Solution Briefing
The wired network evaluation focuses on three main areas. First, we will be looking for the switch’s capabilities like capacity, uplink, PoE capabilities and ports to ensure it can handle high-speed connections required by modern APs, and compatibility with Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 standards is verified to support future needs. Second, fiber links undergo OTDR testing to spot damage, wear, or breaks in aging cables, while latency tests ensure fast, reliable performance. Finally, the cabling UTP infrastructure is audited, inspecting UTP cables for physical wear, proper installation (such as Cat 5e/6 standards), and interference risks.
Together, these steps ensure the network is robust, efficient, and ready for current and upcoming technology demands.
For wireless networks, the assessment centers on identifying outdated technology for access point (AP), optimizing signal coverage and access point (AP) placement. Using heatmapping tools like Ekahau, a visual representation of signal strength (RSSI) and interference (e.g., SNR levels) is generated to pinpoint dead zones, over-saturated areas, or overlapping channels.
This data guides strategic AP plotting, ensuring even distribution, avoiding physical obstructions (concrete walls, metal cabinets) and aligning antenna orientation for maximum coverage. APs are proposed so that it is spaced to balance client capacity while minimizing co-channel interference.
Case Study
Network Infrastructure Assessment for a Leading Public University in Kuching
- One of the top public universities in Kuching, Malaysia, ranked #1001–1200 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and among the top 200 in Asia, engaged our services to evaluate its wired and wireless network infrastructure. The objective was to gain actionable insights that would guide a network refresh strategy to support its academic, research, and administrative needs.
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The university needed a comprehensive assessment of its existing infrastructure to:
- Validate the performance and readiness of switches, fiber, and cabling systems.
- Identify coverage gaps and interference issues in Wi-Fi deployment.
- Ensure future compatibility with Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 standards.
- Optimize investments by prioritizing areas requiring upgrades.
- Strategic AP repositioning to eliminate dead zones and improve antenna alignment.
- Mitigation of co-channel interference for improved Wi-Fi performance.
- Actionable guidance on AP density balancing, plotting, and upgrades.
- Clear roadmap for technology refresh aligned with current and future demands.
- The university now has a clear and detailed report that empowers informed decision-making.
- Insights allow the institution to prioritize investments effectively, focusing on areas with the highest impact.
- The roadmap ensures a robust, scalable, and future-ready network, maximizing both performance and reliability across campus.
- Through our comprehensive evaluation, the university has gained the clarity and confidence to execute a network refresh strategy that supports its academic mission while preparing for future connectivity demands.