What is actually... WLAN signal-to-noise ratio?

Nowadays, it is hard to imagine life without the internet. Whether it's a quick traffic check, a video call with business partners and friends or banking transactions, everything is possible with just a few clicks. But why do people keep losing their connection? When investigating, you may quickly come across the term "signal-to-noise ratio". In this article you will find out what it means and why it puts a spanner in the works of your relaxed Internet surfing.

What is WLAN signal-to-noise ratio?

The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) influences the reception performance of WLAN networks. It is made up of the signal strength (Vs) and the noise level (Vn). Both are measured in microvolts and can quickly overlap, so Vs must always have a higher value than Vn.
In acoustics, communications, high-frequency and measurement technology, as well as in many other areas of image and signal processing, the SNR must also be taken into account.

Why must the signal strength (Vs) be higher than the noise level (Vn)?

The more the signal strength exceeds the noise level, the better the received signal. If Vs/Vn=0 or even a negative value, the connection is blocked by the noise level. Transmission errors occur.

What can affect my reception signal?

In addition to a too low SNR value, other electronic devices with a magnetic field, such as other routers or a microwave, can also block the signal. Furthermore, the condition of the house, flat or office plays a role. If the walls are too thick or the distance to the access point is too great, the signal cannot be reliably transmitted.

How can I improve the signal strength?

You can receive a stronger signal by moving closer to an access point. Changing the frequency of the transmitter channel can also improve the reception signal. You can read more about this in the article Channel overlap (LINK).
In spite of everything, an additional noise filter is also integrated in the transmitter and receiver of the WLAN device, which lowers the noise level, so that even a low received signal can be routed.

Where can you find the signal-to-noise ratio?

Of course, we find it in routers and access points. Other radio-controlled devices, such as satellite TVs, radio microphones or even cars that can be locked with a radio key, must also pay attention to the signal-to-noise ratio.