Creating a robust Wireless Network

The Ultimate Checklist for Creating a Successful Robust Wireless Network for Your Enterprise

Creating a wireless network for your company can be a complex process that requires careful planning. Keep in your mind some great features such as identifying necessary coverage areas, selecting equipment, determining the number of access points, considering space layout, choosing frequency and channel, configuring security, authentication, QoS, IP addressing, and management, performing testing and maintenance. Additionally, consider maximum devices, future growth, redundancy, employee training, and policy development. Monitor network performance and seek expert advice if needed. Follow bellow 22 steps to create a reliable, efficient, and secure wireless network for your business.

• Determine the necessary coverage area: Start by identifying the areas in which the wireless network will need to be used and ensure that the coverage is adequate for all of these areas. For example, if your business operates across multiple floors or buildings, you'll need to ensure that your wireless network provides coverage throughout each of these areas.
• Choose the type of equipment: Select the type of equipment that meets your business needs and has the capability to provide adequate coverage. For example, you might choose a mesh network for a large campus or building, or you might opt for access points that are specifically designed for outdoor environments.
• Determine the number of access points required: How many access points do you need to provide coverage in all of the necessary areas? This will depend on the size and layout of your space.
• Consider the layout of the space: Remember that the layout of the space can affect the quality of the signal, so the number and location of access points should be carefully selected. For example, if you have a large open-plan office, you may need to strategically position access points to provide coverage throughout the space.
• Choose the frequency: Determine which frequency is best for your business - 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz - taking into account performance needs and the number of connected devices.
• Consider interference: Determine if there is interference at the location that could affect the Wi-Fi signal and how it can be mitigated. For example, if you're in a densely populated area, you might need to select a channel with less interference to avoid signal degradation.
• Select the channel: Choose the channel that has the least interference and allows for the best performance.
• Determine channel bandwidth: Decide whether to use a 20 MHz or 40 MHz channel to improve bandwidth.
• Configure security: Ensure that your network is secure by using strong encryption and other security measures. For example, you might use WPA2 encryption to secure your wireless network.
• Configure authentication: Determine how you want your users to authenticate to the network. For example, you might use a captive portal that requires users to enter a username and password before gaining access.
• Configure Quality of Service (QoS): Set QoS to prioritize network traffic to ensure the best user experience. For example, you might prioritize voice or video traffic to ensure that these applications have sufficient bandwidth.
• Configure IP addressing: Configure the IP addressing for your network.
• Configure management: Configure management of your network to allow for control of the network. For example, you might use a network management tool to monitor network performance and make changes as needed.
• Perform testing: Verify the network after installation to ensure that it is functioning as expected. For example, you might perform a site survey to measure the strength of the Wi-Fi signal throughout your space.
• Perform regular maintenance: Perform regular maintenance of your network to ensure that it continues to function efficiently. This might include updating firmware, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. In addition to the above steps, here are 5 more steps to consider when creating a wireless network for your business:
• Determine the maximum number of connected devices: How many devices will be connected to your wireless network at peak times? This will help you determine the capacity and performance requirements for your network.
• Plan for future growth: Consider your business's future growth and ensure that your wireless network has the scalability to support additional users and devices.
• Consider redundancy: Plan for network redundancy in case of equipment failure or other issues. This might involve using backup equipment or redundant network paths to ensure that your network remains operational.
• Train employees: Train employees on how to use the wireless network and how to recognize and report any issues that arise. This can help prevent security breaches and other problems.
• Develop policies: Develop policies for network usage, security, and management to ensure that everyone using the network understands their responsibilities and follows best practices.
• Monitor network performance: Monitor network performance regularly to identify issues and make adjustments as needed. This might involve analyzing usage patterns, identifying sources of interference, or monitoring signal strength.
• Seek expert advice: If you're unsure about any aspect of creating a wireless network, seek expert advice from a qualified network engineer or IT consultant. They can help you choose the best equipment, configure your network, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

In conclusion, creating a good wireless network for your business requires careful planning and consideration of many factors, including coverage area, equipment selection, frequency, interference, security, and network management. By following the 22 steps outlined in this guide, you can create a wireless network that is reliable, efficient, and scalable, while ensuring the security and privacy of your data. Remember to monitor network performance regularly, perform regular maintenance, and seek expert advice when needed to ensure that your wireless network remains operational and meets the evolving needs of your business.

By Gustavo Lautenschleger

Telecommunications Engineer