Wireless access point vs. wireless router

Typically, wireless routers are used in homes and small businesses where all users can be supported by one combined AP and router to provide internet access to wireless capable devices. Wireless APs are traditionally used in larger businesses and venues where many APs are required to provide an internet connection to support thousands of users. The number of access points needed will increase depending on the number of network users and the physical size of the network.

Wireless access point vs. Wi-Fi extender

Wireless APs are traditionally used in larger businesses and venues where many APs are required to provide service to support thousands of users with devices connected to the network. Gone are the days of a wired router and Ethernet cable in the home office — APs are entering the home office market for large homes, and some people use them to provide Wi-Fi to their outside property. A Wi-Fi extender repeats the signal from your router and expands internet coverage by creating a second network. An extender is a more common tool for extending home office networks, as it can only support a limited number of devices at a time.

Purchasing a wireless access point

It’s important to note that not all APs are alike, and not all products offer the same features and performance. Organizations should particularly consider the following features and capabilities:

• Nondisruptive scalability. APs should be supported transparently and be backward compatible.
• Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports. Every dual-radio AP should have two GbE ports.
• Support for dense deployments. Dense deployments require additional APs.
• Enhanced management functions. Management functions should improve productivity and total cost of ownership, as well as throughput and reliability.