An access point (AP) is a networking device used in a wireless local area network (WLAN) as an interface between wireless-capable devices and a wired network.
Essentially its the device that permits wireless devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets to connect to a wired network infrastructure facilitating communication and data transfer and ensuring seamless connectivity.
An access point (AP) primarily functions to enhance a wired network by enabling wireless devices to link up, thus either establishing or expanding a wireless local area network (WLAN). It acts as a conduit connecting wired networks to wireless users. Access points are especially useful in expansive environments such as office buildings, educational institutions, and other large structures where a single router may not adequately deliver wireless coverage across the entire premises. These devices are pivotal in bolstering network reach and offering a consistent wireless connection point, which in turn improves network performance and ease of management. Through a connection to the wired network using an Ethernet cable, access points are capable of emitting a robust and dependable Wi-Fi signal to specific areas. This functionality not only optimizes the efficiency of network traffic management but also enhances security measures, making access points a vital asset in densely populated professional settings.
A router and an access point serve different but complementary roles within a network setup.
A router is a device that connects multiple networks together, such as connecting your home network to the internet. It acts as the central dispatcher, managing and directing the flow of data between these networks. A router assigns local IP addresses to each device on the network and performs network address translation (NAT) to allow all devices to share a single IP address when accessing the internet. Most importantly, a router provides a firewall to protect the network from external threats and can handle wired or wireless connections directly.
An access point, on the other hand, is primarily focused on extending the wireless coverage of a network. It connects to a router or switch via an Ethernet cable and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to a designated area. This allows wireless devices to connect to the network where the router’s own wireless capabilities are insufficient or absent. Access points are used to expand the reach of the network within a building or across a campus to ensure consistent coverage without requiring devices to connect directly to the router.
In summary, while a router can function independently to provide network access and routing capabilities, an access point is used to extend the wireless reach of an existing network, helping to ensure comprehensive coverage and connectivity for all devices within a larger area.
An access point does not necessarily need to be directly wired to a router to function properly. However, it typically needs to be connected to the local area network (LAN) that the router is also connected to. This connection can be achieved in a couple of ways. The most common setup involves connecting the access point to an active Ethernet port that is part of the network managed by the router. This Ethernet port could be directly on the router or could be located elsewhere on the network, such as a wall port that is wired back to the router or a network switch. This wired connection helps in maintaining a stable and fast communication link for the transfer of data between the access point and the network. Alternatively, some modern access points have the capability to connect to the network wirelessly, using a technology called Wireless Distribution System (WDS) or similar methods that allow the access point to function as a repeater or range extender. This method uses the wireless signal from the router to establish a network link without the need for a physical Ethernet connection. However, this setup might reduce the bandwidth and increase the latency compared to a wired connection. Therefore, while an access point can function without a direct wire to the router, a wired connection is generally recommended for optimal performance and reliability.
