Delivering Robust WiFi Connectivity to a Rural Lakeside Venue

Project Objective

Our client approached us because their existing satellite internet and WiFi setup was no longer sufficient for their growing needs. The venue previously relied on two outdated, slow satellite internet connections shared across multiple areas using numerous WiFi boosters, each broadcasting separate SSIDs. Patrons frequently experienced unreliable connections and poor coverage.

The client’s requirement was straightforward yet challenging: a reliable, secure, and user-friendly WiFi network covering their café, living accommodation, camping grounds, and fishing lakes, ensuring seamless internet connectivity throughout the entire site.

Challenges

The remote rural location limited our internet connectivity options. High-speed broadband was unavailable at the outset, leaving satellite as the only viable option. Additionally, the terrain featured dense woodland, hills, and limited line-of-sight between key locations, making traditional network infrastructure deployment challenging.

Power availability and suitable locations for installing equipment were also limited, further complicating the installation process.

Issues Identified

The existing satellite internet connections were unreliable and offered inadequate bandwidth.
Starlink was identified as a suitable alternative; however, supply issues meant the necessary USB-to-Ethernet adapter was unavailable, initially complicating direct integration.
Power availability issues restricted suitable installation points for network equipment.

Our Approach

We recommended cancelling the outdated satellite services and switching to a Starlink satellite connection. This solution provided significantly improved internet speeds and reliability. Due to supply issues with Starlink accessories, we ingeniously bridged Starlink’s WiFi signal into our network using a WiFi access point in bridge mode, successfully avoiding any performance loss.

We utilised a Ubiquiti-based network solution for robust WiFi and reliable point-to-point connections. A DrayTek router provided advanced VLAN capabilities and enhanced security. This allowed us to create separate networks (VLANs) for guest WiFi, staff, and card payment systems, meeting PCI compliance standards. We implemented Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritise traffic, ensuring consistent performance for all users.

Skills and Technologies Deployed

WiFi Planning and Network Mapping
Point-to-Point Wireless Link Implementation
Ubiquiti Network Equipment: UniFi access points and Nanobeam point-to-point kits
DrayTek Routers: Advanced VLAN configuration and security management
Quality of Service (QoS): Bandwidth management and traffic prioritisation

Outcome

By strategically placing a 4m pole with clear line-of-sight to essential locations, we successfully deployed three sets of point-to-point links, extending reliable internet coverage over a 300m distance, navigating challenging terrain.

Internally, three UniFi access points were installed within the café and accommodation areas, providing robust WiFi coverage. An additional outdoor UniFi access point mounted on the 4m pole significantly extended WiFi coverage across the campsite and lakeside areas. A further outdoor access point installed at the campsite’s shower block expanded coverage even further.

The separate VLANs and distinct SSIDs ensured secure and efficient use, while QoS prevented bandwidth saturation. A secure dial-out VPN facilitated remote diagnostics and network management, simplifying maintenance and troubleshooting.

The resulting network provided consistent, secure, and reliable internet connectivity, dramatically enhancing the experience for staff, campers, and visitors alike.

Conclusion

The client expressed high satisfaction with the new WiFi network, which has successfully endured all seasonal challenges with minimal disruptions. Occasional power dips are effectively managed by automated watchdog reboots, maintaining continuous connectivity.

June 2025 Update

In June 2025, with FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) availability confirmed, we returned to migrate the client from Starlink to a new 300/110 Mbps FTTP connection. Additionally, we expanded network coverage by installing two extra point-to-point links. These new links utilised PoE Passthrough technology via ETH2 ports on Nanobeam devices, powering additional Nanostations to extend WiFi coverage to newly developed pods and shepherd huts around the campsite. Performance tests consistently demonstrated full 300Mbps throughput, even at the network’s furthest points, further enhancing guest and staff connectivity across the entire venue.

For more on keeping business networks and Wi-Fi secure, see the NCSC’s network security fundamentals.