What The Difference Between Wireless Access Point vs. Wireless Router?

Wireless Access Point vs. Wireless Router is a question that many people have been asking for a long time now, so I thought it would be worth addressing the differences between these items. The two devices are similar in appearance, but they are two different kinds of devices and do serve different purposes. So what is the difference? Let’s take a look at these two types of wireless devices and their similarities and differences.

What is a Wireless Access Point?

A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a wireless device that connects your home or office to the Internet. It provides a secure, wired connection for devices like computers and printers, as well as a wireless connection for devices like smartphones and tablets. A Wireless Router acts as the hub of your home or office network, connecting all of your devices to the Internet.

What is a Wireless Router?

A wireless router is a device that connects your home or office to the internet. It does this by connecting to the wireless network, which can be a public or private network. It allows you to browse the internet, send and receive email, and access your files. Additionally, it can act as a security gate for your network by allowing only approved devices access.

A wireless access point is a similar device, but it does not connect to the internet. Instead, it provides wireless connectivity for devices that are already connected to the wired network.

What are the common differences between them?

Wireless routers and access points typically have different capabilities and purposes. Here are a few key distinctions to help you understand what each is best for:

-A wireless router provides an all-in-one solution for connecting devices to the internet. It includes a built-in processor, memory, and storage that can be used to control the network settings and routing.

-An access point is designed as an extra layer of security for a wireless network. It connects directly to your broadband modem or router, acting as a bridge between your network and the outside world. This means that it can provide more robust security features, such as limiting which devices can connect to your network, and blocking unauthorized users from accessing your devices.

Conclusion

There are a few key differences between a wireless access point and a wireless router that you should be aware of if you’re looking to improve your home network. A wireless access point is designed to provide an extra layer of security and coverage for your devices, while a wireless router can also be used to connect multiple devices in the same room (or even across different rooms), making it easier to share files and Internet connection. If you’re not sure which type of device would be best for your home network, talk to one of our experts at 8×8 Wireless! Check out our recommended dedicated server if you want to keep your home or office network secure.