7 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wireless Access Point

The development of science and technology has increased people’s need and dependence on the Internet. Wireless access points are smaller and easier to install. In this blog post, we will discuss 7 important tips that will help you when you choose a wireless access point.

Contents:

• What is an Access Point?
• How to Choose a Wireless Access Point?

What is an Access Point?

An access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network, also known as WLAN. Businesses in large offices or buildings often use wireless access points. Ethernet cables connect them to an internet hub, wired router, or switch. Afterward, the wifi signal is projected into the designated area. 

How to Choose a Wireless Access Point?

In addition to upgrading their wireless network environment, people also have concerns regarding how to choose a wireless access point. Below are some things to consider.

Coverage area

Considering the coverage area of an access point is essential, and a larger coverage area is more beneficial for an access point. It reduces the number and cost of access points. Businesses can reduce their costs by purchasing wireless access points with more extensive coverage areas. By considering to choose a wireless access points, enterprises can cover 5,000 to 10,000 square feet.

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Number of Users

The chipset of an access point that runs that radio may also support up to 100 simultaneous connections if it has a single 2.4GHz radio. A dual-band access point has two radios that operate at 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Wireless routers and access points can connect up to 255 devices simultaneously.

Speed

Generally, information is transmitted at a rate measured in bits per second, kilobits, megabits, or gigabits. Generally, choose a wireless access points that support the 802.11n protocol and can reach speeds of 300Mbps or higher, six times faster than 802.11n. Wireless APs that support the 802.11ac protocol can reach speeds of 1200Mbps.

Gain Antenna

An antenna of a wireless access point is built-in, not external, like a router’s antenna. It is vital to choose a wireless access point with a booster antenna when buying one, as it will directly affect the signal strength and transmission range of the wireless access point.

Power over Ethernet

An enterprise needs to choose a wireless access point according to its need. Specialized IT technicians were needed to configure access points from a computer, but with technological advances, this step is no longer necessary. For instance, wifi 6 access points are managed through software in the network and don’t require any external controller. This provides several advantages over older hardware-based models. Getting rid of bulky equipment decreases the chances of network failure while reducing the number of potential single points of failure.

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Wifi Technology

Choose a wireless access point based on your business needs by considering devices with MESH, MIMO, and POE access point technologies. MESH technology can be used in the home or commercial equipment. MIMO technology significantly reduces the blocking effect that affects wifi signals, reducing data speeds. POE technology uses low-power cabling technology and can transmit signals at a distance of 100M.

Price

There’s no guarantee that the higher the price, the better the access point. High prices can not only lead to increased costs, but they can also cause product functions and performance to be well-spent. People may buy inferior or counterfeit products if the price is too low. To avoid being tempted by unreal advertising effects, it is imperative to understand the actual performance of wireless access points clearly. Consider all the options according to your needs. Then, choose a wireless access point.