Optimal signal levels for Client Premise (CPEs) devices and Access Points (APs) on a wireless network can vary depending on several factors, including the wireless technology standards used (e.g. Wi-Fi, LTE), the operating environment, and specific network performance requirements.

However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed to ensure good connection quality:

For Wi-Fi Networks:

• Optimal signal level:
  • For APs and CPEs: Ideally, you will want the signal to be between -50 dBm and -60 dBm for the best performance and maximum data rate. This is considered an “excellent” sign.
• Acceptable signal level:
  • For low demand activities (web browsing, emails): -70 dBm may be enough.
  • For high-demand activities (HD video streaming, online gaming): It is advisable to have a stronger signal, preferably higher than -65 dBm.
• Weak signal level:
  • Signals weaker than -70 dBm can result in unstable connections, reduced data rates, and possible disconnections. At -80 dBm or lower, quality of service is likely to be poor and connections will be intermittent or non-functional.

For Wireless Broadband Connections (for example, on point-to-point links):

• Optimal signal level:
  • For point-to-point links, especially technologies such as WiMax, fixed LTE, or long-range Wi-Fi links, signal levels can vary even more. Typically, you would look for a signal between -50 dBm and -60 dBm, similar to Wi-Fi networks, but with a focus on long-distance connection stability.
• SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio):
  • In addition to signal level, SNR is a crucial indicator of connection quality. An SNR of 20 dB or more is excellent, while an SNR of 10 dB to 20 dB is good. Less than 10 dB can result in reduced network performance and an unstable connection.

General recommendations:

• Planning and testing:
  • It is important to perform proper site planning and coverage testing to optimize the placement of APs and CPEs, thereby maximizing signal quality and network performance.
• Diagnostic tools:
  • Use software tools to monitor and diagnose signal strength and SNR in real time, allowing you to adjust equipment settings and placement as needed.
• Environmental considerations:
  • Please consider the operating environment, as physical obstacles, interference from other wireless signals, and the distance between the CPE and the AP can significantly affect the signal level and connection quality.

These values ​​are general guidelines and may vary depending on the technical specifications of the devices, the deployment environment, and specific network objectives.

It is important to consult the manufacturer's technical documentation and perform testing in the deployment environment to determine optimal signal levels in specific cases.