Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology

MSc Degree

Assignment 2.2
IT5040 – Wireless Network and Technologies

March 2021
Group IT-B
D.N.Ayola Jayamaha - MS21900754
J.M Dulani Maheshika - MS20923556
U.D.Harshi Perera - MS20923488
Dulanji Wijekoon - MS21914300
Prabodha Manamperi - MS21901676
Tharaka Diyaguarachchi - MS21914850

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 Table of Content
Assignment 2.2 1

Table of Content 2

Acknowledgement 3

Abstract 4

Introduction 5

How to plan a Wi – Fi network? 5

The wireless network planning checklist 6

How to plan Wi-Fi Network 8

Coverage and Capacity planning 8

Introduction to WIFI network design 9

Coverage and Capacity Planning 10

Performing a predictive site survey 12

Predictive Site Survey Analysis Using Thermograph 15

Manual Site Survey Analysis using Acrylic Wi-Fi 21

Design floor plan design a Wi-Fi network design 22

Causes of Wi-Fi Interference 28

WiFi Network Design 30

References 32

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 Acknowledgement
The success and the final outcome of this assignment required a great deal of guidance
and assistance from many parties. We have been extremely fortunate to get such guidance
and assistance throughout the assignment process. Whatever success we have achieved
through this assignment would not be possible if it wasn’t for such guidance and
assistance. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported us
throughout this assignment.

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 Abstract
Over the years, Internet has become increasingly popular for a variety of purposes. This
assignment is mainly based on designing a wifi network in a corporate environment. WIFI
is an alternative network system in place of wired networks, which is commonly used for
connecting devices in wireless mode. It is also a simple and cost-effective way to connect
to the internet. Access points (AP), Wi-Fi cards, safeguards are the elements which can be
categorized under a Wifi network.

WiFi can be further described under two topologies.

● Peer-to-peer topology (Ad-Hoc Mode)

● AP-based topology (Infrastructure Mode)

This assignment is on the AP based topology. In an AP based topology, the client

communicates through the access point. The next chapter introduces the floor plan and
the nature of the entity to which the Wifi network is designed.

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 Introduction
Wi-Fi is the name of a wireless network technology that uses radio waves to provide
wireless high-speed internet and network connection.

Wi-Fi gives the freedom to access the internet from anywhere within the signal range and
move devices around the home. Ability to access other devices connected to the network.
Freedom from the hussle of installing wired connection in different rooms.

1. It is a wireless LAN

2. Allows to computers to connect to the internet without wires

3. Allows to router to be cordless also.

4. The network is connected through an access point for internet and it is connected to a
USB port.

How to plan a Wi – Fi network?

First of all, have to verify the business need to implement a wireless network. And then
plan the wireless coverage area according to the business needs. Then plan how many
Access points will need to equally distribute maximum bandwidth to users as well as
determine what hardware will need to implement the wireless network.

Steps –
1. Verify the business need
2. Determine the coverage area
3. Plan bandwidth utilization
4. Make hardware requirements list
5. Perform a site survey
6. Implement security
7. Deploy and train.

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The wireless network planning checklist

Coverage-The first, somewhat obvious phase in wireless network planning is to define

where the organization needs coverage. This step includes looking into geographical

considerations, like site locations, but also extends to environmental and seasonal factors

[1]

Capacity-The next step is to estimate your organization's expected growth. Find out how

many users are currently on the network and how many might join in the near future. IT

teams shouldn't hesitate to ask about the possibility of any business acquisitions that

could add new network users. This step is also when teams should look into the types of

applications that the network needs to support now and in the next few years [1]

Applications-The third phase is to dive deeper into the organization's application

requirements. IT teams should do their best to ensure the network is aligned with business

priorities, including mission-critical applications and workflows. These considerations

could also include mobile support, workforce policy updates, marketing initiatives and

guest Wi-Fi, Martin said. Also, teams shouldn't forget to evaluate data-heavy and

bandwidth-intensive applications, like IoT and video streaming. [1]

