Using RSSI to Determine RF Threat Proximity

This section builds on what was learned in the Using Sensor ID to Determine RF Threat Location. In the Discovered RF Threat Stations table, the RSSI field indicates the signal strength at which a particular access point is detecting an RF threat.

Using RSSI to determine RF threat proximity

The RSSI field allows you to easily determine the proximity of an RF threat to the access point that is detecting that threat. A higher RSSI number generally means the threat is closer to the access point.

Remember that walls serve as barriers for wireless signals. While a very weak RSSI signal could mean the RF threat is located very far from the access point, it might also indicate a threat located nearby, but outside the room or building.

1. Navigate to the DEVICE | Access Points > RF Monitoring page.
2. In the Discovered RF Threat Stations table, locate the Sensor and RSSI for the access point that is detecting the targeted RF threat and record the number.
3. Navigate to the DEVICE | Access Points > Settings page.
4. In the SonicPoint SonicWave Objects table, locate the access point that matches the Sensor number you recorded in Step 2.
5. Record the MAC address for this SonicPoint SonicWave.

6. Use the MAC address to find the physical location of the SonicPoint/SonicWave.

   A high RSSI usually indicates an RF threat that is closer to the SonicPoint/SonicWave. A low RSSI can indicate obstructions or a more distant RF threat.