Setting up a WiFi network for large and open-space events
With the increasing demand for technology, large events like conferences, sports, gaming and conventions now need reliable and secure wireless networks to provide a great experience for their guests and participants. Setting up a networking system for an open space event requires careful planning and consideration of several factors like bandwidth, speed and capacity. Here are a few things to think of to make sure your guests stay connected without any disruption.
Number of Access Points
The number of APs you need depends on the size of the area and the number of users connecting to the network. The best way to calculate this is by using heat maps or signal strength testing tools to help you identify weak spots in coverage and plan accordingly. Additionally, if there are any high walls or other obstructions, you may need more APs than expected.
Placement of Access Points
Access points should always be placed at least 20 feet apart, so they don't interfere with each other's signals. They should also be placed strategically in areas where the signal can reach further—near windows and doors—and away from sources of interference like cordless phones and other electronic devices. Depending on your setup and environmental factors, ceiling-mounted or weather-proof outdoor APs may be ideal.
Powering the Network
Your WiFi network will need sufficient power for all its components, including routers, modems, switches, access points etc., so make sure you have enough outlets available at strategic locations around the venue to keep everything running smoothly throughout the event.
To test if your network is strong and sufficient enough, you can use these criteria to assess its performance:
No Bandwidth Restriction You want to ensure everyone has access to the same kind of online experience. This means having enough bandwidth available so everyone can enjoy surfing the web or streaming videos without interruption.
No Lag or Latency Lag and latency are common problems that occur when too many people use the same internet connection simultaneously. To avoid this issue, it's best to use multiple access points around the event space to reduce congestion.
Sufficient Mobile Data Coverage You want all of your participants and guests to be able to use their mobile devices freely at the event without worrying about running out of data or losing signal coverage.
Supports Multiple Broadcast Requirements
Ensure that your network can support any broadcast requirements, such as streaming video content. Broadcasting requires more resources than simply browsing the web, so it's essential to make sure that your network can handle this without issue.
Protected from Unauthorized Access
Make your network secure from unauthorized access by implementing strong security protocols such as WPA2-AES encryption along with other measures such as MAC filtering or IP address blocking if needed.
Omada SDN has the technology to create reliable, resilient and secure wireless networks for any type of space and event. With a vast range of access points, routers and switches tailored to meet any requirement, we are a one-stop shop for fast and reliable networking that can support moving components such as stages and vendors. It doesn't matter if the event is indoors or outdoors; your network can be seamlessly scaled up to cover large open sites.
Contact us today to learn more about our business networking solutions. Visit https://www.tp-link.com/ca/business-networking/ or send us an email at sales.ca@tp-link.com.
