In contemporary enterprise networking environments, robust wireless infrastructure is paramount for operational efficiency. For North America's enterprise in New Hampshire, USA, persistent wireless connectivity challenges systematically impacted office and warehouse operational workflows. A comprehensive Pre-Deployment Wireless Site Survey was meticulously executed to mitigate network performance bottlenecks, utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, including Ekahau Site Survey Pro and advanced Cisco Meraki wireless networking solutions.
This strategic wireless assessment encompassed a holistic evaluation of dual-band wireless spectrum (5 GHz and 2.4 GHz frequency ranges), with specific emphasis on:
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Comprehensive signal propagation analysis
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Identification and mitigation of potential rogue network devices
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Optimization of wireless coverage and network performance metrics
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Diagnostic mapping of potential interference zones
Challenges
Out Client had faced significant challenges in their existing wireless infrastructure:
- Coverage Gaps: Inadequate signal strength in both the office and warehouse areas led to frequent connectivity interruptions.
- Rogue Devices: Unauthorized devices disrupted network performance, causing interference.
- High AP Power Levels: Misconfigured access points (APs) created co-channel interference, affecting network reliability.
- Warehouse Design Flaws: The complex layout and high ceilings in the 27-foot warehouse created RF propagation challenges.
These issues required a detailed analysis to develop a reliable wireless design.
Signal Strength on 5GHz
- Site Type: Office and Warehouse.
- Area Covered: 34,000 sq. ft.
- Survey Type: Pre-deployment survey.
- Frequency Coverage: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
- Signal Metrics: RSSI ≥ -65 dBm, SNR > 25 dBm.
Signal maps
5.0GHz Signal Strength in Office
2.4GHz Signal Strength in Office
5GHz Signal Strength in Warehouse
2.4GHz Signal Strength in Warehouse
Findings
The survey provided actionable insights into the existing wireless network:
1. Signal Strength on 5 GHz
- Signal coverage met design goals in the office area, with some minor dead zones due to physical obstructions.
- The warehouse required additional APs to improve signal overlap and ensure seamless roaming.
2. Signal Strength on 2.4 GHz
- While signal propagation was generally sufficient, interference from neighboring networks and rogue devices created challenges.
- Directives prioritized 5 GHz coverage, leaving some 2.4 GHz gaps unaddressed.
3. Rogue Devices and Power Issues
- Rogue devices interfered with existing APs, degrading signal quality.
- High AP power levels resulted in oversaturated RF cells, causing co-channel interference and unreliable roaming.
Remediation Recommendations
The following measures were proposed to optimize the wireless network of a leading North American client:
- RF Profile Optimization: Adjust AP power levels and utilize Cisco’s Radio Resource Management (RRM) to balance coverage and minimize interference.
- Enhanced AP Placement: Deploy 16 APs, up from the existing 13, focusing on better coverage in warehouse aisles and high-density areas.
- 5 GHz Optimization: Prioritize the 5 GHz band for critical operations, leveraging higher data rates and reduced interference.
- Network Monitoring: Implement real-time monitoring of rogue devices using the Cisco Meraki Dashboard.
- Structured Wiring: Upgrade to Cat6A cabling for all APs, ensuring 10 Gbps connectivity and efficient Power over Ethernet (PoE+).
Conclusions
The Pre-Deployment Wireless Site Survey paves the way for seamless connectivity and enhanced operational efficiency by addressing the Client's wireless network challenges with a robust design. Whether ensuring coverage in high-ceiling warehouses or mitigating rogue devices, this survey demonstrates the importance of tailored solutions in today’s complex wireless environments.
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