2.2 Analyze spectrum captures to identify relevant RF information and issues.

Waterfall, swept spectrogram, density and historic views.

2.1.3 Understand and use spectrum analyzer views.

2.1.2 Capture RF spectrum data using handheld, laptop-based and infrastructure spectrum capture solutions.

2.1.1 Install, configure and use spectrum analysis software and hardware.

2.1 Capture RF spectrum data and understand the common views available in spectrum analyzers.

7.3 Identify and explain how to solve the following WLAN implementation challenges using features available in enterprise class WLAN equipment and troubleshooting tools.

7.2 Describe and apply common troubleshooting tools used in WLANs.

6.2 Locate and identify sources of RF interference.

1.2 Apply the basic concepts of RF mathematics and measurement.

For the CWNA exam, the focus is on the concepts rather than identifying interferers. Although the Wireless industry largely uses Ekahau over others, the graphics I was presented during my CWAP exam were not from Ekahau Pro. The views I show will be from AirMagnet SpectrumXT as well as Ekahau Pro. The objectives below mention spectrum analysis or information that can be gathered by viewing layer 1 using a spectrum analyzer. This post covers the information that you will be expected to know for the CWNA-107 and CWAP-403 exams.

Specifically, knowing the environment you’re working in, what the potential interferers are, which of those can be removed, and how to work around those that cannot. If you don’t already understand Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) and energy detect, check out my post on Wireless Contention Mechanisms! Spectrum Analysis is a topic that frequently comes up when discussing troubleshooting. All Wi-Fi devices that operate in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz, and 6GHz in the future, must interoperate with other devices that use the same frequency.

Wi-Fi operates at layer 1 (Physical) and 2 (Data Link) of the OSI model.

Wifi spectrum analyzer windows