Proximity Beacons / iBeacons for WiFi Engineers

WiFi Engineers are uniquely positioned to be leaders in the design and deployment of iBeacon networks because of our RF knowledge. The management of iBeacons will move towards centralized iBeacon controllers and cloud managers, technologies very familiar to WiFi Engineers. iBeacon managers will be integrated into WiFi management systems and supporting iBeacon networks will become the responsibility of WiFi Engineers.

If you are interested in learning about iBeacons, below is my WLPC Dallas 2015 conference Ten Talk on the subject.

Link to presentation slides in PDF format.
Link to document listing tools/apps I used in Ten Talk demo.

TT – Proximity Beacons 101 from Keith R. Parsons on Vimeo.

Filed under: Gadgets, WLAN Deployment, WLAN Tools | no comments yet, your thoughts are welcome

Twitter IDs of CWNP Certified Wireless Network Expert #CWNE

I wanted to follow more WLAN professionals on Twitter and decided best place to start was with engineers with expert level certifications.

Many of these experts are very active on Twitter and are willing to share their knowledge and time to help others reach the CWNE rank. I recommend using Twitter to start following these professionals. It is a low cost way to be part of the worldwide WLAN ecosystem.

CWNE Twitter IDs (Updated: 1/31/2015)

CWNE 1 – 10

CWNE # 01 – @DevinAkin, Devin Akin
CWNE # 02 – @kimberlyAgraves, Kimberly Graves
CWNE # 03 – @KeithRParsons, Keith R Parsons
CWNE # 04 – @mistermultipath, David Coleman
CWNE # 05 –
CWNE # 06 – @joelbarrett, Joel Barrett
CWNE # 07 – @??????, David Westcott
CWNE # 08 –
CWNE # 09 – @??????, Mohammad Sarwar
CWNE # 10 – @??????, Rick Murphy

CWNE 11 – 99

CWNE # 12 – @Ben_SniffWiFi, Ben Miller
CWNE # 15 – @??????, Senthilraj Shanmugavadivel
CWNE # 17 – @wifichef, Reggie Pugh
CWNE # 19 – @??????, Rick Dreger
CWNE # 21 – @GTHill, GT Hill
CWNE # 23 – @MetkaDragos, Metka Dragos
CWNE # 25 – @??????, Kenneth Gholston
CWNE # 26 – @??????, Vincent Chow
CWNE # 30 – @??????, Oran Ost
CWNE # 32 – @??????, Douglas Haider
CWNE # 33 – @MackenzieWiFi, Peter Mackenzie
CWNE # 34 – @??????, Ryan Miles
CWNE # 35 – @??????, Pablo Alvarez
CWNE # 36 – @??????, George Anderson
CWNE # 44 – @80211University, Bryan Harkins
CWNE # 45 – @wirelessccie, Jerome Henry
CWNE # 46 – @??????, Brian B. Lang
CWNE # 49 – @??????, Wei Wu
CWNE # 51 – @JenniferLucille, Jennifer Huber
CWNE # 52 – @??????, Steve Smith
CWNE # 54 – @??????, Shawn Jackman
CWNE # 56 – @??????, Roger Kuhn
CWNE # 57 – @??????, Matt Swartz
CWNE # 58 – @??????, Rob Rohde
CWNE # 61 – @??????, Edwin (EK) Ahn
CWNE # 64 – @??????, Chris O’Donnell
CWNE # 65 – @??????, Jeff DiMaio
CWNE # 66 – @??????, Falk Bachmann
CWNE # 68 – @??????, Ronald Shaul
CWNE # 67 – @??????, Mark Phillips
CWNE # 69 – @??????, Vinay Saini
CWNE # 70 – @??????, Kevin (Chen) Wang
CWNE # 72 – @??????, Robert Schaefer
CWNE # 73 – @??????, Bruce Heaven
CWNE # 75 – @??????, Darrell Schrock
CWNE # 76 – @??????, Derrick Phua
CWNE # 78 – @marcusburton, Marcus Burton
CWNE # 79 – @??????, Brian Kovatch
CWNE # 80 – @??????, Tarcizo Azevedo
CWNE # 83 – @??????, Aunudrei Oliver
CWNE # 84 – @revolutionwifi, Andrew vonNagy
CWNE # 85 – @??????, Christian J. Estes
CWNE # 86 – @PPJM, PPJM Engelen
CWNE # 87 – @??????, Mark Sanetrik
CWNE # 89 – @wifisamuri, Jon Linton
CWNE # 90 – @troymart, Troy Martin
CWNE # 91 – @??????, Chad Smith
CWNE # 92 – @??????, Roman Podoynitsyn
CWNE # 93 – @??????, Aaron Smith
CWNE # 94 – @tdennehy, Timothy Dennehy
CWNE # 96 – @GregorVucajnk, Gregor Vucajnk
CWNE # 97 – @??????, Hao Deng
CWNE # 98 – @travis_schlafkek, Travis Schlafke
CWNE # 99 – @??????, Chris W. Brown

