Configuring a wireless network may seem like a simple task at first glance. However, considering the diversity and variety of factors that can negatively impact the operation of a Wi-Fi network, it becomes clear that this is a complex and demanding process that requires the use of appropriate tools. Therefore, in order to ensure the reliability and security of a wireless network's operation, it is necessary to perform professional audits and precise measurements.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the intensity of wireless data transmission. Wi-Fi networks are present in many areas of human activity. In addition to that, there are other sources of electromagnetic wave emissions, such as various types of radars, weather stations, airports, military facilities, industrial operations, satellite communication, and many others. What does this mean? - When configuring any wireless network, factors such as used radio bands, channels within the bands, channel widths, radio interferences, inter-channel interferences, distances from access points, roaming, etc., need to be considered. In a Wi-Fi network, even though the possibility of simultaneous data transmission by multiple devices (Multi-User MIMO) has been introduced, the transmission is still half-duplex, which means that data cannot be transmitted simultaneously in both directions.

Furthermore, the constantly changing network technologies and their variety, ranging from slower 802.11abg to gigabit-speed 802.11ac/ax, also complicate matters. The DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) technology also allows for an unforeseen and dynamic change of the channel in case of radar signals. The channels used also depend on the radio regulations in various countries, which are subject to change. Another aspect that significantly affects network operation is its security. Due to its nature, Wi-Fi networks are more susceptible to hacker attacks and unauthorized access attempts. Therefore, for wireless networks, proper security measures that are appropriate to the network type must be carefully implemented.

Meanwhile, a reliable and efficient wireless network is essential for smooth and efficient operations in various locations, ranging from production halls and logistics facilities to administrative offices of various organizations. This applies to various industries and sectors of the economy. Proper wireless network operation is particularly crucial in places where Wi-Fi is the primary means of network access. This situation occurs, for example, in warehouses where mobile scanners are used. However, a significant portion of organizations is intentionally transitioning to All Wi-Fi network access in offices. Thus, regardless of the work environment, a wireless network must be well designed and implemented. This is why the demands on wireless networks are constantly growing, which is connected to factors such as mobility, but also the variety of applications requiring good and stable network access - applications such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, Zoom, advanced 4K and even 8K video applications, Internet of Things (IoT), and many more.

All of this implies the need for careful planning and implementation of wireless networks, both in new facilities and within existing infrastructures. Conducting audits and network measurements is essential. In locations where access points (AP) will be installed, knowledge about obstacles and their impact on radio signals in the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz ranges needs to be taken into account. Measurements can be performed before and after deployment. To effectively conduct these measurements, a professional measurement system is required, such as Ekahau Site Survey.

Measurements before deployment involve temporarily installing/setting up an access point (AP) and measuring the coverage area of that AP. Then, the access point must be moved to other locations to cover the entire area of interest. Pre-deployment measurements primarily help determine the actual attenuation caused by obstacles within a given facility. This is especially important when not all obstacles are considered in facility plans or have been added at a later time. It also happens that there's not complete knowledge about the type and thickness of the material. Therefore, professional measurements of relevant parameters provide relatively accurate data regarding wave propagation. Measurements can also serve as confirmation of a previously conducted Wi-Fi project. However, it's important to note that measurements are often time-consuming because they require moving temporary access points and performing measurements several times in a given location (potentially with multiple APs).

Post-deployment measurements aim to confirm the effectiveness of a given project's implementation. The goal is to verify whether the network in the facility operates efficiently and to confirm that potential interferences are not too significant (some level of interference in a radio network practically always exists). Post-deployment measurements take less time, as they don't require installing/moving temporary APs.

Regardless of when measurements are taken, the following parameters are the results:

• signal strength in the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and the new available 6GHz bands
• backup signal strength (in case one of the APs fails)
• radio noise
• SNR - signal-to-noise ratio
• inter-channel interference
• throughput
• data rate
• jitter - short-term deviation from established, periodic signal characteristics
• delays, and many more.

The entire process concludes with a report that compiles all of this data. It's important to emphasize that conducting measurements can lead to reduced costs for a wireless network. Through measurements, potential configuration errors can be avoided, ensuring efficient operation of all processes. In the case of Wi-Fi networks, in addition to measurements, it's also valuable to verify whether the configuration performed by a particular contractor is optimal and, above all, secure. For this purpose, an audit along with a vulnerability test should be conducted to evaluate how the network functions.

Measurements and audits are now a necessary requirement to ensure the full functionality and highest quality of wireless networks. This translates into real technical and business benefits:

• improved efficiency, speed, and user comfort
• ensuring continuity and stability of operation
• increased resilience to failures, e.g., individual access point failures
• increased resistance to interferences
• enhanced network security
• compliance with existing regulations and legal requirements for wireless data transmission
• professional documentation.

Koma Nord engineers have extensive experience in designing, building, and maintaining wireless networks. We have completed over 200 major installations, primarily in the industry, healthcare, and logistics sectors. We perform audits and Wi-Fi network measurements in practically every company or organization, effectively assisting in diagnosing potential problems, configuring equipment, or placing access points. Ultimately, we provide recommendations for creating or upgrading wireless networks to ensure full performance and throughput.