Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) are the backbone of modern connectivity in homes, businesses, schools, and government institutions. However, over time, as more devices are connected and bandwidth demands increase, your WLAN may begin to show signs of wear and tear. When that happens, it’s time to consider upgrading to ensure a seamless, high-performance experience. Here are seven signs that your WLAN needs an upgrade, along with a look at how the Huawei AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO Access Point can help address these issues.

Signs That Show Your Need to Upgrade WLAN

Here are seven signs that show you need to upgrade your WLAN:

Slow Speeds and Increased Latency

One of the first and most noticeable signs that your WLAN needs an upgrade is when network speeds start to slow down, and latency becomes an issue. This can be especially frustrating for activities like streaming, video conferencing, or online gaming, where a fast, stable connection is crucial. If your Wi-Fi network can't support the number of connected devices or the bandwidth-intensive tasks being performed, upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 solution like the Huawei AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO can deliver speeds of up to 10.75 Gbit/s, ensuring that your network can handle more devices with faster speeds.

Frequent Disconnects

Frequent disconnections or dropped connections are a clear sign that your WLAN infrastructure isn't keeping up with demand. This could be due to a combination of factors, including outdated hardware, interference, or insufficient coverage. The AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO features 16 Smart Antennas that enhance signal coverage and reduce dead zones, delivering a reliable and stable connection throughout your space.

Network Congestion

As the number of connected devices grows network congestion becomes a problem. In high-density environments like enterprise offices, schools, and government institutions, traditional routers often struggle to maintain performance when many devices are online simultaneously.

Limited Coverage

Another common sign that your WLAN needs an upgrade is if you experience weak or inconsistent signal strength in certain areas of your space. This can lead to frustrating experiences where certain rooms or floors have poor connectivity.

Incompatibility with Newer Devices

As technology evolves, newer devices may be incompatible with your older WLAN hardware. If your network is not supporting the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, you're likely missing out on improved speeds, efficiency, and better handling of multiple devices. Wi-Fi 6 is especially beneficial in environments with many devices, as it supports higher data rates, improved security, and better power efficiency. The AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO supports Wi-Fi 6, ensuring compatibility with modern devices and future-proofing your network.

High Interference in Busy Environments

If your WLAN is deployed in a high-density or high-traffic environment, interference can become a significant issue. Traditional networks often struggle to handle interference from nearby networks or electronic devices. The AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO comes equipped with Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) that allow it to switch flexibly between dual-radio, triple-radio, and dual-radio with a scanning radio mode.

Security Vulnerabilities

An outdated WLAN often lacks the latest security protocols, leaving your network vulnerable to cyberattacks. If your WLAN is not equipped with the latest security standards, such as WPA3, it’s essential to upgrade.

Conclusion

Upgrading your WLAN infrastructure is essential to meet the growing demands of modern connectivity. Whether you’re dealing with slow speeds, network congestion, poor coverage, or security risks, upgrading to a solution like the AirEngine 8760-X1-PRO can significantly improve performance. With features like 16 Smart Antennas, Wi-Fi 6 support, and advanced interference mitigation, this access point is an excellent choice for high-density environments, such as enterprise offices, schools, and government buildings.