Wireless LAN Features and Requirements

In this lecture, we will discuss the essential features and requirements that impact the performance of Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Many vendors offer various features, some of which may be present in certain brands while absent in others. Understanding these features is crucial for optimizing WLAN performance and ensuring a reliable wireless connectivity experience.

Let’s explore the key features you may encounter in WLAN solutions and their impact on network performance.

1. Band Steering

Band steering is a common feature among many wireless vendors, including Ubiquiti. This feature directs client devices to connect to the 5 GHz frequency band instead of the 2.4 GHz band. The rationale behind this is straightforward: the 5 GHz band offers more channels, less congestion, and higher capacity.

How Band Steering Works

When a client device attempts to connect to the wireless network, the access point (AP) will encourage it to join the 5 GHz band, provided that the device supports it. This is particularly beneficial in environments where multiple devices are connecting to the network simultaneously.

Benefits of Band Steering

Reduced Congestion: The 2.4 GHz band is often crowded, leading to interference and reduced performance. By steering devices to the 5 GHz band, the overall network performance improves.
Higher Capacity: The 5 GHz band supports more channels, which translates to greater bandwidth and better performance for users.
Improved Performance: With fewer devices on the 2.4 GHz band, latency decreases, and throughput increases.