Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Performance: Don’t Overlook the Antenna

Antenna issues are typically associated with cellular and broadband services. In this video, a Wi-Fi performance issue is resolved by replacing an antenna.

Tony Fortunato

April 23, 2019

I’ve been designing, installing, and supporting wireless networks since 1999 when I deployed my first 900 Mhz network. When I moved to the country, there wasn't high-speed internet access, so I built my own. Since then I have worked with 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and some LTE equipment. It was a great experience to have under my belt when Wi-Fi became prevalent. 

Back in the day, there was very little, to no, information on wireless equipment. I must admit that I got lucky, the local ham radio group owned the tower where I put my transmitter. The guys were great about sharing and teaching me about wireless, antennas, grounding, filters, and more. I, in turn, taught them about routers, switches, and networking.

I learned fairly quickly that the quality of the cable (if one is used) and antenna could make or break a wireless connection. You might think this has very little to do with consumer Wi-Fi products, but you would be wrong. In many cases, I have used many of the techniques I learned deploying outside networks with traditional indoor Wi-Fi.

In the video, you will see how I resolved an issue by replacing an antenna. I am still surprised by how many technicians either are not aware that they can change the antenna or don't consider it when troubleshooting or designing.

About the Author

Tony Fortunato

Sr Network Performance Specialist

Tony Fortunato is a network performance expert who has been designing, implementing and troubleshooting networks since 1989. His company, The Technology Firm, provides clients of all sizes with services ranging from project management, network design, consulting, troubleshooting, designing custom-designed training courses, and assisting with equipment installation. Tony's experience in networking started with financial trading floor networks and ISPs, where he learned to integrate and support equipment from various vendors. Tony has taught and presented at numerous colleges and universities, public forums and private classes. He blogs frequently at NetworkDataPediaand has a popular YouTube channel.

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