WiFi network Site Surveys: Turning WiFi Challenges into Opportunities

Many businesses that provide or want to offer a WiFi Internet service for customers, guests or residents need to be aware of the many issues involved to provide WiFi service. Before an installation plan can be prepared it is necessary to make an assessment of the location or site where the WiFi network will be installed in order to determine what types of products are needed and how the products should be interconnected. The location assessment process is called a site survey.

What is a WiFi network site survey?

A WiFi network site survey is the process of gathering information that is essential for the subsequent network design process. It involves analyzing the location where a WiFi service is going to be installed, evaluating the range of the WiFi transmission considering obstacles such as indoor walls and outdoor trees, identifying what interferences there are in the environment and finally to determine how these challenges are going to be overcome. Site surveys can be costly depending on the environment complexity, however the site survey is essential to ensure that a WiFi service is successful and meets the demands of the users. The site survey will help to avoid unnecessary secondary hardware purchases and installation costs, and avoid upgrades in order to meet user expectations.

A site survey is essential for a success WiFi project outcome

A site survey will identify the best location for the network equipment, that is, where is the best location to put your wireless access points to ensure proper signal coverage as well as performance, and plan the cabling necessary to connect wireless access points to switches and routers.

The site survey will identify potential obstructions, which can cause interference and block the wireless in your network, therefore weakening the WiFi signal to your users. A WiFi survey can identify possible WiFi dead zones to plan a tailored solution that will ensure consistent connectivity. Site surveys are also essential for upgrades where equipment needs to be replaced.

What places would benefit from site surveys?

• Offices: Large offices with walls and other types of obstructions, that have other electronic devices and nearby networks.
• Warehouses: Walls that are made of concrete and metal, metal racking systems, stocked shelves, conveyer systems can create dead zones for users.
• Construction sites: Temporary structures such as walls made of metal, concrete, electrical equipment, different types of construction equipment, machinery can block WiFi signals.
• Campgrounds, RV parks: Long range WiFi, buildings and trees block WiFi signals.
• Hotels, resorts: Ensure that each room has a strong WiFi signal and also common areas, lobby and restaurant.
• Public spaces: Range of WiFi required, what are the obstacles in the WiFi path.
• Communities: Short range for mobile devices or fixed wireless access to homes.

Best practices for conducting a site survey for WiFi deployment in hotels include:

• Gather requirements and define scope.
• Identify network needs, speed requirements, Internet circuit speeds available, and number of expected users.
• Obtain accurate floor plans and building information.
• Perform a walkthrough to assess current infrastructure and potential AP locations.
• Evaluate building materials, layout, and potential interference sources.
• Start with a predictive survey using specialized software.
• Follow up with an on-site survey (passive and/or active).

Consider multiple frequency bands

• Design for 2.4 GHz coverage first, then address 5.8 GHz coverage.
• Account for differences in signal propagation between bands.

Strategically place access points

• Install wireless access points (AP’s) in guest rooms, hallways, public areas, and meeting spaces.
• Consider high-density areas and adjust AP placement and capability accordingly.

Use proper survey tools and techniques

• Utilize professional survey software and equipment.
• Compensate for the products that will be installed.

Analyze and optimize

• Assess survey results and make necessary adjustments.
• Verify that coverage, capacity, and performance goals are met.

Document and report findings

• Create detailed reports including AP locations, cable paths, and configuration recommendations.

Plan for future scalability

• Choose solutions that can adapt to increasing bandwidth demands.

Consider working with experienced professionals

• Select a company with expertise in hotel WiFi network design and installation.

If you have questions about providing a WiFi service, please contact us via our email: info@wispzone.com and we will be very happy to help you.