What is a wireless access point?

A wireless access point (WAP) is a networking device that allows wireless-capable devices to connect to a wired network. It is simpler and easier to install WAPs to connect all the computers or devices in your network than to use wires and cables.

Why use a WAP to set up a wireless network?

Using a WAP lets you create a wireless network within your existing wired network, so you can accommodate wireless devices.

You can also use a WAP or mesh extenders to extend the signal range and strength of your wireless network to provide complete wireless coverage and get rid of “dead spots,” especially in larger office spaces or buildings. Additionally, you can configure the settings of your WAPs using a single device.
Common types of access point configurations

Root access point

In this configuration, an access point is connected directly to a wired LAN, providing a connection point for wireless users. If more than one access point is connected to the LAN, users can roam from one area of a facility to another without losing their network connection.

Repeater access point

An access point or mesh extender can be configured as a standalone repeater to extend the range of your infrastructure or overcome an obstacle that blocks radio communication.
The repeater forwards traffic between wireless users and the wired network by sending data to either another repeater or an access point that is connected to the wired network. The data is sent through the route that provides the best performance for the client.

Bridges

Access points can be configured as root or non-root bridges to join multiple networks. An access point in this role will establish a wireless link with a non-root bridge. Traffic is then passed over the wireless link to the wired network.

Workgroup bridge

Access points that are in workgroup bridge mode can “associate” to other access points as clients and provide network connections for devices connected to Ethernet ports.
For example, if your business needs wireless connectivity for a group of network printers, you can connect the printers to a hub or a switch, connect the hub or switch to the access point Ethernet port, and configure the access point as a workgroup bridge. The workgroup bridge will then “associate” to an access point on your network.
Central unit in an all-wireless network
In an all-wireless network, an access point acts as a standalone root unit. It is not attached to a wired LAN. Instead, the access point functions as a hub that links all stations together. It serves as the focal point for communications, increasing the communication range of wireless users.

Key benefits of upgrading to WAPs

WAPs are a more convenient, secure, and cost-efficient alternative to using wires and cables to connect every computer or device in your network. And using WAPs to set up a wireless network can provide many advantages and benefits for your small business.

For one, a wireless network is more convenient to access. Adding new users is a lot less complicated, too. And you can easily provide Internet access to guest users by giving them a password to access your wireless network securely.

Also you can easily segment users, including guests, to help protect your network resources and assets.

Preparation for the future

When you invest in WAPs that feature future-ready modularity, you are helping to ready your IT infrastructure to support next-generation technologies.

WAPs that meet the new Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, for example, can help you build a reliable, scalable, and secure wireless network to handle the rapidly growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices—and the data that those devices will create.

Switches

Switches are key building blocks for any network. They connect multiple devices, such as computers, wireless access points, printers, and servers; on the same network within a building or campus. A switch enables connected devices to share information and talk to each other.

Unmanaged switches

An unmanaged network switch is designed so that you can simply plug them in and they work, no configuration required. Unmanaged switches are typically for basic connectivity. You’ll often see them used in home networks or wherever a few more ports are needed, such as at your desk, in a lab, or in a conference room.

Managed switches

Managed switches give you greater security and more features and flexibility because you can configure them to custom-fit your network. With this greater control, you can better protect your network and improve the quality of service for those who access the network.
Network hubs and switches
A network hub is a central connection point for devices in a local area network, or LAN. But there’s a limit to the amount of bandwidth users can share on a hub-based network. The more devices are added to the network hub, the longer it takes data to reach its destination. A switch avoids these and other limitations of network hubs.

A large network may include multiple switches, which connect different groups of computer systems together. These switches are typically connected to a router that allows connected devices to access the Internet.

What is a router and how does it work in a network?

While switches allow different devices on a network to communicate, routers allow different networks to communicate.

A router is a networking device that routes data packets between computer networks. A router can connect networked computers to the Internet, so multiple users can share a connection. Routers help connect networks within an organization or connect the networks of multiple branch locations. And a router works as a dispatcher. It directs data traffic, choosing the best route for information to travel across the network, so that it’s transmitted as efficiently as possible.

How to setup a network switch with a router?

You may find that you need to increase the number of ports that can plug into your router, so you can setup a network switch to connect with your router. Your network switch connects to the router through one of the ports on the router, extending the number of devices in your small office network, such as desktop computers, printers, laptops, etc. that have a wired connection to the internet.