Tutorials · Wi-Fi
How to Do a Wi-Fi Site Survey Step by Step
Plan, measure and validate Wi-Fi coverage and capacity: predictive design, on-site AP-on-a-stick survey, post-installation validation and a clear report.
Before you start
- Floor plans with scale
- A survey tool or app and a test access point
- Requirements: users, devices, applications and areas
Step by step
Collect requirements
Count users and devices per area, list critical applications (voice, video, scanners) and agree target signal (for example −65 dBm for voice) and minimum SNR (25 dB).
Calibrate the floor plan
Import the plan into the survey tool and set the scale using a known distance.
Create a predictive design
Draw walls with the right materials (concrete, glass, drywall) and place access points virtually. Check coverage and channel overlap.
Do an AP-on-a-stick survey
Mount the intended access point model at the planned height, walk the area and record real signal. Measure through the actual walls, lifts and glass.
Adjust the design
Move, add or remove access points based on measurements. Pay attention to stairwells, kitchens (microwaves) and metal shelving.
Plan channels and power
Assign channels and power levels (see the channel-planning tutorial).
Install and configure
Mount access points as designed, at the planned height and orientation.
Validate after installation
Walk the site again with the live network: measure signal, SNR, roaming and throughput in every area.
Write the report
Include heatmaps, AP list with locations and channels, test results and recommendations. Keep it for future changes.
Pro tips
- Survey with the device type users actually carry; phones hear less than laptops.
- Survey during business hours to capture real interference.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is a predictive survey enough?
It is a good start, but real buildings surprise you. Validate on site, especially in hotels, hospitals and warehouses.
Keep learning
Related guides
Channel planning
Read more →How many access points do I need?
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Read more →How to Plan Wi-Fi Channels on 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz
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Read more →Stuck on a step?
Ask Navijin technical support or an authorised partner for help with your configuration.