TOP 11 Best Wireless Access Points in the UK in 2022 | Extend the Wireless Signal’s Range without Cables | Comparison & Buyer’s Guide
What is the best wireless access point? It can be a single-band (2.4 GHz), a dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), and a tri-band (one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands). The 5 GHz ensures more consistent and faster connections. Another distinguishing characteristic is the type of antenna — internal or external. Internal antennas are more suitable for indoor use while external ones are typically used in commercial environments. Also, access points can be controller-based or stand-alone. The former ones are pricier but more advanced. Controller-based access points provide centralized management, upgraded WPA2 encryption, configuration, and many more.
Wireless Access Points Compared
1. NETGEAR Orbi Mesh WiFi System | |
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2. Linksys Cloud Managed Wireless Access Point | |
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3. Ubiquiti Networks Unifi Access Point | |
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4. NETGEAR Wireless Access Point | |
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5. Securifi Almond Touchscreen Wireless Router | |
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6. TP-Link EAP225-Outdoor Omada AC1200 Wireless Access Point | |
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This buyer’s guide is the only thing you’ll need to choose the best wireless access point for your house or office. We’ll explain what a wireless access point is, how it works, how to properly configure Wi-Fi access points, and what to look for when shopping for one. The Top 6 Best Wireless Access Points are reviewed to aid you in your selection.
- What is a wireless access point and how it works?
- AP Technologies
- Advantages / Disadvantages of Wireless AP
- Product Functionalities
- Wireless Access Point Types/Features
- What to Look For When Shopping
- Top 6 Best Wireless Access Points
A wireless access point (AP) helps resolve issues related to slow, dropped, or non-existent Wi-Fi connections. It directly connects your Wi-Fi-enabled device(s) to a network. A wireless access point may be part of a wireless router or it can be a standalone unit that is connected to a router by high-speed Ethernet.
What is a wireless access point and how it works?
An access point expands the range of, and user connections to, an existing wireless network. It wirelessly connects devices to the LAN (local area network) through a high-speed Ethernet cable. The access point receives wired Ethernet data which is converted into a wireless signal that is sent onto wireless devices. Full Duplex Ethernet connections allow data to simultaneously flow in Receive and Transmit directions.
A wireless router generally provides sufficient WiFi coverage throughout an “average” sized house. A router used in conjunction with your access point extends the wireless signal’s range/coverage. This router-access point combination helps eliminate “dead zone” areas that have sporadic, weak, or no signal and/or coverage.
A wireless access point is not the same as a wireless router. It does not have a firewall or the ability to protect your LAN from Internet threats.
AP Technologies
MESH Technology – can connect home devices, businesses, or entire cities! Mesh technology provides a seamless Internet connection over wireless (mesh network) connection nodes. Devices or workstations (nodes) that are directly connected to each other exhibit full mesh topology. Partial mesh topology occurs when some nodes are directly connected to each other while others are only connected to those with which they exchange the most data.
MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) Antenna Technology – helps reduce the obstructive effects of scattered signals that increase errors and decrease wireless Internet and other digital communications’ data speed. Negative multipath wave transmission may be minimized by situating two (or more) antennas and several signal transmissions (one per antenna) at both the source and end.
PoE (Power over Ethernet) – is an efficient low-power long cabling technology that can transmit up to 100 meters. PoE minimizes electrical hazard risks due to its low power.
Advantages / Disadvantages of Wireless AP
A basic advantage of wireless access points is their ability to allow you to connect to the network without the need for cables. They can be installed wherever there is an Ethernet cable. They:
- allow you/your devices greater mobility,
- increase signal range and coverage, reducing dead zones, and
- allow homes and businesses to scale their network-supported connections.
The downside is the reduced security. Access points do not have firewall utilities. Your bandwidth may also decrease as you add more connections and devices.
Product Functionalities
Wireless Smart products (i.e.: “Alexa” and “Google Home” virtual assistants) connect to an access point that enables voice/Internet interaction via your WiFi network. Control of your home security, thermostat, lighting, and other features is instantly at your command.
Access point products may be for indoor or outdoor mounting and use. They also ensure communication software product compatibility, speed, and reliability. Dual-band access point products may offer small businesses simplified cluster management and expansion.
