Network Troubleshooting

• Router Guidelines
• Network Testing
• Installing additional Access Point (AP)

Router Guidelines

Our Alpha series devices are low level internet data devices operating at 2.4GHz. The device can only operate using an IPv4 address.

When setting up the WiFi access point, it is recommended to set a secure password, and also advised do not share the same WiFi access to public. Needed a individual 2.4GHz WiFi should be set up and can be share with example (CCTV ,Machine wifi and other related) only. Do not share with unwanted guests can able to access our devices and attempt any attack.

Router/AP Recommendations  

When selecting a router ensure that the router has the suitable range and supports the number of devices of the specific outlet. It is always advised to select a router that can handle a higher number of devices to ensure proper stability.

Here are a few list of recommended Router/AP: 

• Fiber Optic

• TP-Link Archer C24

• TP-Link Archer C80

• TP-Link Archer AX12

• TP-Link Archer AX73

• 4G

• TP-Link MR6400

• TP-Link MR200

Access Point Recommendations

For bigger space outlet with a higher number of devices example (20>25) ,recommended a separate access point should be added from router to improve weak WiFi coverage and able to support devices.

Here are a few list of recommended Access Point: 

• TP-Link EAP110

• TP-Link EAP115

Troubleshooting Routers

1. If using 4G Modem, ensure device is located in an area with a good signal. (Mostly in an open space or the front of the outlet)
   
2. Ensure access points *WiFi router* are installed roughly in the center of all the devices with minimal blockage between the device and access point. 
3. Ensure router is up to date with the latest firmware from the manufacturer. 
4. Occasionally factory resetting the WiFi router helps to stabilize the router and delete any unwanted settings previously set.
5. If the router supports, set an auto reboot function for the router to reboot at low peak usage times.
6. If router is old and outdated, please consider replacing with a new router.
7. Ensure selected network provider has good stable network at location. (Try different providers if using 4G Modem

Use the network testing page, to act as a benchmark to verify the network stability. If network connectivity issues persist, use a network logging device to monitor the network stability of the network provider. 

Network Testing

Network Testing 

1. Download the Fing app on IOS or Google Play Store

 https://www.fing.com/fing-app/

2.  Connect your mobile device to the outlet network and turn off mobile data.

3. Complete the initial setup (you can skip unnecessary steps) and go to the homepage.

           4. Tap "Tools" at the bottom of the screen.

           5. Select "Run speed test" and wait for the test to complete.

           6. Take a screenshot of the result example below.

7. • Return to the Tools page.
   • Scroll down to find the Ping tool.

8. • Tap the Ping tool.
   • Enter "mqtt.antlysis.com" in the text box.
   • Tap Ping to start the test.

9. Take a screenshot of the result.

10. • Return to the Ping tool page.
    • Under Popular Targets, select google.com to run a baseline test.

11. Take a screenshot of the result.

Minimum Network Requirements

• Download Speed: 10 Mbps
• Upload Speed: 10 Mbps
• Average Server Ping: 150ms
• Server Packet Loss: 10%

Network Logging Device

If connectivity issues persist, a network logging device may be needed to monitor the network. This device:

• Connects to a LAN port on the router.
• Requires a separate power supply.
• Continuously measures speed, latency, and bandwidth.
• Uploads data to our server for monitoring.

Installing additional Access Point (AP)

When an outlet has a large number of devices, adding an additional stand-alone access point (AP) can help reduce the load on the router and improve connectivity. This guide explains the process of adding an additional AP and how how to migrate the WIFI settings from the original router to the new AP.

1. Connect to the Existing Wi-Fi Network

Connect to your existing Wi-Fi network (e.g., laundro) using a mobile device such as a laptop or smartphone.

2. Access the Router's Web Interface

Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome) and enter the IP address of the router. Common router IP addresses include:

• 192.168.0.1

• 192.168.1.1

• 192.168.100.1

3. Log In to the Router

Enter the router's login credentials. These may have been set previously or can often be found on a label at the bottom of the router. This will take you to the router's home page.

4. Identify the Access Point (AP)

Click on the Wired Clients icon. You should see a device listed—this is the access point (AP). Take note of its IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.120).

5. Rename the Router’s SSID

Click on the Wireless tab in the left navigation menu. Change the name of the current SSID (Wi-Fi network name) to something different, then click Save.

6. Disconnect from the Router

Changing the SSID will disconnect you from the Wi-Fi network. If the device does not disconnect automatically, you can manually do so.

7. Connect to the Access Point

Now connect to the AP's default Wi-Fi network. This is usually named after the AP model.

8. Log In to the Access Point

Open a new tab in your browser and enter the IP address you noted earlier. This will bring you to the AP’s login page. Log in using the default credentials provided by the manufacturer (e.g.,
Username: admin
Password: admin).

9. Change Default Credentials

You will be prompted to change the default username and password. Choose secure credentials and make sure to remember them. Click Next to proceed.

10. Configure Wi-Fi Settings on the AP

Set the SSID and password to match the original network name and credentials (e.g., laundro). Click Save.

11. Wait for Settings to Apply

The AP will apply the new settings. A loading bar will be displayed during this process.

12. Confirmation Page

Once the settings are saved, a success page will appear prompting you to reconnect to the updated network.

13. Reconnect to the Original SSID

Reconnect to the original SSID (e.g., laundro), check the box that says "I have connected to the new wireless network", and click Finish.

14. Verify AP Setup

You will now be directed to the AP’s home page. Confirm that the setup has been completed successfully.

15. Check Connected Devices

Navigate to the Client List tab and verify that devices (such as Alpha devices) are starting to connect to the new AP.

16. Reopen the Router Settings

In your browser, go back to the router's IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1) and log in again.

17. Disable the Router’s SSID

Go to the Wireless tab in the router settings. Uncheck the Enable SSID checkbox to disable the router's own wireless network. Click Save.

18. Final Verification

Verify that all devices are online via NodeCloud, and confirm that only the original SSID (now being broadcast by the AP) is active.