The Four Types of Wireless Site Surveys — and Why They Matter

A reliable wireless network is the backbone of modern business operations. Whether you're expanding coverage, improving performance, or launching a brand-new facility, a wireless site survey is a must. Without it, you're relying on guesswork—risking costly inefficiencies and service disruptions.

At AbeTech, we help enterprise clients eliminate those risks with expert wireless site surveys tailored to their goals and environments. Here’s a quick breakdown of the four main types of wireless surveys—and how to know which one is right for your facility.

1. Predictive Surveys (Pre-Deployment Modeling)

Also known as predictive Wi-Fi design, this survey uses software to model your space and generate Wi-Fi heatmaps. It determines how many access points (APs) you’ll need and where to place them for optimal coverage.

• Ideal for: New or planned facilities
• Pros: Fast and cost-effective
• Limitations: Doesn’t account for real-world interference; depends on accurate floor plans and site details
• Best performed by: Wireless professionals with deep RF knowledge

2. Remediation Surveys (Troubleshooting & Optimization)

If your existing WLAN is underperforming, this survey identifies coverage gaps (“dead zones”) and sources of interference. Client devices often interact with Wi-Fi differently—remediation accounts for that variability.

• Ideal for: Existing networks with connectivity issues
• Includes: Gap analysis, heatmaps, and spectrum analysis
• Bonus: Can reveal hidden sources of interference and enable effective channel planning

3. Validation Surveys (Post-Install Confirmation)

This confirms that your WLAN meets design specs after installation. It gathers detailed RF data across your facility and compares performance against your network goals.

• Ideal for: Verifying newly installed or upgraded networks
• Assesses: Signal strength, roaming readiness, co-/adjacent channel interference, rogue APs, and more
• Why it matters: Ensures your network performs as expected before you scale operations

4. Design Surveys (On-Site Analysis & Planning)

A design survey involves a physical walk-through by a wireless expert using specialized tools to analyze your facility. It accounts for user density, devices, applications, and growth plans like robotics, autonomous devices, or VoIP.

• Ideal for: Complex or evolving environments
• Outcome: A tailored, future-proof Wi-Fi plan with optimized AP placement and hardware recommendations

Why Work With AbeTech?

Every facility is unique—your survey should be too. AbeTech’s wireless experts take the time to understand your environment, devices, use cases, and goals. We’ll recommend the right type of survey, walk the site with your team, and ensure your wireless infrastructure is built for performance, reliability, and scale.

Don’t take chances with your Wi-Fi. Get in touch with AbeTech to get expert guidance and the wireless performance your business depends on.