Specifications

This document is intended to aid with the design, implementation and optimization of Meru
802.11n WLAN systems. Much of the information included in this document can be found
scattered about in many different sources, or in some cases, not written down but known by
a number of individuals that have a good deal of hands-on experience with Meru. This
document consolidates much of the wisdom acquired over the years and organizes it in a
form that makes it accessible to a wider audience.
This guide is by no means a substitute for User Guides, Configuration Guides, Application
Notes, etc. Throughout this guide we will refer to other documents that provide greater detail
for the subject at hand and when possible, links to those documents will be provided.
This document will make use of icons that will alert the reader about features that solve long
standing challenges with Wi-Fi as well as to identify key recommendations.
Throughout this document icons will used to help identify features that are either unique to
Meru Networks or Meru recommendations.
The Meru icon below will signify that the feature described is unique to Meru Networks
WLANs.
The thumbs up icon shown below is an indication that a configuration recommendation
being offered.
WLAN SYSTEM DESIGN
Any successful deployment begins by first understanding all of the system requirements. A
good place to start is with Q and A sessions with all stake holders. Another useful tool is a
requirements questionnaire. The main objective behind this exercise is to ask all questions
and to get clear answers upfront so as to ensure that the outcome matches the expectation of
the customer.
Some of the initial items typically discussed are coverage requirements, client density
requirements, performance needs, security (including rogue detection) policies, SLAs (service
level agreements), are there aesthetic considerations, types of application that will be used,
non-pc devices to be used such as barcode scanners, outdoor coverage and location needs,
etc.
INTRODUCTION
BPG_11n_v1.0 | Page 4
CONVENTIONS
MERU BEST PRACTICES GUIDE | 11n Design, Implementation and Optimization