Wireless Access Point Types/Features
Single Band / Dual Band / Tri-Band
The (single, dual, or tri) wireless band frequency is how your data is transmitted. Commonly used band frequencies are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
A standard single access point/router uses a 2.4 GHz band. It can accommodate an estimated max of 30 different devices within an approximated 103-meter area. However, a single band is increasingly vulnerable to interferences from Bluetooth devices, cell phones, WiFi hotspots, and other electronics. Single-band is fast becoming a thing of the past.
Dual-band uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The 5 GHz allows faster and more consistent connections. Separate networks (i.e.: gaming and video) effectively operate simultaneously without interference.
Wireless tri-band uses one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands, which means less interference, more bandwidth, more device support, and the ability to dedicate certain devices to a particular band. For now, it is the future standard.
Internal / External Antennas
The efficacy of your access point signal depends on the type of antenna and your device’s power output. Internal antennas are better-suited for indoor installations. Most external antennas are built for commercial, industrial, taxing environments.
Access points come equipped with built-in antennas or RF (radio frequency) ports that allow you to connect external antennas that widen and improve your coverage.
Directional antennas are recommended for point-to-point communications. External Omnidirectional antennas provide wider (360 deg.) indoor/outdoor point-to-multi-point wireless signal coverage (Indoor: access points, Smart devices; Outdoor: cell towers, campuses). They are centrally-located external antennas that provide connectivity for home or business WiFi devices.
IEEE Standard
The IEEE Standard is the inter-access point protocol that supports wireless access point communications (roaming) between access points. The IEEE standard amendment modifies the IEEE 802.11 physical (PHY) and medium access control (MAC) layers to ensure power efficiency of at least one type of 20 Gps max. throughput operation is maintained/improved.
Controller-Based v. Stand-Alone Access Points
Stand-alone access points are good cost-effective solutions for small operations/businesses. Authentication is similar to controller-based access points, but stand-alone WEP encryption is weaker. Bandwidth and load balancing cannot be effectively controlled. They may be adapted to larger operations with the addition of centralized control wireless LAN management software.
Controller-based access points are more expensive than stand-alone access points, but they provide centralized management, upgraded WPA2 encryption, configuration, and policy setting, and firmware updates. Bandwidth and load balancing can be controlled.
Multiple Services (SSID)
A Service Set Identifier (SSID) can be used by multiple broadcasting access points. Multiple SSIDs can also be used by one access point. A device’s SSID connection signal passes to the network switch and onto a VLAN network that has specific security standards for accepting guest devices. There is a saturation point. Too many services flooding the WiFi can slow the system, however.
What to Look For
Features
The access point features to look for include mobility, certification standard, and individual WiFi elements such as the number and type of antennas (location, rotation, etc.), the band(s), PoE, MIMO technology, etc.
Range
The access point’s range is determined by its real-time wireless coverage, transmission rate, and connected devices. The scale depends on:
- physical obstacles, and environmental factors,
- network interfaces, traffic, and conditions, and
- client margins such as connectivity, location, frequency bands, MIMO, and protocol (i.e.: 802.11K and 802.11V) support.
The existing WiFi range may be extended. Repeaters that are wirelessly connected to WiFi routers increase the radio signal. The signal may also be reflected around a target area.
Speed
In general, the maximum speed indicated on your product’s box is only an estimate and does not consider your particular external factors such as location, physical obstructions, number of devices simultaneously connected, environmental conditions, etc.
Do not expect maximum speed while attaining maximum range. The speed of your WiFi devices depends on how far from your wireless access point they are. The further the range, the slower your WiFi speed tends to be. This may be important as you set up your hot spot. Similarly, your access point speed decreases the further it is from the router.
Wireless Security
Encryption is the best wireless security access points have. Access points do not have firewall features but current updated access points come with built-in encryption. First-generation stand-alone access points have WEP encryption that can easily be penetrated. Updated (2nd & 3rd gen) WPA and WPA2 encryption and strong password are more secure. RADIUS hot spot authentication is supported by some access points.
