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Understand Noise with WiFi SNR

SNR, or Signal to Noise Ratio, is a measurement of how strong a signal is through the noise of the medium it is traveling through. It is the ratio of Signal to Noise. For example, a Signal of -24dBm with a noise of -90dBm would yield a SNR of 66dB.

SNRConnection Quality
10dB – 15dBUnreliable Connection
16dB – 24dBPoor
25dB – 40dBGood
41dB or GreaterExcellent

Noise can be any of the following:
• Microwave Ovens
• Cordless Phones
• Bluetooth Devices
• Game Controllers
• Wireless Surveillance Systems
• Wireless Game Controllers
• Wireless Keyboards and Mice
• Fluorescent Lights

SNR with higher values equates to faster data rates, fewer retransmissions and overall better throughput. The SNR can be improved by mitigating sources of noise, increasing the number of Access Points (better signal strength). Antenna orientation and placement can also influence SNR. Modern WiFi network analyzers like the EtherScope® nXG can help measure SNR and or troubleshoot low SNR related issues.

To learm more download our free Reference Guide “Inteference Sources on the WiFi Network”.

Interference Sources on the WiFi Network
Author Bio –
Product Manager – Wireless

Julio Petrovitch is a product manager at NetAlly, plus a certified CWNA/CWAP/CWDP/CWSP. He’s worked with network design, testing and validation for more than 15 years. Throughout he’s career he has had the opportunity to work with multiple networking technologies, including POTS, DSL, Copper/Fiber Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and BLE.