The Performance of 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi Router Placement for Signal Strength Optimization Using Altair WinProp

The performance of 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi router placement in the Communication Technology laboratories area at Universiti Kuala Lumpur British Malaysian Institute is investigated to address the intermittent connectivity problem observed in some areas. Altair WinProp is a wave propagation simulation tool that can simulate the interior of the building and examine wave propagation with a highly accurate result in a short amount of time. Using WinProp ProMan, the omnidirectional antenna patterns are placed at several locations within the focused area, and the propagation of each of the antennas is computed. The layout of the Communication Section laboratory is initially modelled. The specifications of the construction materials are assigned using WinProp WallMan. The router’s performance is evaluated based on the received signal strength. The procedure is repeated using a different frequency. These antennas’ performances are then compared to determine the optimum placement for the WiFi system at the Communication Technology laboratory area. In addition, the simulation results obtained using WinProp ProMan is validated by measuring the received signal strength using InSSIDer in the real environment. Finally, the optimum location for a radio signal to be broadcast from is identified. The results indicate that the wave propagation pattern can cover the entire Labs area in one go, with better signal strength at this position. The number of current access points can be reduced due to this optimisation, resulting in lower equipment costs and lower electricity bills.