5. Relocate APs and retest, depending on the results of your survey.

6. Document your findings. Record the locations and log your signal readings and data rates observed for future reference.

So, how do you pick the right tool for your surveying needs? There are three basic types:

First, there are simple Windows-based software tools that you can use on a single laptop used for recording measurements such as signal strength as you walk around your building. You just need to buy a single AP and move it around to the potential locations that you came up with in Step 3. These tools are good for smaller installations of, say, one to three APs.

They are also good for situations in which you don't have a simple open-office plan but rather have various corridors and potential radio dead spots scattered around multiple floors. There are free tools, such as NetStumbler, and more capable ones, such as AirMagnet Survey, Visiwave, Fluke Networks InterpretAir and Ekahau Site Survey, which cost several thousand dollars.