WLAN Network Planning Guide HUAWEI

WLAN Network Planning Guide
Issue 13
Date 2020-08-15
HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.

Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 2020. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior
written consent of Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Trademarks and Permissions
and other Huawei trademarks are trademarks of Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
All other trademarks and trade names mentioned in this document are the property of their respective
holders.
Notice
The purchased products, services and features are stipulated by the contract made between Huawei and
the customer. All or part of the products, services and features described in this document may not be
within the purchase scope or the usage scope. Unless otherwise specified in the contract, all statements,
information, and recommendations in this document are provided "AS IS" without warranties, guarantees
or representations of any kind, either express or implied.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made in the
preparation of this document to ensure accuracy of the contents, but all statements, information, and
recommendations in this document do not constitute a warranty of any kind, express or implied.
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

Address: Huawei Industrial Base
Bantian, Longgang
Shenzhen 518129
People's Republic of China
Website: https://e.huawei.com
Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. i

WLAN Network Planning Guide About This Document
About This Document
Overview
This document describes the method, precautions, and suggestions for WLAN
planning so that users can understand WLAN planning information.
Intended Audience
This document is intended for those who are familiar with WLAN fundamentals,
including network planning engineers, hardware installation engineers,
commissioning engineers, onsite maintenance engineers, and system maintenance
engineers.
Symbol Conventions
The symbols that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Symbol Description
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, could result in equipment damage, data loss,
performance deterioration, or unanticipated results.
NOTICE is used to address practices not related to
personal injury.
Calls attention to important information, best practices

and tips.
NOTE is used to address information not related to
personal injury, equipment damage, and environment
deterioration.
Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. ii

WLAN Network Planning Guide Contents
Contents
About This Document................................................................................................................ ii

1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required........................................................................................ 1
2 WLAN Planning Basics........................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Wireless Network Coverage................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2 Power and Signal Strength.................................................................................................................................................. 6
2.3 Signal Attenuation and Interference.............................................................................................................................. 10
2.4 Frequency Band and Channel........................................................................................................................................... 12
2.5 Country Code.......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.6 Automatic Channel and Power Adjustment................................................................................................................ 15
2.7 802.11 Protocols.................................................................................................................................................................... 18
2.8 Antenna.................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
3 WLAN Planning Procedure..................................................................................................22

3.1 Requirements Collection.....................................................................................................................................................23
3.2 Site Survey............................................................................................................................................................................... 25
3.3 WLAN Planning Design.......................................................................................................................................................29
3.3.1 Network Coverage Design.............................................................................................................................................. 29
3.3.2 Network Capacity Design............................................................................................................................................... 33
3.3.3 AP Deployment Design....................................................................................................................................................38
3.4 Device Installation................................................................................................................................................................ 40
3.5 Acceptance and Delivery.................................................................................................................................................... 41
3.6 WLAN Planning Example................................................................................................................................................... 41
4 AP Selection Policy................................................................................................................59
4.1 Mobile Office.......................................................................................................................................................................... 59
4.2 Education Campus................................................................................................................................................................ 60
4.3 Wireless Medical Service.................................................................................................................................................... 62
4.4 Small- and Medium-Sized Business............................................................................................................................... 64
4.5 Outdoor Coverage................................................................................................................................................................ 65
4.6 Data Backhaul........................................................................................................................................................................ 66
4.7 High-Density Coverage....................................................................................................................................................... 67
4.8 Wireless Location.................................................................................................................................................................. 68
5 Antenna Selection Policy..................................................................................................... 69
Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. iii

WLAN Network Planning Guide Contents
6 Common Deployment Recommendations.......................................................................83

7 Examples of Common Network Planning Errors........................................................... 90
8 Appendix: Overview of WLAN Planning Tools............................................................... 94
9 Appendix: Videos About WLAN Planning........................................................................96
Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. iv

WLAN Network Planning Guide 1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required
1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required
A WLAN uses radio signals (high-frequency electromagnetic waves) to transmit

data. The strength of radio signals becomes weaker as the transmission distance
increases. In addition, adjacent radio signals cause interference overlapping. All
these factors reduce the signal quality or even cause network unavailability. To
improve the WLAN quality and meet customers' requirements on network
construction, WLAN planning and design are required. During the WLAN planning,
the AP models and quantity, installation positions and modes, and cable
deployment modes need to be planned to ensure pervasive wireless network
coverage, fast Internet access, and optimal network experience. If WLAN planning
and design are not performed in the early stage, rework may be required after APs
are installed. This is because network optimization after APs are installed may
require AP reinstallation and re-cabling.
WLAN planning is performed to address the following issues:
● Weak signal strength: If the actual transmit power of APs is not considered
during the wireless network coverage design, coverage holes may exist. In this
case, the signal strength is weak or even no signal is available. As a result,
users suffer from slow Internet access or even cannot access the Internet.
Therefore, the coverage area of each AP needs to be properly planned during
WLAN planning to ensure that each area is covered by strong wireless signals.
● Severe co-channel interference: Co-channel interference is generated when
radios of two neighboring APs work on the same channel. When co-channel
interference occurs, signals of the APs are interfered and delays arise when
the APs receive and send data simultaneously, which greatly reduces network
performance. Therefore, different working channels that do not interfere with
each other need to be allocated for APs with overlapping coverage areas.
● Slow Internet access: WLANs use the Carrier Sense Multiple Access with
Collision Avoid (CSMA/CA) mechanism. The probability of wireless packet
collisions grows as the number of concurrent access users increases, thereby
slowing down the Internet access speed. For example, in high-density
scenarios such as stadium stands, a large number of wireless users connect to
each radio of APs, causing a high probability of wireless packet collisions. In
these scenarios, three-radio APs with high-density small-angle directional
antennas are recommended to control the number of access users on each
radio and reduce the packet collision probability.
Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 1

WLAN Network Planning Guide 1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required
● No obvious advantage in user experience in VIP areas: VIP areas require

special attention during WLAN planning. The Internet access experience of
users in VIP areas should be preferentially guaranteed.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 2 WLAN Planning Basics
2 WLAN Planning Basics
About This Chapter
This chapter describes the basic knowledge about WLAN planning, helping you
understand the WLAN planning principles and efficiently perform WLAN planning.
A WLAN can be planned in terms of the network coverage, network capacity, and
AP deployment.
● Plan the network coverage to ensure that the signal strength in the coverage
areas meets user requirements and co-channel interference is minimized.
● Plan the network capacity to ensure that the network bandwidth meets
Internet access requirements and offers smooth Internet access experience.
● After the network coverage and capacity are guaranteed, plan the AP
deployment to make sure that APs are deployed, installed, and cabled
smoothly on site.
The following sections mainly describe the concepts related to the network
coverage design. AP performance must be considered during the network capacity
design. This chapter describes only basics about 802.11 protocols and antennas
that affect AP performance. For details about other concepts involved in the AP
deployment design and network capacity design, see 3.3.2 Network Capacity
Design and 3.3.3 AP Deployment Design.
2.1 Wireless Network Coverage
2.2 Power and Signal Strength
2.3 Signal Attenuation and Interference
2.4 Frequency Band and Channel
2.5 Country Code
2.6 Automatic Channel and Power Adjustment
2.7 802.11 Protocols
2.8 Antenna

2.1 Wireless Network Coverage

The network coverage design involves planning of the network coverage areas and
signal strength within the coverage areas. This section first describes the concept
of the wireless network coverage area, and then introduces the coverage radius
and coverage distance that measure a wireless coverage area.
Coverage Area
An AP transmits radio signals through an antenna and generates a wireless
network coverage area around the antenna. The signal strength becomes weaker
as radio signals are transmitted further. Generally, the area where the signal
strength around an antenna is greater than the edge field strength is called
wireless network coverage area, as shown in Figure 2-1. The field strength of
radio signals at the edge of a network coverage area is called edge field strength.
For example, if the signal strength indicator value in a common coverage area is
-65 dBm, the edge field strength must be greater than or equal to -65 dBm.
Figure 2-1 Network coverage area from the top view (omnidirectional antenna)
Coverage Radius
The coverage area of omnidirectional antennas is measured by coverage radius. An
AP with an omnidirectional antenna installed on a ceiling is used as an example,
as shown in Figure 2-2. The AP's installation height is determined according to
the site survey. The maximum transmission distance of radio signals can be
calculated based on the edge field strength. For details about the calculation
method, see Coverage Calculation. After the installation height and maximum
transmission distance are determined, the coverage radius of the antenna can be
calculated, thereby the effective coverage area of radio signals can be obtained.

Figure 2-2 Coverage radius
Coverage Distance
The coverage area of a directional antenna is measured by coverage distance. An
AP with a directional antenna installed against a pole outdoors is used as an
example, as shown in Figure 2-3. The maximum transmission distance from the
antenna to the coverage area edge can be calculated using a formula. The
antenna height can be obtained according to the site survey.
Figure 2-3 Coverage distance

Figure 2-4 Network coverage area from the top view (directional antenna)
As shown in the preceding figures, the coverage radius and coverage distance can
be calculated when the maximum transmission distance is determined. To
calculate the maximum transmission distance, the radio transmit power and signal
strength are required. The following section will describe the concepts of power
and signal strength.
2.2 Power and Signal Strength

Radio transmit power and signal strength are required for calculating the
maximum transmission distance of radio signals. For details about how to
calculate the maximum transmission distance, see 3.3.1 Network Coverage
Design.
Basic Concepts of Power and Signal Strength

On WLANs, APs and antennas convert between wired and wireless signals. As
shown in Figure 2-5, wired network data enters an AP through a wired port. The
AP converts the data into radio signals and sends the radio signals to its transmit
antenna from the transmit (TX) end through a cable. The AP's transmit antenna
then transmits the radio signals as high-frequency electromagnetic waves (at 2.4
GHz or 5 GHz). The high-frequency electromagnetic waves are transmitted to a
wireless terminal over a certain distance. The wireless terminal receives the high-
frequency electromagnetic waves through its receive antenna, and then transmits
the waves to its receive (RX) end for processing. Data sent from the TX end of the
wireless terminal is processed reversely according to the preceding processes, and
is transmitted to the RX end of the AP.

Figure 2-5 Conversion between wired and wireless signals
As shown in Figure 2-5, signals transmitted between the transmit antenna and
receive antennas are radio signals. The strength of signals gradually attenuates
during wireless transmission. The following describes the basic concepts related to
signal strength, including the radio transmit power, equivalent isotropically
radiated power (EIRP), received signal strength indicator (RSSI), downlink signal
strength, and uplink signal strength.
Figure 2-6 illustrates these concepts.
Figure 2-6 Basic concepts
● 1 and 7: Transmit power at the radio TX end, in dBm

● 2 and 6: Line loss caused by connectors and feeders connected to the
antennas, in dB
● 3 and 5: Antenna gain, in dBi or dBd
● 4: Path loss and signal attenuation caused by obstacles, that is, signal energy
loss between the transmit antenna and receive antenna, in dB
Radio transmit power: 1 signifies the radio transmit power of the AP; 7 signifies
the radio transmit power of the wireless terminal. During WLAN planning, ensure
that the sum of the transmit power and antenna gain does not exceed the
maximum value allowed by the country code.

EIRP: signifies the strength of signals transmitted from an antenna. The EIRP is
calculated as follows:
EIRP = 1 - 2 + 3
RSSI: signifies the signal strength at a location in the coverage area of a wireless
network. It is the value of the EIRP minus the transmission path loss and signal
attenuation caused by obstacles. Weak signal strength means that the RSSI is
lower that the edge field strength. As a result, wireless terminals receive weak
signals or even fail to receive signals.
Downlink signal strength: signifies the strength of signals received by a wireless
terminal from an AP. It is calculated as follows:
Downlink signal strength = 1 - 2 + 3 - 4 + 5 - 6.
Uplink signal strength: signifies the strength of signals received by an AP from a
wireless terminal. It is calculated as follows:
Uplink signal strength = 7 - 6 + 5 - 4 +3 - 2.
The RSSI is calculated as follows (regardless of factors such as the interference
and line loss):
RSSI = Radio transmit power + TX antenna gain – Path loss – Signal
attenuation caused by obstacles + RX antenna gain
After other factors except the path loss are determined, the path loss can be
determined. Then, the maximum transmission distance can be calculated
according to its relationship with the path loss. For details about how to calculate
the maximum transmission distance, see Coverage Calculation.
Common Units
In our daily life, the power is the rate of doing work or the rate of using energy.
For example, a 10 W bulb consumes 10 W of electric power when it is on for 1
hour. In an antenna system, the antenna also needs to consume electric power to
convert the electric energy into electromagnetic waves for transmission. However,
the energy of electromagnetic waves attenuates quickly. For example, a 100 mW
energy source attenuates to 1 mW, 0.1 mW, 0.01 mW, or even lower after being
transmitted over a certain distance. As the energy attenuates exponentially, it is
difficult to measure the energy attenuation by the power. Therefore, the new
concepts dB and dBm are introduced.
dB
dB is a relative unit for expressing the ratio of two values. The calculation formula
is as follows:
dB = 10lg(A/B)
When A and B represent two power values, dB represents the ratio of the two
power values. For example, if power value A is 100 mW and power value B is 10
mW, 10lg(100/10) equals to 10 dB, indicating that power value A is 10 dB greater
than power value B. If power value A changes to 10000 mW, the calculation result
changes to the following: 10lg(10000/10) = 30 dB.
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and signal loss are expressed in dB.

