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Tech Tips

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.

SNR Connection Quality
10dB – 15dB Unreliable Connection
16dB – 24dB Poor
25dB – 40dB Good
41dB or Greater Excellent

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 almost 20 years. Throughout his career he has had the opportunity to work with multiple networking technologies, including POTS, DSL, Copper/Fiber Ethernet, WiFi, and Bluetooth/BLE.