What is wireless network infrastructure? Benefits & best practices

Seamless connectivity is more than a convenience—it's a vital component of operational success. Wireless network infrastructure plays a pivotal role in enabling efficient communication and data exchange within businesses.

Whether you're aiming to boost productivity or adapt to the ever-changing landscape of flexible work arrangements, the strategic deployment of wireless networks is critical. At Meter, we specialize in crafting IT solutions that not only meet your needs but also enhance your technological capabilities to new heights.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into:

• What is wireless network infrastructure?
• Key components of wireless network infrastructure
• How to implement wireless network infrastructure
• Benefits of a well-designed wireless network infrastructure
• Challenges of setting up wireless networks
• Best practices
• How Meter can help

What is wireless network infrastructure?

Wireless network infrastructure refers to all the hardware and software components necessary for enabling wireless communication. This includes devices like routers, access points, and controllers that facilitate the uninterrupted transmission of data over radio waves.

Unlike wired networks, wireless setups reduce physical clutter and offer the flexibility to connect multiple devices from anywhere within the network's range. This infrastructure supports various wireless standards, such as Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6, and potentially up-and-coming technologies like Wi-Fi 7.

The primary role of wireless infrastructure is to provide reliable and fast connectivity across a business’s premises.

Through companies like Meter, businesses can more easily implement wireless solutions that are optimized for their specific needs, ensuring solid connectivity and enhanced productivity.

Key components of wireless network infrastructure

Wireless network infrastructure encompasses various components that work together to ensure efficient and secure connectivity. Understanding each component's function and integration within the system can help in optimizing network performance.

Common wireless network components include:

• Access Points (APs) are crucial for providing wireless connectivity to devices within a network. The placement of APs significantly affects their effectiveness, requiring strategic locations to maximize coverage and minimize signal interference.
• Wireless controllers are necessary for managing multiple access points and ensuring consistent connectivity across a network. By centralizing the control of access points, these controllers simplify the management of network resources, amplify security protocols, and improve overall performance.
• Antennas play a key role in the functionality of wireless networks by determining the direction and reach of the signal. Omnidirectional antennas distribute the signal in all directions and are suitable for general coverage. In contrast, directional antennas focus the signal towards a specific area, which is ideal for long-distance transmission and areas that benefit from coverage the most.
• Routers and gateways are used to direct the flow of data traffic within a network and also to external networks. They define network boundaries and manage data paths. Their role in network security is important to enforce data routing policies and can include integrated security features like firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
• High-quality cabling is essential for maintaining optimal data transfer rates and network stability. Different types of cables, such as Ethernet or fiber optic, are selected based on the required speed and bandwidth.

How to implement wireless network infrastructure

A successful wireless network implementation in a business setting requires a structured approach. We suggest the following steps:

1. Assessing needs

Effectively implementing a wireless network infrastructure begins with evaluating coverage and user demands to determine the necessary scale and capabilities.

Assess:

• The number of users
• The types of applications they will access
• The physical setup of the area where the network will operate

2. Planning and design

Work with your network engineer and Meter to map the physical layout, identify obstacles that may block wireless signals, and determine optimal locations for access points. Ensure the design accommodates the anticipated network load for adequate capacity and incorporates strong security measures to defend against threats. This phase is essential for a reliable and secure wireless network.

3. Choosing equipment

Selecting the appropriate equipment, including access points and controllers, is necessary for an effective wireless network and should match the specific needs of the assessment phase.

Consider:

• What range does your equipment need to cover?
• What capacity does your equipment need to handle?
• Is it compatible with existing technology?
• How well will the equipment scale with future growth?

Choose equipment from reputable vendors that provide reliable support and warranties.

4. Installation

Place access points strategically to ensure optimal coverage and minimal interference. Then manage cables to prevent clutter and hazards. Connect each access point securely to the network backbone after installation.

5. Configuration

Assign IP addresses to access points and structure your network with subnets and VLANs as needed. Ensure robust security by implementing WPA3 encryption, firewalls, and access controls. Utilize management tools for centralized network monitoring and administration.

6. Testing

Focus on confirming your network’s coverage, signal strength, and bandwidth across different areas. Assess how well it handles various traffic loads and scrutinize the performance of security protocols under potential threats. Address any issues found to enrich network reliability and security.

7. Maintenance and monitoring

Ongoing maintenance and monitoring are core to the health and performance of your wireless network. Keep your firmware and software updated to guard against security vulnerabilities and refine functionality. Regularly check for unauthorized access and troubleshoot connectivity issues to maintain a sturdy network.

