How’s your WiFi working for you?
WiFi has gone from nice-to-have to mission-critical — particularly with the realities of COVID-19. Its use enables everything from mobile medical devices that help sustain and report on patient health, to staff communication and alarm systems, and to guest networks deployed to reduce stress and improve quality-of-life for those receiving care. If it is not working well, you may be experiencing weak WiFi signals.
Indications may include:
- Intermittent wireless connections.
- Unable to pair Bluetooth devices properly.
- Slow performance on one device when another is being used.
- Wireless signal strength decreases within normal ranges from the router.
- Decreased download and upload speeds.
The most common source of WiFi interference is other WiFi signals outside of the network operator’s control. This can happen when a signal is using the same channel. Co-channel interference may also result when access points are placed too close together and are configured with output power that’s too high. Walls, distance, and other devices can interfere with your WiFi signal. Weaker WiFi signals mean slower speeds and frequent disconnects.
A great WiFi network is not only about a solid initial design but depends equally on ongoing maintenance, the appropriate toolsets/training, and having a competent staff managing the network. WiFi does not abide by the “set it and forget it” mentality that often works well for wired networks. We design for the lowest common denominator with this in mind, but no one has a crystal ball to predict what is coming down the pipe in the next several years.
Contact us to arrange an assessment of your WiFi system.