CWNE 100 – 119

CWNE # 100 – @??????, David Cook
CWNE # 101 – @samuel_clements, Samuel Clements
CWNE # 102 – @??????, Terry Tam
CWNE # 103 – @Srynearson, Sean Rynearson
CWNE # 105 – @??????, Ken Lim
CWNE # 106 – @TRitterbush, Tim Ritterbush
CWNE # 107 – @??????, Thet Lwin
CWNE # 108 – @Globeron, Ronald van Kleunen
CWNE # 109 – @??????, Derrick Monahan
CWNE # 110 – @??????, Paul Finlay
CWNE # 111 – @??????, Arun Wadhawan
CWNE # 112 – Unknown, Chuck Lukaszewski
CWNE # 113 – @MacdonaldWiTS, Neil Mac
CWNE # 114 – @??????, Ty Bowser
CWNE # 115 – @??????, Erik Lubinger
CWNE # 116 – @??????, Lee Johnson
CWNE # 117 – @Cinergywifi, Jared Griffith
CWNE # 118 – @??????, Leonardo Mezzanotti

120 CWNEs

CWNE # 120 – @??????, Anthony Blasse
CWNE # 122 – @??????, Theofilos Sakoulias
CWNE # 123 – @ryanstevedsouza , Ryan D’souza
CWNE # 124 – @??????, Tim Rowley
CWNE # 125 – @JasonFernyc, Jason Fernyc
CWNE # 126 – @??????, Marko Tisler
CWNE # 127 – @??????, Jaromir Likavec
CWNE # 128 – @??????, Scott D Swist, Jr.
CWNE # 129 – @papageordy, Alan Blake

130 CWNEs

CWNE # 130 @??????, Dick Andersson
CWNE # 131 @??????, Travis Bonfigli
CWNE # 132 – @scottpstapleton, Scott Stapleton
CWNE # 133 – @Aliyoussef_, Ali Youssef
CWNE # 134 – @??????, Kevin Zhu
CWNE # 135 – @WifiNigel, Nigel Bowden
CWNE # 136 – @WiFivomFranMan, Kevin Franzen
CWNE # 137 – Unknown, Janet Rae
CWNE # 138 – @dot11Nate, Nathan York
CWNE # 139 – @??????, Erik Klaubert

140 CWNEs

CWNE # 140 @??????, ???????
CWNE # 141 @??????, ???????
CWNE # 142 @wifidownunder, Aaron Scott
CWNE # 143 @??????, ???????
CWNE # 144 @??????, ???????
CWNE # 145 @??????, Zahari Georgiev
CWNE # 146 @wirelessnext, Viten Patel
CWNE # 147 @??????, Brett Hill
CWNE # 148 @??????, Martin Ericson
CWNE # 149 @??????, Ben Wocks

150 CWNEs – 10/19/2014

CWNE # 150 @mike_albano, Mike Albano
CWNE # 151 @??????, Nicolò Venchierutti
CWNE # 152 @blakekrone, Blake Krone
CWNE # 153 @mrncciew, Rasika Nayanajith
CWNE # 154 @jasper_khc, Jasper Cheng
CWNE # 155 @theog150, Darren Johnson
CWNE # 156 @wifikiwi, Chris Lyttle
CWNE # 157 @YFiAlan, Alan Klein
CWNE # 158 @seppidittli, Seppi Dittli
CWNE # 159 @blong1, Brian Long

CWNE Count

There are currently less than 200 CWNEs worldwide. Info from CWNP.com below.

