Hello everyone!
As technology advances, a variety of different devices help us access WiFi easily. These devices include wireless access points and wireless routers.
All of them provide us with WiFi services, but they run with different features, performance, and efficiency. Let's look at how these network devices differ in enhancing your Wi-Fi experience.
What Is a Wireless Router?
A router is a device that forwards Internet connections to all connected devices. As smart devices, routers are able to direct incoming and outgoing traffic on the network in an efficient manner.
A wireless router is a network device that performs a router function by wirelessly connecting a WiFi-enabled device (such as a laptop, a smartphone, or a tablet). For enterprise routers, support IPTV/Digital TV services and can be used for voice over IP (VoIP) calls. They also feature firewall and password protection to protect against potential threats outside the LAN.
What Is a Wireless Access Point?
A wireless access point, also known as a wireless AP or WAP, represents a network hardware device designed to function as a gateway. This gateway allows you to connect devices to the local area network. You can use wireless access points to extend the wireless coverage of your existing home network. In addition, you can use it to increase the number of users that can connect to your network.
Access point devices can be used as hotspots for all Wi-Fi devices. To transmit a signal through its built-in radio, you need to connect it to the router using an Ethernet cable.
There are two types of access points, stand-alone access points and access points used in conjunction with existing routers. You can use a standalone access point in a small office or large enterprise, or you can use a combined access point in your home.
Differences between the Wireless Router and the Wireless Access Point
Comparison | Wireless Access Point | Wireless Router |
Function | It provides a second centralized hub behind the router where multiple devices join to connect to the existing LAN. | It is a hub that creates a LAN and controls all devices and their communication with the router. |
Network Type | Broadcast your own network | Join both networks and create your own signal |
Suitable for | Home Networks and Large Enterprises | Home Networks and Large Enterprises |
Efficiency | Maintain network quality and expand user access | The network quality is maintained but can be adjusted but the efficiency is low. |
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