There is a lot of uncertainty about the function of a modem, a router and an access point, or Wireless Access Points (WAP). All three of these devices are needed to connect computers, tablets, smartphones and the like to the internet. The modem connects to the internet via ADSL, fiber optic or TV cable. The router is a kind of traffic controller that ensures that traffic from different computers is routed properly via the modem to the Internet. Computers and laptops are connected to a router with a network cable. With an access point, devices can be connected wirelessly to the router.
Where can you find access points?
A WAP is always used in combination with a router and a modem. Very often modem, router and access point are combined in one device. Almost everyone has such a combined device in the meter cupboard at home. Separate access points are less common in homes. They are used to strengthen the WiFi signal when that signal is weakened by thick walls and ceilings. Separate access points can also be found at companies. With a WAP they can give their employees flexible access to the company network and the internet anywhere on the premises.
When is a WAP necessary?
It makes sense to purchase an additional WAP if the WiFi signal often drops out or if the connection is very slow. The access point is placed somewhere in the middle of the home and amplifies the original WiFi signal. This can greatly improve the internet connection. Companies purchase additional access points if the sites cover a large area. Another reason for companies to install access points is that they want to give visitors access to their network. With a WAP this can be done very easily and it is also possible to set exactly where a visitor is and is not allowed to visit.
Inside and outside
An access point in a home is normally placed indoors. There are professional outdoor access points for companies with large areas. They continue to do well in all weather conditions. These professional access points serve large numbers of users simultaneously. The throughput speed of these WAPs is very high, up to more than 2,500 Mbps. Those speeds are not necessary for small businesses and home use. There, the number of users is so limited that a speed of 300 Mbps is more than sufficient. Investing in higher speed does not make sense here anyway, because the connection speed of the modem to the internet is the limiting factor.
Various authentication options
Access Points essentially do nothing more than connect wireless devices to the router. The router distributes the IP addresses, controls data traffic and ensures that there is an internet connection. Access Points do play a role in the security of the connection. The network administrator can set how this is arranged. He can decide that his network is accessible to everyone. Then everyone can see the network name (SSID) and no code needs to be entered. So everyone can use the internet. Such an open WAP can be found in public buildings and on trains. If the network or parts of the network are accessible to a limited group of users, authentication is used. The WiFi signal is then encrypted with encryption keys based on WEP or WPA. Without that key the network is not accessible. Users who do have access to the network will have access to that key. In advanced networks, the security key is distributed automatically. As soon as someone logs in, the WAP encryption is automatically assigned via the Windows Active Directory or by means of a hardware identification key.
Access management
WAPs therefore provide WiFi and network security. At home they prevent unauthorized persons from accessing the internet via your connection. But with this form of authentication, rights can also be assigned to the different users. For example, a 'guest' may only have access to the Internet via a corporate network, and may be allowed to print. 'Employee 1' is working on a project and only has access to the documents that belong to it. And 'employee 2' is a member of the management and has full access to all information. This access management can only be achieved with a good authentication policy via the access points.
Sufficient radio frequencies
Wifi is radio signal. If you are looking for an access point, it is good to find out which radio signals are used. WiFi has two different frequencies: 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz. A WAP can be suitable for either or both frequencies. The latter is preferred, because it improves throughput speed. A frequency can be compared to a lane for cars. A WAP with both frequencies can be compared to a two-lane highway. Just like with cars, network traffic also flows faster with two lanes (frequencies).
What should you pay attention to?
If you want to buy an access point, you must ensure that both frequency bands are supported. This is called a dual band WAP. Another aspect is the speed. For normal use in a home with four people, a speed of 100 to 300 Mbs is more than sufficient. But if you regularly work with many people at the same time or often watch films online, it is important to pay sufficient attention to speed. Keep in mind that the total speed depends on more factors and do not forget to take the performance of the router and modem into account.
Buy an access point online
Mediawinkel.eu has WAPs to increase the range of WiFi at home and WAPs that allow companies to better regulate their accessibility. The different access points can be easily compared in the webshop. If you need help with this, customer service can provide good advice. Mediawinkel.eu has access points from all well-known brands for attractive prices. Thanks to lucrative discount promotions, you can take advantage of great offers. Delivery is fast: as soon as your order has been placed, the shipping process will start. This means you will have your WAP at home in the foreseeable future.
