Delivering reliable Wi-Fi to every passenger on a modern train is a real challenge, especially during peak hours. There may be more than 70 passengers actively using Wi-Fi, with some carrying multiple devices (e.g., a smartphone and a laptop). At Westermo, we set out to prove that our Ibex-1510 and Ibex-3510 access points are up to the task. Through comprehensive, real-world testing, we have demonstrated that both models can actively serve more than 100 clients simultaneously, making them ideal for high density onboard rail environments.

Our engineering team conducted detailed performance evaluations of the Ibex-1510 and Ibex-3510 access points. The test environment was designed to replicate conditions found in a typical train carriage, with a diverse mix of client devices across Wi-Fi generations:

• Wi-Fi 4 clients (802.11n)
• Wi-Fi 5 clients (802.11ac)
• Wi-Fi 6 clients (802.11ax)
• Wi-Fi 7 clients (802.11be)

For the Ibex-1510, each of the 100+ clients achieved a minimum throughput of 2 Mbps (UDP/TCP), with no issues observed throughout the test. The Ibex-3510 delivered even higher performance, with each client reaching at least 4 Mbps. In both cases, the access points maintained stable operation and consistent throughput, confirming their robustness and efficiency in handling high client density scenarios.

It’s important to note that in real world conditions, not all clients are actively transmitting data at the same time. Many devices remain connected but idle, which means the actual number of supported clients can be even higher than the active test numbers. This makes the Ibex series particularly well suited for busy trains, where passenger numbers and Wi-Fi usage fluctuate throughout the journey.

To ensure optimal performance and minimize contention, we recommend deploying multiple access points per carriage, a best practice in Wi-Fi network design for high density environments.

While our tests confirm that the Ibex-1510 and Ibex-3510 can easily handle the access side of the equation, the overall user experience ultimately depends on the available backhaul bandwidth. Whether using cellular or mmWave connections, it’s essential to provide sufficient backhaul capacity to match the capabilities of the onboard Wi-Fi infrastructure. With robust access points in place, the backhaul becomes the key factor in delivering fast, reliable internet to every passenger.

Both the Ibex-1510 and Ibex-3510 are engineered specifically for the demanding conditions of rail environments. Their proven ability to support high numbers of active clients, combined with rugged design and advanced wireless technology, ensures reliable connectivity on every journey.