Build a Dual-Band Wi-Fi Analyzer with ESP32-C5 for Ultimate Network Optimization

Tired of unpredictable Wi-Fi dead zones and frustratingly slow speeds? More often than not, the root cause isn’t your router’s raw speed, but high network congestion from neighboring access points (APs). While numerous smartphone apps exist to check signal strength, they often lack true dual-band analysis and tie up your primary mobile device.

Maker Chen Liang has presented an elegant solution: a highly efficient, compact, and incredibly cost-effective dual-band Wi-Fi analyzer built around the powerful Espressif ESP32-C5 system-on-chip. This dedicated DIY tool provides continuous, real-time monitoring across both the congested 2.4GHz and the faster 5GHz frequency spectra, making it an indispensable asset for network optimization.

The Power of Dedicated Wi-Fi Analysis

As Liang notes, a proper Wi-Fi Analyzer is essential for visualizing the signal information around you. This data is critical for making informed decisions, primarily when setting up a new Access Point (AP).

If you select a channel that heavily overlaps with other APs, you will encounter interference that degrades your network performance. While a phone or notebook can scan networks, dedicating them to continuous monitoring is often overkill and expensive. A purpose-built device based on a Wi-Fi development board and a display provides a more efficient solution.

The ESP32-C5: Unlocking True Dual-Band Support

Liang is no stranger to building these tools, having previously released a standalone Wi-Fi analyzer using the older ESP8266. However, the ESP8266 is fundamentally limited to the 2.4GHz band. The migration to the newer, significantly more powerful ESP32-C5 is the key enhancement here.

The ESP32-C5 offers native dual-band support, allowing the analyzer to map signal strength and congestion across both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands simultaneously. This comprehensive view is vital for modern network environments where the 5GHz spectrum is increasingly dominant.

Simplified Two-Component Embedded Build

The true appeal of this embedded systems project lies in its minimal bill of materials and straightforward assembly. This dual-band analyzer requires only two primary components:

• An Espressif ESP32-C5 development board. Any board based on the chip will work.
• Any display that is compatible with the versatile Arduino_GFX graphics library.

Beyond these two parts, you only need basic wires for connection and a power source. While a standard USB connection works perfectly, many ESP32-C5 boards include support for lithium battery power, allowing you to easily transform the project into a fully portable, on-site network troubleshooting device.

Analyzing the Wireless Environment

Liang’s real-world testing reinforces the importance of monitoring both bands and provides actionable insights for users. He observed that in his scan area, the number of 5GHz Wi-Fi APs was actually greater than the number of 2.4GHz APs.

However, the analysis of signal quality provided clear differentiation between the two bands:

1. Signal Weakening: 5GHz Wi-Fi signals are significantly weakened after passing through walls compared to 2.4GHz signals.
2. Lower Interference: This signal attenuation means most 5GHz signals dropped lower than -70dB, resulting in significantly less channel interference between nearby access points.
3. High-Speed Potential: Because 5GHz offers more available channels and wider bandwidth, it remains the optimal choice for high-speed connections in smaller areas where signal penetration is not the primary obstacle.

Get Started on Your IoT Network Project

Chen Liang’s ESP32-C5 dual-band Wi-Fi analyzer is an elegant and practical IoT project for any home user, enthusiast, or IT professional seeking a dedicated tool for wireless environment troubleshooting. By harnessing the power of the latest Espressif hardware, this project gives you the granular data needed to minimize channel interference and maximize your Wi-Fi performance.

The full project documentation, including code and detailed setup instructions, is available on Instructables for those ready to build their own professional network monitoring device.