Wi-Fi: Best Practices - Embedded vs. Ad-Hoc Spectrum Analyzer


RF Interference is a major threat to Wi-Fi networks, to guarantee optimal performance continual monitoring is recommended. Currently two approaches are available:

  • Embedded Spectrum Analyzers within all access points
  • Ad-Hoc systems on separate computers

Consider the following when deciding between an embedded or Ad-Hoc spectrum analyzer:

EmbeddedAd-HocAdvantage Defined
Coverage100%LimitedAd Hoc analyzers only monitor the current location of the laptop analyzer. Embedded analyzers continually monitor 100% of the Wi-Fi coverage area.
MonitoringProactiveReactiveAd Hoc analyzers are dispatched after a problem has been reported and require a user to walk around with a dedicated laptop hoping to catch the problem again. Embedded analyzers are available 24/7, are constantly on guard, and able to alert administrators often before users notice a problem.
Remote SitesReal-timeTruck RollAd Hoc analyzers require administrators to travel to remote sites to perform monitoring. Embedded analyzers only require an IP link to the remote site to gain complete visibility to the RF environment.
RF Visibility100%RestrictedAd Hoc analyzers visibility is restricted to real-time activity at its current location. Embedded analyzers are able to see the total enterprise, operate 24/7, aggregate data, and even show historical trending.
DeploymentSimpleArduousAd Hoc analyzer solutions require dedicated laptops, dedicated users and must be constantly repositioned to perform monitoring. Embedded analyzers are integrated in the Arrays, no additional effort is required to deploy and there is never a need for repositioning.
CostFreeHighAd Hoc analyzer solutions require specialized software to be loaded on laptop(s), costs can easily reach many thousands of dollars. An embedded analyzer is included in every Wi-Fi Array at no additional cost to the user.

The Xirrus Wi-Fi Array is the only Wi-Fi device with an embedded Spectrum Analyzer for 24/7 RF monitoring.

The Xirrus Wi-Fi Array integrates 4, 8, or 16 802.11a/b/g radios and a high-gain directional antenna system with an onboard Gigabit Switch, Wi-Fi Controller, Wi-Fi Firewall, and dedicated Wi-Fi Threat Sensor into a single device.

The Xirrus solution obsoletes traditional Wi-Fi offerings by delivering 2X more range, 4X more coverage, 8X more bandwidth, 14X more throughput per cable drop – using 75% fewer devices, cables, and switch ports with a fraction of the installation time over any other offering.