Table 2-1 Relationship between dB and A/B
dB A/B
40 10000
30 1000
20 100
17 50
10 10
6 4
3 2
1 1.25
0 1
-1 0.8
-3 0.5
-6 0.25
-10 0.1
-17 0.02
-20 0.01
-30 0.001
-40 0.0001
dBm
dBm is an abbreviation for decibel relative to one milliwatt. It is a unit of level

used to indicate that a power ratio is expressed in decibels (dB) with reference to
one milliwatt (mW). m indicates mW. dBm and mW can be converted into each
other using the following formula:
dBm = 10lg(Power value/1 mW)
Table 2-2 Relationship between dBm and power values
dBm Power Value (mW)
40 10000
30 1000
20 100
17 50

dBm Power Value (mW)
10 10
6 4
3 2
1 1.25
0 1
-1 0.8
-3 0.5
-6 0.25
-10 0.1
-17 0.02
-20 0.01
-30 0.001
-40 0.0001
According to the preceding table, 10000 mW to 0.0001 mW can be expressed as

40 dBm to -40 dBm. Expressing power values in dBm is more suitable. Therefore,
dBm is used to express the radio transmit power, radio receive power, and radio
noise.
dBi and dBd
Both dBi and dBd are relative units used to express a power gain, except that their
reference criteria are different.
● dBi: Ratio between the gain of an antenna compared to the gain of an
isotropic antenna. An isotropic antenna radiates power uniformly in all
directions.
● dBd: Antenna gain with respect to a dipole antenna.
The relationship between dBd and dBm is as follows: dBi = dBd + 2.15. For
example, the antenna gain 16 dBd is equivalent to 18.15 dBi.
The antenna gain can be expressed in both dBi and dBd.
2.3 Signal Attenuation and Interference

According to the formulas in the preceding sections, increasing the transmit power
and antenna gain enhances the signal strength, and path losses and attenuation
caused by obstacles weaken the signal strength. In addition, interferences and
noise in the environment weaken the signal strength. During the network
coverage design, minimize unnecessary signal attenuation and interference to
improve signal strength and increase the maximum signal transmission distance.

NOTE
In most new network scenarios, no signal interference source exists. Therefore, interference
and noise are not considered during calculation. If there are signal interference sources,
interferences must be considered.
Signal Attenuation
The strength of wireless signals gradually attenuates during transmission. The
receive end can only receive radio signals whose strength is higher than the
specified threshold. If the signal attenuation is too large, the receive end cannot
identify the radio signals. The following describes common factors that may cause
signal attenuation.
Obstacle
Obstacles are the most common factors in wireless network environments that
cause signal attenuation. Signals attenuate to different degrees when traveling
through walls, glass, and doors. Especially, metal obstacles may completely block
or reflect wireless signals. Therefore, during WLAN planning, deploy APs without
obstacles between them.
Transmission Distance
When electromagnetic waves are transmitted in the air, the signal strength
gradually attenuates as the transmission distance increases. Path loss is the
reduction in power density of an electromagnetic wave as it propagates through
space. Wireless signals must be propagated in the air but the attenuation caused
by the air cannot be avoided. Therefore, the transmission distance of
electromagnetic waves can be prolonged by increasing the transmit power of
antennas and reducing obstacles between the transmit end and receive end.
Wireless signals can cover a larger area as transmission distance of
electromagnetic waves is longer.
Frequency
Electromagnetic waves with a shorter wavelength have a larger attenuation. Radio

signals are transmitted via 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz electromagnetic waves. The
electromagnetic waves have high frequencies and short wavelengths. Therefore,
radio signals have large attenuation and cannot transmit far.
In addition to the preceding factors, antennas, data transmission rate, and

modulation scheme affect signal attenuation.
Signal Interference
In addition to signal attenuation, interference and noise also affect radio signal
identification at the receive end. Generally, the SNR or the signal to interference
plus noise ratio (SINR) is used to measure the impact of interference and noise on
radio signals. SNR and SINR are main technical indicators for measuring the
communication quality and reliability of a communications system. A larger SNR
or SINR indicates higher communication quality and reliability.
● Interference refers to the interference caused by the system and other

systems, such as co-channel interference and multipath interference.

● Noise refers to irregular extra signals that do not exist in original signals
generated by a device. Noise signals are related to the environment and do
not change as the original signals change.
SNR refers to the ratio of signals to noises.
The SNR is calculated using the following formula:
SNR = 10lg (PS/PN), where:

● SNR: in dB
● PS: effective power of signals
● PN: effective power of noise signals
The SINR is the ratio of the strength of signals to the strength of interference
signals (noise and interference).
The SINR is calculated using the following formula:
SINR = 10lg [PS/(PI + PN)], where:

● SINR: in dB
● PS: effective power of signals
● PI: effective power of interference signals
● PN: effective power of noise signals
If there is no special requirement for the SNR or SINR during the WLAN planning
and design, you do not need to consider the SNR or SINR. If there are
requirements for the SNR or SINR, perform field signal simulation and SINR
simulation during the WLAN planning and design.
2.4 Frequency Band and Channel

Based on the concepts and the formula for calculating the maximum transmission
distance in 3.3.1 Network Coverage Design, you can calculate the coverage area
of radios on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. The calculation results will
show that the coverage area of a single AP is limited. Generally, multiple APs need
to be deployed to provide network coverage comprehensively. On a network with
multiple APs, co-channel interference often occurs between adjacent APs. To
minimize co-channel interference, you need to plan the working band and channel
of APs. In addition, channels can be bonded to improve the network rate of
wireless terminals.
Different working channels are available on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency
bands.
2.4 GHz Frequency Band

As shown in Figure 2-7, the 2.4 GHz frequency band is divided into 14 overlapping
20 MHz channels numbered from 1 to 14. Adjacent channels overlap.

Figure 2-7 Channels on the 2.4 GHz frequency band
On the 2.4 GHz frequency band, channels spaced at least three channels apart (for
example channel 1 and 5) do not overlap, as shown in Figure 2-7. To provide
cellular-like wireless network coverage, channels spaced at least four channels
apart (such as channels 1, 6, and 11) are recommended in most cases, as shown
in Figure 2-8. Similarly, channels 2, 7, and 12 or channels 3, 8, and 13 can also be
selected. In high-density scenarios, channels 1, 9, 5, and 13 are recommended, as
shown in Figure 2-9.
Figure 2-8 2.4 GHz cellular-like wireless network coverage
Figure 2-9 2.4 GHz high-density wireless network coverage
5 GHz Frequency Band

As shown in Figure 2-10, the 5 GHz frequency band has richer spectrum resources
and has more 20 MHz channels than the 2.4 GHz frequency band. In addition,
adjacent channels, such as channels 36 and 40, do not overlap.

Figure 2-10 Channels on the 5 GHz frequency band
In some regions, radar systems work on the 5 GHz frequency band, which may
interfere with radio signals of APs working on the 5 GHz frequency band. Radar
signals may interfere with channels 52, 56, 60, 64, 100, 104, 108, 112, 116, 120,
124, 128, 132, 136, 140, and 144 (120, 124, and 128 are weather radar channels).
If the working channel of a radio is manually specified, do not specify a radar
channel during channel planning. If the working channel of a radio is dynamically
adjusted by the system, the system automatically switches to another working
channel when detecting interference on the current channel.
Channel Bonding
To improve the network access rate of wireless terminals, you can increase the
working bandwidth of radio channels. For example, two 20 MHz channels can be
bonded into a 40 MHz channel, so that the bandwidth of the data transmission
channel is doubled theoretically, and the wireless access rate is also doubled. If
two 40 MHz channels are bonded, the wireless network rate is also doubled.
According to different channel bonding methods, the operating channel
bandwidths may be classified into several types: 40 plus MHz, 40 minus MHz, 80
MHz, 80+80 MHz, and 160 MHz. As shown in Figure 2-10, only fixed channels can
be bonded.
● 40 plus MHz and 40 minus MHz: Two adjacent 20 MHz channels that do not
interfere with each other are bonded into a 40 MHz channel. One of the two
20 MHz channels is the primary channel, and the other is the auxiliary
channel. If the center frequency of the primary channel is higher than that of
the auxiliary channel, the operating channel bandwidth is 40 minus MHz.
Otherwise, the operating channel bandwidth is 40 plus MHz. For example,
when channels 36 and 40 are bonded into a 40 MHz channel if channel 40 is
the primary channel, the operating channel bandwidth is 40 minus MHz; if
channel 40 is the primary channel, the operating channel bandwidth is 40
plus MHz.
If the 40 MHz bandwidth is configured on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, there
is only one non-overlapping 40 MHz channel. Therefore, you are not advised
to configure the operating bandwidth 40 MHz. For example, only channels 1
and 5 can be bonded into a 40 MHz channel (channel 1 overlaps with
channels 2, 3, and 4). The remaining channel combinations must avoid

channels 1 to 8 (channel 5 overlaps with channels 6, 7, and 8). Therefore, the

remaining channels cannot be bonded into another 40 MHz channel.
● 80 MHz: Two contiguous 40 MHz channels are bonded into an 80 MHz
channel. Any of the four 20 MHz channels in the 80 MHz channel can be
selected as the primary channel. For example, channel 36, 40, 44, and 48 can
be bonded into an 80 MHz channel.
● 80+80 MHz: Two non-contiguous 80 MHz channels are bonded into an 80+80
MHz channel. For example, channels 36, 40, 44, 48, 100, 104, 108, and 112
can be bonded into an 80+80 MHz channel.
● 160 MHz: Two contiguous 80 MHz channels are bonded into a 160 MHz
channel. Any of the eight 20 MHz channels in the 160 MHz channel can be
selected as the primary channel. For example, channels 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56,
60, and 64 can be bonded into a 160 MHz channel.
2.5 Country Code

According to the preceding sections, the transmit power of radios affects the
network coverage, and improper planning of working channels may cause co-
channel interference. Therefore, the working channel and transmit power need to
be planned properly during WLAN planning and design. The available channels
and the maximum transmit power of radios vary by country or region. Therefore,
the country code must be considered during WLAN planning. The applicable
channels and the maximum transmit power on a channel depend on the country
code. The planned channels and maximum transmit power allowed by each
channel must be supported by the country code. Otherwise, the WLAN planning
scheme may not be applicable.
For details about the supported channels and maximum transmit power of radios
in different countries or regions, see WLAN Country Codes and Channels
Compliance.
2.6 Automatic Channel and Power Adjustment

After channel and power planning is complete, you need to apply the planned
channel and power to the actual AP radios. Manually configuring the channel and
power of each radio is time- and labor-consuming. In addition, wireless networks
may change at any time. Therefore, fixed channel and power settings cannot
always meet the actual network coverage requirements. For these reasons, a
function that can automatically adjust channels and power according to real-time
network changes is urgently required.
Channel Adjustment
After automatic channel adjustment is enabled, APs can automatically detect
available channels of radios and select the channel with the least interference.
Figure 2-11 shows the channel distribution before and after channel adjustment.
Before channel adjustment, both AP2 and AP4 use channel 6. After channel
adjustment, AP4 uses channel 11 so that it does not interfere with AP2.
After channel adjustment, each AP is allocated an optimal channel to minimize or
avoid adjacent-channel or co-channel interference, ensuring reliable data
transmission on the network.

Figure 2-11 Channel adjustment
In addition to optimizing radio performance, channel adjustment can also be used

for dynamic frequency selection (DFS). In some regions, radar systems work on
the 5 GHz frequency band, which may interfere with radio signals of APs working
on the 5 GHz frequency band. The DFS function enables APs to automatically
switch to other channels when they detect interference on their current working
channels.
Power Adjustment
An AP's transmit power determines its radio coverage area. APs with higher power
have larger coverage areas. A traditional method to control the radio power is to
set the transmit power to the maximum value to maximize the radio coverage
area. However, a high transmit power may cause interference with other wireless
devices. Therefore, an optimal power is required to balance the coverage area and
signal quality.
The power adjustment function helps dynamically allocate proper power to APs
according to the real-time radio environment. Power adjustment works according
to the following:
● When an AP is added to the network, the transmit power of neighboring APs
decreases, as shown in Figure 2-12. The area of the circle around an AP
represents the AP's coverage area after transmit power adjustment. When
AP4 is added to the network, the transmit power of each AP decreases
automatically.

Figure 2-12 Transmit power of APs decreases
● When an AP goes offline or fails, power of neighboring APs increases, as

shown in Figure 2-13.

