Using RSSI to Determine RF Threat Proximity

This section builds on what was learned in the Using Sensor ID to Determine RF Threat Location. In the Discovered RF Threat Stations list, the RSSI field indicates the signal strength at which a particular SonicPoint is detecting an RF threat. See Using RSSI to Determine RF Threat Proximity.

The RSSI field allows you to easily determine the proximity of an RF threat to the SonicPoint that is detecting that threat. A higher Rssi number generally means the threat is closer to the SonicPoint.

IMPORTANT: Remember that walls serve as barriers for wireless signals. While a very weak Rssi signal may mean the RF threat is located very far from the SonicPoint, it may also indicate a threat located near, but outside the room or building.

To use Rssi to determine the RF threat proximity:

Navigate to the SonicPoint > RF Monitoring page in the SonicOS management interface.

In the Discovered RF threat stations table, locate the Sensor and Rssi for the SonicPoint that is detecting the targeted RF threat and record these numbers.

Navigate to the SonicPoint > SonicPoints page.

In the SonicPoint Ns table, locate the SonicPoint that matches the Sensor number you recorded in Step 2.

Record the MAC address for this SonicPoint and use it to find the physical location of the SonicPoint.

A high Rssi usually indicates an RF threat that is closer to the SonicPoint. A low Rssi can indicate obstructions or a more distant RF threat.