Wireless connectivity has become an important part of our lives in today’s rapidly changing world. Whether at home, at work, or in public. We expect access to the Internet and other web resources. Smoothly Access Points (APs) are important in providing this connectivity by acting as a bridge between wired and wireless networks. In this article, we’ll dive into the technical aspects of Access Points, their functions, usage scenarios, and how they work. And its role in modern wireless communications.
What is an access point (AP)?
A network device that supports connecting wireless devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc., to a wired local area network (LAN) or the Internet. It is the communication center between wireless devices and the wired network infrastructure.
Types of access points:
- Standard access points: These AP devices are single devices that operate independently. They are generally used in small projects or home networks.
- Controller-based access points: In larger and more complex networks, Multiple access points are managed by a central controller. This setting allows for more seamless configuration, monitoring, and roaming between APs. Sheep Access Point: Sheep APs create a self-healing and adaptable network. They can extend wireless coverage to connect directly to wired networks or to other APs.
- Cloud-managed access points: These APs are centrally managed through a cloud-based controller. They are particularly useful for distributed networks and remote management.
Access point deployment scenarios:
- Home networks: In a home network, a single standalone AP is usually sufficient to provide wireless coverage. However, larger homes may require a mesh AP to provide longer coverage.
- Enterprise networks: Controller-based APs can benefit large office buildings or campuses. They guarantee centralized management, security, and scalability.
- Public places: Airports, hotels, and coffee shops are deploying APs to provide Wi-Fi access to customers.
- Outdoor use: The AP is designed for outdoor use. It responds to environments such as parks, playgrounds and citywide Wi-Fi networks.
How does an access point work?
When a wireless device, like a laptop, wishes to connect to a network, it requests available Access Points. The Access Points within range respond, and the device selects the best one based on signal strength and security settings. Once connected to an Access Point, wireless devices can communicate with a wired network and access resources such as servers, printers, and the Internet.
Access point features
- Multiple SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers): An AP can transmit multiple SSIDs, creating a wireless network. This resource is useful for isolating traffic, enabling the guest network, or granting different levels of access to different user groups.
- Security: Access Points employ various security protocols, such as WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access II) and WPA3, to ensure secure communication between wireless devices and the network.
- Quality of service (QoS): The QoS mechanism in an AP prioritizes certain types of traffic to ensure critical applications such as voice and video. Get more bandwidth and lower latency.
- Bandwidth throttling: This resource incentivizes dual-bandwidth capable devices to connect to less congested frequencies than 5 GHz, which improves overall network performance.
- Support roaming: The AP facilitates continuous roaming and allows wireless devices to switch between APs without interruption.
Factors affecting the performance of an AP
- Coverage Area: The physical range of an AP depends on factors such as transmitting power and antenna configuration. and environment
- Interference: Interference from other wireless devices, neighboring networks, or physical obstacles can degrade AP performance.
- Client Density: The number of connected devices affects the overall network performance, especially during peak hours.
- Network Load: The amount of data traffic passing through an AP impacts its ability to handle additional devices.
Horizon access point devices
Horizon is an OEM that manufactures the cutting edge of telecom technology and is determined to bring its customers products with the latest technologies. Horizon’s Access Points, like the AP600E, have been our flagship Access Point devices.
Access points (APs) are the heart of modern wireless communications. It helps us connect and access network resources anywhere. APs have proven versatile and essential in the ever-evolving world of wireless connectivity, from small home networks to large enterprise installations. Due to technological advancements, APs are critical in bridging the gap between future wireless networks. Wireless communication will play a role.