A wireless access point is a networking hardware device which is used to connect Wi-Fi devices to a network. It can be an integral part of a router, or it can be a standalone piece of hardware that is designed to offer connectivity to wireless devices. There are a number of benefits associated with using a wireless access point, including convenience, speed and cost savings.

For many businesses and homes, wireless access points have become an essential tool for the digital transformation. These wireless connections can provide high-speed internet access to smart phones, laptops, tablets and other electronic devices. They are also a great alternative for those who aren’t able to use an Ethernet cable.

Typically, a wireless AP can support hundreds of wireless users. This makes it an ideal solution for a range of different types of business and home applications, such as restaurant networks, open-air shopping centers and pools. However, they can also be expensive, depending on the size of the enterprise. As technology continues to develop, AP prices may fall.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a wireless access point for your network, it’s important to understand how they work and why they are necessary. Wireless APs don’t suffer from the common Wi-Fi coverage blind spots that affect other wireless routers. They can also help you manage the number of people who are connected to the network. Additionally, they can be managed centrally, which allows for better efficiency.

An access point will also provide you with a wired connection if you need it. A cable is easier to maintain and can be troubleshooted easily, but it does not have as many capabilities as a wireless AP. Furthermore, a cable is often tethered to an outlet, which can limit your options.

Another benefit of a wireless access point is that it can be moved to cover your entire home. This allows you to roam around your house without having to worry about losing your connection. And it can even be used to add wireless connectivity to a smart TV.

One of the most important things to remember when purchasing a wireless access point is to make sure that the device is secure. Ideally, the wireless SSID name of the device will be a mix of letters, numbers and special characters. In addition, the SSID should have a minimum of WPA2 encryption and AES. Also, be sure that your default credentials are changed if you are planning on allowing remote administration.

While most of the wireless APs are equipped with a logging feature, the granularity of the logging does not always provide enough information for an effective audit. Often, you will want to use a more powerful device, such as a wireless IDS/IPS, to monitor suspicious activity.

Depending on your needs, there are a variety of models available. You can choose from indoor or outdoor units, as well as dual-band and single-band models. Each of these is able to offer gigabyte speeds at various distances.