Positioning An Access Point; Radio Frequency Interface - Fortinet FortiGate FortiGate-100A Install Manual

Setting up a wireless network

Positioning an Access Point

Radio Frequency interface

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Figure 12: FortiWiFi-60 as an Access Point
Router
Internet
MODEM / DSL / Cable
When placing the FortiWiFi-60 AP, your main concern is providing a strong signal
to all users. A strong signal ensures a fast connection and the efficient transfer of
data. A weaker signal means a greater chance of data transmission errors and the
need to re-send information, slowing down data transfer.
Consider the following guidelines when placing the FortiWiFi-60 AP:
• Physical barriers can impede the radio signals. Solid objects such as walls,
furniture and people absorb radio waves, weakening the signal. Be aware of
the physical barriers in your office space that may reduce a signal. If there is
enough physical interference, you may encounter dead spots that do not
receive signals.
• Ensure the FortiWiFi-60 AP is located in a prominent location within a room for
maximum coverage, rather than in a corner.
• Construction materials used in a building can also weaken radio signals.
Rooms with walls of concrete or metal can affect the signal strength.
The 802.11 standard uses a frequency range of 2.4 to 2.483 GHz. Radio
frequency (RF) interference occurs when other devices send RF signals during
their normal operation that use the same frequency as the FortiWiFi-60 AP.
Wireless devices such as 2.4 GHz cordless phones, microwave ovens and
Bluetooth devices can interfere with packet transmissions on a wireless network.
To avoid RF interference:
• Remove these devices from the immediate area where users are working.
Something as simple as a Bluetooth enabled mouse may cause transmission
interruptions.
• Keep the FortiWiFi-60 AP and wireless devices at least 10 feet away from
appliances such as microwave ovens and cordless phones.
• If you must have a cordless phone, select one that does not use the 2.4GHz
frequency range.
FortiGate-60 series and FortiGate-100A FortiOS 3.0 MR4 Install Guide
Internal
DMZ
WAN1
WAN2
Using a wireless network
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