Most Wi-Fi problems are planned in, not caused later. Access points in the wrong place, too few for the number of users, or mounted where the building blocks the signal – all of these can be avoided with the right survey at the right time.
There are three main types of Wi-Fi site survey.
1. Predictive survey
A predictive survey is done from floor plans using design software. The designer marks walls, materials and user areas, and the software predicts how many access points are needed and where they should go. It’s fast and low-cost, and it’s the right starting point for new buildings or large projects.
2. Pre-install (on-site) survey
A pre-install survey checks the plan against reality. An engineer visits the site to confirm that each access point can be mounted where planned, that cabling and power can reach it, and that nothing in the building – metal racking, lift shafts, thick walls – will block the signal.
3. Validation survey
A validation survey happens after installation. The engineer walks the site measuring real signal strength and quality, and confirms that coverage meets the design. It’s the proof your client needs before signing off – and the quickest way to find problems in an existing network.
Which surveys does your project need?
- New site or major upgrade: predictive design, a pre-install check, then validation.
- Small office or simple refresh: a pre-install check and validation are usually enough.
- Existing network with complaints: start with a validation survey to find the real problem.
Don’t skip validation
Validation is the survey most often cut to save time, and the one that saves the most later. Without it, the first person to find a coverage gap is usually the end user.
How Dexis helps
Dexis IT engineers carry out pre-install checks, install access points to your design and validate coverage on site across the USA, EMEA, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. If you need a design as well, we can arrange it through our consulting service. Request a quote for your next Wi-Fi project.