Why Should I Use a WiFi Scanner?
There are a number of reasons that might cause you to employ a WiFi scanner app. Some of the most common ones include:
Locating available WiFi networks – Using a WiFi scanner, you can find wireless networks within range of your computer or device. If it is an open network, you can use it to gain network access. Scanning from your home or office will also show you wireless signals which are entering your own WiFi coverage area and may impact your network’s performance.
Installing a wireless network – During installation of a WiFi network, a network scanner can help you locate the proper positioning of your router and other network equipment. Scan from various locations in your intended coverage area to determine if the signal will allow the connectivity that you desire. You can conduct a survey that will produce a heat map which indicates the strength of the WiFi signal throughout the surveyed area. Make sure that the scan shows that you have set security and encryption to at least the level of WPA2.
Optimizing a WiFi network – Undertaking a periodic and methodical scan of your WiFi network’s coverage area can be instrumental in maintaining and optimizing its performance. You might discover that areas which previously received strong signals have been impacted by changes in the environment. Scanning will allow you to tune your access points and router location to have your WiFi network performing at the peak of its capabilities. You might find that nearby networks are using the same channel as you and a simple change may make a big difference in network speed.
Identifying rogue access points – Scanning from outside your projected coverage area can alert you to the presence of rogue access points. The wireless signal may exceed the physical boundaries of your home or office. This makes it possible for that van parked outside your building to be attempting to hack into your network. This is another reason that exhibits the need for securing and encrypting your WiFi network.