Top 6 Best Wireless Access Points | Reviews
Here, we’ll review the best six wireless access points currently available for purchase, cover their differentiating features, and give our personal recommendations. Prepare to spend around 100 dollars on the best devices. However, if you’re on a budget, don’t worry we have an option for you too. Read on to find out which one of those APs will work for you.
Ubiquiti Networks Unifi 802.11ac Dual-Radio PRO Access Point
The Ubiquiti AC Pro features 3x3 MIMO technology in 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz radio bands. It has 3x 3dBi, an omnidirectional antenna, and offers auto-sensing 802.3af PoE / 802.3at PoE+ compatibility that accommodates third-party enterprise data pass-through switches. It meets 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac WiFi standards and consumes 9W maximum power.
Recommendations:
The Ubiquiti AC Pro AP is weatherproof for indoor or outdoor wireless network installation. It works with hardware that complies with IEEE 802.3af PoE or 802.3at PoE+ standards. A 1-yr. the limited warranty is included.
Ubiquiti Networks Dual-Radio PRO: Check the current price
TP-Link Wireless N300 2T2R Access Point
The scalable TP-LINK N300 access point is designed to expand your wireless home, business, or commercial (café, hotel or airport) Internet experience. It has one 10/100/1000 PoE-supported Ethernet port. It also offers 5x the range and 15x the dynamic speed of wireless g (11g up to 54Mbps) and 11n and 11b (up to 300Mbps and 11Mbps respectively) on a 2.4GHz frequency. The TP-LINK N300 AP supports Multi-SSID, Client, Repeater (WDS / Universal), and Point-to-Point/Point to Multi-Point (AP+ Bridge) mode networks.
TP-LINK N300 access points feature DQPSK, DBPSK, OFDM, CCK, and 16-QAM/64-QAM technologies. It meets IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n, and IEEE 802.11b wireless access points. It has a 2x 4dBi, a detachable omnidirectional antenna suitable for stronger upgrades.
Recommendations:
The TP-LINK N300 AP is designed to connect numerous Ethernet-enabled devices for VoIP, gaming, and video streaming. A 1-yr. the limited warranty is included.
TP-LINK N300: Check the current price
TP-Link AC1750 Wireless Wi-Fi Access Point
The affordable TP-LINK AC1750 access point is an easy Ethernet 802.3at installation designed to work with MS Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, 8, or 10. It has one Gigabit PoE-supported Ethernet RJ-45 port. It provides dual-band data rate speeds up to 300Mbps and 867Mbps on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands respectively. Auto band-steering moves users to a faster, wider-band 5Ghz channel that is free of interference. It optimizes RF and guest authentication for business-level applications.
The TP-LINK AC1750 access point features 802.11AC 3x3 MIMO Wi-Fi technology. It has 6 omnidirectional antennas, 4dBi each. It is 802.3at PoE+ switch, 3 external 12VDC/1.5A, or 6-57V 0.4A compliant. MU-MEMO capability must be supported by MU-MIMO-supported devices. Seamless roaming must be supported by 802.11K and 802.11V protocol-supported access points and device(s).
Recommendations:
The TP-LINK AC1750 AP offers enterprise-class chipsets that support longer range and run times, performance, and scalability. A limited lifetime warranty, 24/7 tech support, and TP-Link Auranet Controller software that allows you to monitor/manage EAPs from a single location is included. It has a CA Proposition 65 warning.
TP-LINK AC1750: Check the current price
Securifi Almond - (3 Minute Setup) Touchscreen WiFi Wireless Router/Range Extender/Access Point
The multi-purpose Securifi Almond functions as a universal access point, WiFi wireless touchscreen router, wireless bridge, or existing range extender. It boasts an easy “3 Minute” touchscreen setup without the need for a computer or CD. It has 2 LAN ports and 1 WAN port, and provides a single-band data rate speed up to 300Mbps. A unique factory-set SSID and password provide router (anti-Google's Location Tracking) security.
The Securifi Almond Touchscreen requires a 5V., 1amp power supply. It has no DSL modem built-in. It features a firewall, port forwarding, DMZ, and UPnP and MIMO Wi-Fi technology, and 802.11bgn wireless compatibility. It has 2 external antennas. It supports voice-activated management including blocking, parental controls, and network notifications.
