Optimalization
Regardless of previous issues, every network should be optimized periodically, and the best way to do that is to ensure that the optimization aligns with the clients' needs and the environment where the wireless network operates.
Coverage
If you need to implement new wireless network coverage, the solution is simple. The issue arises when there are changes in the building's floor plans where the wireless infrastructure already exists. This can occur due to rearranging shelves or changing the placement of goods. As a result of these changes, additional coverage optimization may be needed to prevent potential future complications. The same applies to networks that have never been optimized before. The best tool to use in such cases is regular network audits because they can detect changes in the environment (floor plans, new structures, machines, etc.) and indicate the need to optimize the wireless network. A similar situation may occur during telecommunication switchovers. Terminal devices may vary depending on the number of antennas used, the sensitivity of the wireless adapter, or the capabilities of a device driver and software. A completely new topic is the implementation of a 5 GHz network instead of the commonly used (and often overwhelmed) 2.4 GHz frequency. Implementing a 5 GHz network offers several advantages. For example, it has a larger channel bandwidth, higher data rates, and better robustness to interference. However, 5 GHz also comes with some disadvantages, particularly concerning signal throughput. To avoid this complication, it is better to adjust the number and distance between the access points instead of merely replacing the old ones.
Ultimately, the basis of optimization always lies in the site survey, performed by an experienced technician.
Capacity
Barcode readers, security cameras, various types of sensors, laptops, and smartphones - a company can have countless numbers of these devices, and each of them requires the capability to transmit data in large volumes. Cable internet networks are considered outdated, inefficient, inconvenient, and sometimes even impossible due to limited port accessibility as communication endpoints. Consequently, a wireless network becomes the best alternative and may also be more cost-effective compared to a cable network.
However, it is important to acknowledge that as the number of devices connected to the wireless network increases, so does the demand for its capacity.
External impact/influence
Adjacent wireless networks can create many complications because they tend to be overlooked despite the negative influence they may have on the performance of the wireless network. Another factor that negatively influences the network performance is external or home-based interference.
Interference is usually caused by unintentional activity from devices like resonators or LTE networks. We use the most advanced technologies for spectrum analysis to accurately detect the exact location of the interference.
To achieve the desired outcome and prevent any further negative influence, we conduct a thorough analysis. Based on the data obtained, we modify the wireless network infrastructure to eliminate the undesired influences.
New standards
Preferring wired networks over wireless ones for supposedly better performance or security is no longer a valid reason. Technology has made enormous progress, and data throughput has increased from just a few units to hundreds of megabits or even gigabits per second. Moreover, vulnerability to attacks and intrusions has decreased. Breaking into a system secured by the WPA3 Wi-Fi security standard, which replaced the previously utilized WEP security standard that could be compromised within seconds, takes years.
Roaming
Roaming refers to a wireless device that seamlessly moves its connection from one access point to another as it moves in an area with good signal strength. This process plays an important role in time-sensitive applications (such as VoIP phones). The success and duration of the connection depend on various factors, primarily on the correct setting of the wireless infrastructure and the choice and configuration of the clients' devices.
Fast, easy roaming, and ensuring device security are currently the most requested optimizations of wireless networks.
Telephony
Optimizing voice transmission (VoWLAN or VoWiFi) or real-time video is the most complex type of optimization. It involves a wide spectrum of optimization procedures mentioned previously, along with a few more. This type of optimization takes into account various procedures, including site survey, wireless network capacity, and roaming optimization. Additionally, it involves implementing QoS (Quality of Service) settings on other components of the wired infrastructure (switches, etc.).