What is a wireless access point?

Why use a WAP to set up a wireless network?

Wireless access points are key to providing wireless connectivity in various settings, including homes, offices, educational institutions, and public places. They eliminate the need for physical cables, offering flexibility and convenience. When a wireless device wants to connect to a network, it communicates with the closest WiFi access point. The WAP receives the signal and transmits it to the wired network, thereby establishing a connection. This access point acts as a bridge, converting the wireless signals into wired signals and vice versa.

Wireless access points come with numerous benefits. They extend coverage, allowing devices to connect from a greater distance compared to a router alone. They enhance network performance by distributing the workload among multiple access points, reducing congestion and ensuring a stable connection. They also offer advanced security features, such as encryption protocols, to protect the network from unauthorized access. Moreover, they enable seamless roaming, allowing devices to switch between access points without interruptions.

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.

Whether for personal use or businesses, wireless access points provide the necessary connectivity and flexibility to keep devices connected and productive.

Common types of access point configurations

Root access point

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.

Repeater access point

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.

Bridges

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.

Workgroup bridge

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.

Central unit in all-wireless 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.

Key benefits of upgrading to WAPs

WAPs are a more convenient, secure, and cost-efficient alternative to using wires and cables to connect every computer or device in your network. And using WAPs to set up a wireless network can provide many advantages and benefits for your small business. For one, a wireless network is more convenient to access. Adding new users is a lot less complicated, too. And you can easily provide Internet access to guest users by giving them a password to access your wireless network securely.

Also, you can easily segment users, including guests, to help protect your network resources and assets.

Setting up and configuring wireless access points

Installing and configuring a wireless access point can be a breeze with our step-by-step guide. Before you begin, ensure you have a WiFi access point compatible with your network. Choose a central location for the access point for maximum coverage. Connect the access point to your network using an Ethernet cable.

Once installed, configure the access point settings for optimal performance. Create a unique network name (SSID) and secure it with a robust password. Adjust the wireless channel and transmission power to minimize interference and maximize coverage.

Enable features such as WPA2 encryption, MAC address filtering, and guest networks to enhance security. Advanced settings offered by your access point can further customize its performance to suit your specific requirements.

If you encounter connectivity problems, ensure the access point is properly connected to the network and power source. Check for interference from other networks and adjust the channel if necessary. If issues persist, try resetting the access point to its factory settings and reconfiguring it. Consult the manufacturer's documentation or online resources for specific troubleshooting steps related to your access point model.

By following this guide, you'll be able to install and configure your wireless access point with ease. Regularly updating the firmware will provide the latest security enhancements and performance improvements. Enjoy seamless wireless connectivity throughout your network!

Preparation for the future

When you invest in WAPs that feature future-ready modularity, you are helping to ready your IT infrastructure to support next-generation technologies.

WAPs that meet the new Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) standard, for example, can help you build a reliable, scalable, and secure wireless network to handle the rapidly growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices—and the data that those devices will create.