Wireless Network Performance
Wireless speed is often advertised as 54 Mbps but you will get considerably less performance than that in actual use. The factors that slow down performance vary widely for each installation, but understanding the issues can help you plan for the best possible outcome. A general rule of thumb is to expect about half of what the box says.
How it Works
Wireless networks use a shared media and operate at half duplex. This means that only one device can talk to an individual access point at a time. So if you and your friend are both using the same network at the same time, you will each get half of the speed. All this means is that with 2 users, 54 Mbps can quickly become 27 Mbps. To speed things up when you have a lot of wireless devices, consider additional access points to share the network load. Only use wireless networking when you need to. If a system can be set up with a cable, go ahead and cable it.
Encrypted Networks
Most networks are encrypted for security reasons. Encryption adds overhead to each packet. The amount depends on the encryption strength and type. Additionally, while an encrypted packet is larger and takes longer to send, it also has to be encrypted in the first place. If you have an inexpensive access point, the processor is probably unable to encrypt data at an adequate speed, therefore slowing things down even more. Since security is usually required, use WPA if you have it and consider upgrading if you don’t. If you are concerned about encrypted throughput, invest in a business grade access point.
Distance
Network performance degrades with distance. Most equipment can easily operate at 2 Mbps at well over 10 times the distance it can operate at 54 Mbps. Simply put the access point in a central location, or as close to your equipment as you can. If you have a large area to cover, consider using more than one access point to minimize the distance between devices.
Interference
Interference can either slow the network down, or in some cases stop it from working all together. This can be caused by other wireless networks, phones, microwave ovens, and other sources of interference. Look for other networks and pick a different channel if possible. Also, do a few tests with your 2.4 GHz phone and microwave to see if they cause problems.
Equipment
Each manufacturer builds their own version of the standard. For the most part they work together, but using different brands will certainly slow down wireless throughput. If at all possible, use the same brand of equipment everywhere in your network.
Keeping in mind the causes that slow data throughput can help you make adjustments to get the best possible performance out of your equipment.
For additional information or support please contact us at 303-482-1242.
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