If you are struggling to cover a large area with a suitable WiFi network, try giving out multiple access points. However, it is not as simple as placing routers everywhere for strong signals, but worth putting effort into it.
Read on to know the importance of signal strength and its material impact on it, along with the top 7 tips and practices for setting up multiple wireless access points for your business.
How Do Materials Affect WiFi Signal Strength?
Have you ever moved past a building and noticed your wireless signal strength dropping? That is because some materials make it hard for them to pass through.
Glass is one of the top choices for office buildings or as separators. Although it gives a chic look, it negatively impacts wireless signals.
A standard version clear window reduces signal strength by -4db. The number grows multifold if the windows have more panes and are treated to deflect light.
Another example is wood. It does make up the major portion of homes and older office buildings. It reduces WiFi signal strength by -6db and gets worse as the thickness of the wood or its water content increases.
Best Practices For Multiple Wireless Access Points
Here are some things you can take care of on your end.
A Wireless Site Survey Before WiFi Setup
The wireless site survey gives you a clear-cut plan for where to place your multiple WiFi connection access points. It also helps in designing the configuration of your APs for the most optimal performance.
A Controller to Manage All Access Points
There are multiple versions of wireless access point controllers.
- On-site controllers – they are with your access points.
- Cloud-based controllers – manage multiple access points at various separate locations.
The controllers streamline order within your networking system.
Placing Routers on Correct Access Points
The wireless site survey finds ideal locations to keep your access points. If you want to go for the old and hit-and-miss method of placing access points, that will take a long time and is not a smart option, as per business prospects.
It is best to address high-density areas that need strong wireless signals first. After that, think about the remaining areas where wireless coverage may not be as important.
Ethernet Cable Under 328 Ft While Connecting Access Points
After your wireless survey, run Cat5 or Cat 6 to the access points. You must keep these cable runs under 328 feet to limit the risk of dropping packets. This has a significant negative impact on wireless Internet performance.
Correct Access Points for Indoor and Outdoor WiFi
You can get wireless signals from your indoor WiFi access points in the outdoor areas, but it is better to have a separate one.
The reason is that access points outdoors are able to nullify the hindrances and are resilient to weather conditions and temperature spikes.
Choosing Correct Channels For Your Access Points
Signal coverage is linearly linked to correct channel selection. Usually, the access point controller should pick the right channels for you.
When laying multiple access points using the same network, chances of overlapping increase. If they do, it results in a situation where their access points interfere.
Correct Power Settings for Access Points
These power settings show how big a coverage area each access point is responsible for. There is a chance of overlap if the coverage cells are too large, resulting in roaming issues.
Final Words
Wireless site survey always helps set up the perfect multiple access points for your business needs. Get in touch with a professional from RangerWiFi to know more about this. Dial (281) 638-8835 to connect with us.