Observing the Wireless Spectrum
Introduction
This lab is going to be very interesting and challenging. We are being introduced to what, for some, is going to be the first time ever using a program that captures and records signals. We must then analyze them and use this as a tool to better be prepared to install and even troubleshoot our networks. My goal for this lab would be to gain a better understanding of this program and be able to recognize how it could be useful for me in my future endeavors.

1. Are any channels being used that overlap other channels? (10 points)

It would appear that channels 1, 8 and 11 have the most use going on and that 8 and 11 overlap each other.

2. If you had to install a new wireless LAN, what channel would you use? (10 points)

I would use something in the 3-6 range as it would provide the least amount of overlap with other channels.

3. What channels are being used? (10 points)

It appears to me that channels 1, 5, and 11 are currently in use.

4. What channel is being used the most? (10 points)

Channel 11 appears to have the most use going on on currently.

5. What type of signal is being shown? (10 points)

The signal appears to match that of a HyperX RFID Reader.

6. What frequency, not channel, is being used? (5 points)

The frequency in use is 2450 mhz.

7. What type of signal is being shown? (10 points)

The signal being displayed is 802.11g.

8. How strong in dBms is this signal? (5 points)

The signal strength appears to be about -55 dbm.

Conclusion
I found this lab to be very challenging. I have never used a program like this to analyze data being sent over a network so I found some parts very difficult. Trying to identify what channels are in use was probably the most difficult thing for me t identify. After getting familiar with the product though I found it could be a very useful tool. Being able to identify signature patterns using the program can help to identify where any interference or signal in general is coming from. I think that it was very useful in identifying what channel space was available with the least amount of noise or interference. This can be used to help install new networks without having some of the initial guess work of what channel to use. I think this lab tied into this week’s TCO’s very well by showing things that can affect signal loss. Knowing how to use a tool like this in the future on site surveys or even when troubleshooting can make us all better network administrators.