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2.4 GHz Spectrum Analysis
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Applications for
2.4 GHz spectrum analysis include the following:
- Detect potential sources of RF interference that could
affect a wireless network
- Optimally configure wireless networks and improve
performance
- As an aid in properly locating wireless devices so as to
maximize range and throughput and minimize interference from
competing wireless devices
A 2.4 GHz spectrum
analyzer is the tool of choice for identifying the existence of
wireless devices in the vicinity that could adversely affect the
performance of a Wi-Fi (802.11) network.
Armed with the information provided by a spectrum analyzer, a
wireless network can be configured to use another channel (i.e.
range of frequencies) that is not subject to interference.
As a result network performance will increase, as evidenced
by improved throughput. In addition to
improving performance, the information provided by a spectrum
analyzer can be used to enhance the security and range of a wireless
network.
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802.11 Network Discovery
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802.11 network discovery
functionality provides the following benefits:
- During the installation of a wireless network, as an aid in
verifying the network is properly configured and antennas are
positioned at locations to achieve efficient transmission /
reception -- that is, for use in verifying Wi-Fi coverage and
maximizing beacon signal strength
- Trouble-shooting an existing network or wireless environment
that is performing poorly
- Reporting the presence of Wi-Fi networks and local access
points and the signal strengths of their beacons
- Conducting wireless site surveys where the installer is
interested in learning about the coverage of a new or existing
access point, roaming capability, presence of RF interference or
- In a secure business environment, for use in detecting the
presence of rogue access points
- As a learning tool to help understand the relationship
between access points (BSSIDs), wireless networks (SSIDs), and
client stations (STAs)
An 802.11 network discovery tool (or Wi-Fi Scanner) reports the
Service Set Identifier (SSID) for each wireless network it detects,
along with the channel used by the access point (AP) servicing that
network. The way this works is that roughly every 100 mSec an AP
sends an "I’m here" beacon – and the discovery tool (running on your
laptop and using its 802.11 wireless adapter, also known as a
station or STA) picks-up that beacon and adds the SSID to its list
of known wireless networks. In addition, the discovery tool reports
the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) for each AP, which is
roughly an indication of how close the AP is to your current
location (i.e. how close it is to the client STA). The RSSI reflects
the strength of the beacon as received by the STA – it is not an
indication of performance.
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