Network access points, also known as AP or WAP, is a networking hardware device that connects to a wired network. This then creates a WLAN to distribute a wireless signal from that location. Users can then connect to the wireless access point (which will typically use the router’s WiFi settings), enabling extended wireless coverage, increased concurrent user counts, and much more.

Rapidtech Digital Solutions offers WiFi access points from leading wireless networking companies such as Ubiquiti Networks, Draytek, Engenius, Ruckus CommScope, Cisco, Cambium, TP-link, D-link, Mikrotik, Engenius, Grandstream, Linksys, and many more brands. Our wireless access points portfolio is available in a variety of model specifications, including AC, HD (high-density), LR (long range), and Mesh, to accommodate any indoor or outdoor wireless network needs.

How Does A Network Access Points Work?

Access points operate by connecting directly to your broadband router or network switch via an Ethernet or data cable. This gives the AP the necessary internet connection and bandwidth. It then transmits and receives a wireless network in either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency range (WIFI). This allows you to connect wirelessly to your LAN and the internet.

When can I use Wireless Network Access Points?

Wireless access points are ideal for devices where a physical Ethernet cable cannot or would be difficult to connect, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, wireless audio systems, smart TVs, and so on. I personally follow the philosophy of “wires for things that don’t move, wireless for things that do.” This means that for the best, fastest, and most secure connection, a dedicated Ethernet cable would be the best way to go for your PC’s and Smart TV’s, but obviously this may require drilling holes in walls and lifting floorboards to install some Category 7, so a good wireless connection would be the next ideal solution.

Can I Have More Than One Network Access Point?

If you’re wondering whether you can add more APs, the answer is yes. If you have a large house that requires complete WIFI coverage or a commercial property, you can pretty much install as many as you want. Remember that more isn’t always better. The more wireless devices you have, the more pieces of equipment must compete for the same amount of space. This is especially important when installing wireless systems in flats or terraced houses, where you must compete with your neighbors’ wireless signals. If this is the case with you, again, We recommend checking your WIFI analyzer app to see how many devices you are competing with, you may want to get a Wireless Access Point that is also 5Ghz compatible. Most WIFI networks operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, but as this band becomes increasingly congested, 5 GHz often provides some free space where it would otherwise be difficult to achieve.

If you’re going to install more than one access point, I recommend getting a model that supports fast switching so that your system will automatically connect you to the strongest access point, allowing you to roam around your property and switch between access points when set up with a single SSID. It also means you can have a single login for your entire property, which can be useful. I personally recommend the Ubiquiti Unifi range for such a task, and you may want to consider turning off your router’s WIFI as having multiple logins can be confusing.

Which Type Of Wireless Access Point Should I Buy?

Again, speaking from personal experience, I recommend the Ubiquiti Unifi range; the system is expandable, which means that additional access points can be easily added at a later date. They also offer a variety of different models that can provide various types of solutions. For example, in commercial settings, there will be far more people connecting to the access point than at a residential address, unless you have teenagers in the house! If this is the case, you should go with a higher-end model that can handle many more devices connected to it. I also mentioned getting access points that are compatible in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz ranges, as well as outdoor access points for outdoor WIFI. There are many different types and models; I recommend that you do some research on the various types.

 

Also, if you want to mount the Wireless Access Point on the walls or ceilings for a neat installation, choose a model that is POE compatible. POE stands for Power Over Ethernet, and it means that both data and power for the device can be installed with a single Cat6 or Cat7 cable. We have a huge collection of Wireless Access Points in Kenya for sale from Rapidtech Digital Solutions access point shop at the best prices.