What is an access point?

Key takeaways

• An access point (AP) connects wireless devices to a wired network.
• Wireless routers are consumer-grade devices that combine internet routing, Wi-Fi access, and firewall functionalities, while APs focus solely on Wi-Fi connectivity and do not handle routing.
• Access point functions include acting as a central hub in all-wireless networks, facilitating communication between wireless stations and extending network coverage.
• Modern APs support Wi-Fi 6/6E and upcoming Wi-Fi 7 for faster, more reliable speeds.
• Enterprise APs handle hundreds of devices with advanced WPA3 security.
• Multiple APs can create seamless Wi-Fi coverage across large spaces.

Introduction

Wireless connectivity is now as essential as electricity in homes and offices. Wireless access points are essential for providing wireless connectivity in homes and offices. Behind every reliable Wi-Fi network is a key device: the wireless access point. Understanding how APs work helps you choose and deploy the right equipment for fast, secure, and scalable wireless networking.

What is an access point?

An access point is a networking device that bridges wireless devices (phones, laptops, IoT sensors) to a wired local area network (LAN). It enables devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets to connect wirelessly to the network. It receives data from the wired network through an Ethernet cable and converts it into Wi-Fi signals — and vice versa — so devices can connect without physical cables.

Access points connect wireless devices to a wired network port using ethernet ports, bridging networked devices and allowing access to network resources.

While most home routers combine routing and Wi-Fi in one device, dedicated access points focus only on wireless connectivity. These APs support a variety of Wi-Fi devices and other devices, providing network access and the ability to connect to a wired network. Consumer APs typically support 10–50 devices; enterprise APs handle hundreds, offer centralized management, and provide stronger security.

How an access point works

An access point works by converting data from a wired network into wireless signals using one or more radios, each operating on different frequencies or standards. Access points use radio waves for radio communication to transmit and receive data over 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands. When a device connects, the AP authenticates it, manages bandwidth, and forwards traffic between wireless and wired parts of the network.

Proper placement and power output are crucial for achieving optimal performance and maximum coverage, as they directly affect signal strength and network reliability. Performance depends on placement, signal strength, and interference. Most indoor APs cover 100–300 feet; outdoor models can reach hundreds of meters.

Types of access points

• Root AP — Connects directly to the wired LAN and serves as the main wireless hub.
• Repeater AP — Extends coverage by retransmitting Wi-Fi signals (but may reduce speed).
• Bridge AP — Wirelessly links two separate networks or buildings.
• Non root bridge — Connects wireless access points to the wired network in bridging scenarios, establishing wireless links for data transfer.
• Workgroup bridge — Connects wired-only devices to a Wi-Fi network.
• Mesh network — Uses multiple access points to extend wireless coverage, eliminate dead spots, and connect multiple networks seamlessly.
• Standalone vs. managed — Managed APs (controller-based or cloud-managed) can be managed centrally by a wireless controller for streamlined setup and monitoring; standalone ones work individually.
• Commercial or industrial APs — Designed for large-scale, enterprise, or industrial environments, these APs support more devices, broader coverage, and advanced features such as support for additional wireless standards.

Benefits of using access points

• What an access point offers — Wireless connectivity, increased flexibility, mobility, and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously for seamless communication.
• Flexible installation — Reduce cabling by extending Wi-Fi instead of running Ethernet everywhere.
• Mobility — Users stay connected while moving across the coverage area.
• Scalability — Enterprise APs can support 100–500+ devices with proper capacity planning, supporting multiple devices simultaneously and allowing devices to connect seamlessly.
• Guest networks — Provide internet access to guests securely, separate from your main network.
• Centralized management — Easily monitor, configure, and update multiple APs.
• Advanced security — WPA3 encryption, 802.1X authentication, network segmentation, and support for faster speeds with the latest wireless standards.

Access point vs. router vs. Wi-Fi extender

Networking devices such as access points, wireless routers, and Wi-Fi extenders serve different roles in providing wireless connections for Wi-Fi devices. Understanding the differences between these devices helps you choose the best solution for your network needs.

Note: Using access points and wireless routers can eliminate the need for running ethernet cables throughout the home, as they provide wireless connections for multiple Wi-Fi devices.

Wireless standards & security

• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): Speeds up to 3.5 Gbps.
• Wi-Fi 6/6E (802.11ax): Faster, more efficient, supports 6GHz spectrum.
• Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be): Multi-gigabit speeds, ultra-low latency. Modern access points support the latest Wi-Fi standard to ensure improved compatibility, performance, and device interoperability. The introduction of the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard helped reduce inherent problems integrating products from different vendors, making wireless networks more reliable.
• Security: WPA3 is the newest encryption standard; WPA2 remains widely supported for older devices. It is important to configure security settings such as passwords and encryption during setup to protect your network. Enterprise setups may use 802.1X authentication and VLAN segmentation for added protection. The service set identifier (SSID) is the network name you configure on your access point to identify your wireless network.
• Many consumer access points are provided or managed by internet service providers, who play a key role in ensuring proper configuration and ongoing management of wireless networks.