The CWNE credential is the final step in the CWNP Program. By successfully completing the CWNE requirements, you will have demonstrated that you have the most advanced skills available in today’s enterprise Wi-Fi market.

The CWNE certification assures that you have mastered all relevant skills to administer, install, configure, troubleshoot, and design wireless network systems. Protocol analysis, intrusion detection and prevention, performance and QoS analysis, spectrum analysis and management, and advanced design are some of the areas of expertise you will need to know.

CWNE Count (updated: 2/8/2015): 159 (source)

Twitter IDs Other of WiFi/WLAN Experts

Twitter IDs of Cisco Systems CCIE (Wireless) Experts

Twitter IDs of Aruba Networks Experts (ACMX, ACDX)

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Free WiFi Scanner for iPhone and iPad Without Jailbreak

iPhone and iPad users with iOS 7 and iOS 8 now have a way to view WiFi scan info (SSID, BSSID, RSSI, Channel) on devices. Prior to this AirPort Utility update only SSID and BSSID information was available on app store apps (non jailbreak apps).

Follow steps below to access to this new capability.

Download AirPort Utility App

Download the Apple AirPort Utility from iPhone/iPad app store.

Navigate to Settings > AirPort Utility > Turn on “Wi-Fi Scanner” mode

Accessing WiFi Scan Feature

Launch AirPort Utility app and top right will show “Wi-Fi Scan” option in blue.

Select scan duration from 10 to 60 seconds or continuous scanning.

Scanning Mode

Scan History

Click a row to view signal history for BSSID/access point.

Channel Usage Summary

Channel usage summary can be viewed by clicking “i”/info button on bottom right after stopping scan.

Scan History Export

CSV export of SSID, BSSID, RSSI, Channel, Timestamp.

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Free WiFi Scanner for Windows

We are looking for beta testers for version 1.1 of our Windows WiFi Scanner. If you are interested please download using link below. Send bug reports support@accessagility.com.

1) Download Windows WiFi Scanner zip file though beta program social media campaign.
2) Uncompress
3) Install WiFiScanner.msi

One of the nicer capabilities of Windows compared to Mac OS WiFi Scanners is the ability to detect hidden networks.

2.4 GHz Channel Graph

5 GHz Channel Graph

RSSI vs. Time Graph

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Cisco Live 2014 WiFi Network

Below is information about Cisco Live 2014 WiFi network

SSID: CiscoLive2014
Security: PSK
Access Points: 890 total Access Points (270 High Density Access Points (AP3700))
2.4 GHz: 11n, 20 MHz Channels, 3 streams
5 GHz: 11ac, 80 MHz Channels, 3 streams
Antennas: Dual band patch antennas
Controllers: 3 8510 WLCs in a HA pair with AP and Client SSO (7.6.110.0)
Coverage: 2.5 million sq ft, 442,000 sq ft with High Density APs and Antennas.
Management: 6 MSEs, 3 CAS and 3 CMX Analytics, Prime Infrastructure 1.4 in HA.

Photos of various mounting scenarios. I took some of these photos and grabbed others from tweets.

Single 3702 Access Point with Patch Antenna

Dual 3702 Access Point with Patch Antenna

Single 3702 Access Point with Patch Antenna Plus Camera

Dual Access Points in Signage

Single Access Point with Stadium Antenna / AIR-ANT2513P4M-N

WiFi Scanner Results

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Super Light Physical Site Survey Kit

The results of a physical site survey or environment site survey is the physical characteristics of a building or location. My super fast (and cheap) way to conduct a physical site survey involves using mostly low tech gear below.

1) Small Dry-Erase Board – Pick up a pack of 10 melamine boards from Amazon in case one gets lost or damaged. Melamine boards without a plastic case are very light weight and fit easily into a laptop bag.

2) Dry-Erase Markers – Sometimes it is easier to take notes by hand. Good info to record is location, rack, room, equipment, and network details.

3) Smartphone/Camera – A picture is worth a thousand words. Use a camera/smartphone to take photos of the environment.

1) Electrician’s Tape or Painter’s Tape – Mark locations with tape and take a picture to record desired equipment or cable termination location.

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Free WiFi Internet At Reagan National and Dulles Airport

Yes, there is free WiFi Internet at Reagan National and Dulles Airport. The WiFi system at both airports was upgraded in January of 2014 and is now free for everyone.

