In today’s digital era, a stable and reliable WiFi connection is essential for seamless internet access, work productivity, and entertainment. While your existing router may provide basic connectivity, a dedicated WiFi access point (AP) can elevate your network performance and expand coverage throughout your home or office. Here, we have proposed a brief reference for how to choose access point based on your network requirements.
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ToggleA WiFi access point acts as a bridge between your wired internet connection and your WiFi devices. It receives data from your internet modem or router and broadcasts it as a wireless signal, allowing your devices to connect and access the internet. Here’s why an AP can be beneficial:
When it comes to enhancing your wireless network, it’s important to understand the differences between access points (APs) and WiFi routers. While both devices play crucial roles in establishing a reliable network, they serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you determine which device is best suited for your needs. Read More: Routers Vs Modems Vs Residential Gatevays
Functionality: A WiFi router combines the functions of a router and a wireless access point. It connects to your modem to provide internet access to all your devices, both wired and wireless. In addition to broadcasting WiFi signals, it routes data between your devices and the internet.
Key Features:
Use Cases:
Functionality: An access point is a dedicated device that connects to a wired network, such as a router or switch, to create a wireless local area network (WLAN). APs extend the coverage of an existing network and improve wireless connectivity in larger or complex environments.
Key Features:
Use Cases:
Here’s a comparison table for WiFi Routers and Access Points:
Aspect |
WiFi Routers |
Access Points |
Coverage |
Limited by the router’s built-in antennas and power. |
Can be placed strategically to provide extensive and seamless coverage across large or complex areas. |
Scalability |
Limited scalability; extending coverage usually requires additional devices like range extenders, which may not offer seamless connectivity. |
Highly scalable; easily add more APs to expand coverage without sacrificing performance. |
Network Management |
Basic management features suitable for home use. |
Advanced management capabilities, including centralized control of multiple APs, VLAN support, and detailed analytics. |
Performance |
Adequate for typical home use but may struggle with high-demand environments. |
Superior performance in high-demand environments, supporting more devices and higher data rates. |
Key Features |
– Integrated functionality (combines routing and wireless capabilities in a single device) – Ease of use (straightforward setup and use) – Basic network management (device prioritization, parental controls, guest networks) |
– Extended coverage (eliminates dead zones and provides seamless WiFi coverage) – Advanced features (MU-MIMO, beamforming, Wi-Fi 6 support) – Scalability (easily add more APs to expand coverage) |
Use Cases |
– Home Networks (ideal for households needing a simple, all-in-one solution) – Small Offices (suitable for small office setups with basic network management needs) |
– Large Homes (extensive WiFi coverage beyond a single router) – Commercial Spaces (businesses, schools, requiring robust, scalable networks) – High-Density Environments (conference centers, public venues with many simultaneous users) |
Wireless Protocol Compatibility: Ensure your AP supports the latest wireless protocols, such as Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, for the fastest speeds and most efficient data transmission.
Number of Devices: Consider the number of devices you plan to connect simultaneously. An AP with multiple antennas and a high-bandwidth processor can handle multiple devices and maintain a stable connection.
Coverage Area: Evaluate the size of your home or office space to determine the appropriate coverage range. APs with beamforming technology can focus signals towards specific areas, enhancing coverage in targeted locations.
User-Friendly Interface: Choose an AP with an intuitive and user-friendly interface that allows easy configuration and management of settings.
Security Features: Prioritize security by ensuring your AP supports WPA2 or WPA3 encryption protocols to safeguard your network from unauthorized access.
Beamforming Technology: Beamforming technology focuses signals towards specific devices, improving signal strength and reducing interference.
MU-MIMO: MU-MIMO allows an AP to simultaneously transmit data to multiple devices, enhancing overall network efficiency.
Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Support: PoE allows you to power the AP through your network cable, eliminating the need for separate power outlets.
VLAN Support: VLANs can segment your network, separating devices into different groups for enhanced security and network management.
As a Technical point of view, the WiFi brands are categorized in 4 levels, the Low-Level / Mid-Level / High-Level / CarrierClass-Level, you should choose the brand level based on your current and future requirements :
suitable for projects with up to 20 Access points and maximum of 100 -150 concurrent users. Commonly without a centralized management system or with a limited monitoring system.Commonly without a centralized management system or with a limited monitoring system.
suitable for projects with up to 80 Access Points and maximum of 150-300 concurrent users. Commonly they have a centralized management and monitoring system for Access Points, users and data streams. ( 4IPNet , EnGenius , Zyxel, Mercku,…
suitable for projects with up to 300 Access Points and maximum of 300-1000 concurrent users. They have a centralized security, management and monitoring systems. ( Cisco , Ruckus, Meru , Aruba , Mercku, Netronics, Huawei, …)
suitable for carrier and telecommunication projects with several hundred to thousands of Access Points and users. They have a centralized security, management and monitoring systems, with special kind of Load-Balancing and Fault-tolerance capabilities. ( Cisco , Ruckus, Aruba , … )
- Concurrent users mean the number of users that are connected to the WiFi system simultaneously and actively working. The number of concurrent users is different from users. You may have up to 500 users in your company with 100 concurrent users.
VoIP, Video, and Other Sensitive Applications
When selecting an access point (AP) to support sensitive applications such as VoIP, video streaming, and online gaming, it’s crucial to consider specific features and capabilities that ensure high performance, low latency, and reliable connections. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
VoIP Over WiFi
Low Latency:
Stability and Reliability:
Network Isolation:
Video Streaming Over WiFi
High Bandwidth:
Consistent Performance:
Strong Signal Coverage:
Online Gaming and Other Sensitive Applications
Low Ping and High Responsiveness:
Stable Connections:
Interference Management:
Quality of Service (QoS):
MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output):
Beamforming Technology:
Dual-Band and Tri-Band Support:
Power Over Ethernet (PoE):
Investing in a dedicated WiFi access point can transform your wireless connectivity, providing faster speeds, broader coverage, and greater flexibility. By carefully considering your needs and selecting an AP that matches your requirements, you can establish a robust and reliable wireless network that supports your daily digital activities. Embrace the power of advanced WiFi technology, and experience the seamless connection that your devices deserve.