One of the key components in creating a robust network and a reliable WiFi network is the wireless access point (WAP) . But what exactly is a wireless access point, and how is it different than other devices such as a wireless router?
Understanding Wireless Access Points
A wireless access point, often simply called an AP (Access Point) or WAP, is a device that extends a wired network into wireless signals, allowing wireless devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets to connect to it.
Unlike a typical consumer router, which combines several functions (routing, switching, and wireless access) into one device, a WAP only provides wireless connectivity.
Key features of Commercial WAP’s
Some of the main distinguishing features between a consumer wireless access point and enterprise grade access point include:
Centralised Management
Many access points allow for centralized management, meaning network administrators can monitor and control all network equipment of the same brand from a single interface. This functionality is invaluable as it provides instant oversight of the health of the network, performance, security and ability to troubleshoot issues.
An example of this is the Ubiquiti Unifi and Cisco Meraki web interface and eco-systems of networking equipment
Scalability
For any network larger than a home office, scalability is a huge factor of hardware choice. Most commercial AP’s are designed to scale into the thousands if not tens of thousands of device to meet the demands of enterprise
This differs from most consumer home wireless routers which may cause conflicts if additional wireless access points are added.
Examples of scalability in action include
- Ability to seamlessly handover the wireless connection to the next Access Point if you are walking through a building
- Easy process to add new access point into the system as the network grows
- Access Points are aware of the neighbours and will optimise themselves (change channels, adjust power) to ensure a well performing reliable network
- Straight forward process to upgrade access points when the hardware is end of life
Enterprise Features
Several features found on proper Wireless Access Points include:
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): Ability for the access point to be powered over the network cable using a PoE Switch instead of a power pack
- 802.1X (Radius): individual (user) authentication for each device connecting to a network, unlike a shared key system where all devices use the same static key for access
- Advanced signal processing: Ability to perform well in high density environments such as classrooms, conference halls and offices with hundreds of connected clients
- Multiple SSID’s: Access points can broadcast multiple network names and networks
- Support VLAN: Traffic from multiple networks can be communicated securely through the device
- 2.5gb/s or multiple Uplinks: Increased multi-user performance and fully leverage the latest wifi technologies
- RF Spectrum Analyzer: Ability to detect interference, jamming and intentional attacks
