What is access point

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You're in! Thanks for signing up. There was an error. Tell us why! More from Lifewire. Wireless Access Point vs. Wireless Application Protocol. Understanding Infrastructure Mode in Wireless Networking. Definitions and Examples of Wireless Technology.

The 8 Best Powerline Network Adapters of Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Lifewire. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. Share this page:. Difference Between Access Point and Router The unbelievably rapid advancement of computer technologies has brought humanity a multitude of devices, appliances, and gadgets.

In fact, there are so many different types and categories of computer equipment that it can be very easy for regular consumers to get confused by the subtleties of each device or gadget.

One of the questions that our technical experts at LigoWave are frequently asked is what is the difference between an access point and a router.

The fundamental differences between these two devices are quite simple, but there are other minor, yet still important, distinctions. What is a Router? A router is a network device that serves two primary functions: 1 it connects multiple computers, phones, tablets, or other devices to form a managed local area network, and 2 it provides Internet access to all of the compatible devices that are connected to the router.

A local area network LAN can be set up by simply deploying a router and connecting one or several devices to it. Modern routers allow users to connect devices both via Ethernet cables or wirelessly using Wi-Fi. What is an Access Point? An access point is a wireless network device that acts as a portal for devices to connect to a local area network. Access points are used for extending the wireless coverage of an existing network and for increasing the number of users that can connect to it.

A high-speed Ethernet cable runs from a router to an access point, which transforms the wired signal into a wireless one. Wireless connectivity is typically the only available option for access points, establishing links with end-devices using Wi-Fi.

Other Functions. Other than providing a platform for various devices to communicate amongst each other, routers also have firewall and password protection functionality. This ensures that the connected wireless devices are protected against any threats that may arise from outside of the local area network. Using a WAP lets you create a wireless network within your existing wired network, so you can accommodate wireless devices.

You can also use a WAP or mesh extenders to extend the signal range and strength of your wireless network to provide complete wireless coverage and get rid of "dead spots," especially in larger office spaces or buildings.

Additionally, you can configure the settings of your WAPs using a single device. In this configuration, an access point is connected directly to a wired LAN, providing a connection point for wireless users. If more than one access point is connected to the LAN, users can roam from one area of a facility to another without losing their network connection.

An access point or mesh extender can be configured as a standalone repeater to extend the range of your infrastructure or overcome an obstacle that blocks radio communication. The repeater forwards traffic between wireless users and the wired network by sending data to either another repeater or an access point that is connected to the wired network. The data is sent through the route that provides the best performance for the client.

Access points can be configured as root or non-root bridges to join multiple networks. An access point in this role will establish a wireless link with a non-root bridge.

Traffic is then passed over the wireless link to the wired network. Access points that are in workgroup bridge mode can "associate" to other access points as clients and provide network connections for devices connected to Ethernet ports. For example, if your business needs wireless connectivity for a group of network printers, you can connect the printers to a hub or a switch, connect the hub or switch to the access point Ethernet port, and configure the access point as a workgroup bridge.

The workgroup bridge will then "associate" to an access point on your network. In an all-wireless network, an access point acts as a standalone root unit. It is not attached to a wired LAN. Instead, the access point functions as a hub that links all stations together. It serves as the focal point for communications, increasing the communication range of wireless users.