Overview

Wireless performance varies significantly due to many factors that are specific to wireless technology. To improve performance, you can mitigate the effect of certain factors: Wireless Network Adapter: If the wireless network adapter is not recognized by the device: Wireless Signal Strength Wi-Fi connection speed varies with distance A wireless client that is further away from the Access Point (AP) obtains a lower signal strength and a slower connection If the wireless signal between two connected Wi-Fi devices is not strong enough, a degradation in performance occurs Obstructions between the AP and wireless client can cause interference and affect performance. To improve signal strength: Checking Wireless Signal Strength at the Control Panel Checking Wireless Signal Strength in the Embedded Web Server Network Usage and AP Loading AP loading relates to the number of client connections to an access point The number of client connections, and the amount of bandwidth that each client uses, have a direct impact on the performance of the Xerox  Wireless Network Adapter. To minimize the effects of network usage and AP loading: Check Access Point for Load Balancing settings Some access points have features to help manage load balancing, which can at times result in unintended outcomes.  Check your AP for settings that may make 5GHz frequency bands appear more attractive than 2.4GHz frequency bands, such as "Client Band Select" or “Band Steering”.  These settings could end up directing a client towards a 5GHz band even if the signal in 2.4GHz is much stronger. Radio Frequency Interference Devices that emit an electro-magnetic signal can generate Radio Frequency (RF) interference Devices include consumer products, such as cordless phones, wireless headsets, microwave ovens, and smart meters Many of these products use the same 2.4 GHz frequency as 802.11b/g/n Interference that occurs during transmission can cause packet loss, which forces Wi-Fi retransmissions Retransmissions impact throughput, and result in fluctuating wireless performance for all users that share a given access point. Co-channel interference occurs when devices interfere with each other because they use the same channel or radio frequency to transmit and receive Wi-Fi signals This type of interference can result in degraded wireless performance. To reduce interference: Improve the wireless signal strength For more information, refer to  Check Wireless Signal Strength. Minimize the effects of network usage and access point loading.  Reduce Radio Frequency interference. Limit roaming on Enterprise wireless networks For more information, refer to  Limit Wi-Fi Roaming. Ensure that the USB port to which the Wireless Adapter is connected and enabled For more information, refer to  Configure USB Settings and USB Port Management. Ensure that the Wireless Adapter and, if applicable, the extension cable connected to the Wireless Adapter, are attached correctly. Ensure that the correct Wireless Adapter is installed The compatibility of the Wireless Adapter is dependent on the device model and software version For more information, refer to  Wireless Adapter Problems. If possible, place the wireless router or AP in a centralized location. Remove any physical obstructions between the AP and the Xerox Wireless Network Adapter. Position the Xerox  Wireless Network Adapter closer to the AP. Check the wireless signal strength for the Xerox Wireless Network Adapter For more information, refer to  Check Wireless Signal Strength. To reduce interference with wireless signals from the router, ensure that the router or AP is located away from walls or large metal objects, such as filing cabinets. Ensure that the Xerox  Wireless Network Adapter is positioned away from walls or large metal objects. If applicable, consider upgrading the router or AP to a high-gain antenna that transmits the wireless signals in one direction only. Position the Wireless Network Adapter on the Xerox device in direct view of the wireless router or AP To secure the adapter, use the USB extension cable and velcro strips provided with the Xerox  Wireless Network Adapter Kit. Configure Wireless Settings Manually. At the control panel, touch Device, then touch Tools. Touch Network Settings > Network Connectivity > Wireless. In the Wireless information panel, check the Signal Strength indicator. Note : For optimum performance, the required signal strength for a Xerox  Wireless Network Adapter is 3 bars or more This level indicates a signal strength of 60–70%. To close the screen, touch X. Connect the Printer to a Wireless Network. In the Embedded Web Server, click Properties > Connectivity > Setup. For Xerox Wireless Network Interface, click Edit. On the Wireless Profile page, for Wireless Settings, click Edit. On the Wireless Settings page, to check wireless signal strength, do one of the following: In the Limit Wi-Fi Roaming area, click Show Settings The settings table shows the signal strength for the current network. To view the list of available wireless networks, click Cancel In the Wireless Networks list, check the signal level percentage for the selected network. Note : For optimum performance, the required signal strength for a Xerox® Wireless Network Adapter is 60% or more. In the Limit Wi-Fi Roaming area, click Show Settings The settings table shows the signal strength for the current network. To view the list of available wireless networks, click Cancel In the Wireless Networks list, check the signal level percentage for the selected network. Note : For optimum performance, the required signal strength for a Xerox® Wireless Network Adapter is 60% or more. Click Close. Increase the quality and number of access points. Use a wired connection for connected devices that are moved rarely Reducing the number of wireless connections helps to keep wireless channels free for devices that have to use wireless. Remove older clients, such as 802.11b devices, from the network, as they can reduce overall wireless network speed. Avoid the use of older electronic devices that use the 2.4 GHz frequency, or remove these devices, then place them in a separate location. Ensure that the wireless channel that is in use does not overlap with another Wi-Fi network. Where possible, leverage 802.11n/ac on the 5 GHz frequency band On this frequency band, the transmission rates are higher and interference is generally lower However, the range can be lower.