Security-Although security planning can be hard, organizations can still benefit from the

planning process and take steps to secure the wireless network, Martin said. Look into

security features like wireless intrusion prevention and detection, two-layer

authentication, role-based access and firewalls. [1]

Simplicity-The fifth phase in wireless network planning is to simplify, specifically when

looking into management. IT teams can benefit from automation that assists with

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troubleshooting and reduces time spent on menial, routine management tasks. Martin

advised teams to evaluate management systems that offer GUIs with easy navigation and

provide granular information about APs, rogue devices and guest Wi-Fi registration,

among other considerations. [1]

Redundancy-IT teams should then focus on how to support the business in case something

goes wrong with the network. Determine how to ensure redundancy for cloud

connectivity and edge devices, in addition to traditional facility components.

Network integration-This phase of wireless network planning helps teams pinpoint end-

to-end network visibility and integration needs. For example, next-generation APs that

support the newest Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ax, require 60 kilowatts of power, but most

current Power over Ethernet (PoE) options don't yet support that number. [1]

Management-The next step is to further examine the management system. Consider how

your network management platform handles all the different network components,

whether it's APs, switches or software-defined WAN management [1]

Site survey-After IT teams address these steps and create a wireless design that meets

their needs, Martin advised they conduct a site survey. Wireless site surveys differ in type,

with passive, active and predictive inspections available as hardware or software options.

But each type helps organizations determine AP position, radiofrequency, capacity, quality

of service and other metrics. [1]

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How to plan Wi-Fi Network
01. Coverage and Capacity planning

02. Performing and Predictive site survey

03. Performing a manual site survey

Coverage and Capacity planning

01. How many clients will be online?

That means how many of clients use the network at the same time.

02. What are the types of clients?

Types of the clients that means users types can be different. Some clients can have android
or else mac but some can have windows likewise have to check those details also.

03. What applications will be used?

What are the applications all the clients use from the user networks?

04. How mobile are the users?

Are all the users being in the same place at all the time or else will they move.

05. How fast will the throughput be?

What are the applications use and how fast they need to do the works

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 Introduction to WIFI network design

Master’s Finder Company (WFC), an entity engages in the business of web development,
was selected as a suitable corporate environment to design the WiFi network. Ten to
fifteen people are employed in WFC. Every staff member is allocated a Wifi connected
device to perform their day today tasks. Further, the entire floor area of WFC is covered
by one WiFi access point.

MFC is a one-story building which consists of a boardroom which includes a TV and an AC

machine, washroom and one file rack. In addition, there is a printer machine which works
with WiFi and assigned to thirteen electrical devices assembled on separate working
tables.

Further, there are four AC machines that cover the entire floor area.

Below is the floor plan of MFC for which the WiFi network was designed.

Floor Plan of Master’s Finder web development company

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 Coverage and Capacity Planning
Initially the actual floor area that is expected to be covered through the Wifi network was
identified. As mentioned above, actual coverage area was identified by referring to the
predictive and manual surveys carried out. Coverage is very important but at present the
mobility is really about the capacity. This process requires the identification of the number
of end users, number of devices and the types of applications that will be used within the
network.

The next step was to cover the capacity planning.

By conducting a few analyses, it was identified that 13 employees of MFC will use the
online facilities in performing their day-to-day tasks.

Listed below are the devices that will be connected to the Wifi network at any time during
the working hours.

● Personal Computers (Development) Hp -8

● Laptops (Development) Mac Pro -5
● Mobile Phones - 13
● Epson Wireless Projector at Conference Hall -01
● Canon Wireless Printer -1

During the capacity planning, the next step was to identify the applications that are used
by the above devices while connected to the network.

The identified applications are listed below.

● Internet browser
● Skype
● Zoom
● Email Clients
● Meeting arrangements
● Git – 10

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 ● Jira -10
● MySQL -2
● Eclipse -3
● Xcode -5
● IntelliJ -6

As the next step, it was identified the areas in which the devices were placed. Mobile
phones of each employee are expected to be placed within a 10m radius and laptops are
expected to be placed in the cubicles or inside the conference room.

