In Computer Networking, a Wireless Access Point (WAP), or more generally just access Point (AP), is a Networking hardware Device that allows other Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network.
As a standalone device, the AP may have a wired connection to a router, but in a wireless router, it can also be an integral component of the router itself. An AP is differentiated from a hotspot, which is a physical Location where Wi-Fi Access is Available. An AP connects directly to a wired local area network, typically Ethernet, and the AP then provides a wireless connection using wireless LAN technology, typically Wi-Fi, for other devices to use that wired connection. Aps supports the connection of multiple wireless devices through their one wired connection.
Wireless access has special security considerations. Many wired Networks base the security on physical access control, trusting all the users on the local network, but if wireless access points are connected to the network, anybody within range of the AP (which typically extends further than the intended area) can attach to the network.
An access point is the device that allows multiple wireless devices to connect. Just like a HUB or switch connects multiple devices in a single or multiple wired LAN networks, an access point connects multiple wireless devices in a single wireless or multiple wireless networks. An access point can also extend the wired network to the wireless devices.
- Based on the functionalities, we can categorize the access point in three types;
- Standalone Access Point
- Multifunction Access Point
- Controlled Access point
Standalone Access Point : A standalone access point provides the same functionality in wireless network which a switch or hub provides in the wired network. It provides connectivity between the different wireless devices. It accepts frame from the connected device and, based on its physical address, forwards it to the destination device.
Multifunction Access Point: A multifunction access point is a combination of two or more devices. In this combination, an additional device or devices are merged with the access point to provide additional functionalities along with the existing functionality of the access point.
Controlled Access Point : A controlled access point works as the client of the Wireless LAN Controller (WLC).
