The command spectral-scan on MikroTik devices is a very useful tool to analyze the frequency spectrum of wireless networks. This command allows you to see the frequencies that are being used in your area and detect possible interference that could be affecting the performance of your wireless network.

However, the use of spectral-scan y spectral-history has important implications on the performance of your wireless link.

When you run spectral-scan on a MikroTik device, the associated wireless link will go down or stop transmitting data during the analysis period.

This occurs because the device needs to use its radio to scan the frequency spectrum instead of maintaining the wireless connection.

That is, the device does not have a chipset dedicated exclusively to spectrum analysis; uses the same hardware that handles the normal wireless connection to perform this analysis.

This interruption is temporary and only lasts while the spectrum scan is being performed. Once the scan has finished, the wireless link should resume normal operation automatically.

However, it is important to take this behavior into account when you plan to perform spectrum analysis, especially in environments where service continuity is critical.

To mitigate the impact of this interruption, it is recommended:

• Schedule the scan: Perform spectrum analysis during low traffic hours or during scheduled maintenance windows to minimize impact on users.
• Inform users: If possible, inform affected users about the maintenance and the expected impact on service.
• Structural: After performing the scan, monitor the link to ensure that it has returned to normal operation and evaluate the scan results to make adjustments if necessary.

Spectrum analysis is a powerful tool for optimizing the performance of wireless networks, but it must be used with consideration due to its impact on service.