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Client-connected performance validation

Active Wireless Site Survey

An active wireless survey evaluates the network from the client's perspective by connecting a survey device to the production or designated test wireless network while measurements are collected on-site.

AP-01AP-02ROAMINGTest clientTest serverCLIENT-CONNECTED PERFORMANCE VALIDATIONAssociationOptional throughputRoam pulseTest traffic

What it is

An active survey combines RF measurements with client-connected testing. The survey device associates to a selected SSID and measures how the wireless network performs as the engineer moves throughout the environment.

Active surveys may be used to validate connectivity, roaming, throughput, and application behavior when those measurements are included in the project scope.

The exact testing methodology is selected based on the customer's applications, client devices, wireless platform, security requirements, and acceptance criteria.

How it works

  1. Step 01

    Define the Test Profile

    Select the SSID, authentication method, test server, client type, and success criteria.

  2. Step 02

    Connect to the Wireless Network

    Associate the survey device with the designated production or test SSID.

  3. Step 03

    Perform On-Site Testing

    Collect RF and client-connected measurements across the defined survey areas.

  4. Step 04

    Analyze Client Experience

    Review connectivity, roaming, throughput, and other required performance results.

What it can measure

Active survey measurements are customized to the engagement. Throughput, latency, packet loss, and application testing are included only when required by the project scope.

  • Signal Strength

    Measures RF signal available to the connected client throughout the environment.

  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio

    Evaluates usable signal quality from the client's perspective.

  • Access Point Association

    Documents the access points and radios used by the client during the survey.

  • Roaming Behavior

    Evaluates client transitions between access points where mobility testing is required.

  • Throughput

    Measures wireless data-transfer performance when throughput testing is included in the scope.

  • Application or Network Performance

    May evaluate latency, packet loss, application access, or other client-experience metrics when specifically required.

When it is recommended

  • Voice or mobility validation
  • Roaming-sensitive environments
  • Application-performance concerns
  • Post-deployment acceptance testing
  • Client connectivity verification
  • Performance testing against defined requirements

Explore other survey options

Different objectives call for different survey types. Explore the other options in the wireless survey portfolio.

Return to Wireless Site SurveysExplore Survey Methodology