum analysis
Not every Wi-Fi problem is caused by the Wi-Fi network itself. That is why one of the components of our audits may be a radio spectrum analysis.
The Ekahau Sidekick 2 allows us to monitor the RF environment in the 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz bands and to identify interference originating from sources other than wireless networks. These may include, amongst others, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices and other equipment operating in the ISM bands, video transmission systems, industrial equipment or faulty electronics emitting electromagnetic interference.
Spectrum analysis is particularly valuable in situations where the network configuration appears correct, yet users continue to experience problems with its operation.
Wi-Fi configuration audit and troubleshooting
Problems with a wireless network do not always stem from poor placement of access points. We can therefore combine measurements with an audit of the infrastructure configuration and an analysis of how end devices are performing.
There is no single universal set of settings suitable for every Wi-Fi network. An office environment, where laptops and smartphones predominate, is designed differently from a production hall or warehouse that uses barcode scanners, automation equipment, industrial terminals, autonomous forklifts or IoT devices.
Our engineers have over 20 years’ experience in the field of wireless networks. By combining radio environment measurements with an analysis of the configuration and behaviour of end devices, we are able to identify the root causes of even the most complex Wi-Fi issues.
A report prepared for a specific network
Every radio environment is different, which is why we do not rely solely on automated reports generated by measurement software.
The collected data is analysed by our engineer, and the client receives a report tailored specifically to the environment under investigation. We document any issues detected, present the measurement results and provide specific recommendations regarding the placement of access points, network configuration and further optimisation measures.
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