Traditionally, APs employ algorithms that reduce the Wi-Fi transmit rate, using 243Mbps instead of 300Mbps, for example, to individual mobile devices in case of packet loss. This is done to increase reliability of the Wi-Fi link with the assumption that the mobile device is on the move -- in other words, moving away from the AP. However, in a high-density environment, the packet loss might result from contention given the number of mobile devices trying to access a specific Wi-Fi channel.

Hence the "rate vs. range" algorithms used to enable seamless mobility for mobile devices as they roam between APs may not necessarily be suitable for . In fact, if not taken into account properly, they may make things worse: The more APs reduce their link speed while talking to a mobile device, the more airtime they consume. This, in turn, will mean less airtime availability for all, creating the perfect recipe for a Wi-Fi meltdown.

At the end of the day, end users just want a Wi-Fi network that works. In healthcare, quality of service for mission-critical applications is a must -- no exceptions. In retail and warehousing, disruptions within the Wi-Fi network will mean substantial loss of revenue. In the general enterprise, most employees do not even have a way to connect to the wired network anymore as the access network moves to primarily wireless. Without high performance Wi-Fi, no work gets done.

To enable this seamless experience for end users and their mobile devices, wireless network engineers should demand more from their WLAN infrastructure. Consistent, predictable experience on the Wi-Fi network should be a table-stakes requirement.

in Network World's LAN & WAN section.