Recommendations:
The universal, easy-to-set up and use Securifi Almond is compatible with existing routers, PC/Macs, Apple and Android smart devices, Xbox, and Amazon Alexa. A 1-yr. limited warranty and 24/7 tech support are included.
Securifi: Check the current price
NETGEAR AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Access Point
The fast and reliable NETGEAR AC1200 (WAC 104) is a “no-frills” wireless WiFi access point that is well-suited for small businesses. It has four Gigabit Ethernet ports to extend/expand wired networks. The 802.11ac dual-band WiFi reaches data rate speeds up to 300Mbps and 867Mbps on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands respectively.
The NETGEAR AC1200 (WAC 104) access point features easy set up, configuration, and one-touch WPS (WiFi Protected System) connectivity technology in WDS Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint wireless bridge modes. It has 2 external, farreaching antennas that are factory-tuned at 3dBi each. It is compatible with AC, IPV6, and N150, N300, and N600 devices.
Recommendations:
The fast, low-maintenance, cost-effective NETGEAR AC1200 (WAC 104) has wide coverage and security, which makes it well-suited for cafes and coffee shops, dental offices, and other small businesses. A 3-yr. NETGEAR hardware warranty and lifetime (chat) tech support are included.
NETGEAR: Check the current price
Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC Lite - Wireless Access Point - 802.11 B/A/G/n/AC
Ubiquiti Networks’ AC Lite is an ultra-compact, reduced footprint, indoor, industrial access point design. It offers unlimited, single-controller, scalable WiFi enterprise management. It has one 10/100/1000 Ethernet port and provides dual-band speeds up to 300Mbps and 867Mbps on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands respectively. It optimizes radio frequency (RF). Band-steering pushes users toward a faster 5Ghz channel that is free of interference. The UniFi AC Lite AP supports four separate SSID/networks.
The Ubiquiti AC Lite access point features Wi-Fi 802.11AC technology. It has 2 dual-band antennas, 3dBi each. This AP offers WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA-Enterprise (WPA/WPA2, TKIP/AES security. It meets 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac WiFi standards, is CE, FCC, IC certified, and consumes 6.5W maximum power.
Recommendations:
The Ubiquiti AC Lite AP is a smaller-sized, cost-effective, high-performance solution for indoor wireless network installation. It optimizes RF and Ethernet Gigabit speeds. A 1-yr. limited warranty is included.
Ubiquiti: Check the current price
Best-Selling Wireless Access Points in the UK | Comparative Table
Customers' Choice
NETGEAR Orbi Wifi 6 Mesh System (RBK853) | Mesh Wifi 6 Router with 2 Satellite Extenders | WiFi Mesh Whole Home...
- BOOST YOUR CONNECTION: Orbi WiFi 6 Mesh is a Mesh WiFi system specially designed for large homes, with floors, thick walls, and ultra-connected homes where every user can enjoy the Internet seamlessly anywhere. Orbi WiFi 6 Mesh is the solution to finally use the maximum WiFi speeds of your super-fast cable / fiber internet connection without restrictions.
- TOTAL WIFI 6 MESH COVERAGE: Benefit from total WiFi 6 Mesh coverage up to 6,000 sq ft and 100 devices. Mesh WiFi technology helps you stay connected as you move around your home using a single mesh network name for whole home WiFi. Extend coverage up to 2,000 square feet with additional satellites (sold separately).
- ULTRA-FAST GIGABIT WIRELESS SPEED: AX6000 WiFi 6 mesh router powers up to 6 Gbps speed ensuring smooth video conferencing calls from home, watching Netflix videos in 4K HD with no interruption, gaming online with no lag, browsing and downloading at ultra-fast gigabit wireless speeds.
- WORKS WITH ALL INTERNET PROVIDERS: Replace your existing WiFi Router (separate modem or gateway required) and forget about inefficient WiFi extenders. Orbi WiFi 6 Mesh is compatible with any Internet provider including cable, satellite, fiber, DSL, and more.
- TRI-BAND BACKHAUL FOR STABLE WIFI: Orbi Tri-Band technology uses an additional third and dedicated radio band for communication between the mesh router base and satellites, thus freeing the other two bands for your devices; this guarantees you maximum WiFi bandwidth, stable speeds, and uninterrupted streaming for all your devices and all users simultaneously, anywhere in your home.
