wireless router? access point?

Question

what is the difference between wireless router and wireless access point?

I can look up the wikipedia myself. Thx.

I need to buy something to add 2 new laptops to the existing cable access to the internet in my apartment. I know access point and wireless router, but never think the difference between them. Are they both able to do that and just the different prize?

Answer 1

Along with the rest of the answers, I'd like to note that if you're looking to buy an access point, you can often purchase a router (which includes an access point) at a lower cost. God himself doesn't know why it costs less.

Bottom line: buy a router. If you already have a router, turn the DHCP off on the new wireless router when you connect it. This will basically turn it into an access point. This is a common situation, and there are guides out there to help you do this with all major models. Remember that a wireless router is a combination of a router, a wireless access point, and a switch. You would have the full capabilities of an access point by buying a router.

ps: thanks for the marketing lesson there highly-qualified computer buddy!

Answer 2

For me, it would be less complicated if you just use a router. Wireless router -- connect all your pc to that wireless router because basically a wireless router will also have a LAN ports where you can physicall connect at least 4 computers and then since its also a wireless router, it can allow multiple wireless computers to get on the internet.. No servers, no switch and no wireless access point. For me, a wireless access point is just a like a router that extends the range of your wireless signals.

Answer 3

In computer networking, a wireless access point (WAP or AP) is a device that connects wireless communication devices together to form a wireless network. The WAP usually connects to a wired network, and can relay data between wireless devices and wired devices. Several WAPs can link together to form a larger network that allows "roaming". (In contrast, a network where the client devices manage themselves - without the need for any access points - becomes an ad-hoc network.) Wireless access points have IP addresses for configuration.

A router is a computer networking device that forwards data packets across a network toward their destinations, through a process known as routing. Routing occurs at Layer 3 (the network layer i.e. Internet Protocol (IP)) of the OSI seven-layer protocol stack.

Answer 4

A wireless router is a device that will manage traffic, filter access, and be the internet facing device to the outside world. It will provide a firewall and issue private IP addresses to PCs connected to it (providing security allows it) via DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). An access point does not provide this, it only allows you to connect to a network.

Answer 5

Dave A...

Access points cost more than routers for one reason only. there are less models of them available compared to hundreds of wireless routers. supply and demand.

the 802.11 protocol was developed for corporate use. there is no need for many types of AP's. once wireless took off for the consumer manufactures started producing many types of routers for SOHO and residential use.