Figure 2-13 Transmit power of APs increases
2.7 802.11 Protocols

The preceding sections describe the basic knowledge required for the network
coverage design. After the network coverage design is complete, you need to
design the network capacity. This section describes only the 802.11 protocols
related to AP performance that need to be considered during the network capacity
design. For details about network capacity design, see 3.3.2 Network Capacity
Design.
The performance of APs supporting different protocols may vary. During WLAN
planning, if you want to deploy a high-performance wireless network, select APs
supporting the Wi-Fi 6 protocol.
The WLAN 802.11 protocol has evolved from 802.11a/b/g, 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4),
802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), to the latest 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). Each evolution brings a leap
in data transmission rate.
Table 2-3 802.11 protocols
Protocol Frequency Channel Bandwidth (MHz) Maximum

Band (GHz) Theoretical Data
Rate (Mbit/s)
802.11b 2.4 20 11
802.11a 5 20 54

Protocol Frequency Channel Bandwidth (MHz) Maximum

Band (GHz) Theoretical Data
Rate (Mbit/s)
802.11g 2.4 20 54
802.11n 2.4 and 5 20, 40 600
802.11ac 5 20, 40, 80, 80+80, 160 6933.33
802.11ax 2.4 and 5 20, 40, 80, 80+80, 160 9607.8
Compared with Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6 has significantly improved performance in the

following aspects:
● High bandwidth: Wi-Fi 6 uses technologies such as 8x8 multiple-input
multiple-output (MIMO), more subcarriers, and 1024-QAM encoding to
improve the bandwidth. The maximum rate can reach up to 9.6 Gbit/s.
● High concurrency rate: Wi-Fi 6 supports more spatial streams and uses the
orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) technology to
improve the spectrum utilization and increase the concurrent capacity.
● Low latency: Wi-Fi 6 improves the spectrum utilization and uses basic service
set (BSS) coloring to reduce the interference on the radio interface, thereby
reducing the latency.
● Low power consumption: The target wakeup time (TWT) technology is used
to wake up the Wi-Fi function of terminals on demand, reducing power
consumption.
Wi-Fi 6, featuring high bandwidth, high concurrency rate, and low latency,
enhances user experience in high-density, high-concurrency scenarios, as well as
high-bandwidth and low-latency scenarios such as VR/AR/4K scenarios.
Unlike Wi-Fi 5 that supports only downlink MU-MIMO, Wi-Fi 6 supports OFDMA
and MU-MIMO transmission in both uplink and downlink directions. Wi-Fi 6
increases the uplink data transmission rate.
If APs with external antennas are used, the antenna type must also be considered.
2.8 Antenna
During the network capacity design, select proper AP types and models based on
AP performance and actual requirements. Antennas vary with AP models and
network deployment scenarios. For details about antenna selection policies, see 5
Antenna Selection Policy.
This section describes the basic attributes of antennas. For details about antennas
and antenna models, see the WLAN Antenna Quick Start.
Antennas are used to transmit or receive radio waves, and have three basic
attributes: directivity, polarization, and gain. Directivity refers to the signal
transmission pattern. Polarization refers to the radiation specification that
describes the orientation of electromagnetic wave field. Gain measures the degree

of directivity of an antenna's radiation pattern. Antennas can be classified by

horizontal radiation pattern and polarization mod.
Antenna Classification by Horizontal Radiation Pattern

Antennas can be classified into the following types based on the horizontal
radiation pattern:
● Omnidirectional antenna
– The goal of an omnidirectional antenna is to radiate energy equally in all

directions in a plane (azimuth plane), with a directional pattern in any
orthogonal plane.
– The radiation pattern of an omnidirectional antenna is similar to that of
an incandescent lamp, which radiates visible light in all directions in a
plane.
● Directional antenna
– A directional antenna radiates its energy more effectively in one (or

some) direction than others. Typically, these antennas have one main
lobe and several minor lobes.
– The radiation pattern of a directional antenna is similar to that of a
flashlight, which radiates visible light towards a specified direction. With
the same radio energy, a directional antenna provides a longer coverage
distance than an omnidirectional antenna in a particular direction.
● Smart antenna
– A smart antenna supports multiple directional radiation patterns and one

omnidirectional radiation mode on a horizontal plane.
– A smart antenna receives signals from transmitters in omnidirectional
mode. Based on the received signals, the smart antenna algorithm can
determine the location of a transmitter and control the CPU to send
control signals to the transmitter in the directional radiation pattern with
the direction of the maximum radiation.

Antenna Classification by Polarization Mode

By polarization mode, antennas are classified to single-polarized antennas and
dual-polarized antennas. Single polarization and dual polarization are essentially
linear polarization, allowing antennas to be horizontally or vertically polarized.
● Single-polarized antenna: supports only one polarization mode. Such an

antenna can only receive or transmit signals in either the horizontal or
vertical plane at a time. Therefore, more installation space and maintenance
workload are required.
● Dual-polarized antenna: supports the horizontal and vertical polarization
modes. Such an antenna can both receive and transmit signals.
Gain
An antenna is a passive component. According to the law of conservation of
energy, the transmit power does not change regardless of the antenna gain or the
number of antennas. An antenna concentrates energy in a specific direction for
radiation by controlling the signal transmission direction, so as to enhance signal
strength in the specified direction.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 3 WLAN Planning Procedure
3 WLAN Planning Procedure
About This Chapter
Figure 3-1 shows the basic WLAN planning procedure.
Figure 3-1 WLAN planning procedure
1. Collect complete project and requirement information during communication

with the customer to avoid redesign due to insufficient information collected.
2. Perform a site survey on the customer's location and collect more detailed
information, such as interference sources and obstacles, for WLAN planning
solution design.

3. Determine the coverage mode (indoor or outdoor) based on customer

requirements and the site survey result, and then design the network
coverage, network capacity, and AP deployment.
4. Deploy and install ACs, APs, and other network devices based on the WLAN
planning result.
5. Check whether the coverage range, signal strength, and network speed of
wireless signals meet the acceptance criteria. You are advised to use the
CloudCampus APP to perform acceptance tests and output an acceptance
report.
3.1 Requirements Collection
3.2 Site Survey
3.3 WLAN Planning Design
3.4 Device Installation
3.5 Acceptance and Delivery
3.6 WLAN Planning Example
3.1 Requirements Collection

You need to design a WLAN planning solution based on customer requirements. If
you cannot obtain complete and valid information in the requirements collection
phase, the subsequent WLAN planning may not go smoothly or even needs to be
re-designed. Table 3-1 lists the important information that needs to be collected
for WLAN planning, helping you collect accurate and effective information in a
targeted manner. To learn more, see the Project Information Collection
Checklist.
Table 3-1 Requirements collection checklist

Requirement Description
Laws and regulations Determine the country code to be used according to

the laws and regulations of the region where the
network is located.
Onsite construction Drawings are used to design the WLAN planning

drawings solution. Obtain complete drawings that contain the
scale information from the customer. CAD drawings
are recommended. PDF, PNG, or JPG images can also
be used.
If no drawing is available, measure the actual data on
site and draw drawings with the scale information.

Wireless network Confirm with the customer VIP areas, common areas,
coverage area and simple areas.
● VIP areas: network coverage areas for VIP users,
requiring high network quality
● Common areas: main network coverage areas, such
as office areas, classrooms, dormitories, and hotel
rooms
● Simple areas: areas with only a few network usage
requirements, such as corridors, storage rooms, and
kitchens
Field strength of Check whether the customer has requirements on the

wireless signals signal strength in the coverage areas. Typically, the
signal strength in VIP areas is greater than –60 dBm,
that in common areas is greater than –65 dBm, and
that in simple areas is greater than –70 dBm.
Number of access Calculate the total number of access terminals in the

users current coverage areas. For example, in a wireless
office scenario, if each user has a mobile phone and a
laptop, the number of access terminals is twice the
number of access users.
Terminal type ● Confirm the terminal type and quantity. Common

terminals include mobile phones, tablets, and
laptops, while special terminals include barcode
scanners and cash registers.
● Determine the proportion of each MIMO type of
these terminals to estimate AP performance. This
depends on the customer's technical capability.
Collect this information if available. If the customer
cannot provide this information, use 2x2 MIMO to
estimate AP performance.
Bandwidth Determine the main service types carried on the

requirement network and bandwidth requirements of each user.
Coverage mode Check whether the customer requires indoor settled,

agile distributed, or outdoor APs for coverage.
Power supply mode Confirm with the customer the required power supply
mode and available onsite power supply areas and
facilities.
Switch location Determine the positions of wired-side switches

upstream from WLAN devices. Check whether the PoE
power supply distance meets the requirements.

3.2 Site Survey

A site survey is conducted to obtain site environment information, such as
interference sources, signal attenuation caused by obstacles, floor height, new
obstacles, and extra-low voltage (ELV) room locations. Determine AP models,
installation positions and modes, and power supply and cabling design based on
the construction drawings.
The following describes the tools used and information to be collected in a site
survey. For more details about the site survey, see WLAN Site Survey.
Required Tools
A site survey can be conducted with the help of multiple tools. Before conducting
a site survey, prepare the tools listed in the following table.
Table 3-2 Site survey tools

Type Name Description
Softw WLAN WLAN Planner is a professional WLAN planning tool

are Planner developed by Huawei. It is used to set up the WLAN
planning environment, deploy devices, simulate
wireless signals, and output WLAN planning reports,
helping customers easily complete WLAN planning and
design.
Before starting a site survey, use WLAN Planner to
design a draft WLAN planning solution, which can
provide guidance during the site survey. The design
roadmap of the draft WLAN planning solution is the
same as that described in 3.3 WLAN Planning Design.
The difference is that no actual site survey data
collected is available as a reference during the design
of the draft WLAN planning solution.
CloudCampus The CloudCampus APP provides a built-in site survey

APP module that supports multiple functions such as AP
locating, terminal query, and interference check. Use
the CloudCampus APP to perform the following tasks:
● Check the channel utilization in the current radio
environment.
● Test signal attenuation caused by obstacles, and
record obstacle positions, types, and attenuation
values.
● Add image and text annotations on the drawing.
● Modify the scale of the drawing and floor
attributes.

Type Name Description
AutoNavi This tool is used to mark the longitude and latitude of

map or APs, check obstacles, and confirm the site environment
Google Earth of a project when an outdoor WLAN is deployed.
Hard Indoor This tool is used to measure the AP installation height,

ware rangefinder distance between APs and obstacles, and the length,
width, and height of a venue when an indoor WLAN is
deployed.
Camera This tool is used to record information about the site

environment, such as the AP installation environment
and obstacle information in WDS networking
scenarios.
Test AP In indoor scenarios, you are advised to carry a test AP

(including the (Fat AP), because it can work with the CloudCampus
auxiliary APP to test the signal attenuation caused by obstacles.
power supply In addition, carry the following auxiliaries together
and support) with the test AP:
● Battery: supplies power to the test AP.
● Ground-mounted support: The support must be
able to be raised to 2 meters and is used when the
AP ceiling-mounting scenario is simulated.
Other Construction Print construction drawings in advance to facilitate site

tools drawings survey.
Site Survey Information to Be Collected

Table 3-3 lists the site survey information that needs to be collected for reference
by site survey personnel. Perform a site survey and collect information listed in
Table 3-3 and record the information in detail on the construction drawings.
The following uses the enterprise office scenario as an example to describe the
site survey information collection items.
Table 3-3 Site survey information collection items

Site Survey Example Description
Information
Floor height Common indoor floor If there are atriums, halls, or

height: 3 m to 5 m lecture halls, use a rangefinder to
measure and record the floor
height.


Information
Building 240 mm brick wall (15 dB Obtain the thickness and signal
materials signal attenuation at 2.4 attenuation values of the building
and signal GHz and 25 dB signal materials on site. If possible, test
attenuation attenuation at 5 GHz) the signal attenuation values on
site. For details about the test
method, see Testing the Signal
Attenuation Caused by
Obstacles.
Interference Interference sources: Check whether there is

sources microwave oven interference caused by, for
example, mobile hotspots, Wi-Fi
devices of other vendors, and non-
Wi-Fi devices (such as Bluetooth
devices and microwave ovens).
You can use the CloudCampus
APP to record interference source
information.
New New obstacles whose Check whether the site is

obstacles positions and signal consistent with that in the
attenuation values have construction drawings. If not,
been marked on the mark the inconsistent areas and
drawings take photos.
Site photos Site photos Take photos of the site to record

environment information for
further site survey.
AP type Indoor settled APs Select indoor settled APs, agile

distributed APs, outdoor APs, or
high-density APs based on
scenarios.
For brief description about the AP
selection policy, see 4 AP
Selection Policy. For more details,
see Table 3-8.
AP Ceiling or wall mounting Check whether APs can be

installation mounted on the ceiling. If APs
mode and cannot be mounted on the ceiling,
position mount APs on the wall or inside
junction boxes.
ELV room The ELV room locations Mark the locations of ELV rooms
locations have been marked on the where switches are to be deployed
drawings. on the drawings.