Next step was to plan the actual throughput of the Wifi network design. It is important to
decide the volume of data that can be transferred between locations at a given point in
time. Throughput was also used to measure the performances of hard drives, RAM and
internet and network connections.

Using the above it was identified that a fiber line that generates a speed of 100Mbps, was
required for the throughput.

Based on the above requirements, SLT and Dialog were recommended as the two network
providers. As a result, the network will have a minimum probability for a loss in internet
connection. If the internet connection from one service provider fails the network
connection will be restored by the other service provider.

There is a very low probability for a loss in internet services provided by both services
providers at the same time.

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Performing a predictive site survey

Virtual survey of the site or facility that uses pertinent information about the site to plan
the wireless network. Building floor plans are loaded into predictive site survey software
to develop a wireless network design.

The ultimate goal of a wireless site survey is to determine the number and placement of
access points (or mesh nodes) that provides adequate signal coverage throughout a facility
or city area. With most implementations, “adequate coverage” means support of a
minimum data rate or throughput. In order to perform a successful survey, you’ll need to
relate the required performance to a value that survey tools measure, such as SNR. A
wireless site survey also detects the presence of RF interference coming from other
sources that could degrade the performance of the wireless LAN.

conducting a wireless site survey, consider the following: [2]

1. Understand the wireless requirements. In order to identify optimum locations for

access points or mesh nodes, you must have a good understanding of specific
requirements for the network that impacts signal coverage. For example, maximum range
between a client device and the access point decreases as data rate and resulting
performance increases. Thus, you need to know the target data rates (and throughput) to
correctly interpret survey results. Also, client devices may have relatively low transmit
power, which must be taken into consideration when using most site survey tools. Be sure
to identify the technologies that the network will implement, such as 802.11g or 802.11n,
and perform the survey with these technologies in mind.

2. Obtain a facility diagram. Before getting too far with the site survey, locate a set of
building blueprints or city maps. If none are available, prepare a drawing that depicts the
location of walls, walkways, etc. Site survey tools import diagrams in various image
formats. Of course, mapping software is a good source for outdoor city surveys. If all else
fails for in-building surveys, consider taking a digital photograph of the fire escape
diagram, which is usually present on hallway walls.

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3. Visually inspect the facility. Walk through the facility before performing any testing to
verify the accuracy of the facility diagram. This is a good time to note any potential
attenuation barriers that may affect the propagation of RF signals. For example, a visual
inspection will uncover obstacles to signals such as metal racks and partitions, items that
blueprints generally don’t show. Also, note possible locations for mounting access points,
such as above ceiling tiles or on pillars. For outdoor city environments, you should carefully
assess the locations and availability of street lights and water towers for mounting mesh
nodes and backhaul equipment. These actions will make the later testing efforts go much
more smoothly.

4. Assess existing network infrastructure. Determine the capacity of any existing wired
networks that can interface the access points or mesh nodes. Most buildings have
Ethernet and, in some cases, optical fiber networks. Check on how much of the existing
networks can be made available for supporting the wireless network. This will aid
designers later on in the deployment when defining the architecture and bill of materials
for the wireless network.

5. Identify coverage areas. On the facility diagram or city map, indicate all areas where
coverage is needed, such as offices, hallways, stairwells, utility rooms, bathrooms, break
rooms, patios, parking garages, and elevators. Also, identifying where users will not
wireless coverage is important to avoid wasting time surveying unnecessary areas. Keep
in mind that you might get by with fewer access points and lower equipment costs if you
can limit the roaming areas.

6. Determine preliminary access point locations. By considering the location of wireless

users and range estimations of the wireless LAN products you’re using, approximate the
locations of access points that will provide adequate coverage throughout the user areas.
Plan for some propagation overlap (generally 25 percent) among adjacent access points,
but bear in mind that channel assignments for access points will need to be far enough
apart to avoid inter-access point interference.

