Wireless access points (WAPs or APs) are essential networking devices that facilitate the connection of Wi-Fi devices to a wired network. They enable the formation of wireless local-area networks (WLANs), providing seamless connectivity for a multitude of devices.
An access point serves as a central hub for transmitting and receiving wireless radio signals. It is commonly used in homes, public internet hotspots, and business networks to provide wireless connectivity for mobile devices. The access point can be integrated into a wired router or used as a standalone router.
What Is the Purpose of a WAP?
Stand-alone access points are compact physical devices that bear a striking resemblance to home broadband routers. In the realm of home networking, wireless routers are equipped with built-in access points and can seamlessly work in conjunction with stand-alone WAP units. Whenever you connect to the internet using a tablet or laptop, the device relies on an access point, whether it is a separate device or integrated within the hardware, to establish an internet connection sans the need for a physical cable.
Numerous well-known vendors of consumer Wi-Fi products produce access points. These access points enable businesses to provide wireless connectivity by running an Ethernet cable from the access point to a wired router. WAP hardware comprises radio transceivers, antennas, and device firmware.
Wi-Fi hotspots commonly utilize one or more wireless access points (WAPs) to provide coverage for Wi-Fi networks. In business environments, WAPs are typically deployed throughout office areas. While most homes only require a single wireless router with a built-in access point to cover the physical space, businesses often require multiple WAPs. Determining the optimal locations for WAP installations can be challenging, even for network professionals, as it requires ensuring even coverage with a reliable signal.
Use Wi-Fi Access Points
In the rare case that the current router does not support wireless devices, you can expand the network by incorporating a wireless access point (WAP) instead of adding a second router. Businesses have the option to deploy multiple WAPs to provide Wi-Fi coverage in an office building. Access points facilitate Wi-Fi infrastructure mode networking, enabling seamless connectivity.
While Wi-Fi connections do not technically necessitate the use of WAPs, they play a crucial role in expanding the reach and accommodating a larger number of clients. Contemporary access points can support up to 255 clients, a significant improvement compared to the mere 20 that older ones can handle. Additionally, WAPs offer bridging capabilities, enabling local Wi-Fi networks to seamlessly connect with other wired networks.
Advantages of Wireless Access Point (WAP):
More User Access
- Typically, a wireless router enables 10 to 20 users or devices to connect to the network, whereas a WAP can accommodate 50 to 100 or even more users or devices accessing the network.
- The WAP boasts a superior signal transmission and reception capability, resulting in enhanced performance for high usage scenarios.
Broader Transmission Range
- A wireless router can provide signal coverage of up to 10-12 meters, while a wireless access point can cover a much larger area of 100-300 meters.
- The wide coverage provided by this wireless access point is ideal for large office spaces or buildings, especially for bigger businesses. It enables users to seamlessly roam within the network, ensuring convenient connectivity.
Flexible Networking
- Wireless networking, outside of residential settings, typically encompasses numerous wireless devices and diverse networking configurations tailored to commercial environments and specific requirements.
Mobility
- Users have the freedom to move around while maintaining seamless connectivity to the network.
ADD Communications: Wireless Access Point Solutions
ADD Communications offers cabling for wireless access points for businesses. Our cabling solutions ensure the robust performance of your wireless network, providing high-speed connectivity to support all your business needs. We offer full-service installation and maintenance for wired and wireless networks, including access points. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
