Consideration and Recommendations for Optimal Wireless Performance

03/26/2020 17 People found this article helpful 484,521 Views

Considerations for Using Wireless Connections

Mobility - if the majority of your network is laptop computers, wireless is more portable than wired connections.
Convenience - wireless networks do not require cabling of individual computers or opening computer cases to install network cards.
Speed - if network speed is important to you, you may want to consider using Ethernet connections rather than wireless connections.
Range and Coverage - if your network environment contains numerous physical barriers or interference factors, wireless networking may not be suitable for your network.
Security - wireless networks have inherent security issues due to the unrestricted nature of the wireless transmissions. However, the wireless security appliance is a firewall and has NAT capabilities which provides security, and you can use WPA or WPA2 to secure data transmissions.

Recommendations for Optimal Wireless Performance

Place the wireless security appliance near the center of your intended network. This can also reduce the possibility of eavesdropping by neighboring wireless networks.
Minimize the number of walls or ceilings between the wireless security appliance and the receiving points such as PCs or laptops.
Try to place the wireless security appliance in a direct line with other wireless components. Best performance is achieved when wireless components are in direct line of sight with each other.
Building construction can make a difference on wireless performance. Avoid placing the wireless securityappliance near walls, fireplaces, or other large solid objects. Placing the wireless security appliance near metal objects such as computer cases, monitors, and appliances can affect performance of the unit.
Metal framing, UV window film, concrete or masonry walls, and metallic paint can reduce signal strength if the wireless security appliance is installed near these types of materials.
Installing the wireless security appliance in a high place can help avoid obstacles and improve performance for upper stories of a building.
Neighboring wireless networks and devices can affect signal strength, speed, and range of the wireless security appliance. Also, devices such as cordless phones, radios, microwave ovens, and televisions may cause interference on the wireless security appliance.

Adjusting the Antennas

The antennas on the wireless security appliance can be adjusted for the best radio reception.
Begin with the antennas pointing straight up, and then adjust as necessary. Note that certain areas, such as the area directly below the wireless security appliance, get relatively poor reception.
Pointing the antenna directly at another wireless device does not improve reception.
Do not place the antennas next to metal doors or walls as this can cause interference.