Access Points: Features, Capabilities, and Specifications

In this section, we’ll focus on access points (APs) and their role in wireless LANs (WLANs). An access point is a critical component in a wireless network, serving as a bridge between wired and wireless networks. We’ll discuss the features, capabilities, and specifications of access points, using two examples from different vendors to give you a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics and performance.

What is an Access Point?

An access point connects wireless devices to a wired network, allowing them to communicate with the Internet and each other. By extending a network’s wireless coverage, access points serve as a bridge between the wired network and the wireless devices within a specific area. Access points operate on various bands and frequencies, which affect the range and speed they provide. Their capabilities depend on a variety of specifications, including supported frequencies, antenna gain, supported protocols, and more.

Types of Access Points: Indoor vs. Outdoor

Access points come in two primary types: indoor and outdoor. Indoor access points are designed for enclosed spaces, such as homes, offices, and hotels. They typically have lower antenna gain, as they do not need to cover large distances. Many indoor APs have built-in antennas, minimizing the need for external ones.

Outdoor access points, on the other hand, are built to handle environmental challenges and provide extended coverage for large outdoor areas or long-distance connections (e.g., point-to-point and point-to-multipoint setups). These outdoor APs are usually more powerful, often supporting external antennas to amplify signal range.