WiFi

WiFi from Blaze Networks

Blaze have been implementing and supported wireless infrastructures in hundreds of different environments for many years. Our security focus and deep understanding of networking has meant that our wireless implementations provide the very best in reliability, coverage, bandwidth and features.

Blaze WiFi Networks are Designed to Perform – Securely

Unlike a fixed (wired) network, a wireless network’s coverage can improve or deteriorate in line with changes in the environment that it is used in, such as challenges in penetrating physical objects. Blaze provide proactive monitoring from our UK-based Network Operations Centre (NOC) and we can provide proactive support for the most demanding wireless environments.

As an example, proactive monitoring allows us to observe changes in a distribution centre’s stock level as the environmental challenge varies. (Because stock levels change in quantity and density throughout the year this can subsequently change the coverage of the wireless infrastructure). It’s our capability in understanding the most challenging environments that set us aside from our competition and why customers choose us to design and proactively monitor their network.

Unlike most WiFi providers, Blaze’s choice of technology means protection and security are central to the products we use in our solutions. Wireless networks have been – and still are – very prone to security vulnerabilities. Over the years our security first approach means our customers’ investment is protected to the best possible standard; providing security technologies like intrusion prevention and antivirus scanning at the wireless layer. Additionally, proactive support though our NOC and our approach to internal vulnerability scanning means you are protected to the best possible levels not just by the technology, but by the Blaze people monitoring and maintaining your network.

WiFi Segmentation

By driving with security first we provide segmentation planning as a fundamental first step to the planned wireless network.

Segmentation planning is key to any secure network infrastructure: defining areas that should be isolated or restricted from each other. This ensures that in the event of one area being breached by a security vulnerability, the other areas are not affected.

Additionally, in some cases, isolation is needed on a per-device basis to maintain privacy. Some common segmentation areas include guest networks, corporate access for staff, staff mobiles, scanners, CCTV, and IOT devices.

WiFi Surveys

Our formula for success is driven by our initial investigation and understanding the customer’s requirements, combined with our recommendations and education in areas that we feel would add value to the customers wireless proposition. When such understanding is achieved only then can surveying commence.

Surveying is required because of differences in component configuration, placement, and physical environment. These mean that every installation is unique. A pre-survey should first define usage requirements and the related coverage areas needed. Once areas are defined, placement and access point quantities can then be considered. There are many further stages to consider when implementing a successful wireless network – so please contact us to find out more about our approach.

When performing a WiFi site survey, we consider the following operating and environmental conditions:

• Data rates – sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. At maximum radio range the lowest workable data rate is achieved. A decrease in receiver threshold sensitivity occurs as the radio data increases.
• Antenna type and placement – Proper antenna configuration is a critical factor in maximizing radio range. As a general rule, range increases in proportion to antenna height.
• Physical environment – Clear or open areas provide better radio range than closed or filled areas. Also, the less cluttered the work environment, the greater the range.
• Obstructions – A physical obstruction such as metal shelving or a steel pillar can hinder performance of wireless devices. Avoid locating the devices in a location where there is a metal barrier between the sending and receiving antennas.
• Building materials – Radio penetration is greatly influenced by the building material used in construction. For example, drywall construction allows greater range than concrete blocks. Metal or steel construction is a barrier to radio signals.