The New Ekahau Analyzer: Redesigned from the Ground Up to Revolutionize Wi-Fi Diagnostics
Intermediate Reading time 3-5 min
Keeping a Wi-Fi network at optimal performance requires fast, accurate and mobile tools. The new version of Ekahau Analyzer has been completely rebuilt from scratch to offer total feature parity on both iOS and Android, adding capabilities designed to simplify and speed up the resolution of wireless problems.
By combining this app with the Sidekick 2 measurement device, you turn your smartphone into a professional radio frequency (Wi-Fi) diagnostic and analysis system in your pocket, with no need for laptops or adapters.
1. Instant Validation: Your Network’s Health in Seconds
When you open the app, the Validate section runs an immediate inspection of the network you are connected to through four “OK/Warning” visual indicators:
- Coverage: Measures signal strength in dBm and detects how many access points (APs) can be heard in the area.
- Channel: Identifies the active channel and how many APs are sharing it.
- Connectivity: Evaluates network latency in milliseconds.
- Interference: Offers a quick reading of other emissions affecting the channel.
A green status confirms that everything is working well; a red warning (such as poor coverage of -70 dBm) alerts you to fix the issue before users report a problem.
2. Next-Generation Spectrum Analysis (2D, 3D and Recording)
Non-Wi-Fi interference sources, such as microwave ovens, wireless cameras or Bluetooth devices, are usually invisible to standard adapters. The new Analyzer takes spectrum analysis to a professional level:
- Spectrum Recording: Lets you record spectrum data over time in the 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz bands without tying you to a survey route or fixed location. It is the ideal solution for capturing intermittent interference (for example, signal drops at midday), saving the file and playing it back or sharing it with your team.
- 3D Visualization: With a single tap you can switch to the 3D view to easily evaluate the duration and the bandwidth occupied by each interference over time.
Advanced Scan Settings: Designed for RF experts, it lets you control the center frequency, the scan width (span), the resolution bandwidth and the listening time.
3. Unlimited Packet Capture (PCAP) and Focused Capture
Packet analysis is essential when the diagnosis requires going deeper at the protocol level. Analyzer removes capture restrictions:
No channel limit: Select multiple channels across all three bands (2.4, 5 and 6 GHz) and set the dwell time for the Sidekick 2 to listen on each frequency.
Full Frame Capture: Lets you focus the full data capture on up to 10 specific client MAC addresses. This keeps PCAP files lightweight, makes it easier to investigate disconnections or deauthentication attacks, and protects the privacy of other users on the network.
4. Physical AP Location and Threat Detection with “Find AP”
Locating a specific access point in large or complex facilities is usually a slow task. The Find AP function removes the guesswork:
- You hold the Sidekick 2 at chest height and slowly turn 360 degrees while the app measures the signal in all directions.
- An arrow on the screen points to the direction of the AP.
- As you walk in that direction, the app guides you through on-screen indicators and audio and vibration feedback.
In addition to finding hidden APs, Find AP is a key security tool for tracking down unauthorized APs (rogue APs) and fake networks (honeypots) in order to locate them physically and disconnect them.
5. Integrated Speedtest® with Wi-Fi Context
To quickly answer whether a speed problem is due to the Wi-Fi or the Internet provider, the app integrates Speedtest by Ookla®. During the test, the application graphs channel utilization against throughput, showing on a single screen the speed obtained, the connection details and the live spectrum.
The application also includes Client Analysis (to inspect the capabilities of client devices such as 802.11r/k/v roaming, retry rate and MCS) and direct one-tap access to Ekahau Survey.
Availability
The new Ekahau Analyzer is available for iOS and Android, and is included with Ekahau Measure Pro and Ekahau Software Suite SaaS licenses and with the current Connect Subscription-type support of Ekahau perpetual licenses.
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