- EASY INSTALLATION AND QUICK SETUP: The Orbi app guides you step-by-step through setting up your WiFi system in minutes
- COMPATIBLE WITH ALL WIFI GENERATIONS: Orbi WiFi 6 Mesh systems are equipped with the latest WiFi 6 AX technology - compatible with all WiFi devices and also 100% downward compatible with older devices from previous WiFi generations.
- LOADED WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Developed with the latest technologies such as WiFi 6, MU-MIMO, OFDMA, Smart Connect for uniform WiFi name everywhere (single SSID), secure guest WiFi, beamforming for powerful WiFi signal with long range and more.
- ARMOR CYBER PROTECTION (by BitDefender): Protects an unlimited number of devices against viruses, malware, phishing & ransomware attacks (including a 30-day trial version)
- USE SMART VOICE ASSISTANTS: Supports various voice control commands with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (Alexa or Google device required)
Best Value
TP-Link TL-WA901N 450 Mbps Wireless N Access Point, Passive PoE Power Injector, 10/100M Ethernet Port
- 450Mbps wireless transmission rate brings smooth wireless N experience
- Supports multiple operating modes: Access Point, Range Extender, Multi-SSID and Client modes
- Easily setup a WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encrypted secure connection at a push of the WPS button
- Up to 30 meters (100 feet) of flexible deployment with included Power over Ethernet Injector
Most Popular
TP-Link EAP115(UK) N300 Wireless Ceiling Mount Access Point, Support PoE 802.3af and Direct Current, Easily Mount...
- Wireless speed up to 300 Mbps
- Free EAP controller software allows users to manage one single EAP to hundreds of EAPs
- Support Power over Ethernet (802.3af) for convenient and installation
- Simple mounting design to easily mount to a wall or ceiling
- Captive portal provides one convenient method of authentication for Wi-Fi guests
NETGEAR Wireless Access Point, SOHO Small Business, 11ac Dual Band , 300/867 Mbps (2.4/5 GHz) (WAC104-100UKS)
- Rock-solid dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi at up to 1.2 Gbps speeds, backward compatible with 11n devices
- Factory tuned external antennas provide high signal and far-reaching coverage
- Easy to set up and configure with simple and intuitive graphical user interface (Wi-Fi)
- Wi-Fi Protected System (WPS) button for easy one-touch connectivity and four built-in gigabit Ethernet ports to connect to PC, laptops and other wired devices
- NETGEAR 3 years warranty (including power adapter)
Best Budget
Ubiquiti Networks UAP-AC-LITE WLAN Access Point
- Designed for optimal RF performance - The newly redesigned Unifi Controller optimizes RF performance
- Spectral analysis - collects feedback on full 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi channel interference
- Band steering: pushes connected Wi-Fi clients to faster interference-free 5GHz channels
- Airtime fairness: minimizes problem-client effects on system performance by limiting their airtime access
- Powerful hardware- features the latest in Wi-Fi 802.11ac MIMO technology with Wi-Fi speeds up to 1200Mbps (300Mbps + 867Mbps)
Most Discussed & Reviewed
TP-Link Archer C50 AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Cable Router, Wi-Fi Speed Up to 867 Mbps/5 GHz + 300 Mbps/2.4 GHz,...
- Upgrades powerful 802.11 ac Wi-Fi technology to experience smoother HD streaming and online gaming, delivering up to 1200 Mbps of Wi-Fi speed over dual 5 GHz (867 Mbps) and 2.4 GHz (300 Mbps) bands
- Four fixed external antennas provide stable wireless connections and optimal coverage; 4 10/100 Mbps LAN ports and 1 10/100 Mbps WAN port
- Guest network and parental control: Keeps your main network secure by creating a separate guest network for visitors; restricts the access time and contents for children devices with parental control
- Easy setup and management with Tether App, available on any Android and iOS device
- Make secure wireless connection quickly and easily with the push of a WPS button
Best Trusted
TP-Link N300 Wireless Ceiling Mount Access Point, Support Passive PoE, and Direct Current, Easily Mount to Wall or...
