What is a wireless access point, and why do you need one?

What is a wireless access point (WAP)?

A wireless access point (WAP) is a network device that allows wireless gadgets — like laptops, smartphones, and tablets — to connect to a wired network. It links to a router or switch through an Ethernet cable, bridging the gap between the wired and wireless network connection types.

WAPs are used to provide Wi-Fi connectivity in large homes, businesses, educational institutions, and public spaces. They’re placed so the network covers the entire space, creating a wireless local area network (WLAN), commonly called a Wi-Fi network.

Wireless access point vs. other devices

WAPs are often confused with other networking devices, like wireless routers. Here’s a clear look at what sets a regular access point (AP) apart and why it’s a unique solution for boosting your network.

Wireless access point vs. wireless router

One thing a WAP is not is a router. So, what is a router? It’s a network device that connects multiple networks, such as your home network and the internet. It creates a local area network (LAN) and manages all its devices and communication.

Meanwhile, an AP simply provides wireless connectivity to an existing network. It doesn’t handle routing or network management — that’s the router’s job. Instead, a WAP acts like a bridge, extending the reach of the router and allowing more devices to connect to the LAN.

Wireless access point vs. Wi-Fi extender

A Wi-Fi extender does just what it says – it extends your Wi-Fi signal. It picks up the signal from your wireless router and boosts it to cover areas with weak or no signal.

In comparison, a WAP creates a new, extended wireless network that is linked to your router. This gives you dedicated connectivity, effectively expanding your network rather than just stretching an existing signal. It’s a better option when dealing with large areas that need consistent wireless coverage, such as offices or larger homes.

Wireless access point vs. repeater

A repeater is a simple signal amplifier. It takes an existing Wi-Fi signal and retransmits it to extend its reach. While this can improve coverage, repeaters sometimes halve your bandwidth because they need to rebroadcast each data packet.

A WAP works differently — it doesn’t just boost an existing signal. Instead, it creates a new connection point for wireless devices, providing a direct link. This setup improves overall performance, especially in large or heavily used networks.

Wireless access point vs. wireless bridge

The main difference between a WAP and a wireless bridge lies in their purpose. A wireless bridge connects two separate networks, using radio waves to create a seamless link between them. A WAP, on the other hand, acts as a hub for many wireless devices, connecting them to a wired network.

How do wireless access points work?

An AP connects to your wired LAN through a switch or router using an Ethernet cable. It then converts the data from the wired network into a wireless signal, allowing phones, tablets, and laptops to connect. It effectively creates a wireless local area network (WLAN).

When your device sends data, the WAP picks it up, converts it, and sends it back through the wired network to its destination, like the internet or another device on the same network. This process enables consistent, high-speed connectivity without physical cables.

Access point modes explained

WAPs are versatile and have different modes of operation, depending on what you need.

Root access point

A root AP is connected directly to your wired network and acts as the central hub for wireless connections. It’s the foundation for extending wireless coverage across your environment.

Repeater access point

In repeater mode, the AP boosts the range of your existing wireless network. It strengthens the signal, extending coverage to areas with weak or no reception.

Workgroup bridge

Access points in workgroup bridge mode connect to other APs as clients, creating a bridge for devices plugged into their Ethernet ports. This setup is great for areas where several devices need an internet connection but running direct cables isn’t practical.

Advantages of using wireless access points

Using WAPs offers several key benefits:

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  Enterprise vs. home use. WAPs are highly scalable, making them great for both business and home use. Companies deploy multiple WAPs to expand coverage throughout a large office, while homeowners use them to extend internet connection to every corner of their property.
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  Scalability and flexibility. Expanding a wireless network can be tricky if you rely solely on a router. With WAPs, scaling is simple — just add more as your needs grow. This makes them an excellent choice for environments where devices and users fluctuate.
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  Improved network performance. Shifting traffic from your router to access points reduces congestion and improves overall network performance. WAPs offer a dedicated connection, faster speeds, and more reliable coverage.