Benefits of a well-designed wireless network infrastructure

From improving user experience to increasing productivity and reducing costs, the advantages of investing in a wireless setup are extensive. With the right design, such networks are easily upgradeable, guaranteeing they remain effective as new technologies emerge.

The following are specific benefits that a well-architected wireless network can bring to your organization:

• Enhanced user experience: A well-crafted wireless network infrastructure, like those designed by Meter, provides users with reliable and fast connectivity essential for uninterrupted browsing and streaming.
• Increased productivity: An effectively designed wireless network supports a flexible work environment, enabling employees to work efficiently from various locations within a facility. By strategically implementing network access points, the network ensures consistent and dependable connectivity across the workspace.
• Cost savings: Choosing a well-designed wireless network infrastructure can lead to significant cost savings. Such systems reduce the need for extensive physical cabling, which lowers both maintenance expenses and initial setup costs. 
• Future-proofing: Designing wireless networks with the future in mind makes them easily upgradeable to accommodate new technologies and increased demand. Their scalable nature means expansions are made easy without needing a costly and disruptive physical overhaul.

Challenges in implementing wireless network infrastructure

Implementing wireless network infrastructure presents several challenges that organizations must overcome to ensure efficient and reliable connectivity: 

• Interference: Wireless networks can experience interference from various devices using the same frequencies, degrading performance. Advanced spectrum analysis tools identify and dynamically switch to the least congested channels to maintain optimal network performance, integral for business operations.
• Security: Security is vital for wireless networks due to their increased susceptibility to unauthorized access. Implementing strong encryption, continuous monitoring to detect and address threats promptly, and stringent access controls, coupled with regular security audits, helps protect network data.
• Coverage: Wireless network infrastructure requires a strong and consistent signal strength across various physical elements. Improving Wi-Fi coverage involves strategically placing access points based on detailed site surveys that map signal strength and identify gaps.
• Capacity: As the number of connected devices grows, so does the demand for bandwidth. You will need to ensure the network can handle a high volume of traffic without slowing down. By implementing high-throughput access points and intelligent traffic management, you can optimize bandwidth allocation according to user demand and application importance.

Meter addresses these challenges head-on with innovative solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern businesses. We start by following the best practices in the industry.

Best practices for wireless network management

Properly managing a wireless network is significant to maintaining operational efficiency and protecting sensitive data. Here are some key practices to improve and secure your wireless infrastructure:

• Site surveys: A necessity for the optimal placement of wireless network access points, helping to identify physical barriers that could disrupt signals. Use advanced survey tools and expert consultation to ensure effective access point positioning and minimize coverage gaps.
  ‍
• Security measures: For business owners, safeguarding a wireless network is mandatory. We advise using advanced encryption like WPA3 to insulate against attacks and employing VPNs alongside end-to-end encryption for secure data transmission. Regularly conducting security audits and setting strong authentication protocols are also recommended to strengthen network security.
  ‍
• Regular updates: Schedule regular firmware and software updates to address vulnerabilities, enhance performance, and integrate new features. Centralized management software can help to:some text
  • Streamline the process
  • Ensure your network components are up-to-date and secure
  • Minimize the risk of downtime and security breaches
    ‍
• User education: Train your team by conducting workshops and providing training modules on recognizing phishing attempts and using secure Wi-Fi practices, such as avoiding unsecured public networks. These resources are customizable to suit your business's specific needs, thereby enhancing your workforce's overall security awareness and network safety.

Next steps: Enhance your Wi-Fi infrastructure with Meter

Meter simplifies network management with our seamless, cloud-managed infrastructure.

We provide an end-to-end solution that handles everything from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and support. Meter is here to support your network engineers as they focus on broader network strategies. 

We can elevate wireless network infrastructure with:

• Advanced spectrum management: Meter employs advanced spectrum analysis tools to minimize frequency interference by dynamically selecting the least congested channels. This enables optimal network performance essential for business operations.
• Enhanced security measures: Meter integrates advanced encryption, real-time threat monitoring, and strict access controls, complemented by regular security audits to safeguard your network against unauthorized access.
• Optimized coverage solutions: Through detailed site surveys, Meter strategically places access points to grant comprehensive coverage and strong signal consistency across all areas.
• Capacity management: Meter's solutions handle increasing data traffic efficiently with high-throughput access points and smart traffic management, providing reliable network performance as demand grows.
• Automated network management: Meter automates network configurations to simplify management and scalability while reducing the need for manual IT intervention.
• Robust compliance and security protocols: Features like DNS security, malware protection, and VPN capabilities guarantee that Meter’s networks meet stringent security and compliance standards.
  

Explore the benefits of Meter's services to see how we can support your organization in building a secure, efficient, and resilient network environment.