Access Point

What Is an Access Point

An access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network, or WLAN, usually in an office or large building. The access point is connected to a cable router, switch, or hub via an Ethernet cable, and projects a Wi-Fi signal to the specified area. For example, if you want to enable Wi-Fi access in your company’s reception area but don’t have a router within range, you can install Access points near the front desk and run Ethernet cables through the ceiling back to the server room.

Advantages of Using Wireless Access Points

When you have employees and guests connected to desktops, laptops, cellphones, and tablets, 20 devices on a wireless network add up quickly. On each of the 60 simultaneous connections, the access point gives you the freedom to measure the number of devices supported on your network. But that’s only one of the advantages of using these network enhancements – consider the following:

Business class access points can be installed anywhere you can run an Ethernet cable. The newer models are also compatible with Power over Ethernet Plus, or PoE + (a combination of Ethernet and power cables), so there is no need to run separate power lines or install outlets near access points.

Additional standard features include Captive Portal support and Access Control List (ACL), so you can restrict guest access without jeopardizing network security, and manage users easily on your Wi-Fi network.

Certain access points include the Clustering feature – a single point where IT administrators can view, deploy, configure and secure Wi-Fi networks as a whole rather than a series of separate access point configurations.