FortiAP devices are thin wireless access points (AP) supporting the latest Wi-Fi technologies (multi-user MIMO 802.11ac Wave 1 and Wave 2, 4x4), as well as 802.11n, 802.11AX , and the demand for plug and play deployment.
Strong radio interference and duplicate coverage are possible in deployments with a high AP density. FortiAP devices are able to assess and maximize the use of radio resources due to Dynamic Radio Mode Assignment (DRMA).
FortiAPs can determine the network coverage factor (NCF) based on radio interference when DRMA is enabled in the WTP profile or on the particular AP. Based on the network conditions, it enables wireless access points (APs) to dynamically modify their radio settings, including channel, power, and mode.
The NCF is calculated on the below parameters:
Radio Resource Monitoring: APs continuously monitor the wireless environment, including channel utilization, interference levels, and client density.
Dynamic Channel Selection: Based on the collected information, the AP can automatically select the optimal channel to minimize interference and maximize performance.
Power Level Adjustment: The AP can adjust its transmit power to balance coverage and reduce interference with neighboring APs.
Mode Switching: In some cases, the AP can switch between different radio modes (e.g., 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax) to optimize performance for different types of devices.
Fine-Tuning DRMA Settings: Once can adjust DRMA sensitivity levels to balance performance and stability. A higher sensitivity level can be beneficial in low-density environments, while a lower sensitivity level can be better suited for high-density environments.
DRMA Sensitivity Levels:
There are typically three sensitivity levels:
Low Sensitivity:
Use Case: High-density environments with many devices.
Behavior: The AP is less sensitive to changes in the network environment. It will only adjust its radio parameters when there are significant changes in the load or interference levels. This can help to reduce unnecessary channel switching and power adjustments, which can improve network stability.
Medium Sensitivity:
Use Case: Most general-purpose networks.
Behavior: The AP is moderately sensitive to changes in the network environment. It will adjust its radio parameters more frequently than a low-sensitivity setting but less frequently than a high-sensitivity setting. This can help to balance performance and stability.
High Sensitivity:
Use Case: Low-density environments with fewer devices.
Behavior: The AP is highly sensitive to changes in the network environment. It will adjust its radio parameters frequently to optimize performance. This can be helpful in environments with fluctuating traffic patterns or interference.
Real-world Applications:
Enterprise Networks: DRMA is used in large enterprise networks to optimize wireless performance and ensure reliable connectivity for a variety of devices.
Public Wi-Fi Hotspots: DRMA can help to manage the high density of wireless devices in public areas, such as airports, hotels, and cafes.
Note:
TAC recommends a comprehensive site survey to identify optimal AP placement and channel assignments. The careful RF planning is needed to minimize interference and ensure maximum coverage. Keep the FortiAPs on the latest code as well as keep the drivers updated on the end client machines.