Information
Power Network cables to be routed Mark PoE power supply cables to

supply have been marked on the be routed on the drawings. It is
cabling drawings. recommended that the length of
PoE network cables be less than
or equal to 80 m.
Special Roaming packet loss rate: Record special requirements of the

requirement <1%; delay: < 20 ms customer.
s
Others Other information Collect and record other

information if any.
Testing the Signal Attenuation Caused by Obstacles

Obstacles greatly attenuate wireless signals, which thereby significantly affects
WLAN planning and deployment. Therefore, during a site survey, pay special
attention to the method for testing the signal attenuation caused by obstacles to
obtain accurate signal attenuation data. The following describes how to test the
signal attenuation caused by obstacles:
1. Select an obstacle to be tested. Typical indoor obstacles or obstacles with
uncertain materials, such as ceilings and walls, are recommended.
2. Place the test Fat AP in a proper position and power it on. The test AP must
be placed based on the following requirements:
– There is no other obstacle between the AP and the obstacle to be tested.
– The distance between the AP and the obstacle to be tested is 4 m to 5 m.
Do not place the AP close to the obstacle to be tested, because the field
strength near the signal source fluctuates greatly, which affects the test
accuracy.
3. Use a signal scanning tool (CloudCampus APP installed on a mobile phone)
to connect to the Wi-Fi network and test the signal field strength on both
sides of the obstacle. The attenuation caused by the obstacle is the difference
between the field strength values. You are advised to measure several groups
of data to reduce errors. Be aware to test the attenuation values of signals on
the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands separately. For example, if the 2.4
GHz field strength on both sides of an obstacle is –60 dBm and –65 dBm, the
signal attenuation caused by the obstacle is 5 dB.
Figure 3-2 Testing the signal attenuation caused by an obstacle

4. Record the signal attenuation values obtained in the test to WLAN Planner.
Log in to WLAN Planner and preconfigure a new obstacle type on the
SETTING page.
Figure 3-3 Preconfiguring an obstacle
3.3 WLAN Planning Design

The detailed WLAN planning design is performed based on the collected customer
requirements and site survey result. The design covers network coverage, network
capacity, and AP deployment.
3.3.1 Network Coverage Design

During network coverage design, you need to design and plan coverage for
common, simple, and VIP areas to ensure that the signal strength in each area
meets user requirements and to minimize co-channel interference between
neighboring APs.
A single AP provides limited wireless coverage. Therefore, multiple APs need to be
deployed to offer full network coverage. The coverage range of each AP can be
calculated or obtained through simulation using tools.
Coverage Calculation
As described in 2.1 Wireless Network Coverage, the coverage range of an
omnidirectional antenna is measured by the coverage radius, while that of a
directional antenna is measured by the coverage distance. To calculate the
coverage radius or coverage distance, you need to determine the maximum
transmission distance of signals in advance. The following describes how to
calculate the maximum transmission distance.
The RSSI is calculated as follows (regardless of factors such as the interference
and line loss):
The relationship between the path loss and signal transmission distance is as
follows: [L: path loss (dB); f: working frequency (MHz); d: signal transmission
distance (m for indoor and outdoor coverage scenarios and km for backhaul
scenarios)]

● Indoor semi-open scenario

2.4 GHz: L = 46 + 25lg(d)
5 GHz: L = 53 + 30lg(d)
Table 3-4 lists the typical values of the relationship between the path loss
and signal transmission distance.
Table 3-4 Indoor semi-open scenario
Distance (m) 2.4 GHz Path Loss 5 GHz Path Loss (dB)
(dB)
1 46 53
2 53.5 62
5 63.5 74
10 71 83
15 75.4 88.3
20 78.5 92
40 86 101
● Outdoor coverage scenario

2.4 GHz and 5 GHz: L = 42.6 + 26lg(d) + 20lg(f)
Table 3-5 Outdoor coverage scenario
Distance (m) 2.4 GHz Path Loss 5 GHz Path Loss (dB)
(dB)
50 76.4 84
100 84.2 91.9
200 92 99.7
300 96.6 104.2
500 102.4 110
800 107.7 115.4
1000 110.2 117.9
● Backhaul scenario
5 GHz: L = 32.4 + 26lg(d) + 20lg(f)

Table 3-6 Backhaul scenario

Distance (km) 5 GHz Path Loss (dB)
0.5 100
1 108
2 115.8
3 120.4
5 126.1
8 131.4
10 134
The following table lists the attenuation values of typical obstacles

summarized from historical empirical data. The actual attenuation values are
subject to the site survey results.
Obstacle Thickness 2.4 GHz Signal 5 GHz Signal
(mm) Attenuation (dB) Attenuation
(dB)
Synthetic 20 2 3
material
Asbestos 8 3 4
Wooden door 40 3 4
Glass window 50 4 7
Heavy colored 80 8 10
glass
Brick wall 120 10 20
Brick wall 240 15 25
Armored glass 120 25 35
Concrete 240 25 30
Metal 80 30 35
Assume that the maximum transmission distance of 5 GHz signals in an

indoor semi-open scenario is calculated. The edge field strength is –65 dBm;
the transmit power of the AP radio is 20 dBm; the antenna gain at 5 GHz is 6
dBi; the signal attenuation caused by obstacles is 8 dB; and the receiver is a
mobile phone (the antenna gain is usually 0). The corresponding formula is as
follows (the value of the RSSI is the edge field strength):


–65 = 20 + 6 - [53 + 30lg(d)] - 8 + 0
d = 10
The maximum transmission distance of 5 GHz signals is 10 m.
Coverage Design
According to the formula for calculating the signal strength, the signal strength
can be effectively enhanced by increasing the TX power and TX antenna gain as
well as reducing the signal attenuation caused by obstacles. However, the TX
power and TX antenna gain are limited by hardware devices and the laws and
regulations of a particular country, and cannot be increased infinitely. Therefore,
their values must be changed within a proper range based on different hardware
devices and the laws and regulations of a country. When deploying APs, minimize
the number of obstacles to reduce the signal attenuation caused by these
obstacles. The path loss directly affects the coverage range of an AP.
Calculate the coverage distance of a single AP using the formula, and then design
multiple APs to provide full network coverage. The WLAN Planner is
recommended for network coverage design. Based on the requirements collection
list, set the coverage area and terminal capacity on the WLAN Planner. The
WLAN Planner can directly design a WLAN planning solution, simulate the signal
strength in the coverage area, and output a simulation diagram. As shown in
Figure 3-4, set the coverage area in box 1 and the terminal capacity in box 2.
After the simulation is complete, the number of required APs and their
deployment positions can be preliminarily calculated. For details, see 3.6 WLAN
Planning Example.
Figure 3-4 Coverage and capacity design
NOTE
For details about how to use WLAN Planner, see the Usage Guide for WLAN Tools in
Related Documents on the WLAN Planner home page under ServiceTurbo Cloud.
If the customer has specific requirements on the signal strength, perform coverage design
based on the customer's requirements. If the customer has no such specific requirements,
you can refer to common empirical values for coverage design.

Channel Design
Multiple APs are required to provide full network coverage, which inevitably
causes overlapping coverage areas between neighboring APs. To prevent coverage
holes and ensure roaming experience on the Wi-Fi network, 10% to 15%
overlapping buffer areas need to be reserved. To reduce co-channel interference in
overlapping areas, you need to plan radio frequency bands that do not interfere
with each other for neighboring APs. Figure 3-5 shows the recommended cellular
coverage deployment mode.
Figure 3-5 Horizontal channel planning
If a WLAN is deployed across multiple floors, the channels that do not interfere
with each other must be planned vertically, as shown in Figure 3-6.
Figure 3-6 Vertical channel planning
The WLAN coverage design solves the problems such as weak signal strength and
co-channel interference described in 1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required.
Problems such as low Internet access rate and poor user experience in VIP areas
will be addressed in network capacity design.
3.3.2 Network Capacity Design

During network capacity design, you need to design the number of APs required
based on the bandwidth requirements and number of wireless terminals,
concurrency rate, and per-AP performance. This ensures that the WLAN
performance can meet the Internet access requirements of all terminals.

Capacity Design Parameters

Bandwidth per terminal
Bandwidth requirements vary depending on terminal types and services to be
provided by terminals. For example, the bandwidth required by a terminal used for
watching HD videos is higher than that required by a terminal used only for
browsing web pages. Therefore, plan sufficient bandwidth based on terminal
services and types to avoid bandwidth insufficiency or waste.
Number of terminals
You need to specify an accurate number of terminals to be supported on the
WLAN according to the WLAN planning.
Concurrency rate
The concurrency rate refers to the ratio of terminals using the network
concurrently to the total number of terminals. The average number of terminals
using the network concurrently is calculated based on the concurrency rate and
the number of terminals.
Per-AP performance
The recommended number of concurrent access terminals varies according to AP
models. For details, see 4 AP Selection Policy.
To help users quickly understand the typical values of the per-terminal bandwidth
and concurrency rate and select appropriate AP models, empirical data is
summarized and recommended AP models are provided for common scenarios
based on previous experience. For details, see Table 3-7 and Table 3-8. Figure 3-7
describes the empirical data and recommended APs in classroom scenarios.
Figure 3-7 Empirical data and recommended APs in classroom scenarios

Table 3-7 WLAN planning documents for common scenarios (Wi-Fi 6 AP

networking)
Scenario Network Planning Materials
Enterprise office Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Enterprise Office (Wi-Fi 6)
Education Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Education (Wi-Fi 6)
Shopping mall and supermarket Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Shopping Malls and Supermarkets
(Wi-Fi 6)
Retail Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Retail (Wi-Fi 6)
Warehouse Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Warehousing (Wi-Fi 6)
Hotel guest room, school dormitory, Scenario-based WLAN Design for

and hospital ward Hotel Guest Rooms, Dormitory
Rooms, and Hospital Wards (Wi-Fi
6)
Shop floor Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Shop Floors (Wi-Fi 6)
Airport Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Airports (Wi-Fi 6)
Outdoor Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Outdoor Scenarios (Wi-Fi 6)
Stadium and venue Scenario-based WLAN Design for

Stadiums (Wi-Fi 6)
Table 3-8 WLAN planning documents for common scenarios

Scenario Sub-scenario Network Planning
Materials
Education All sub-scenarios ● WLAN Network

Construction
Standard for
Education Scenarios
(High-Quality)
● WLAN Network
Construction
Standard for
Education Scenarios
(Ordinary)


Materials
Office All sub-scenarios ● WLAN Network

Construction
Standard for Office
Scenarios (High-
Quality)
● WLAN Network
Construction
Standard for Office
Scenarios (Ordinary)
Shopping mall All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

Construction Standard
for Shopping Mall
Scenarios
Healthcare All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for Healthcare
Scenarios
Hotel All sub-scenarios ● WLAN Network

Construction
Standard for Hotel
Scenarios (High-
Quality)
● WLAN Network
Construction
Standard for Hotel
Scenarios (Ordinary)
Warehouse All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for Warehouse
Scenarios
Exhibition All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for Exhibition Scenarios
Airport All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for Airport Scenarios
High-density stadium All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for High-Density
Stadium Scenarios
Subway All sub-scenarios WLAN Network

for Subway Scenarios


Materials
Wireless city Park and square ● WLAN Outdoor

Network Planning
Arterial road and Guide
pedestrian street
● Wireless City
Network Planning
Guide (Parks and
Squares)
● Wireless City
Network Planning
Guide (Main Roads
and Pedestrian
Streets)
Transportation hub such ● WLAN Outdoor

as railway station, Network Planning
airport, or bus stop Guide
Venue such as cultural ● WLAN Indoor

center, library, stadium, Settled Network
or theater Planning Guide
● Wireless City
Network Planning
Guide (Train
Stations, Coach
Stations, Bus
Stations, and
Airports)
● Wireless City
Network Planning
Guide (Cultural
Venues, Libraries,
Stadiums, and
Theaters)
Wireless backhaul Outdoor WDS wireless ● WLAN Outdoor

backhaul Network Planning
Guide
● Outdoor WDS
Backhaul Network
Planning Guide
NOTE
For details about AP selection, see 4 AP Selection Policy. If you want to quickly estimate
the number of devices during WLAN planning, you can use the AP calculator provided by
the CloudCampus APP.

Capacity Design
The number of APs during WLAN planning must meet the following requirements:
● Signal strength requirements in the network coverage area. For details, see
3.3.1 Network Coverage Design.
● Network capacity design requirements: Number of required APs = (Number of
terminals x Concurrency rate x Per-terminal bandwidth)/Per-AP performance.
NOTE
In an agile distributed Wi-Fi network, one wall plate AP is deployed in each room.
Therefore, you do not need to calculate the number of APs using the preceding formula.
As for capacity design, WLAN Planner is also recommended. As shown in Figure

3-8, after you enter the coverage area and terminal capacity on the WLAN
Planner, this tool can automatically design a proper WLAN planning solution,
which greatly improves the design efficiency. You can optimize this solution based
on the actual WLAN planning environment, for example, adjust AP positions. For
details, see 3.6 WLAN Planning Example.
Figure 3-8 Coverage and capacity design
3.3.3 AP Deployment Design

When you use the WLAN Planner to design the network coverage and capacity,
the number and deployment positions of APs are preliminarily determined. Then,
you can further modify and confirm the actual deployment positions, deployment
modes, and power supply and cabling principles of APs based on the onsite
environment.
AP Deployment Principles
The AP deployment principles in different scenarios are basically the same. When
deploying APs, take into account the following points:
● Reduce the number of obstacles that wireless signals have to pass through. If
this case cannot be avoided, try to make the signals vertically pass through
obstacles such as walls and ceilings. In particular, avoid metal obstacles.

● Make sure APs directly face towards the target coverage areas.
● Deploy APs far away from interference sources.
● Ensure the aesthetics of AP installation. In areas with high aesthetics
requirements, you can use camouflage covers or mount APs in the non-metal
ceiling.
For more information about the actual deployment modes in different scenarios,
see the WLAN planning documents for each scenario listed in Table 3-8.
Power Supply and Cabling Principles

APs support power supply via PoE or DC power adapters.
NOTE
A few types of APs support only one power supply mode. For details, see the datasheet.
Power Supply via PoE Cables

In indoor scenarios, APs mostly can use PoE power supply, which has the following
advantages:
● Power can be supplied to APs by reusing the network cables for data
transmission. No additional cabling is needed, reducing the construction cost.
● No additional power adapter is required, reducing the investment.
● If power adapters are used to supply power to APs, power supplies nearby are
needed, whereas PoE power supply does not have this requirement. Generally,
you only need to deploy one PoE access switch to provide PoE input for APs.
When deploying PoE power supply, note the following:
● The longer the network cable, the weaker the power supply. It is
recommended that the network cable length be less than or equal to 80 m.
The maximum length of a network cable depends on the network cable type
and AP type. For details, see the cable connection description in the WLAN
Hardware Installation and Maintenance Guide of the corresponding AP.
● Network cable routing involves wall penetration, pipe routing, and cable
routing, which is time-consuming. Therefore, if the network needs to be
upgraded in the future, you are advised to use high-specification network
cables. In this case, reconstruction is not necessary during subsequent
network upgrade.
Power Supply via PoE Power Adapters
In actual situations, PoE power adapters are usually used to supply power in
outdoor scenarios or indoor scenarios where PoE network cables cannot be used.
Figure 3-9 shows a PoE power adapter.

