1.) Enable auto channel assignment - Auto channel assignment allows the Meraki Cloud Controller to assign channels to Meraki APs in the network using RF information that the APs constantly send up to the Cloud Controller. Unlike traditional wireless solutions, in which channel assignment decisions are made by each AP in a localized manner, the Meraki Cloud Controller ensures that channel assignments make sense locally as well as globally, relative to the rest of the network.
2.) Enable channel spreading - Channel spreading enables Meraki APs in the same vicinity (e.g. in the same auditorium) to broadcast on different channels so that channel utilization on each channel is minimized. This maximizes throughput and minimizes interference in the network. The Meraki Cloud Controller automatically assigns channels to achieve channel spreading.
3.) Enable band steering - Band steering forces 5 GHz-capable wireless devices (e.g. most 802.11n clients) to migrate away from the 2.4 GHz band. This opens up radio spectrum for legacy wireless devices (e.g. 802.11b/g clients). This is highly beneficial since there are many more 5 GHz channels than 2.4 GHz channels.
4.) Keep AP transmit power to auto - If we reduce without heat map than we might expect some calls regarding coverage issue.
5.) Leave 5 GHz channel width to 40 MHz - Based on experience and vendor suggestion we do not need to change to 20 MHz unless we have over 250 APs under one environment. There are no benefits for 20 MHz unless there is big environment like stadium, Airport and so on.
6.) Use static IP addresses on Aps - This setting reduces the APs’ dependency on an upstream DHCP server.
7.) Disable legacy 802.11b rates - Slow rates (e.g. 1 or 2 Mbit/s) can enable a small number of clients to consume a disproportionate amount of “airtime.”
8.) Locate AP on floor plan – via the dashboard import the APs onto the floor plan. This helps with physically locating APs, troubleshoot performance issues
9.) Determine if SSID needs to be broadcasted on all APs – Reducing the number of SSIDs being advertised on a single AP helps with performance
10.) **Utilize a Pre-**Shared Key – Keeps communication encrypted
11.) Disable guest access to the LAN
12.) If configuring NPS server, you must use a password that DOES NOT CONTAIN special characters. The APs will not be able to authenticate with the NPS if special characters are present.
13.) Business SSIDs will need a L3 firewall rule to allow any protocol destined for the local LAN in order to allow wireless devices to communicate with LAN devices.
14.) Import floor plan into the Meraki dashboard and place the devices on the floor plan
15.) Verify spanning-tree portfast or edgeport is disabled on AP ports on switch.