7.1 Wireless LAN (WLAN) Deployment Explained
Key Concepts
Understanding Wireless LAN (WLAN) Deployment involves grasping several key concepts:
- Site Survey
- Access Point Placement
- Frequency Planning
- Power Management
- Security Implementation
Site Survey
A Site Survey is a critical step in WLAN deployment that involves assessing the physical environment to determine the optimal placement of Access Points (APs). This includes evaluating factors such as building layout, potential sources of interference, and user density. A thorough site survey ensures that the WLAN provides adequate coverage and performance.
Example: Think of a site survey as a reconnaissance mission before building a new city. By carefully mapping out the terrain, identifying potential obstacles (interference), and understanding where people will live (user density), planners can ensure the city (WLAN) is well-organized and functional.
Access Point Placement
Access Point Placement involves strategically positioning APs to ensure optimal coverage and minimize interference. This includes considering factors such as signal overlap, dead zones, and the layout of the physical space. Proper placement ensures that all users receive a strong and reliable wireless signal.
Example: Consider access point placement as arranging light fixtures in a large room. By strategically placing lights (APs) to cover the entire room (coverage area) without causing glare (interference), you ensure that every corner is well-lit (well-covered).
Frequency Planning
Frequency Planning involves selecting the best wireless channels to minimize interference and maximize performance. This includes using tools like MikroTik's Wireless Monitoring to analyze channel usage and choosing less congested channels. Proper frequency planning ensures that wireless devices can communicate efficiently without interference.
Example: Think of frequency planning as choosing the best lanes on a busy highway. By selecting a less congested lane (channel), you reduce the chances of traffic jams (interference) and ensure a smoother ride (better performance).
Power Management
Power Management in WLAN deployment involves setting the transmission power of APs to an optimal level. Too much power can cause interference with neighboring networks, while too little can result in poor coverage. Balancing power levels ensures that the signal reaches the intended area without causing unnecessary interference.
Example: Consider power management as setting the volume on a speaker. If the volume is too low, people far away won't hear it (poor coverage). If the volume is too high, it might disturb nearby areas (interference). The right volume ensures everyone within the intended area can hear clearly without causing disturbance.
Security Implementation
Security Implementation involves setting up robust security measures to protect the WLAN from unauthorized access and attacks. This includes configuring encryption protocols (e.g., WPA3), implementing access control lists (ACLs), and regularly updating firmware. Strong security measures ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the network.
Example: Think of security implementation as fortifying a castle. By building strong walls (encryption), setting up guards (ACLs), and regularly maintaining the fortifications (firmware updates), you ensure that the castle (WLAN) is secure from intruders (unauthorized access).