Figure 3-9 PoE power adapter
Power Supply via DC Power Adapters

If PoE power supply is unavailable, APs can be powered only by DC power
adapters.
Figure 3-10 DC power adapter
Cabling Principles
When routing network cables, pay attention to the following points:
● Reserve 5-meter network cable for fine-tuning AP positions to reduce
interference or optimize signal coverage.
● Make sure that network cables are far away from strong electromagnetic
fields.
● Confirm with the customer the network cable deployment scheme in advance
to ensure that cabling will not be affected due to property and aesthetics
reasons.
AP deployment principles may vary slightly in different sub-scenarios. For details,
see Table 3-8. After you complete the AP deployment design, the overall WLAN
planning solution is designed.
3.4 Device Installation

Install devices in the planned positions based on the WLAN planning design result.
● For details about how to install APs, see Table 3-9.

● For details about AP installation and precautions, see WLAN Hardware

Installation and Maintenance Guide.
● For details about antenna installation and precautions, see WLAN Antenna
Quick Start.
Table 3-9 lists installation guide videos for different types of AP.
Table 3-9 Hardware installation videos
AP Type Installation Guide Video
Indoor AP (Video) AP Installation-Installing

the AP4050DN on a Wall
(Video) AP Installation-Installing
the AP4050DN-E on a Wall
Agile distributed AP (Video) AP Installation-R250D

Installation
(Video) AP Installation-R250D-E
Installation
Outdoor AP (Video) Outdoor AP Installation
After the installation is complete, record the installation positions of APs by

referring to the AP Installation Records.
3.5 Acceptance and Delivery

Use the mobile app CloudCampus APP that provides the acceptance function to
perform an acceptance test. For details, see 3.6 WLAN Planning Example.
3.6 WLAN Planning Example
Context
This example describes the main WLAN planning processes. For details about how
to use tools, see the usage guide of the corresponding tools. The operation
interfaces of WLAN Planner and CloudCampus APP used in the example may be
slightly different from the actual ones. Perform operations according to the actual
situation.
Procedure
Step 1 Communicate with the customer and collect and record the requirements
information described in Table 3-10.

Table 3-10 Requirements collection checklist

Laws and regulations Determine the country code to be used according to

the laws and regulations of the region where the
network is located.
Onsite construction Drawings are used to design the WLAN planning

drawings solution. Obtain complete drawings that contain the
scale information from the customer. CAD drawings
are recommended. PDF, PNG, or JPG images can also
be used.
If no drawing is available, measure the actual data on
site and draw drawings with the scale information.
Wireless network Confirm with the customer VIP areas, common areas,
coverage area and simple areas.
● VIP areas: network coverage areas for VIP users,
requiring high network quality
● Common areas: main network coverage areas, such
as office areas, classrooms, dormitories, and hotel
rooms
● Simple areas: areas with only a few network usage
requirements, such as corridors, storage rooms, and
kitchens
Field strength of Check whether the customer has requirements on the

wireless signals signal strength in the coverage areas. Typically, the
signal strength in VIP areas is greater than –60 dBm,
that in common areas is greater than –65 dBm, and
that in simple areas is greater than –70 dBm.
Number of access Calculate the total number of access terminals in the

users current coverage areas. For example, in a wireless
office scenario, if each user has a mobile phone and a
laptop, the number of access terminals is twice the
number of access users.
Terminal type ● Confirm the terminal type and quantity. Common

terminals include mobile phones, tablets, and
laptops, while special terminals include barcode
scanners and cash registers.
● Determine the proportion of each MIMO type of
these terminals to estimate AP performance. This
depends on the customer's technical capability.
Collect this information if available. If the customer
cannot provide this information, use 2x2 MIMO to
estimate AP performance.
Bandwidth Determine the main service types carried on the

requirement network and bandwidth requirements of each user.

Coverage mode Check whether the customer requires indoor settled,

agile distributed, or outdoor APs for coverage.
Power supply mode Confirm with the customer the required power supply
mode and available onsite power supply areas and
facilities.
Switch location Determine the positions of wired-side switches

upstream from WLAN devices. Check whether the PoE
power supply distance meets the requirements.
The recorded information is used as the input in Step 2.

Step 2 Use WLAN Planner to complete a draft of the WLAN planning solution.
1. Log in to the ServiceTurbo Cloud platform. On the top of the home page,
click Tool Application Market and search for WLAN Planner. Log in to
WLAN Planner using a uniportal account.
NOTE
You can apply for a uniportal account on the login page of the ServiceTurbo Cloud
platform. When you log in to WLAN Planner using a uniportal account, the system will
display a message asking you to apply for the permissions. Apply for permissions as
prompted.
Huawei employees can use the W3 account for login without registration.
Figure 3-11 Logging in to WLAN Planner
2. Click Create, and enter project information on the Project Info page that is
displayed. Set Country/Region correctly based on the country code
information collected according to Table 3-10. The country/region
information affects the available channels and maximum transmit power of
WLAN devices that can be used in the WLAN planning. Click Confirm. The
page for creating a WLAN planning solution is displayed.
3. Set parameters on the Create page and import the construction drawings of
the site where the WLAN is to be deployed.

Figure 3-12 Creating a WLAN planning solution
4. Configure the environment information.
# Set the scale.
Figure 3-13 Setting the scale
# Set obstacles in the environment. Obstacles can be automatically identified

and manually adjusted. You can also manually draw obstacles. The following
describes how to draw obstacles.

Figure 3-14 Before obstacles are drawn
# Click an obstacle shape in the right pane. Click in the drawing to start
drawing an obstacle and right-click to complete drawing. The following figure
shows an example. Different colors indicate obstacles made of different
materials.
Figure 3-15 After obstacles are drawn
# If the site survey information has not been obtained during the draft design,
use the typical attenuation values of obstacles listed in the right pane as
references. If the attenuation value of an obstacle is different from that in the
right pane, right-click the obstacle and modify the obstacle properties. You
can also pre-configure a new obstacle on the SETTING page. The new
obstacle can be used after being pre-configured.
Figure 3-16 Preconfiguring an obstacle
# Deploy interference sources. Click an interference source in the right pane,

and click in the drawing to deploy it. If no interference source has been

identified during the draft design, do not deploy any interference source. If
interference sources are found after the site survey is complete, you can
optimize and adjust the WLAN planning solution after deploying the
interference sources.
5. Set areas.
# Design the network coverage area and AP deployment area. Click the
2.Region tab. Select the shape and type of an area to be drawn in the right
pane, and draw the network coverage area and AP deployment area on the
map.
Figure 3-17 Setting areas
– A coverage area refers to the area covered by a WLAN. You can set VIP,
common, and simple coverage areas, and set terminal information. The
coverage area and type are determined by the collected wireless network
coverage area and signal field strength requirements listed in Table 3-10.
– An AP deployment area specifies the area where APs can be deployed. If
no AP deployment area is specified, APs can be deployed in all areas.
Confirm with the customer whether cabling is allowed in AP deployment
areas.
# Design the network capacity. Configure terminal information for each
coverage area. As shown in Figure 3-18, set the types, quantity, and service
requirements of terminals based on the collected terminal types, number of
access users, and bandwidth requirements listed in Table 3-10. WLAN Planner
will automatically calculate the total required bandwidth.

Figure 3-18 Configuring terminal information
6. Design the AP deployment. APs can be manually deployed, or automatically

deployed and then manually adjusted. The following example describes
automatic AP deployment.
# Click the 3.Deployment tab. Click Automatic placement of APs in the
right pane to start automatic AP deployment.
Figure 3-19 Automatic placement of APs
# Select the area, AP type, available channel, and power as prompted to

complete the configuration for automatic AP deployment. Wait for WLAN
Planner to calculate the AP deployment positions.

NOTE
WLAN Planner provides recommended AP types in different scenarios. For details

about the recommended AP types in sub-scenarios, see the network planning
documents listed in Table 3-8.
Figure 3-20 AP deployment result
# You can adjust the channel and power calculated by WLAN Planner or set
other properties of an AP. Right-click an AP in the drawing, choose Property
from the shortcut menu, and set the frequency band, channel, power,
frequency bandwidth, supported protocol, and other information.

Figure 3-21 Setting AP properties
# Manually place switches in the drawing based on the collected switch

positions listed in Table 3-10. Based on the collected coverage mode and
power supply mode as well as the AP deployment suggestions and cabling
principles, manually adjust the AP positions to facilitate AP installation and
cable connection. For details about AP deployment suggestions and
installation modes, see the network planning documents listed in Table 3-8.
For details about AP cabling principles, see 3.3.3 AP Deployment Design.

Right-click an AP in the drawing and choose Property from the shortcut

menu to set the AP installation mode and height.
7. Perform signal simulation.
# Click the 4.Simulation tab. Click Open simulation in the right pane to start
signal simulation. Signal strengths in the simulation diagram are represented
by different colors, as shown in Figure 3-22. Click Open simulation data to
view the signal strength visualization statistics, as shown in Figure 3-23.
Figure 3-22 Signal simulation
Figure 3-23 Signal intensity coverage
# If the signal coverage does not meet the requirement, manually adjust the
AP deployment scheme and then refresh the simulation diagram until the
signal simulation result meets the requirement.
# If users have requirements for the SINR, set Type to SINR under Simulation
Map Settings to perform SINR simulation.

8. Export the WLAN planning report.

# Click the 5.Report tab. Select the report items to be exported and click
Export in the right pane to export the WLAN planning report. After the report
is exported, you can open it to view the details.
Step 3 Carry the site survey tool CloudCampus APP, camera (or a mobile phone with the
photographing function), indoor rangefinder, test AP, and construction drawings
listed in Table 3-2 to the customer's site. Collect site survey information according
to Table 3-3 and the draft WLAN planning solution.

Information
Floor height Common indoor floor If there are atriums, halls, or

height: 3 m to 5 m lecture halls, use a rangefinder to
measure and record the floor
height.
Building 240 mm brick wall (15 dB Obtain the thickness and signal
materials signal attenuation at 2.4 attenuation values of the building
and signal GHz and 25 dB signal materials on site. If possible, test
attenuation attenuation at 5 GHz) the signal attenuation values on
site. For details about the test
method, see Testing the Signal
Attenuation Caused by
Obstacles.
Interference Interference sources: Check whether there is

sources microwave oven interference caused by, for
example, mobile hotspots, Wi-Fi
devices of other vendors, and non-
Wi-Fi devices (such as Bluetooth
devices and microwave ovens).
You can use the CloudCampus
APP to record interference source
information.
New New obstacles whose Check whether the site is

obstacles positions and signal consistent with that in the
attenuation values have construction drawings. If not,
been marked on the mark the inconsistent areas and
drawings take photos.
Site photos Site photos Take photos of the site to record

environment information for
further site survey.


Information
AP type Indoor settled APs Select indoor settled APs, agile

distributed APs, outdoor APs, or
high-density APs based on
scenarios.
For brief description about the AP
selection policy, see 4 AP
Selection Policy. For more details,
see Table 3-8.
AP Ceiling or wall mounting Check whether APs can be

installation mounted on the ceiling. If APs
mode and cannot be mounted on the ceiling,
position mount APs on the wall or inside
junction boxes.
ELV room The ELV room locations Mark the locations of ELV rooms
locations have been marked on the where switches are to be deployed
drawings. on the drawings.
Power Network cables to be routed Mark PoE power supply cables to

supply have been marked on the be routed on the drawings. It is
cabling drawings. recommended that the length of
PoE network cables be less than
or equal to 80 m.
Special Roaming packet loss rate: Record special requirements of the

requirement <1%; delay: < 20 ms customer.
s
Others Other information Collect and record other

information if any.
1. Log in to the CloudCampus APP.

# Install the CloudCampus APP on the mobile phone. After successful login,
touch Site Survey on the Tool screen, and enter the uniportal user name and
password to log in to ServiceTurbo.

Figure 3-24 Logging in to ServiceTurbo
2. Record site survey information.

# After logging in to ServiceTurbo, you can view the WLAN planning solution
planned on WLAN Planner. Click the solution name to access the WLAN
planning solution map. On the drawing, touch to create a survey point, select
the photo of the corresponding site, and record site information that should
be recorded, including the floor height, obstacle materials, and attenuation
values, interference sources, new obstacles, and site photos. After the site
survey is complete, the site survey information is automatically uploaded to
WLAN Planner.
NOTE
You can touch under a survey point to add multiple photos and add text
information in the Remarks text box.
Select typical indoor obstacles or obstacles of uncertain materials, and measure and
record their attenuation values.

Figure 3-25 Creating a survey point
# During the site survey process, confirm with the customer about the AP
installation positions, installation modes, and whether power cabling is
allowed. Determine the AP type, for example, indoor settled APs. Record the
AP installation modes and positions, and extra-low voltage (ELV) room
locations, draw network cables on the drawings, and check whether the
customer has other requirements.
3. View the site survey result on WLAN Planner.
# Log in to WLAN Planner, view the survey result on the SURVEY page. On
the Engineering Surveys tab page, you can right-click a survey point to view
or modify the survey point information. On the Export Report tab page, you
can export the site survey report.
Figure 3-26 Viewing the site survey result
Step 4 Adjust and optimize the WLAN planning solution according to the site survey
result.
Compare each item in the site survey report with the draft WLAN planning
solution. Based on the operations in Step 2, adjust any item in the draft WLAN
planning solution to be consistent with the actual situations or add any missing
items on the WLAN Planner, thereby optimizing the WLAN planning solution.

