CTS 389: SSID Spaghetti – How Many SSIDs Is Too Many?
The Clear to Send podcast revisits the question of optimal SSID numbers, considering modern Wi-Fi standards and client habits, emphasizing the impact of SSID count multiplied by co-channel APs and data rates on network performance.
MAIN POINTS
- Minimizing SSIDs is crucial to conserve airtime and reduce management overhead.
- Modern standards like 6 GHz and multiple BSSIDs influence traditional SSID advice.
- The impact of SSID count is multiplied by co-channel APs and divided by data rate.
- Strategies include network consolidation and effective communication with management.
TAKEAWAYS
- Use one SSID with MPSK/iPSK/DPSK for different IoT device types instead of multiple SSIDs.
- Implement one 802.1X SSID with RADIUS role/VLAN assignment for departmental separation.
- Schedule temporary SSIDs for events, limiting them to specific APs with expiry dates.
- Opt for a single guest SSID and customize the captive portal for branding purposes.