From coverage to management efficiency, comprehensively analyze the key factors for purchasing wireless AP and AC

When building a networked application, the choice of wireless Access Point and Access Controller is crucial. They not only determine the coverage, transmission speed, and stability of the network, but also directly affect the management efficiency and security of the network. The following is an in-depth analysis of the key factors for purchasing wireless APs and ACs, from coverage to management efficiency.

1、Coverage and Transmission Performance

① Frequency band and standard:

Preferably, support wireless APs with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz, which can make full use of the characteristics of the two bands. The 2.4GHz band has strong penetration and is suitable for long-distance transmission; The 5GHz band has less interference and fast transmission speed, making it suitable for applications with high bandwidth requirements.
Ensure that the wireless AP supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, such as Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, to achieve higher transmission rates and lower latency.

② Transmitting power and antenna:

The transmission power directly affects the coverage of wireless signals, but too high transmission power may cause interference. Therefore, it is necessary to select the appropriate transmission power according to the actual environment and consider the function of adjustable power.
The number and type of antennas are also key factors, and multiple antennas such as MIMO technology can provide better signal coverage and transmission performance.

③ Environmental adaptability:

Considering the attenuation characteristics of different environments, such as the obstruction of signals by walls, furniture, etc., it is necessary to choose a wireless AP with strong penetration and anti-interference capabilities.
For industrial environments, it is also necessary to consider the high temperature resistance, dustproof and waterproof characteristics of the equipment to ensure long-term stable operation.

2. Management Efficiency and Security

① Maximum number of managed APs:

When choosing AC, the maximum number of APs that can be managed is a decisive factor. This is directly related to the scalability and management efficiency of the network.
Based on the network size, select an AC that can manage a sufficient number of APs to ensure stable operation and efficient management of the network.

② Authentication and load balancing:

AC should have flexible authentication functions, such as WeChat authentication and SMS authentication, to meet the needs of different user groups.
The load balancing function can balance the number of terminal loads on the AP, prevent individual AP loads from being too high, and improve the wireless experience of the terminal.

③ Security Management:

AC should provide comprehensive security management functions, such as DHCP protection, ARP protection, broadcast storm suppression, etc. To ensure the normal use of wireless networks.
Support the latest encryption technologies, such as WPA3, to enhance network security.

④ Spectrum navigation and roaming:

The spectrum navigation function allows clients supporting 5G bands to access 5G preferentially, making full use of spectrum resources and improving the wireless Internet experience.
The wireless roaming function can ensure that users can seamlessly switch APs during their mobile journey, maintaining the stability of network connectivity.

⑤ Unified configuration and management:

AC should have the ability to uniformly configure and manage APs, which can simplify network management and maintenance.
Support multiple SSID functions, allowing the creation of multiple wireless networks based on different needs to meet the needs of different user groups.
When purchasing wireless AP and AC, it is necessary to consider multiple aspects such as coverage, transmission performance, management efficiency, and security. By selecting the appropriate equipment, a stable, efficient, and secure wireless network can be built to provide solid support for networking applications.