A Wi-Fi site survey measures how wireless signals behave in your actual building, so access points are placed correctly.

Types of surveys

– Predictive survey: software models coverage from floor plans and building materials. Useful for planning and quoting.

– On-site (active/passive) survey: an engineer walks the space with measurement tools, testing real signal strength, interference, and performance. More accurate.

– Post-installation validation: confirms the finished network meets targets.

What the survey measures

– Signal strength and coverage

– Interference from neighbors and other devices

– Signal quality and noise

– Channel and band selection

– Capacity needs by area

– Effects of walls, glass, metal, and elevators

– Roaming behavior between access points

What you get

– Recommended number and placement of access points

– Channel and power plans

– Cable and PoE requirements

– Heat maps showing expected coverage

– A report you can use for quotes and installation

Why it’s worth it

– Avoids dead zones and weak spots

– Prevents overspending on too many access points, or underspending on too few

– Supports capacity: meeting rooms and open areas often need more access points

– Reduces complaints and support calls

– Gives a baseline for future troubleshooting

When to do one

– New office or renovation

– Wi-Fi complaints in an existing space

– Adding high-density areas like conference rooms

– Warehouse, manufacturing, or outdoor environments

– Before replacing access points

Special environments

Warehouses with metal racking, healthcare spaces, and buildings with thick walls benefit most from on-site surveys.

DBR Soft performs Wi-Fi surveys and designs networks that deliver reliable coverage. Contact us for more information.