What is Signal-to-Noise Ratio and How to Measure it

What does Signal-to-Noise Ratio Mean

Of course, the first thing when asking about how to fix “signal to noise ratio” issues is to delve into just what SNR means. Signal to Noise is a measurement of how much relevant WiFi signal there is compared to any other signals that can get in the way, impacting network performance and signal clarity. It quantifies the relationship between the desired signal and background noise, both of which influence connection quality.

Usually, when dealing with WiFi issues, there are two main problems:

• Dead spots: Places where our signal can’t reach. This can be because of distance to the WiFi router, the materials the building is made out of, and other related issues. With a dead spot, we just aren’t getting any signal at all. Dead spots result from physical obstructions or inadequate router placement, leading to complete signal loss.
• Signal to Noise ratio: With SNR, the WiFi radio signals may be reaching just fine, but there are other radio signals that make it hard to pick out. This background interference reduces signal clarity and affects Wi-Fi optimization. Devices like microwaves, cordless phones, or neighboring Wi-Fi networks often contribute to this interference.

A Simple Analogy:

Think of each problem like a big room. If I’m on one side, and you’re on the other and you try to talk to me, if your voice is too soft I won’t be able to hear you unless you shout louder. That’s an issue with dead zones or signal strength.

SNR is where we are in the same room, but the room is full of other people. As you try to talk to me, we have to compete with all of the noises other people are making. It doesn’t help if someone else has a voice similar to yours, so I have to figure out when it’s you talking versus someone else.

This illustrates how interference affects signal clarity. In technical terms, this reflects overlapping frequency channels, where competing signals degrade connection stability.

What is a Good Signal-to-Noise Ratio?

Before getting into specific SNR values, it's crucial to understand why this metric is essential for maintaining a strong and stable network connection. A low SNR can cause:

• Reduced Speeds: Frequent data packet loss lileads to constant retransmissions.
• Unstable Connections: Higher latency and unexpected disconnections become more common.
• Poor Streaming Quality: Buffering issues during video calls or HD streaming.

SNR also impacts other technologies such as mobile networks, VoIP, and video conferencing platforms, where clear, uninterrupted communication relies heavily on maintaining a high SNR.

Now that we've covered why SNR is critical, let's take a closer look at the specific SNR values and how they influence your network performance based on the data below.

• *For enterprise-grade networks, a target SNR of 35 dB or higher is recommended to support high-density environments.

Of course, this will be determined by your basic signal strength. If your bandwidth strength is only -5 dB and your noise is 0, then your Signal to Noise is great but your signal strength is still trash. So first make sure the signal is strong, then focus on the signal to noise ratio.

How to Improve Your Signal-to-Noise Ratio

Improving SNR involves either boosting the signal strength or reducing the noise level:

First, get a WiFi signal analyzer. We’ve already mentioned NetSpot, and that’s a great place to start. It shows a list of all of the networks it identifies.

Once you see the list of WiFi signals, you can do a few things to increase the SNR ratio:

1. Remove Extra WiFi networks. This is especially true if this is a business environment. There are few reasons for someone to be running a separate WiFi network, whether it be from their cell phone and tethering or otherwise. With NetSpot, you can get an idea where its at as you trace it’s signal strength.
2. Check for “Noisy” devices. Take a look at the devices around the WiFi router. Is it next to a television, refrigerator, or other electronic devices? Try moving it away a bit. There was once a place with awful WiFi coverage until someone discovered that the WiFi router was next to the company’s fire alarm bell. Once it was moved away, the signal noise dropped.
3. Turn off unneeded signals. Some routers support multiple bands in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz range. Try turning off the 2.4 GHz signal if it’s not needed — it’s overcrowded compared to its 5 GHz sibling.
4. Use High-Gain Antennas. High-gain antennas can concentrate the Wi-Fi signal in specific directions, enhancing the range and signal strength. This is especially useful in large spaces where standard router antennas might not cover distant areas effectively.
5. Bandwidth Management. Quality of Service (QoS) settings allow you to prioritize traffic for critical devices or applications, like video calls or gaming. This helps maintain a stable connection and minimizes the impact of network congestion on SNR.
6. Shielding Solutions. In environments with excessive electronic interference (e.g., industrial areas or dense office spaces), electromagnetic shielding can reduce noise. This involves using materials that block or limit external interference, protecting your Wi-Fi signal for improved performance.

Improving your signal-to-noise ratio is key to a fast, stable Wi-Fi connection. By analyzing your network with tools like NetSpot, optimizing your router setup, and minimizing interference, you can achieve excellent SNR levels. Remember, regular monitoring helps keep your network in top shape as your environment changes.