Be certain to consider mounting locations, which could be vertical posts or metal supports
above ceiling tiles. Recognize suitable locations for installing the access point, antenna,

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and data / PoE cable. Also think about different antennas when deciding where to position
access points. An access point mounted near an outside wall, for example, could be a good
location if you use a patch antenna with relatively high gain oriented within the facility.
[2]

7. Verify access point locations. This is when the site survey testing begins. Most wireless
LAN vendors provide wireless site survey software that identifies the associated access
point, data rate, signal strength, and signal quality. You can load this software on a laptop
and test the coverage of each preliminary access point location. Alternately, you can use
a third-party site survey tool available from several different companies, such as Air
Magnet, Berkeley Varitronics Systems, and Ekahau.

Install an access point at each preliminary location, and monitor the site survey tool
readings by walking varying distances away from the access point. There’s no need to
connect the access point to the distribution system because the survey tests merely ping
the access point or read the beacon signal strength. Very important: Definitely consider
the SNR range boundary and uplink signal strength when interpreting the results. To make
the access point easy to move about the facility, you can mount it on a pole attached to a
cart with a battery and DC/AC converter. Otherwise, you’ll need to haul around an
extension cord and always be looking for where to plug in for power (not recommended).
[2]Take note of performance or signal readings at different points as you move to the
outer bounds of the access point coverage. In a multi-floor facility, perform tests on the
floor above and below the access point. Keep in mind that a poor signal quality reading
could indicate that RF interference is affecting the wireless LAN. This would warrant the
use of a spectrum analyzer to characterize the interference, especially if there are no other
indications of its source. Based on the results of the testing, you might need to reconsider
the location of some access points and redo testing for the affected locations.

8. Document findings. Once you’re satisfied that the location of access points you’ve
identified will provide adequate signal coverage, document your findings on the facility
diagrams by depicting the location of each access point. The installers will need this
information. [2]

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 Predictive Site Survey Analysis Using
Thermograph
Thermograph was used to perform predictive survey analysis.

Below are the steps followed during the process of predictive survey analysis.

Step 1: Calibrating the floor plan

Step 2: Heat Map Before setting up AP and Marking Brick wall, Exterior Concrete Wall,
Interion Office window and Hollow Wood Door

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Step 3: Covering area of Aps without marking Brick wall, Exterior Concrete Wall ,
Interion Office window and Hollow Wood Door

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Step 4: Visualizing Signal Level of Aps without marking Brick wall, Exterior Concrete
Wall, Interion Office window and Hollow Wood Door.

Step 5: Marking Brick wall, Exterior Concrete Wall, Interion Office window and Hollow
Wood Door.

Brick wall

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Exterior Concrete Wall

Interion Office window

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Hollow Wood Door

Step 6: Coverage area after making Bridge wall, Exterior Concrete Wall, Interion Office
window and Hollow Wood Door

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 Manual Site Survey Analysis using Acrylic
Wi-Fi
When the highest degree of accuracy is required for your mission-critical applications,
there is no substitute for a professional-grade manual site survey. Only by thoroughly
sampling for not only signal strength, but signal-to-noise ratio, interference, along with
data rates and throughput can problems be identified, such as dead spots, co-channel
interference from internal and external access points, and not having enough capacity per
access point.

Without gathering the correct information and then knowing - through extensive training
and experience - how to make the necessary adjustments or recommendations, a wireless
network design that can reliably support latency-sensitive, mission-critical applications is
nearly impossible to achieve.

Having too many access points can be as detrimental as having too few due to co-channel
interference. A strong signal strength means little if the noise floor is so high the wireless
devices cannot reliably communicate, making testing a signals viability through SNR
(signal-to-noise ratio) critical. Even if coverage is adequate, certain areas may overwhelm
the capacity of a single access point.

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Design floor plan design a Wi-Fi network design

Then it is needed to design the floor plan using a design software. AutoCAD was chosen to
design the floor plan.

Next need to do the predictive site survey

● Load the predictive site survey into the site survey software (Acrylic Wi-Fi heat
map)
● Create the wall concrete, brick or else hardboard

concrete Wall

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 Dry walls insert

wood walls setting

And also, in this step have to create the glass doors and as well as the walls. After creating
the walls and doors can move to the Adding Access Point part
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 ● First, have to select the places where have to put the access points. (Due to the
unlicensed software use it gives only 4 access points) all those places have to cover
the whole building.

