What potential cause of network issues should a network administrator check when employees report slow internet speeds near fluorescent lights?

When employees report slow internet speeds near fluorescent lights, it is crucial for a network administrator to consider electromagnetic interference as a potential cause of network issues. Fluorescent lights can emit electromagnetic fields that may disrupt the operation of network equipment and the signals being transmitted over wireless networks. This interference can particularly impact wireless connectivity, leading to slower speeds and connectivity issues for devices operating in proximity to these light sources.

Fluorescent lights are known to produce radio frequency interference (RFI) which can interfere with the radio waves used in wireless communications. When a network environment includes devices that operate on similar frequencies to the interference produced by fluorescent lighting, it can degrade performance and result in slow speeds experienced by users. By diagnosing the presence of such interference, a network administrator can make adjustments, like relocating access points or using shielding techniques, to mitigate the impact on network performance and improve overall speed for users.