Perform simulation again. After the simulation result meets the requirements,
export a new WLAN planning report.
Site Survey Information Optimization to the WLAN Planning

Solution
Floor height Determine the installation height of

APs based on the floor height and
installation mode.
Right-click an AP, choose Property
from the shortcut menu, and set the
AP's installation height.
Building materials and signal Modify the attenuation values of

attenuation obstacles in the draft WLAN planning
solution based on the site survey
result.
Interference sources If interference sources are found in the

site survey, add the interference
sources in the draft WLAN planning
solution.
New obstacles Add the positions and attenuation

values of new obstacles to the draft
WLAN planning solution.
AP model Determine whether to modify AP

models based on the site survey result.
AP installation mode and position If the AP installation mode and

position in the draft WLAN planning
solution are not suitable, adjust the
installation modes and positions of
APs.
ELV room locations Deploy PoE switches in ELV rooms.
Power supply cabling Adjust the power supply cabling based

on the PoE switch positions and the
site survey result.
Step 5 Install devices based on the WLAN planning solution and record the device
installation positions.
When installing devices on site, follow the AP deployment and power supply
cabling principles described in 3.3.3 AP Deployment Design. For details bout the
installation methods, see 3.4 Device Installation.
Step 6 Verify the WLAN planning result.
After WLAN services are configured, you can perform acceptance tests on the
WLAN performance.

1. Record the AP installation positions by referring to AP Installation Records.

2. Use the CloudCampus APP to test the WLAN performance.
# Open the CloudCampus APP. On the Tool screen, touch WLAN Tester.

# On the screen for selecting a project, touch and select the offline or
online pointing mode. In online pointing mode, pointing data is uploaded to
WLAN Planner each time. In offline mode, pointing data is saved locally, and
you can upload the data to WLAN Planner later in a batch.
# Select a project and touch to start the project acceptance.
# Touch a point in the drawing and then touch to test acceptance items.
Touch to select a building floor and touch to display or hide the

specified information or simulation diagram.
# Move to another position and create another point for testing. After the
test is complete, you can touch the point to view its details.

3. Export the acceptance report.

# Log in to WLAN Planner, select a WLAN planning project, and view the
acceptance result on the Acceptance tab page. When you move the cursor to
an acceptance point, the acceptance result is displayed. On the Export Report
tab page, you can export the acceptance report.
----End

WLAN Network Planning Guide 4 AP Selection Policy
4 AP Selection Policy
About This Chapter
4.1 Mobile Office

4.2 Education Campus
4.3 Wireless Medical Service
4.4 Small- and Medium-Sized Business
4.5 Outdoor Coverage
4.6 Data Backhaul
4.7 High-Density Coverage
4.8 Wireless Location
4.1 Mobile Office

NOTE
In the following table, the recommended average bandwidth per STA and the
recommended number of concurrent STAs per AP are examples assuming that typical APs
work at 20 MHz bandwidth. For more information, see WLAN Network Construction
Standards.
Subscenario Recommend Recommende Recommende Installation

ed AP d Average d Number of Recommenda
Bandwidth Concurrent tion
per STA STAs/AP
Office area Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: Install the APs

(low series: 2 Mbit/s 20-30 on the ceiling,
concurrency AP2051DN wall, or plate.
rate)
AP2051DN-E


per STA STAs/AP
Office area Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

(high series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling.
concurrency AP4050DE-M
rate)
AP6050DN
AP7052DE
Conference Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

rooms series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling.
AP4050DE-M
AP6050DN
AP7052DE
Network planning notes:
1. Specifications in the preceding table assume that STAs support 2x2 MIMO.
2. Do not use settled APs on corridors to provide signal coverage inside rooms.
3. When the field strength in the onsite test result is higher than -65 dBm, one
settled AP can be used to cover three small rooms (including two neighboring
rooms). If the corridor has rooms on both its sides, it is recommended that
APs in rooms be deployed in W-shaped mode.
4. The distance between APs should be about 20 m in indoor semi-open areas.
5. For distribution models, the network planning should focus on the coverage
range design.
4.2 Education Campus

NOTE
Standards.

per STA STAs/AP
Offices (low Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: Install the APs

concurrency series: 2 Mbit/s 20-30 on the ceiling,
rate) AP2051DN wall, or plate.
AP2051DN-E


per STA STAs/AP
Offices (high Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

concurrency series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling.
rate) AP4050DE-M
AP6050DN
AP7052DE
Classrooms Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling.
AP4050DE-M
AP6050DN
AP7052DE
Student Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: 1. Install wall

dormitory series: 8 Mbit/s 8-10 plate APs
AP2051DN on junction
boxes in
AP2051DN-E rooms,
such as
junction
boxes (86
mm).
2. Install
settled APs
in corridors
to provide
signal
coverage if
required.
Wi-Fi 5 AD9431DN-2 AD9431DN-2 1. Install the

series: 4X + R250D: 8 4X + R250D: AD9431DN
AD9431DN-2 Mbit/s 8-10 -24X in an
4X + R250D/ extra-low
R251D/ voltage
R251D-E/ (ELV) well
R450D or
equipment
room.
2. Install the
RUs in
rooms.

3. Wall plate APs and RUs must be installed in rooms. One wall plate AP or RU
is recommended in each room.
range design.
4.3 Wireless Medical Service

NOTE
Standards.

per STA STAs/AP
Medical Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: Install the APs

offices (low series: 2 Mbit/s 20-30 on the ceiling,
concurrency AP2051DN wall, or plate.
rate)
AP2051DN-E
Medical Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

offices (high series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling
concurrency AP4050DE-M or wall.
rate)
AP6050DN
AP7052DE
Conference Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DE-M: AP4050DE-M: Install the APs

rooms series: 2 Mbit/s 30-40 on the ceiling.
AP4050DE-M
AP6050DN
AP7052DE


per STA STAs/AP
Ward Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: 1. Install wall

(common) series: 8 Mbit/s 8-10 plate APs
boxes in
AP2051DN-E rooms,
such as
junction
boxes (86
mm).
2. Install
settled APs
in corridors
to provide
signal
coverage if
required.

4X + R250D/ ELV well or
R251D/ equipment
R251D-E/ room.
R450D 2. Install the
RUs in
rooms.
Ward (SFN Wi-Fi 5 AD9430DN-2 AD9430DN-2 1. Install the

roaming) series: 4 + R250D: 8 4 + R250D: AD9430DN
AD9430DN-1 Mbit/s 8-10 in an
2/ extra-low
AD9430DN-2 voltage
4 + R250D/ (ELV) well
R251D/ or
R251D-E/ equipment
R450D room.
2. Install the
RUs in
rooms.


4. After the SFN roaming function is enabled, all RUs must be configured on the
same channel. When SFN roaming is enabled on the 5 GHz frequency band,
configure non-radar channels.
range design.
4.4 Small- and Medium-Sized Business

NOTE
Standards.

per STA STAs/AP
Hotel rooms Wi-Fi 5 AP2051DN-E: AP2051DN-E: 1. Install wall

series: 8 Mbit/s 8-10 plate APs
boxes in
AP2051DN-E rooms,
such as
junction
boxes (86
mm).
2. Install
settled APs
in corridors
to provide
signal
coverage if
required.

4X + R250D/ ELV well or
R251D/ equipment
R251D-E/ room.
R450D 2. Install the
RUs in
rooms.


per STA STAs/AP
Warehouses Wi-Fi 5 AP4151DN: 1 AP4151DN: Install the APs

series: Mbit/s 60-70 on the wall
AP4151DN and deploy
external
AP6150DN directional
AP7152DN antennas
AP8150DN along the
aisles.
Alternatively,
install APs on
the ceiling of
aisles and
deploy
external
directional
antennas for
coverage.

4.5 Outdoor Coverage

NOTE
Standards.


per STA STAs/AP
Common Wi-Fi 5 AP8050DN: 2 AP8050DN: Install the APs

outdoor series: Mbit/s 30-40 on the pole
coverage AP8050DN (purchased by
customers.)
AP8150DN
AP8030DN
AP8130DN
AP8082DN
AP8182DN
2. Determine the model of antennas based on the actual site survey result and
network solution.
3. To ensure wireless network coverage, do not deploy outdoor APs to allow
signals to penetrate walls to provide signal coverage.
4. When an AP transmits signals at the maximum transmit power, signal
coverage scopes differ as the signal frequencies are different. The actual
maximum transmit power of APs depends on local laws and regulations.
4.6 Data Backhaul

Subscenario Recommende Recommende Backhaul Installation
d AP d Backhaul Distance Recommenda
Bandwidth tion
(P2P
Scenario)
Video Wi-Fi 5 AP8150DN 100 m to 3 Install the APs

surveillance series: (root: 11 dBi; km on the pole
and long- AP8050DN leaf: 18 dBi @ (purchased by
distance HT80): 40 customers.)
backhaul AP8150DN Mbit/s to 350
AP8030DN Mbit/s
AP8130DN
AP8082DN
AP8182DN

network solution.
4.7 High-Density Coverage

NOTE
Standards.

ed AP d Average d Number of Recommend
Bandwidth Concurrent ation
per STA STAs/AP
High density 802.11ac AP8150DN: 1 AP8150DN: 50 Install the

coverage for Wave 2 Mbit/s APs on the
stadiums series: wall or pole.
AP8150DN
AP8050TN-
HD
AP8182DN
High density Wi-Fi 5 AP4050DN- AP4050DN- Install the

coverage for series: HD: 2 Mbit/s HD: 30-40 APs on the
indoor venues AP4050DN- ceiling.
HD
1. The ceiling height in high-density scenarios is typically greater than 6 m.

Common high-density scenarios include lecture halls, large conference rooms,
auditoriums, large exhibition halls, multi-functional classrooms, stadiums,
concert halls, outdoor theaters, airport waiting halls, and train stations.
network solution.

4.8 Wireless Location

Subscenario Recommended AP Installation
Recommendation
Underground parking lot, Wi-Fi 5 series: Install the APs on the

shopping mall, and AP4050DN-E ceiling.
teaching area
AP7052DN

More APs are required to ensure that the location accuracy, latency, and location
solutions meet requirements, and the bandwidth for each user is reduced.
Deployed a proper number of APs as required.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 5 Antenna Selection Policy
5 Antenna Selection Policy
Overview
The following table lists the basic principles for selecting APs and antennas.
Table 5-1 Basic principles

No. Factors of Description
Considerati
on
1 Usage ● Indoor scenarios: use indoor APs and antennas to provide

scenario signal coverage.
and ● Outdoor scenarios: use outdoor APs and antennas with a
purpose high Ingress Protection (IP) grade and certain surge
protection capability to provide signal coverage and
bridge backhaul.
● Rail transportation scenarios:
– Train-ground communications: use outdoor APs and
antennas with a high IP rating and certain anti-
vibration capability.
– Compartment coverage: use indoor APs and antennas
with certain anti-vibration capability to provide signal
coverage.
– Station platform coverage: use the same APs as the
common outdoor and indoor scenarios.
2 Local The transmit power and maximum gain of antennas must

standards strictly comply with local standards and regulations. For the
and rail transportation scenarios, the performance, environment
regulations adaptability, and anti-vibration capability of the antennas
must also confirm to requirements of the related railway
authorities.

No. Factors of Description

Considerati
on
3 Mapping For details, see Mapping Between APs and Antennas.

between
APs and
antennas
4 Coverage/ ● Coverage: Directional antennas are recommended for

Backhaul long and narrow areas while omnidirectional antennas
area and are recommended for round and square areas.
distance ● Backhaul: Directional antennas are usually used. If the
backhaul distance is long, high-gain antennas should be
used; if the backhaul target is concentrated, small-angle
antennas should be used.
5 Transmissio ● Coverage: To implement 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz signal

n frequency coverage, use 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz antennas separately in
for radio the same area or use dual-band antennas.
signals ● Backhaul: The 2.4 GHz antennas are not used for
backhaul.
6 Constructio An external directional antenna usually has a large size and

n cost and needs to be connected to the AP's radio interface through a
simplicity feeder cable. Compared to a built-in antenna and whip
antenna directly installed on an AP, installing an external
directional antenna requires higher construction cost and
may affect indoor simplicity. To further simplify cable layout
(especially in coverage scenarios) without compromising
signal quality, you are advised to use built-in or whip
antennas directly installed on APs.
Selection Solution in Typical Scenarios

In common WLAN networking scenarios, if an AP with external antennas is used,
you are advised to select antennas for the AP based on the policies described in
the following tables.

