Wireless nodes use a mini PC and a wireless router to connect to 3G or 4G networks. Catchpoint tests utilize these networks when the wireless network type is selected. When tests finish running, the data is sent for backend processing via a wired connection.
The wireless nodes rely on the same 3G/4G networks as consumers and are susceptible to the same types of incidents that are generally out of Catchpoint's control. Because of this, if a wireless node goes down and momentarily cannot run tests, it is advised to make performance measurements with a different node for that time. It is crucial to note that performance results from tests running on wireless nodes often do not represent issues with the website or application being tested. It is also important to note that these performance results do not indicate problems with the wireless nodes or any of the hardware used to support them.
The most common performance problems are the result of overused cellular towers which tend to get saturated during commuting hours in major cities. This can result in sporadic availability due to test time outs and other failures caused by slow performance. Wireless nodes are similar to last-mile nodes in that they are intended more for performance measurement than for availability monitoring.
Measuring performance over mobile networks is very important in understanding how end-users experience websites and apps, but it is also critical to monitor the availability of these services. Doing this requires a clean and stable connection that is highly controlled. The backbone network is ideal for this since backbone providers are held more accountable for connection strength and quality. Monitoring from the backbone does not include the noise introduced in the last mile, so the data is more actionable and representative of overall performance and availability.
Follow this link to the Troubleshooting Tip on Understanding Last-Mile Node Testing.