Wireless Access Point Installation Planning with Techno-Economic Comparison

The Covid-19 pandemic has shown clearly that the Internet is essential. Specifically, in the academic sector, distance and hybrid learning happens broadly. As the demand for connectivity has dramatically increased, the campus computer network has to proliferate. The wireless access points (Wifi-AP) are required to be installed to expand the network coverage. However, the large number of the Wifi-APs is not the solution due to the financial budget and technical constraints. This paper presents wireless access points installation planning by using the techno-economic comparison. The Wifi-APs have been installed in the campus dormitory in 12 installation patterns. The technical connection metrics (i.e., RSSI, SNR, and noise) have been measured for each installation pattern. The financial budget investment for each installation pattern is also evaluated. The experimental results show that installing one Wifi-AP per three rooms (1:3) is the most acceptable solution in the experimental campus area. This installation pattern (1:3) yields the lowest financial budget while keeping the technical connection acceptable.