Table 5-2 Outdoor backhaul (5 GHz only)

WLAN Recommended AP Selection Policy Recommended
Networki AP Model Antenna Model
ng
Scenario
1 km ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: ● The AP8050DN, ● Wi-Fi 5 AP:

backhaul AP8050DN AP8030DN, and 27010889 Outdoor 5
AP8150DN AP8082DN have GHz Dual-Polarized
built-in 2.4 GHz or Directional Antenna
AP8030DN 5 GHz directional (H60 V30 G11.5)
AP8130DN antennas and 27010890 Outdoor 5
AP8082DN require low GHz Dual-Polarized
construction costs. Directional Antenna
AP8182DN
● The AP8150DN, (H15 V15 G19)
AP8130DN, and 27012565 Outdoor
AP8182DN require 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
external Dual-Polarized
directional Directional Antenna
antennas and are (H35 V35 G12 & H26
applicable to more V26 G11)
complex scenarios.
27012566 Outdoor
2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna
(H32 V32 G13 & H15
V15 G17)
Use antennas with
moderate gain and
radiation angle to
reduce interference to
other APs at the same
site. For leaf nodes,
small-angle high-gain
antennas are
recommended, which
can improve bandwidth.


ng
Scenario
3 km ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: The AP8150DN, ● Wi-Fi 5 AP:

backhaul AP8150DN AP8130DN, and 27010890 Outdoor 5
AP8130DN AP8182DN require GHz Dual-Polarized
external directional Directional Antenna
AP8182DN antennas and are (H15 V15 G19)
applicable to more 27012566 Outdoor
complex scenarios. 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna
(H32 V32 G13 & H15
V15 G17)
Use directional cross-
polarized antennas that
have a small radiation
angle and high gain to
ensure robust signal
strength for long-
distance backhaul.

Table 5-3 Outdoor coverage (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

ng
Scenario
Rural ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: ● The AP8030DN, ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: 27011668

area, AP8050DN AP8050DN, and Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5
square, AP8150DN AP8082DN, have GHz Single-Polarized
dock, built-in 2.4 GHz or Omnidirectional
customs AP8030DN 5 GHz directional Antenna (H360 V33
checkpoin AP8130DN antennas. When G4 & H360 V22 G7)
t, customs AP8082DN the coverage angle ● Other types of
inspection is proper, APs with directional antennas
site, AP8182DN built-in antennas matching the AP (For
transporta are recommended, details, see Mapping
tion hub, which can reduce Between APs and
or long- construction costs Antennas.)
distance and meet aesthetic
bus requirements. Select directional
station antennas with proper
● The AP8150DN, radiation angles
AP8130DN, and according to the
AP8182DN require coverage area,
external directional landscaping, obstacles,
antennas and are and AP installation
applicable to more height.
complex scenarios.
Common ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: ● The AP8030DN, ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: 27012134

road, AP8050DN AP8050DN, and Indoor and Outdoor
pedestrian AP8150DN AP8082DN, have 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
street, built-in 2.4 GHz or Dual-Polarized
and AP8030DN 5 GHz directional Directional Antenna
rolling AP8130DN antennas. When (H33 V33 G13 & H33
stock AP8082DN the coverage angle V33 G13)
depot is proper, APs with Use 60-degree high-
AP8182DN built-in antennas gain antennas according
are recommended, to the road width.
which can reduce
construction costs
and meet aesthetic
requirements.
● The AP8150DN,
AP8130DN, and
AP8182DN require
external directional
antennas and are
applicable to more
complex scenarios.


ng
Scenario
Stand in ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: The AP8150DN, ● AP8182DN:

an AP8050TN- AP8182DN, 27012565 Outdoor
outdoor HD AP8130DN, AirEngine 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
stadium AP8182DN 6760R-51E, and Dual-Polarized
AirEngine 8760R-X1E Directional Antenna
AP8150DN supports dual 5 GHz (H35 V35 G12 & H26
AP8130DN radios. V26 G11)
NOTE ● AP8182DN:
The AP8050TN-HD is 27012566 Outdoor
not recommended in
2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
countries that are
subject to EU standards Dual-Polarized
for the EIRP limits of Directional Antenna
20 dBm on the 2.4 GHz (H32 V32 G13 & H15
frequency band and 23 V15 G17)
dBm on the 5 GHz
frequency band. ● 2.4 GHz: 27012544
Outdoor 2.4 GHz
Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna
(H18 V18 G18)
● 5 GHz: 27010890
Outdoor 5 GHz Dual-
Polarized Directional
Antenna (H15 V15
G19)

Table 5-4 Indoor coverage (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

ng
Scenario
Factory ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: The AP4151DN and ● Wi-Fi 5 AP:

and AP4151DN AP6150DN are Wi-Fi 27011668 Outdoor
warehous AP6150DN 5 products. Select APs 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
e based on actual Single-Polarized
requirements. Omnidirectional
Antenna (H360 V33
G4 & H360 V22 G7)
Install the APs on the
wall, with external
directional antennas
directing at the aisles.
Alternatively, install APs
with external
omnidirectional
antennas connected on
the ceiling of aisles for
coverage.
Elevator ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: The AP9131DN and 27012045 Vehicle-

coverage AP9131DN AP9132DN support Mounted 2.4 GHz & 5
AP9132DN 3x3 MIMO and can GHz Dual-Polarized
connect to external Directional Antenna
directional antennas. (H75 V65 G5.5 & H80
V40 G6)
Elevator ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: The AP9131DN is ● AP9131DN:

backhaul AP9131DN recommended above 27012140 Rail
AP8150DN an elevator car. Transportation 5 GHz
AP8130DN The AP8150DN or Dual-Polarized
AP8130DN is Directional Antenna
recommended at the (H33 V33 G13)
top of an elevator ● AP8130DN and
shaft. AP8150DN:
27010890 Outdoor 5
GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna
(H15 V15 G19)
● AP8130DN and
AP8150DN:
27010906 Outdoor 5
GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna
(H32 V32 G14)

Table 5-5 Rail transportation (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

ng (Only for APs Using
Scenario External Antennas)
Train- Wi-Fi 5 AP: ● The AP8130DN is ● Front and rear of a

ground ● Front and designed for rail train:
backhaul rear of a transportation 27012140 Rail
(5G) train: scenarios, has a Transportation 5 GHz
AP9131DN high IP rating, and Dual-Polarized
and complies with Directional Antenna
AP9132DN railway equipment (H33 V33 G13)
regulations in ● Trackside wall
● Beside the terms of
rail: mounting: Yagi
performance and antenna
AP8130DN environment 27012046 Rail
adaptation. Transportation 5 GHz
● The AP9131DN Dual-Polarized
has three 2.4G/5G Directional Antenna
radio interfaces for (H30 V30 G14)
backhaul or ● Trackside pole
coverage. The mounting:
AP9132DN has 27011618 Rail
three 2.4G/5G Transportation 5 GHz
radio interfaces Dual-Polarized
and three 2.4G Directional Antenna
radio interfaces, (H30 V30 G14)
which can be
simultaneously
used for 5G
backhaul and 2.4G
coverage. The
AP9131DN and
AP9132DN are
purpose-built for
rail transportation
scenarios and
comply with anti-
vibration
requirements of
related railway
authorities.


Train Wi-Fi 5 AP: The two types of APs ● Bridging:

compartm ● AP9131DN are purpose-built for 27012050 Vehicle-
ent (2.4 rail transportation Mounted 5 GHz
GHz and 5 ● AP9132DN scenarios and comply Dual-Polarized
GHz) with anti-vibration Directional Antenna
requirements of (H70 V35 G9)
related railway ● Compartment
authorities. coverage:
● The AP9131DN 27012045 Vehicle-
can transmit 2.4 Mounted 2.4 GHz &
GHz and 5 GHz 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
signals Directional Antenna
simultaneously on (H75 V65 G5.5 &
a radio interface H80 V40 G6)
and uses both ● Distributed coverage:
radios for 27012075 Vehicle-
compartment Mounted 2.4 GHz &
coverage. 5 GHz Single-
● The AP9132DN Polarized Directional
can transmit only Antenna (H80 V40
2.4 GHz or 5 GHz G4 & H80 V40 G6)
signals on a radio
interface, and uses
the 5 GHz radio
for compartment
bridging and 2.4
GHz radio for
compartment
coverage, or for
dual-band
compartment
coverage.


Outdoor ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: ● The AP8030DN, ● Wi-Fi 5 AP: 27011668

station AP8050DN AP8050DN, and Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5
platform AP8150DN AP8082DN, have GHz Single-Polarized
(2.4 GHz built-in 2.4 GHz or Omnidirectional
and 5 AP8030DN 5 GHz directional Antenna (H360 V33
GHz) AP8130DN antennas. When G4 & H360 V22 G7)
AP8082DN the coverage angle ● Other types of
is proper, APs with directional antennas
AP8182DN built-in antennas matching the AP (For
are recommended, details, see Mapping
which can reduce Between APs and
construction costs Antennas.)
and meet aesthetic
requirements. Select directional
antennas with proper
● The AP8150DN, radiation angles
AP8130DN, and according to the
AP8182DN require coverage area,
external landscaping, obstacles,
directional and AP installation
antennas and are height.
applicable to more
complex scenarios.
Mapping Between APs and Antennas

Table 5-6 lists mapping between APs and antennas involved in this manual.
Table 5-6 Mapping between APs and antennas

AP Model Matching Antenna Model
AP6150DN ● 27012545 Indoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Linear-Polarized

Omnidirectional Antenna (H360 V110 G4 & H360 V110 G5)
AP6310SN ● 27010209 Indoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Directional

Antenna (H88 V47 G7)
● 27010210 Indoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional

AP6510DN/ ● 27010215 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional

AP6610DN Antenna (H360 V9 G11)
● 27010812 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional
● 27010889 Outdoor 5 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional
Antenna (H60 V30 G11.5)
● 27010902 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Directional
● 27010912 Outdoor 5 GHz Single-Polarized Directional
Antenna (H100 V5.5 G16)
● 27010913 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional
Antenna (H360 V11.5 G8)
Antenna (H9 V9 G23)
● 27011332 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional
● 27011333 Outdoor 5 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional
AP7152DN ● 27012545 Indoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Linear-Polarized


AP8130DN ● 27010215 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional

● 27011618 Rail Transportation 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna (H30 V30 G14)
● 27011619 Rail Transportation 2.4 GHz Dual-Polarized
● 27011668 Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Single-Polarized
● 27012134 Indoor and Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-
Polarized Directional Antenna (H33 V33 G13 & H33 V33
G13)
AP8130DN-W ● 27010889 Outdoor 5 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional


AP8150DN ● 27010215 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Single-Polarized Omnidirectional

● 27011668 Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Single-Polarized
AP8182DN ● 27011668 Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Single-Polarized

● 27012565 Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna (H35 V35 G12 & H26 V26 G11)
● 27012566 Outdoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna (H32 V32 G13 & H15 V15 G17)
AP9130DN ● 27011618 Rail Transportation 5 GHz Dual-Polarized


AP9131DN ● 27010904 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional

● 27012045 Vehicle-Mounted 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna (H75 V65 G5.5 & H80 V40 G6)
● 27012075 Vehicle-Mounted 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Single-
Polarized Directional Antenna (H80 V40 G4 & H80 V40 G6)
AP9132DN ● 27010904 Outdoor 2.4 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional

● 27012045 Vehicle-Mounted 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
Directional Antenna (H75 V65 G5.5 & H80 V40 G6)
● 27012050 Vehicle-Mounted 5 GHz Dual-Polarized
● 27012075 Vehicle-Mounted 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Single-
Polarized Directional Antenna (H80 V40 G4 & H80 V40 G6)
AP9330DN 27011792 Indoor 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Dual-Polarized Directional

Antenna (H75 V55 G4 & H75 V50 G6)

WLAN Network Planning Guide 6 Common Deployment Recommendations
6 Common Deployment
Recommendations
This chapter provides common deployment recommendations based on user

feedbacks and experiences in network planning deployment to improve network
deployment efficiency.
Features and configurations of WLAN products vary depending on software
versions. For details on how to configure a WLAN product, see the product
documentation of the specific version. Choose Support > Product Support >
Enterprise Networking > WLAN, and select the product and version to obtain the
product documentation.
Network Planning and Optimization Recommendations
Table 6-1 Network planning and optimization recommendations

No. Recommendation
1 Manually specify appropriate channels for APs or enable automatic

radio calibration.
In V200R006 and later versions, the automatic radio calibration is
enabled by default, and the default radio calibration interval is 1440
minutes.
2 Configure proper transmit power for APs. Too strong signals will cause
interference, whereas too weak signals will reduce the coverage area.
3 Some STAs cannot roam to APs with higher signal strength when the
RSSI values of their home APs drop. Forcibly disconnect such STAs
from the home APs so that they can associate with APs with better
signal quality.
In V200R006 and later versions, smart roaming is recommended to
enable STAs to associate with APs with better signal quality.

No. Recommendation
4 When planning the AP deployment distance, consider the STA transmit

power. It is recommended that you adjust the AP transmit power to
slightly higher than the STA transmit power to ensure balanced uplink
and downlink signal strengths (without interference) and better
service experience even when the STAs are located at the coverage
edge. During actual deployment, strictly comply with the local limit on
the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP).
5 In a scenario where rooms are on both sides of the corridor, deploy

indoor distributed APs or wall plate APs in the rooms to implement
indoor coverage. Alternatively, deploy indoor settled APs in the rooms
in W-shaped mode.
Do not deploy indoor settled APs in a corridor, each of which is used
to cover six nearby rooms, nor in two rooms facing each other on both
sides of the corridor.
6 If an AP works in dual-5G mode, configure the two 5G radios to work

on non-adjacent channels.
For example, a country supports 40 MHz+ 5G channels 36, 44, 52, and
60. When deploying 5G radio channels, if one radio is deployed on
channel 36, it is recommended that the other radio be deployed on
channel 52 or 60. Channel 44 is not recommended in this case.
7 To ensure signal quality, deploy one AP for every two rooms with brick
walls or wooden partition walls and deploy one AP in each room with
metal, double-layer soundproof glass, or concrete walls.
8 Do not use outdoor APs to cover both indoor and outdoor areas.
Deploy indoor APs for covering indoor areas and outdoor APs for
covering outdoor areas.
9 The maximum coverage distance of an outdoor AP is related to the

antenna type. Determine the coverage distance based on the antenna
type and the environment test result.
For example, if an edge field strength of -70 dBm is required, the
recommended coverage distance is described as follows:
● If an omnidirectional antenna (with gains of 4 dBi @ 2.4 GHz and 7
dBi @ 5 GHz) is used, the recommended coverage distance is 100
m to 120 m on the 2.4 GHz frequency band or 60 m to 80 m on the
5 GHz frequency band.
● If an AP8050DN with directional antennas (with gains of 10 dBi at
both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) is used, the recommended coverage
distance is 150 m to 180 m on the 2.4 GHz frequency band or 100
m to 120 m on the 5 GHz frequency band.