● Run the Site survey and check all the points get covered or not. Due to the wall
type, some areas will not be covered as well as to check about the strength to all
apps. As well as after entering the Access Point have to check about the
interference and signal ratio also.
● If there is any mistake have to re-center the access point to get the maximum
advantages. And high speed which are related to the apps.

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 Channel Coverage

Create a Heat Map

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 Signal to interference ratio

Due to the limitations of the selected free software (all the other software has to pay) had
to manage the building with the four Access Points. Therefore, by changing the positions
of Access Points finally get the best signal to interference ratio. Due to the limitations of
the selected free software (all the other software has to pay) had to manage the building
with the four Access Points. Therefore, by changing the positions of Access Points finally
get the best signal to interference ration. By using Acrylic Wi-Fi Home can get the network
strength as well

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Causes of Wi-Fi Interference
Due to some kind of reasons our Wi-Fi network becomes slow or else becomes
disconnected.

· Physical Barriers.

· Frequency Interference.

Wireless Devices – Technically speaking, any other devices that transmit or receive a
wireless signal is capable of causing interference to signal, so look to things like wireless
speakers, baby monitors, walkie talkies, garage door openers.

1. Everyday Appliances like microwaves and florescent lights, power cables & adapters

etc. They emit signals that can interfere with your WiFi. [3]

2. Wireless Devices including wireless headsets, keyboards, mice, activity trackers,

cordless phones, baby monitors etc. Just like the appliances above, the wireless signals

they use to communicate with other devices can slow things down… a lot.

3. Household Gadgets commonly used, such as video game controllers, wireless security

cameras, radar motion detectors, analog audio systems can be a major cause of

interference.

4. Building Materials: In general, dense materials such as concrete, metal and stone are

not good for wireless signals. Reflective surfaces such as mirrors and foil found in modern

housing insulation can cause erratic WiFi signals.

5. Neighboring WiFi Networks: The growth in WiFi network density, especially in

populated areas has increased interference among wireless networks. Strong WiFi signals

in close proximity to each other can reduce the performance of both networks. New Public

WiFi networks are adding to this form of interference. [3]

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What are the techniques that can be used to fix the interference?

1. Relocate your wireless router away from nearby routers, appliances and dense building

materials.

2. Unplug the appliances and devices when not in us

3. Avoid using too many wireless gadgets at the same time within close proximity of each
other.

4. Try using different wireless frequency (5GHz vs. 2.4GHz) and/or a different wireless
band.

5. Consider upgrading your wireless router or at the very least upgrading the firmware

(newer technologies and configurations can avoid the susceptibility of earlier solutions)

Used Software

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 WiFi Network Design
In designing the WiFi network for MFC, the initial step was to gather all the requirements
for the design.

MFC consists of one boardroom which includes a TV and an AC machine, a washroom and
a file rack. It also consists of a printer machine which is assigned to thirteen electrical
devices. Ten to fifteen people are working at MFC at any given time.

When designing the WiFi network, The following main steps were carried out;

• Step 01; The Coverage and capacity planning

• Step 02; Predictive site survey using Thermograph

• Step 03; Manual site survey using Acrylic

As the initial step, coverage and the capacity planning were performed. As explained
above, the no of online clients, types of clients, applications used by the clients, the
mobility of the users and the speed of the throughput were identified during the process.

As planned, the next step was to perform the predictive survey analysis using
thermography. Then, the manual site survey was performed using Acrylic. Through the
site surveys interferences occurred during the process, were identified. Interference
occurred due to wifi and non wifi sources. Due to security cameras, bluetooth, cordless
phones some interference occurred while conducting the survey to design the wifi
network. Also, we faced some interferences due non wifi sources like wood, Concrete,
Metal and mirror.

In order to overcome security issues here we have given authentication to access the
devices for every user of the organization.

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Below is the network diagram for the proposed floor plan.

Projector

Printer

Network Diagram

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References

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