Wireless Access Point

Want to enhance your existing wired network with wireless capabilities? Then, you should consider using wireless access point.

Yes, wireless access point (WAP) is the finest solution of adding wireless capabilities to your existing wired network. WAP is also capable of extending the coverage of your present wireless network. It is also important to note that WAP doesn’t interfere with the function of the central gateway. Although WAP is primarily designed for indoors, outdoor WAP is available too. Outdoor WAP is especially designed to sustain harsh outdoor environment and extreme temperatures as evident in their rugged casing and industry-grade components. WAP is ideal for sharing internet connection with multiple computers at home. They also work best for business establishments.

Things to Look for When Choosing Wireless Access Point

As wireless technology keeps on advancing, wireless access point manufacturers are creating newer and better WAP devices. So how do you choose the best WAP for your wireless network needs? First and foremost, you should assess your specific needs, where you will be using it and the budget availability. Once you have determined your needs, check the specs of WAP. The best WAP device should offer these features.

  • Wireless N standards
    Choose the WAP that uses the latest wireless technology standard – 802.11n. This technology is able to deliver ultra-fast wireless connection and wider coverage. It may be more appropriate to use dual-band wireless access point if your internet habits largely involve HD voice and video streaming.
  • Superior Security Features
    Of course, wireless connection is highly susceptible to intruders and hackers. That is why you need to choose WAP that comes with the latest wireless security features – either WPA or WPA2. Moreover, it should also feature WPS for easy installation.
  • WDS Feature
    Conventionally, linking numerous access points requires a wired backbone. But with WDS or Wireless Distribution System, you can now expand your wireless network through numerous APs wirelessly.
  • Multiple Function Modes
    Your WAP should be capable of working not just a single access point but multiple functional modes as well, such as Network Bridge, Wireless Client and Wireless Repeater.

Best Selling Wireless Access Point Devices in the U.S

Now, let us consider some of the best selling WAPs in United States.

  • Cisco Linksys
    Cisco has been famed for making quality wireless networking devices such as routers, gateways, adapters, bridges, switches and access points. The Linksys WAP610N Dual-Band Wireless-N Access Point is one of the top selling WAPs in the U.S with prices ranging from $109.99 to $129.99.
  • D-Link
    Aside from wireless access points, D-Link offers a wide range of wireless networking solutions which include wireless routers, switches, adapters and many more, both for home and business use. For WAP, D-Link’s DAP-1522 Xtreme N Duo Wireless Bridge/Access Point is preferred. You can get this WAP for $69.99 to $119.99.
  • TRENDnet
    TRENDnet is one of the manufacturing giants of wireless networking devices from wireless routers, adapters and access points to networking accessories. TRENDnet’s TEW-638APB Wireless-N Access Point ranked as one of the best selling WAP devices. You can get TRENDnet’s famous WAP from $59.99-$79.99 price range.

Consider these information when you are looking for the right wireless access point device, whether it’s for home network or business network purposes.