- Wireless speed up to 300 Mbps
- Free EAP controller software allows users to manage one single EAP to hundreds of EAPs
- Supports passive PoE for convenient installation up to 100 m
- Simple mounting design to easily mount to a wall or ceiling
- Captive portal provides one convenient method of authentication for Wi-Fi guests
Best Cheap
TP-Link N300 Wireless Outdoor Access Point, Waterproof, Ideal for Garden Wi-Fi, Support Passive PoE, Flexible...
- Wireless speed up to 300 Mbps Wi-Fi with 2x2 MIMO technology
- Built for outdoor Wi-Fi applications, ideal for garden Wi-Fi
- Durable, weatherproof enclosure to withstand fair and foul weather. Interface: 1 10/100M Ethernet Port (RJ45)
- Secure access points to walls or poles with the mounting kits provided
- Free Omada Controller software allows users to manage one single EAP to hundreds of EAPs
- Outdoor provides stable wireless coverage at a range of up to 200 meters in outdoor settings
Other Popular wireless access points
TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 MU-MIMO Wireless Gigabit Cable Router, Wi-Fi Speed Up to 867 Mbps/5 GHz + 300 Mbps/2.4...
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi Supports 802.11ac standard, simultaneous 2.4 GHz 300 Mbps and 5 GHz 867 Mbps connections for 1200 Mbps of total available bandwidth
- Powerful Antennas: Four fixed external antennas and one internal antenna provide stable wireless connections and optimal coverage
- MU-MIMO achieves 2x efficiency by communicating with up to two devices at once
- Beamforming technology delivers wider wireless coverage, detects the location of your connected devices and concentrates Wi-Fi towards them to create stronger overall connections
- Guest network and parental control: Keeps your main network secure by creating a separate network for friends and visitors by creating guest network; set restrictions on internet access time and contents for children devices with parental control
- Easy network management at your fingertips with TP-Link Tether app, available on any Android and IOS devices
TP-Link AC1350 Wireless Access Point, Wi-Fi Dual Band with MU-MIMO, 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port Support...
- Fast Dual-Band Wi-Fi with MU-MIMO: Outfitted with the 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, the EAP225 easily delivers dual-band Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1350 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time (450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 867 Mbps on 5 GHz)
- PoE Support: EAP225 supports both 802.3af/at PoE and Passive PoE power supply, which can be either powered by a PoE switch or the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible
- Centralized Management: Cloud access and Omada app for convenient and easy management
- Secure Guest Network: Along with multiple authentication options (SMS/Facebook Wi-Fi/ Voucher, etc.) and abundant wireless security technologies. Support multiple SSIDs (up to 16 SSIDs, 8 for each band)
- Advanced Wireless Tech: Optimize network performance with MU-MIMO, Band Steering, Airtime Fairness and Beamforming technologies
- Seamless Roaming: Even video streams and voice calls are unaffected as users move between locations
- Local Technical Support: Contact TP-Link UK by hotline or email to get free technical support; contact Information can be found at TP-Link's website at Support Section
TP-Link TL-WA1201 Access Point Dual Band AC1200, Supports Passive PoE, Supports Access Point, Range Extender,...
- AC1200 Dual-Band Wi-Fi – 867 Mbps at 5 GHz and 300 Mbps at 2.4 GHz band.
- Flexible Deployment – Supports Passive PoE to carry electrical power and data simultaneously.
- Multiple Modes – Supports Access Point, Range Extender, Multi-SSID, and Client modes to meet any network needs.
- MU-MIMO Technology – Simultaneously transfers data to multiple devices for 2× faster performance.
- Boosted Coverage – Four fixed antennas equipped with Beamforming technology extend and concentrate the Wi-Fi signals.
How to Configure a Wireless Access Point
Use your wireless access point configuration settings to switch it (or your router) to repeater mode so the range of your wireless home or business network signal is increased.
1. Connect your Ethernet cable to your computer’s, laptop’s, etc. networking port.
2. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to one of the access point’s LAN ports.
3. Open your Web browser and type in the IP address of the access point. “Enter” to open the configuration page.
4. On the configuration page you’ll see configuration options that relate to the wireless access point’s functions. Click the "Wireless" tab. Click the "Repeater" tab on the "Mode" menu.
