Before diving into planning wireless access point (AP) placement and determining the number of devices needed, it’s essential to gather detailed information from the customer. This ensures that the solution meets their specific requirements. Here are the key questions to ask:

1. Scope and Objectives

  • What is the primary purpose of the wireless network?
    (e.g., general internet access, VoIP, video conferencing, IoT devices)
  • Are there specific areas that need high-performance Wi-Fi?
    (e.g., conference rooms, auditoriums, high-density areas)

2. Physical Environment

  • What is the layout of the building or area where the network will be deployed?
    (Request floor plans, dimensions, and details about walls or barriers.)
  • Are there any physical obstructions or materials that might interfere with Wi-Fi signals?
    (e.g., thick walls, metal structures, glass, elevators)
  • What is the size of the area to be covered?
    (square footage or square meters)
  • Are there any outdoor areas that need coverage?
    (e.g., courtyards, parking lots, patios)

3. User and Device Requirements

  • How many concurrent users do you expect on the network?
  • What types of devices will be connecting to the network?
    (e.g., laptops, smartphones, tablets, IoT devices, printers)
  • Do you anticipate any future growth in the number of users or devices?
  • Are there specific performance requirements for certain applications?
    (e.g., high bandwidth for video streaming, low latency for gaming)

4. Network Infrastructure

  • Do you have an existing wired network infrastructure?
  • Is there existing wireless equipment, or will this be a completely new installation?
  • What is your current or planned internet bandwidth?
  • Are there any specific network security requirements?
    (e.g., guest networks, VLANs, WPA3 encryption, RADIUS authentication)

5. Budget and Timeline

  • What is your budget for this project?
  • Do you have a specific timeline or deadline for completion?
  • Are there any constraints or limitations that might impact the deployment?
    (e.g., access to certain areas, scheduled downtimes)

6. Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

  • Are there any industry-specific compliance or regulatory requirements to consider?
    (e.g., HIPAA for healthcare, PCI DSS for payment card industry)

7. Maintenance and Support

  • Who will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and support of the wireless network?
  • Do you require remote management or monitoring capabilities?

8. Future Scalability

  • Is the network expected to support future technologies or expansions?
  • How frequently do you anticipate the need to upgrade or expand the network?

9. Power and Cabling

  • Do you have existing power outlets or Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability where APs will be placed?
  • Will there be a need for additional cabling or electrical work?

10. Additional Considerations

  • Are there any aesthetic or design considerations for AP placement?
    (e.g., hidden or discrete installations)
  • Do you have any preferences for specific brands or models of equipment?

By asking these questions, you’ll be able to create a tailored and efficient wireless network plan that meets the customer’s needs while ensuring future scalability and reliability.