IoT Backyard WiFi Troubleshooting (Months of work, same issues)

Comprehensive IoT Network Troubleshooting for Large-Scale Residential Installations: A Case Study

Introduction

Implementing a robust IoT infrastructure across expansive residential properties presents unique challenges. In this article, we examine a real-world scenario involving complex network equipment and diverse devices, highlighting the troubleshooting process and seeking best practices to resolve persistent connectivity issues.

Project Overview

The project involves designing and maintaining a comprehensive WiFi and IoT network for a substantial property, including a main residence, a garage, and a backyard cabin. The setup features a variety of networking hardware aimed at providing reliable connectivity across outdoor and indoor environments.

Equipment Utilized

TP-Link Omada Ecosystem:
OC200 Hardware Controller
EAP245 Indoor Access Point
EAP225-Outdoor Access Point
TL-SG1005P PoE Switch
Point-to-Point Connectivity:
Two Ubiquiti CPE710 devices establishing a 350-foot bridge
Surge Protection:
Ubiquiti Ethernet Surge Protectors installed on outdoor equipment
IoT Devices:
Over 20 smart switches and related smart home devices

Objective

The primary goal is establishing a consistent and reliable WiFi experience for outdoor structures and IoT devices, including streaming media, smart switches, and remote control capabilities, across a large property with challenging conditions.

Challenges Encountered

Despite continuous efforts, the network exhibits intermittent faults and inconsistent behavior:

Unstable WiFi in the Backyard Cabin:
Sporadic disconnections, especially during media streaming or music playback
Smart Switch Offline Events:
Random devices go offline and become unresponsive, even after resets
Remote Control Difficulties:
Smart switches functioning within the garage fail to respond once users move away from the main house
Repeated Site Visits and Equipment Testing:
Multiple troubleshooting trips (more than seven) with persistent issues resurfacing
Financial and Labor Investment:
Significant expenditure on equipment and technician time, yet problems persist