A Simple Guide to WiFi Network Maintenance

WiFi networks are the backbone of any modern business. Yet like any other technology, WiFi networks can sometimes break down and must be replaced or repaired. Unfortunately, this process is a bit more complicated than dragging in one new WiFi router and pressing ‘connect’. This blog post will provide a few guidelines to make this process easier for you and understand what do routers connect to and how. Here are 5 guidelines for maintaining your WiFi network.

1. Identify and document all existing WiFi networks on the site

Before you can even consider providing new WiFi services, you need to know what’s already in place. This seems like a simple task, but it is anything but. For example, many companies have multiple guest networks set up which are never disabled and often have passwords that vary from location to location. It is important to go over every inch of your buildings and identify any pre-existing wireless networks by using an app like “Kali Linux NetHunter” or a simple network scan.

Once you have identified the source networks, be sure to also create a list of all current WiFi access points (APs) as well. This way you know exactly what is in place for your solutions. It can be helpful to use these things as reference points for moving forward with your maintenance plan.

2. Enable SSID broadcast to identify networks

To provide new WiFi services, you need to identify all existing wireless networks. To do this, you need to enable SSID broadcast so that devices can pick up the network’s name. This is a bit of a process and requires you to find the wireless encryption key that your AP uses. The encryption key is sometimes kept in the default router settings or on a label on the AP itself. 

You can locate this information with some trial and error, but oftentimes it is located on your app settings menu. The process of getting this information varies from one product to another, but this is a quick way to see what you may need to change to enable SSID broadcast.

3. Assess each AP’s capability

After you have all available WiFi networks known, you can now begin to assess each network’s current capabilities. You should consider the following when doing this assessment.

One of the first things you will notice is that many older APs may have lower transmit power. This will make it harder to provide a service throughout your building. It may also be a good idea to change the positioning of these networks if they are located in a place where they can receive better service due to their improved transmission power.

Next, you will want to test each AP’s uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system. It is important to have a strong UPS so that your AP does not shut down during a power outage. Having a strong UPS is also essential for proper WiFi signal coverage throughout the building.

Finally, you will need to assess its ability to handle traffic and other network-related jobs. You may find that certain APs are better suited for heavy traffic use or receiving large amounts of data through FTP or Usenet connections than others.

4. Upgrade APs that are outdated

Once you have assessed each AP, you will want to purchase new APs that can handle your needs better. It is important to buy your hardware from a reliable vendor who will stand behind their product. You should upgrade all of your devices to the latest generation of security and other form factors to meet the current standard set by the WFA. 

For example, if you started with an 802.11b network, then it is likely time for an upgrade. If you are looking to start a new 802.11ac network, then you should select an AP that supports the latest WiFi standard.

5. Assess the condition of your router

Some people may ask themselves what do routers connect to? The answer is your backbone network. In many cases, the backbone network is set up in a ring or linear network. In this case, the backbone networks are connected via ethernet wiring. This ring topology allows for a continuous line in case one of the connections fails. 

If one of these connections fails, you may have to remove that AP from the service and arrange to have it fixed or replaced. To avoid this headache, you will want to make sure your backbone network is in good shape before you begin providing new WiFi services.

As you can see, it is not a simple process to replace and fix old WiFi networks. This means that it is in your best interest to create an organized plan that states exactly what needs to be done before you can provide WiFi services. This will help you avoid headaches down the line. It will also help improve the quality of your WiFi network as a whole.