Access point deployment

Deploying access points is a crucial step in building a high-performance wireless network. The process involves carefully positioning one or more access points throughout your space to ensure strong wireless coverage and a reliable wireless signal for all users. When planning deployment, consider the size and layout of your area, the number of devices to connect, and any physical obstacles that could block signals. Using multiple access points in a wireless local area network (WLAN) allows you to eliminate dead zones and provide seamless internet access across large or multi-story buildings. For best results, place access points in central locations, away from sources of interference, and ensure there is some overlap in coverage areas to allow devices to roam without losing connection. By optimizing access point placement, you can significantly improve network performance, support many devices simultaneously, and ensure that everyone enjoys fast, stable Wi-Fi throughout the local area network.

Access point management

Effective access point management is essential for maintaining a robust and secure wireless network. This involves configuring access point settings, monitoring network performance, and performing regular maintenance to ensure each access point is operating at its best. Network administrators can use web-based interfaces, command-line tools, or dedicated network management software to adjust settings such as SSID, security protocols, and wireless channels. When managing multiple access points, a wireless controller can be invaluable, allowing centralized configuration and monitoring from a single dashboard. This makes it easier to deploy updates, troubleshoot issues, and optimize wireless connectivity across the entire network. Security is also a key aspect of access point management—enabling strong encryption, updating firmware, and monitoring for unauthorized devices helps protect your network. By staying proactive with access point management, you can ensure reliable wireless connectivity and optimal network performance for all users.

Setting up an access point

1. Placement: Position APs centrally, away from thick walls or interference.
2. Power: Use Power over Ethernet (PoE) to simplify cabling. Network cables, such as ethernet cables, can be connected to network switches to provide both data and power to APs, making installation easier and reducing the need for separate power sources.
3. Configuration: Set SSID (network name), enable WPA3/WPA2 encryption, and choose the least congested channel. Configure APs to support smart devices, ensuring seamless connectivity for IoT and smart home gadgets.
4. Firmware: Keep it updated to ensure security and performance.
5. Testing: Check coverage with Wi-Fi analyzer tools and adjust placement or power output if needed for optimal coverage.

Troubleshooting common issues

Even with careful planning, issues can arise in any wireless network. Common problems with access points include weak wireless signals, limited wireless coverage, slow speeds, and devices struggling to maintain a stable connection. To troubleshoot these issues, start by checking access point settings such as the wireless channel and transmission power—adjusting these can help reduce interference and improve performance. Use network analysis tools and Wi-Fi scanners to identify sources of congestion or signal overlap. Physical barriers like thick walls or metal objects can also degrade the wireless signal, so consider repositioning access points for better coverage. Make sure all connected devices are configured correctly and that your access points are running the latest firmware to take advantage of the latest Wi-Fi standards. Upgrading to modern access points can also boost network performance and reliability. By systematically addressing these factors, you can resolve most connectivity issues and ensure your wireless network consistently provides fast, secure internet access to all connected devices.

FAQ

How many devices can one AP support?

‍Consumer APs: 10–50 devices. Enterprise APs: 100–500+, depending on specs and bandwidth. Access points serve as the central hub for connecting multiple wireless devices to the network.

What’s the range of a wireless AP?

‍Indoors: ~100–300 ft. Outdoors: several hundred meters with line-of-sight. Outdoor APs are specifically designed for rugged environments, ensuring reliable wireless internet connection even in challenging outdoor conditions.

Can I power an AP with Ethernet?

‍Yes — most modern APs support PoE or PoE+, eliminating extra power cables.

Do I need multiple APs?

‍For small homes/offices (< 2,000 sq. ft), one AP may suffice. Larger spaces or multi-story buildings need several APs or a mesh Wi-Fi access point setup to extend wireless internet connection across the local network for seamless coverage.

What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor APs?

‍Outdoor APs are weatherproof and built for long range; indoor APs focus on aesthetics and indoor performance. Access points aps are available in various types for different environments, including specialized models for both indoor and outdoor use.

Final thoughts

Access points are the backbone of reliable Wi-Fi networks — from homes and offices to large enterprise deployments. Choosing the right AP and setting it up properly ensures fast, secure, and scalable connectivity for today’s and tomorrow’s devices.