Optimizing Wireless Network based on Building Design in Telkom University

Abstract

Computer network designed according to its functions and building design which must be analyzed to consider usage intensity and maintenance. This paper’s study case is in one of the buildings in University at Bandung which uses fiber optic and wireless network for both 2,4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Existing conditions were tested in site surveys which are high frequency interference of wireless signals, misconfigured channel bands caused frequent disconnections close to two different access points, and there are blank spots causing user’s devices cannot properly connect to network. Wireless network optimization needs to be done to solve its problems. Method used is the Network Development Life Cycle (NDLC) which consists of Analysis, Design, and Simulation Prototyping phases, and performance measurements using Quality of Service (QoS) parameters. Site survey results showed many high interference areas caused by channel misconfiguration in each access point that the same channel can be used for adjacent access points, misplacing wall-mounted access points on ceiling which can interfering both upper floor and lower floor networks. QoS performance measurements to match TIPHON Standardization for throughput is higher than 1kbps, packet loss lower than 3%, and delay lower than 150ms. Recommendation for optimizing network is properly configuring channel band using non-overlapping channel configuration (1-6-11) for all adjacent access points, and there is simulation for replacing wall-mounted access points that placed on the ceiling to a ceiling-mounted type access point. It showed a decreasing interference in the entire network, whether its on the same floor or between upper and lower floor.