Drawbacks of using wireless access points

While WAPs offer numerous benefits, they also have some drawbacks:

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  Potential security issues. Wired networks often rely on physical access control for security, but adding connected WAPs changes the game. Anyone within an unsecured AP’s range can access your network. If not properly configured with strong encryption, WAPs will leave you open to cybersecurity threats.
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  Range limitations. While a WAP provides a better range than a standard router, its coverage isn’t infinite. Depending on the building materials, walls and floors can block or weaken the internet signal. Multiple APs may be necessary to achieve full coverage in larger spaces or areas with complex layouts.
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  Compatibility with legacy devices. Older devices sometimes struggle to connect to WAPs that use the latest standards, like Wi-Fi 6. When setting up WAPs, consider the range of devices on your wireless network to ensure smooth operation for all users.

Wireless access point use cases

WAPs are key to expanding and improving network coverage in both homes and businesses. They eliminate dead zones, handle multiple devices, and deliver reliable connections. Here’s how WAPs are commonly used in different settings.

Home networking

In homes, WAPs are a great way to extend network reach. If certain rooms or outdoor areas like the yard have weak signals, a WAP fills those gaps and provides strong connectivity across the entire space. This is especially helpful in households with multiple devices that need a stable connection for streaming, gaming, or remote work.

Business applications

WAPs are used in office environments, letting employees stay connected without slowdowns or interruptions. Larger enterprises often use multiple WAPs across floors or buildings, creating a seamless WLAN that supports many devices. This setup is great for video conferencing, working with cloud-based tools, or running other bandwidth-heavy tasks.

Addressing common wireless access point issues

Wireless Access Points (WAPs) sometimes encounter issues. Here are some common problems and ways to address them:

• Intermittent connectivity: This may be caused by interference from other devices, network congestion, or temporary glitches. Adjust the WAP’s placement, tweak the Wi-Fi channel to reduce interference, or restart the WAP and connected devices.
• Low signal strength: Signal strength can be impacted by physical obstructions or the distance between the device and WAP. Try moving the WAP to a central, open location or use signal extenders to improve coverage.
• Devices cannot connect to the WAP: Incorrect setup or incompatible devices can cause connection problems. Ensure the correct Wi-Fi password is used and verify compatibility with the WAP’s frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
• Slow network speeds: Congested networks or interference can reduce speeds. Adjust Quality of Service settings and upgrade outdated equipment.
• Frequent disconnections: Overheating, interference, or outdated firmware might lead to frequent disconnections. Check for firmware updates, ensure proper ventilation for the WAP, and minimize interference by adjusting its placement.

Wrapping up on WAP

WAPs play a key role in modern networking, providing the flexibility, scalability, and performance needed for both homes and businesses. Whether you’re building a network from scratch or expanding an existing one, knowing how WAPs work helps you create a reliable, seamless wireless setup that suits your needs.

FAQ

How to set up a wireless access point

Setting up a WAP is simple. Start by connecting it to your router with an Ethernet cable. Configure the WAP settings using your computer, and it will start broadcasting the wireless signal. Then, position it in a location that maximizes coverage. The manufacturer usually provides detailed setup instructions.

Can I use multiple WAPs in my home?

Yes, you can use multiple WAPs in your home to ensure full coverage, especially in larger homes or buildings with thick walls that may block wireless signals.

Do WAPs support all wireless devices?

Most modern WAPs support all types of devices that use compatible wireless standards. However, an older device may not support newer technologies like Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster data transfer and other benefits.

How can I secure my WAP?

Securing your WAP involves setting a strong password, keeping the firmware updated, and using WPA3 encryption (learn more about WPA2 vs. WPA3). Limiting network access to only known devices and turning off remote management also help secure your WAP. Choosing the most secure Wi-Fi router you can find also goes a long way.

What is the range of a typical WAP?

The range of a typical WAP depends on the model and environment. A WAP may cover up to 150 feet indoors, while some outdoor models extend to 1,000 feet. Walls, floors, and other obstacles can reduce the effective range, so placement is key.