Networking Design Recommendations
Table 6-2 Networking design recommendations
No. Recommendation
1 Set names for APs according to the network plan to facilitate network
maintenance.
2 Use different VLANs as the service VLAN and management VLAN of

an AP to prevent WLAN services from being affected by other services.
3 In large-scale wireless network coverage scenarios, use the AC + Fit AP

networking. Fat APs are applicable only to small-scale SOHO office
scenarios and cannot implement inter-AP roaming. Therefore, Fat APs
are not recommended in large-scale coverage scenarios.
4 The AP9330DN is not recommended for deploying a high-capacity

network. The central AP + RU networking is recommended in such a
scenario.
Configuration Recommendations
Table 6-3 Configuration recommendations
No. Recommendation
1 Configure a PVID or AP management VLAN on the interface directly

connecting a switch to an AP. Otherwise, the AP cannot connect to the
AC.
2 If MAC address or SN authentication is used for APs, add offline AP

information to the AC or manually confirm AP identities to enable the
APs to go online.
3 When configuring dual-link or VRRP HSB for ACs, ensure the

consistent configuration and system time on the active and standby
ACs.
4 When configuring the WDS service, properly set the coverage distance
parameter to ensure good link quality; configure a leaf AP whitelist to
control APs' connections to the network; and configure AP interfaces
to allow packets in service VLANs to pass to enable communication
between leaf and root APs.
5 In V200R005 and earlier versions, if 802.1X authentication is required,

enable 802.1X authentication globally.
6 In V200R005 and earlier versions, configure a default domain and a

forcible domain when 802.1X authentication is used.
7 When configuring Portal authentication, configure an authentication-

free rule to allow access to the DNS server before authentication.

No. Recommendation
8 When configuring Portal authentication, set the security policy to non-

authentication and non-encryption.
9 When configuring Portal authentication, set the same authentication

port on the Portal server and AC.
10 When configuring Portal authentication, ensure network connectivity

between STAs and the authentication server.
11 The encryption key configured on the AC must be the same as that on

the RADIUS or Portal server.
12 If the security policy is set to WPA/WPA2, use the Advanced Encryption

Standard (AES) algorithm. The Temporary Key Integrity Protocol
(TKIP) algorithm is not recommended because it will slow down link
connection speeds of STAs.
13 If co-channel APs are invisible to each other but have overlapping

coverage areas, hidden node problems may occur if the STAs in the
overlapping coverage areas do not send data in a certain period. To
prevent such problems, set the RTS-CTS working mode to rts-cts.
14 Reduce the number of retransmissions after a packet sending failure

and remove low rates from the basic rate set to mitigate non-Wi-Fi
interference.
15 Configure smart roaming on the device to ensure network experience

of STAs with low roaming aggressiveness and steer them to APs with
better signals.
16 In scenarios where STAs frequently move, such as outdoor coverage

scenarios, if the STAs are connected to an AP for a short time and use
the network intermittently, reduce the aging time of the STAs and the
lease for addresses in the DHCP global address pool to prevent the
STAs from occupying the entry resources and IP addresses of an AP
after they leave the coverage areas of the AP.
17 When a large number of users connect to the network, configure user

isolation and port isolation.
18 When a large number of 2.4 GHz STAs exist on the network, enable
the band steering function to enable 5 GHz-capable STAs to
preferentially connect to the 5 GHz radio and reduce the burden on
the 2.4 GHz radio.
19 In multi-user scenarios, enable airtime fair scheduling to ensure that

wireless channel resources are allocated to users fairly.

No. Recommendation
20 If multiple SSIDs are bound to an AP, set a larger interval for sending
Beacon frames.
In most cases, set the interval to the half of the number of bound
SSIDs multiplied by 100. For example, if four SSIDs are bound to an
AP, set the interval for sending Beacon frames to 200 ms (4/2 x 100).
It is recommended that the interval be set from 100 ms to 500 ms.
21 Multicast packets are not protected by the ACK mechanism on air

interfaces, and air interface links are not stable. Multicast packets are
usually sent at a low speed is sent at a low speed to ensure stable
transmission. If a large number of such multicast packets are sent
from the network side, the air interfaces may be congested. It is
recommended that the multicast packet suppression function be
configured. If multicast services are required, configure the traffic rate
limit.
Fit AP
● In direct forwarding mode, configure multicast packet suppression
on the interface directly connecting a switch to the AP.
● In tunnel forwarding mode, configure multicast packet suppression
in traffic profiles of the AC.
Fat AP
Configure multicast packet suppression on interfaces directly
connecting switches to APs.

Installation Recommendations
Table 6-4 Installation recommendation

No. Recommendation
1 Properly control antenna spacing according to actual scenarios to

avoid signal interference. The following common guidelines are
recommended:
Outdoor scenario
● To install antennas facing opposite directions on different poles,
ensure that the horizontal distance between the antennas is at
least 1.5 m. To install antennas facing the same direction on the
same pole, ensure that the vertical distance between the antennas
is at least 5 m.
● Keep antennas at least 2 km away from 4G signal transmitters
(towers).
Indoor scenario
● Ensure that antennas are deployed at least 7 m away from each
other. In common semi-open indoor areas, ensure that APs are
around 20 m away from each other.
● Keep antennas at least 2 m away from carriers' 4G antennas.
● Keep antennas away from electronic equipment that may cause
radio interference, such as microwave ovens.
Vehicle-mounted scenario
● Deploy antennas at least 5 m away from each other.
● Keep antennas at least 2 m away from carriers' 4G antennas.
Trackside installation scenario
● At the same trackside, place antennas with the same direction at
least 50 m away from each other, and place co-located antennas
facing opposite directions at least 20 cm away from each other.
● Ensure that the height difference between trackside antennas and
vehicle-mounted antennas do not exceed 0.5 m.
2 For outdoor equipment, take waterproof measures for all feeders,

power cables, network cables, and fiber connectors.
● Feeder connectors and power cable connectors must be completely
wrapped using one layer of PVC insulation tape, three layers of
waterproof tape, and three layers of PVC insulation tape. Each layer
of tape should be wrapped tightly and bundled securely with
binding straps.
● Network cables and optical fibers use waterproof PG connectors.
3 Surge protection measures are mandatory for deploying outdoor APs

and antennas to prevent device damage and service interruption due
to lightning. Deploy outdoor AP within the 45-degree protection area
of the lightning rod and connect the APs to the nearest ground points.

No. Recommendation
4 Install APs on a metal ceiling instead of above it. However, you can
install APs above a plaster or plastic ceiling.
5 Install APs or antennas applicable to indoor coverage indoors rather

than outdoors.
Other Recommendations
Table 6-5 Other recommendations

No. Recommendation
1 Upgrade WLAN devices to the latest versions to obtain better

experience.
2 When upgrading an AP, ensure that the file name and size of the
software package loaded to the AP are the same as those of the
software package saved on the file server. Additionally, digital
verification on the software package is recommended.
3 The use of the web system requires an authorized account and

protocol support. In addition, the web file version loaded to a WLAN
device must match the system software version of the device;
otherwise, you may fail to log in to the web system.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 7 Examples of Common Network Planning Errors
7 Examples of Common Network Planning

Errors
Based on live network experiences, we summarize common errors in network

planning and recommend correct deployment modes.
Deploy APs in a corridor to cover rooms.
Radio signals pass through walls to cover the target.

Install APs above the ceiling.
Install APs outside rooms.
Wall-mount APs at the doors of large classrooms.

Use APs outdoors to cover indoor areas.
The coverage range of an outdoor AP is too long.
Install outdoor APs at an inappropriate height.

Install outdoor APs with omnidirectional antennas in a horizontal manner.
Wall-mount outdoor APs with omnidirectional antennas.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 8 Appendix: Overview of WLAN Planning Tools
8 Appendix: Overview of WLAN Planning

Tools
Table 8-1 describes functions of WLAN network planning tools and how to obtain
them.
Table 8-1 WLAN planning tools

Tool Function How to Obtain
Tools and Manuals
WLAN It is used to plan for a WLAN network https://serviceturbo-

Planner online. It does not need to be installed. You cloud-
can use it directly after logging in to it cn.huawei.com/#/
using a uniportal account. It supports toolappmarket
automatic identification of obstacles in
drawings of .pdf, .jpg, .png, and .bmp
formats. You do not need to download the
latest version or apply for a license.
The Google Chrome browser is
recommended.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 8 Appendix: Overview of WLAN Planning Tools
Tool Function How to Obtain

Tools and Manuals
CloudCam It is a tool covering the entire lifecycle of Download the

pus APP WLAN project delivery. CloudCampus APP
● AP calculator: quickly evaluates the from the Forums.
material list, providing guidance for
quotation.
● Site survey: interoperates with Cloud-
based WLAN Planner to record images
and texts
● Network planning: interoperates with
Cloud-based WLAN Planner to check the
network planning result, heat map, and
AP attributes at anytime and anywhere.
● Acceptance: supports one-click Wi-Fi
check, multi-point acceptance, and
roaming test, allowing for testing in
normal Wi-Fi projects. This allows you to
export acceptance data in Excel format
and the acceptance report in Word
format. Additionally, the antenna
alignment function is supported.
On-Pad It is a WLAN site survey tool installed on a Log in to Huawei

Surveyor tablet and provides the following functions: enterprise technical
● Manages network planning projects. support website and
search for
● Measures signal attenuation caused by wlan_survey.
obstacles.
● Detects interference sources.
● Marks AP locations.
● Exports network planning reports
● Works with WLAN Planner.
WLAN It is used to verify the effect of network Log in to Huawei

Tester planning and provides the following enterprise technical
functions: support website and
● Allows one-click WLAN testing. search for WLAN
Tester. To obtain the
● Manages network acceptance projects. hotspot acceptance
● Supports single-point testing and tool, search for
roaming testing. WLAN_Tester2.0.
● Exports test reports.

WLAN Network Planning Guide 9 Appendix: Videos About WLAN Planning
9 Appendix: Videos About WLAN Planning
Huawei launches videos that illustrate how to perform WLAN planning in typical
scenarios. These videos are available at Online Courses. Videos about WLAN
planning in more scenarios will be provided.

WLAN Network Planning Guide HUAWEI

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

WLAN Network Planning Guide HUAWEI

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

WLAN Network Planning Guide

HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.

Trademarks and Permissions

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. i

About This Document

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not

Calls attention to important information, best practices

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. ii

About This Document................................................................................................................ ii

3 WLAN Planning Procedure..................................................................................................22

5 Antenna Selection Policy..................................................................................................... 69

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. iii

6 Common Deployment Recommendations.......................................................................83

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. iv

1 Why Is WLAN Planning Required

A WLAN uses radio signals (high-frequency electromagnetic waves) to transmit

WLAN planning is performed to address the following issues:

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 1

● No obvious advantage in user experience in VIP areas: VIP areas require

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 2

2 WLAN Planning Basics

About This Chapter

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 3

2.1 Wireless Network Coverage

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 4

Figure 2-2 Coverage radius

Figure 2-3 Coverage distance

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 5

2.2 Power and Signal Strength

Basic Concepts of Power and Signal Strength

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 6

Figure 2-5 Conversion between wired and wireless signals

Figure 2-6 Basic concepts

● 1 and 7: Transmit power at the radio TX end, in dBm

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 7

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 8

Table 2-1 Relationship between dB and A/B

dBm is an abbreviation for decibel relative to one milliwatt. It is a unit of level

dBm = 10lg(Power value/1 mW)

Table 2-2 Relationship between dBm and power values

dBm Power Value (mW)

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 9

dBm Power Value (mW)

According to the preceding table, 10000 mW to 0.0001 mW can be expressed as

2.3 Signal Attenuation and Interference

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 10

Electromagnetic waves with a shorter wavelength have a larger attenuation. Radio

In addition to the preceding factors, antennas, data transmission rate, and

● Interference refers to the interference caused by the system and other

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 11

SNR refers to the ratio of signals to noises.

The SNR is calculated using the following formula:

SNR = 10lg (PS/PN), where:

The SINR is calculated using the following formula:

SINR = 10lg [PS/(PI + PN)], where:

2.4 Frequency Band and Channel

2.4 GHz Frequency Band

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 12

Figure 2-7 Channels on the 2.4 GHz frequency band

Figure 2-8 2.4 GHz cellular-like wireless network coverage

Figure 2-9 2.4 GHz high-density wireless network coverage

5 GHz Frequency Band

Issue 13 (2020-08-15) Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 13