Reagan National Airport SSID: Reagan National WiFi

Dulles Airport SSID: Dulles Airport Complimentary WiFi

Both airports have had paid WiFi service since 2007 through wireless carriers such as AT&T Wireless. In 2011 the WiFi switched over to a free service but the performance was very poor. The upgraded free WiFi is much better than the previous system and should meet requirements of travelers. Paid connectivity options are still available.

Some info about free WiFi Internet system at Reagan National Airport is below. Click on image to view full size.

SSID Details

2.4 GHz Channel Graph

5 GHz Channel Graph

WiFi Equipment Vendor: Cisco Systems
802.11 Technology: a/b/g/n
WiFi Security: Open/None
Access Control: Captive portal with click through Terms and Conditions agreement.

The captive portal is using a Microtik router/box based on popup below.

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WiFi Podcast List

I’m always in search of online resources for keeping up with WiFi technology and products. I love reading blogs but sometimes it is easier to just listen or watch instead of read. Listed below, in alphabetical order, are audio and video podcasts that are predominantly WiFi/WLAN focused. If you know of others let me know @WLANBook.

No Strings Attached Show

The No Strings Attached Show blog and podcast “is brought to you by some of the brightest and best Wireless engineers from various walks of life. We have a wireless CCIE, a CWNE, and a handful of other certifications.” Two regulars on the show are Blake Krone (@BlakeKrone) and Samuel Clements (@Samuel_Clements)

On The Fly Wi-Fi

On The Fly Wi-Fi is a monthly webcast focused on mobility by Extreme Networks, Inc. The webcast is hosted by Mike Leibovitz (@MikeLeibovitz) has guest speakers on episodes.

Wavelength Youtube Channel

Wavelength is a Youtube video channel by Ryan M. Adzima (@radzima). He has two nice videos so far and I’m looking forward to future videos.

Wireless LAN Professionals

Wireless LAN Professionals podcast is located at http://wlanpros.com and is “dedicated to those who are involved in the craft of Wireless LANs – folks who work day-in, day-out with Wireless networking. A place to come and learn from, hang out with, and be inspired by other like-minded individuals.” The site was started by Keith R. Parsons (@KeithRParsons) who is also the organizer of the WLAN Pros Summit

If you know of others let me know @WLANBook.

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WiFi Speed Test Lab Setup

Creating a lab environment for speed testing doesn’t require many devices. Listed below are the testing components needed for even the most complex testing scenarios.

Device Under Test (DUT) – What is being tested (client or access point)
Sender / Client / Source / Endpoint – Device sending data
Receiver / Server / Destination / Endpoint – Device for receiving test data
Console – Device used to control tests starts, stops, and view results. In many cases the client/receiver can also be the console.
Test Software – Software installed on clients, receiver, and console if applicable.
Networking Components – Switches for connecting devices.

Below is photo of setup above with an access point that has an integrated switch.

For more info on actual testing process and procedures see this post on low cost / free software for WiFi throughput testing or watch video below.

WLAN Pros Summit 2014 | Zaib Kaleem Best Practices for Throughput Testing.

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WiFi Speed Chart

WiFi / 802.11 has been around since 1997 and was originally only capable of 1 to 2 Mbps. Since then multiple technology improvements have been made to the specification and technology to allow for much higher data rates. Listed below are the maximum WiFi speeds of various 802.11 technologies.

802.11 (legacy) – 1 to 2 Mbps
802.11b – 11 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
802.11g – 54 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
802.11a – 54 Mbps (5 GHz)
802.11n – 600 Mbps (2.4 and 5 GHz)
802.11ac (wave 1) = 1300 Mbps (5 GHz, 80 MHz, 3 streams)
802.11ac (wave 2) = 6933 Mbps (5 GHz, 160 MHz, 8 streams)
802.11ad = 7 Gbps (60 GHz)

The speeds above are sometimes known by different names based on the operating system.

Mac OS = “Transmit Rate”

Windows 7 & 8 = “Speed”

Android “Link Speed”

Regardless of the operating system, the above WiFi speeds are all what is known as PHY speeds..or the rate of the wireless connection. The speed the user/application will experience is typically called throughput and can be measured using WiFi speed test tools.

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