Home / server / Questions / 70461
Accepted
Max Schmeling
Asked: 2009-10-02 08:43:35 +0800 CST

What software/hardware can I use for "testing" a wireless network?

  • 772

I'm setting up a wireless network with multiple access points in a large area with multiple buildings. What software/hardware can I use to test the wireless service? Basically I want a quicker and more "scientific" way of measuring the performance of the wireless in different areas besides just walking around with a laptop and seeing how fast some site loads while in different areas.

Any ideas?

wifi

3 Answers

  1. One tool that is somewhat useful is a Spectrum Analyzer. The Wi-Spy is is a inexpensive device that is somewhat useful. There are more expensive and more accurate alternatives as well provide more tools.

    • 2
  2. Best Answer

    You need Wireless Site Survey software. Some wireless cards provide Site Survey functionality in their driver package. Ekahau HeatMapper has a free version but you need to provide your own building maps.

    http://www.ekahau.com/products.html

    • 2

  3. What operating system are you looking to use?

    Netstumbler would give you what you wanted on Windows.

    • 1