What are WiFi Heatmaps or heat maps for wireless networks?
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WiFi heatmaps have become indispensable tools in today's digital world. They offer a visual representation of wireless signals that provides insight into how a WiFi network performs within a given space.
What is a WiFi Heatmap?
A WiFi heatmap is a technical image that shows the strength and quality of wireless signals within a certain area. They are effective for identifying and solving challenges with WiFi coverage and for optimizing network performance.
Why do you need a WiFi Heatmap?
A WiFi heatmap can help you plan for the implementation of new wireless networks and optimize existing systems. It can be used to:
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Plan access point placement
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Create channel and power plans
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Adjust system configuration
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Identify areas with low signal
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Identify sources of interference
How does a WiFi Heatmap work?
WiFi heatmap software works by methodically capturing and recording the signal levels of your access points at your location using, for example, a laptop or another device to record these measurements. After analysis, a report is generated showing the performance of each access point by visualizing a color on the screen that correlates with the signal strength.
How to get started
To create your own WiFi heatmap, you need the following:
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A computer, laptop, or tablet
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WiFi heatmap software
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Detailed information about the building, applications, and devices used
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Building plans
Common WiFi Heatmapping Software
Several companies provide heatmap software.
Here are a few:
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NetSpot https://www.netspotapp.com/
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Acrylic WiFi https://www.acrylicwifi.com/en/
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VisiWave https://www.visiwave.com/
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Ekahau https://www.ekahau.com/
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iBwave https://www.ibwave.com/
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AirMagnet http://enterprise.netscout.com/enterprise-network/wireless-network/wifi-analyzer-airmagnet
Using a WiFi Heatmap
To get the most benefit from a WiFi heatmap, make sure you understand how to read and interpret the data. A good rule of thumb is that green represents optimal signal strength, yellow is weaker but acceptable, and red is the lowest and should be remedied by some type of action.
Advantages of refurbished network equipment.
By purchasing refurbished equipment, you can save money as these products are usually sold at a lower price than new products. This is beneficial for companies or organizations with a tight budget or those needing to make large purchases of network equipment.
Another advantage of refurbished IT equipment is that the warranty is often comparable to new products. This means that if the product breaks or has a defect, it can be returned and repaired or replaced at no additional cost. This gives you, the user, a sense of security and builds trust in the product.
Having refurbished equipment as spare parts in your wireless network can be a great advantage. If an access point or other network component breaks down, you can quickly replace it with a spare part instead of having to wait for a new product to be delivered. This reduces network downtime and ensures smooth operation of the network.
You can access both new and refurbished network equipment that suits your needs via this link