5. You may “Enable/Disable” your wireless access point functions or modify your other settings:
• “SSID” (Service Set Identifier) identifies the network. Access points have common defaults. Changing the default SSID only protects from first-grade hackers. Leave the default SSID at and apply better security measures.
• “Allow broadcast SSID to associate?” Disable this for greater security. Disabling prevents the access point’s periodic SSID broadcast that invites wireless devices within range to join your network.
• Set your “Channel” so your access point and all wireless network computer(s) are on the same channel.
• “WEP - Mandatory or Disable” allows you to use wired equivalent privacy security protocol.
6. Click "Save Settings" to complete your access point’s wireless repeater configuration.
FAQ
Is a wireless access point a router? Does it need to be connected to a router?
Wireless access points are not routers but may be incorporated into a wireless router. Others are standalone units connected via Ethernet to a router so other devices can access the connection.
Is a wireless access point secure?
No. It does not have firewall functions that protect your local network.
What is a wireless access point controller?
Controller-based access points are for larger operations. They provide centralized management, upgraded WPA2 encryption, configuration, and policy setting, firmware updates, and bandwidth and load balancing control.
Can these devices have the same SSID?
One SSID can be used by multiple broadcasting access points. Multiple SSIDs can also be used by one access point.
Can a wireless access point connect to a switch?
A device’s SSID access point connection signal passes to the network switch and onto a VLAN network that has specific security standards for accepting guest devices.
Why can't I connect to a wireless access point?
You need a router.
How to find wireless access point IP address?
Default IP addresses are listed on your access point’s box or sticker.
How to secure a wireless access point?
Encryption is the best wireless security access points have. WPA and WPA2 encryption and strong password are the most secure. RADIUS hot spot authentication is supported by some access points.
What is bridge mode?
Bridge mode allows you to connect multiple devices. Set up 2 WiFi routers: 1 as a router and 1 as a bridge (in bridge mode).
What is the best overall wireless access point?
From those reviewed: The scalable TP-LINK N300 access point is designed to expand your wireless home, business, or commercial (café, hotel or airport) Internet experience. It also offers 5x the range and 15x the dynamic speed of wireless g.
What is the best for home?
From those reviewed: The universal, easy to set up and use Securifi Almond is compatible with existing routers, PC/Macs, Apple and Android smart devices, Xbox, and Amazon Alexa.
What is the best for a business’ office?
From those reviewed: The NETGEAR AC1200 (WAC 104) is a “no frills”, cost-effective, fast, reliable, and low-maintenance wireless WiFi AP.
What is the best for 50 users? 500 users? 1000 users?
From those reviewed: Ubiquiti Networks’ AC Lite is an ultra-compact, reduced footprint, indoor, industrial AP design that offers unlimited, single- controller, scalable WiFi enterprise management.
What is the best for CCTV?
From those reviewed: The Ubiquiti AC Pro AP is weatherproof for indoor or outdoor wireless network installation and works with hardware that complies with IEEE 802.3af PoE or 802.3at PoE+ standards.
What is the best for school?
From those reviewed: The TP-LINK AC1750 AP offers enterprise class chipsets that support longer range and run times, performance, and scalability. It is an easy installation designed to work with MS Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, 8, or 10. It has one Gigabit PoE-supported Ethernet RJ-45 port.
What is the best wireless access point for gaming?
From those reviewed: The TP-LINK N300 AP is designed to connect numerous Ethernet-enabled devices for VoIP, gaming, and video streaming.
What is the best for a hotel?
From those reviewed: The TP-LINK AC1750 AP offers enterprise class chipsets that support longer range and run times, performance, and scalability. Free TP-Link Auranet Controller software allows you to monitor/manage EAPs from a single location.
Conclusion
A wireless access point is designed to expand the range and user connections to existing wireless network. It wirelessly connects devices to local area network via a high-speed Ethernet connection. Its goal is to successfully resolve slow, dropped, or non-existent Wi-Fi connections.
Technological advancements are constantly being made to overcome obstructed signal effects and encryption and security. IEEE standard amendments modify access control to ensure power efficiency and improved operation. Other improvements include improvements in antennas for better coverage, wireless band frequencies, product compatibility, and connectivity.