What is the purpose of defining wall materials in WLAN design software?

Defining wall materials (e.g., drywall, brick, concrete) in WLAN design software is essential for accurate RF modeling. Different materials attenuate RF signals to varying degrees, and propagation models account for these losses to calculate realistic signal coverage.

From CWDP-305:

“Accurate modeling of RF signal behavior requires defining wall and obstacle materials to account for signal attenuation and reflections. This improves the accuracy of predictive design tools.”

— Reference: CWDP-305 Official Study and Reference Guide, Chapter on Wireless Design Process