In wireless networks, especially when working with MikroTik equipment in Access Point (AP) and Client Premise Equipment (CPE) configurations, the scan-list It is useful to control and optimize the connection and communication process.

We explain how it works and if it is advisable to use it on both sides:

What is the scan-list?

El scan-list is a setting on wireless devices that defines the radio frequency channels on which the device will search for signals from other access points or clients. Specifically, it allows you to specify a set of frequencies or bands over which the device will scan, which can be crucial in avoiding channel congestion and improving overall network performance.

Use of scan-list in AP and CPE

1. At the Access Point (AP):
   • Spectrum optimization: Use scan-list on the AP allows you to define which channels it should use to transmit its signal. This is particularly useful in environments with many wireless networks, where selecting less congested channels can significantly improve performance.
   • traffic control: Helps direct network traffic on specific channels, minimizing interference with other devices operating on adjacent or overlapping bands.
2. On the Client Premise Equipment (CPE):
   • Filtering and signal selection: Set up scan-list in the CPE allows the client to filter and connect only to the channels that the AP uses, which can speed up the connection process and make it more stable.
   • Operating efficiency: Helps the CPE avoid wasting time and resources by scanning channels that are not used by its corresponding AP, thus optimizing its operation and conserving resources.

Recommendation

It is advisable to use scan-list on both sides, AP and CPE, for several reasons:

• Connection improvement: Ensures that both the AP and CPE are tuned to the appropriate channels for their operation, facilitating a faster and more reliable connection.
• Performance optimization: Minimizes the chances of interference by focusing only on the channels that are relevant to the communication between the AP and the CPE.
• Network management: Allows better management of the frequencies used in an environment where multiple devices may be competing for the spectrum.

In conclusion, use scan-list on both sides of the wireless connection is not only recommended, but is also an effective practice to maximize the efficiency and stability of wireless communications in MikroTik networks and other similar configurations.