First, let’s start by covering the basics: What is a Wi-Fi Survey?
A Wi-Fi survey is a comprehensive analysis of a wireless network that evaluates its coverage, performance, and security. This survey involves testing and analysing the wireless signal strength, interference, and other network parameters to determine the overall health and performance of the Wi-Fi network. The survey can be conducted using various tools and methods, such as passive and active scanning, predictive modelling, and on-site testing, to provide an accurate representation of the network’s coverage, performance, and potential issues. The survey results can be used to optimise the Wi-Fi network, identify and troubleshoot problems, and plan for future network expansions or upgrades.
Passive Survey
A passive Wi-Fi survey is a type of Wi-Fi survey that evaluates the wireless signal strength and other network parameters without actively transmitting any data packets. In other words, it listens to the wireless signals that are already present in the environment without disrupting the network. Passive surveys are typically conducted using a Wi-Fi analyser tool like Ekahau, which captures data such as signal strength, channel usage, and interference levels. This data can be used to identify potential sources of interference, such as other Wi-Fi networks or non-Wi-Fi devices, and to evaluate the overall health of the Wi-Fi network. Passive surveys are particularly useful for identifying rogue access points and unauthorised devices that may be causing interference in the network. Because they do not require any data transmission, passive surveys can be conducted without the risk of causing network disruption or affecting the network’s performance.
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Active Survey
An active Wi-Fi survey is a type of on-site Wi-Fi survey that involves transmitting data packets from a laptop or mobile device to the wireless network to evaluate its performance and coverage. The surveyor moves around the survey area while transmitting data packets and records the results using specialised survey software. The survey can be conducted using different types of tests, such as throughput tests, packet loss tests, and latency tests, to evaluate various network parameters such as bandwidth, packet delivery, and response time. Active surveys can also measure signal strength and interference levels like passive surveys.
Active surveys are particularly useful for evaluating the performance of the Wi-Fi network in real-world scenarios, such as during high-density events, when multiple devices are accessing the network simultaneously. Active surveys can help identify potential network bottlenecks and other issues that may affect the performance of the network. By collecting data on various network parameters, active surveys can help administrators optimise the network’s performance and capacity.
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Predictive Wi-Fi Survey
A predictive Wi-Fi survey is a type of Wi-Fi survey that is conducted prior to the installation of a Wi-Fi network. Instead of physically surveying the area, predictive surveys use software to create a virtual map of the survey site and simulate the wireless network’s coverage and performance. The software takes into account various factors such as the size and shape of the area, building materials, and potential sources of interference to create a detailed map of the network’s coverage and performance.
Predictive surveys are typically used to plan the deployment of a new Wi-Fi network or to evaluate the impact of network upgrades on the existing Wi-Fi network. The predictive survey can help network administrators to identify the optimal locations for access points, plan for future expansions, and evaluate the network’s capacity and performance.
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On-Site AP on a Stick (APoS) Design Survey
An on-site APoS Design survey involves physically visiting the site and testing coverage and performance using specialised equipment, mounting a wireless access point (AP) on a pole or tripod and moving it around the survey area to test the network’s coverage and performance. The AP is typically connected to a battery-powered laptop or tablet that runs specialised survey software to collect data and generate reports. The surveyor carries the AP and walks around the survey area, stopping periodically to take measurements and record data. This type of survey is particularly useful for evaluating the coverage and performance of a wireless network in outdoor or complex indoor environments, such as warehouses, stadiums, or multi-story buildings. APoS surveys can provide a detailed map of the network’s coverage and performance, including signal strength, interference, and data rates, and help identify areas where the network needs improvement or optimisation. APoS surveys are typically conducted by professional Wi-Fi surveyors and require specialised equipment and expertise.
Benefits:
Conducting a Wi-Fi survey is critical to ensure optimal network performance. Understanding the different types of surveys available and their specific features and benefits will help you choose the most appropriate survey type for your network’s needs.
If you need a partner for an upcoming Wi-Fi project, we can help.
The WiFi Connection are a channel focused Wi-Fi specialist, supporting IT channel partners with all aspects of the Wi-Fi life cycle: from initial concept all the way through to delivery.
We have been delivering Wi-Fi projects on behalf of some of the largest Cisco, Meraki and Juniper Mist partners in the UK, Europe and as far as Australia, enabling our IT channel partners to focus on their business, whilst relying on us, as an extension of their team to Design, Deliver and Manage high performing Wi-Fi networks.
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