Wireless Internet technology has long been successfully entered into our lives. Now wireless internet is used everywhere. This is Wi-Fi technology, which can be found in many public places, this and many other wireless data transfer technologies that allow you to get quick access to the Internet.

One of the key points of most of these connections is the wireless access point. Such a device is necessary to connect to existing networks, and in some cases to create new network. A prime example of this is a wifi hotspot that allows you to connect to an existing network very quickly.

Where are they used?

In most cases, access point, like many other access points, are used to provide all kinds of mobile devices with the Internet. For example, for tablets, mobile phones, laptops and some other devices.

In addition, a wireless access point can also be used in all kinds of establishments that wish to provide Internet access to their visitors. In this case, they create a certain zone, within the range of which it is possible to connect to the Internet. In some cases, such access can be absolutely free, in some cases, in order to access the Internet, you need to order something (for cafes, restaurants and other similar establishments) or use a service. Such access points are also often found in public places such as airports, train stations, libraries, universities, etc.

Also, one cannot fail to note the popularity of wireless access points for creating home networks, which in Lately only increases. This solution is very convenient, as it allows all devices to access the network. One access point is enough to provide Internet to one apartment. If necessary, the Internet can also be transferred to neighbors. Sometimes in such networks a laptop is used as a wifi access point, as it is very convenient and allows you to save on the purchase of special equipment.

Wireless access point device

By design, the access point resembles a client adapter. The difference lies in more intelligent functions and special electronics, which the access point is endowed with.

As for external execution, all access points can be divided into two types. The first type is devices designed for outdoor use. They are usually protected from possible negative impacts from the side environment. The second type is access points that are used inside office buildings, houses and other premises, such points are much less protected, since they practically do not come into contact with the environment.

An important issue is the functionality of modern access points. The functions that these devices have can be completely different, it all depends on the device itself. In some cases, the machine may have a number of very useful features, including: network control, remote network configuration, diagnostics, remote troubleshooting, and much more. Access points with all these functions allow you to very finely and competently configure them for work, and also, in case of any problems, solve them as quickly as possible. In the same case, if the device does not have many of these functions, then setting up the access point may not be as fast and successful as neutralizing various kinds of problems.

It should also be noted that not so long ago, they went into mass sale, which allow you to perform multi-user file exchange without using a server for this.

Application

Modern access points have a very wide range of applications; they can be used when connecting groups of computers to the Internet in independent networks. They are also actively used as a bridge that allows you to combine different areas networks, most often wireless with wired, and in many other cases.

When using these devices, do not forget the fact that when you connect to a router, the Internet speed is divided by all connected. Thus, despite the fact that there are no restrictions on the number of connections, it makes sense to limit them, otherwise the Internet speed may drop to very low rates, which will be very inconvenient.

Real use example

Suppose you are faced with the following task. You need to create wireless network, by combining a certain number of computers with it, while you must also connect the wireless network you created with the wired network. What is the best way to proceed in this case? In this case, the most best solution will use an access point.

Why is this method so good? And it is good because you get a network device that does not depend on the load of computers and their characteristics. Thus, you do not need to make complex settings. software, and be afraid that any of the computers will not work or will not support this or that service.

What are the benefits?

As you know, to create a wired network, you should lay very a large number of all kinds of cables, which can take a lot of time, effort and resources. In some cases, this is a completely justified decision, but in some cases the result does not justify the costs, and such cases are very common.

That is why wireless networks are an increasingly relevant and used solution when it is necessary to combine a group of computers into a network. The advantages of such networks are quite obvious, they are less expensive, they are easier to manage, computers can be placed in absolutely different places, without fear that any cable will not reach. Therefore, the access point wifi windows 7 on a laptop or an iota access point used for such purposes can be the solution that will greatly facilitate this process.

How to choose a wireless access point?

If you plan to take advantage of all the benefits that a wireless access point can provide, in this case, you are probably interested in knowing what to look for when choosing one.

On the this moment The most popular access point is the Wi-Fi station, which, as mentioned above, has very great capabilities. Such a station allows you to both combine computers into one network and connect them to the Internet. What parameters are most important for such a device? Let's try to answer this question.

Standard Wi-Fi

Now for such devices there are various standards that are used in certain situations. One of the most relevant and one of the most versatile is the 802.11n standard. A very big advantage of this standard is its compatibility with almost all modern mobile devices and laptops. This protocol allows you to have a connection speed of up to 600 Mbps. Also, one cannot but note the long distance of this standard and its increased sensitivity, especially when compared with many outdated protocols. Such a protocol is often used by the mts access point as well as the megaphone access point and many other operators cellular communication providing Internet access services.

Recently, another interesting 802.11ac standard has appeared, which consumes significantly less power and has high functionality. Nevertheless, in our conditions, the use of this protocol does not yet make much sense. The fact is that most providers operating in the CIS do not offer their customers an Internet speed of 900 Mbps, and this protocol allows you to work at such speeds. Thus, you will simply overpay and not take advantage of the speed that this standard provides.

Antenna power and gain

It is the power, as well as the antenna gain, that are the parameters on which the quality of signal reception and transmission directly depends. Therefore, in order for the tele2 access point or the device of another operator to have a good range and have a strong signal, you should turn Special attention to these settings.

If you plan to use the device at home, then the power in the range of 13 - 17 dBm should be enough. In the same case, if you need to use an access point in a large room, and you want to ensure a good radius of its coverage, you should definitely buy more powerful models. It should be noted that such a parameter as the power of the access point corresponds to the level of radiation, that is, it affects the range of signal propagation.

Such a parameter as the antenna gain characterizes the radiation level of the device in one direction. Thus, the higher this coefficient, the higher will be the dispersion of the signal, and the lower will be its gain. If you buy an access point for home use, then for example a gain of 9-10 dBi will allow you to achieve a good signal, but only in some places at home. But the gain in the range of 4-5 dBi will provide the whole house with a good signal.

Data encryption

Data transfer rate is a very important parameter for a device such as an access point. However, if the access point is not provided with reliable protection and high-quality data encryption, it can become easy prey for experienced hackers. The fact is that with a set of certain programs, as well as with certain skills and abilities, a hacker is able not only to distribute the Internet from your point without authorization, but also to completely gain control over it. Surely you don’t really want this, so be sure to pay attention to the type of data encryption that is used in the device you are interested in.

As most tests, expert opinion and practice show, the most reasonable choice at the moment is the WPA2 encryption standard. This standard will protect you from hacking and many other problems.

Therefore, if you are interested in a high-quality beeline access point or something else, be sure to check if it uses the WPA2 encryption standard.

Additional functions

There are a certain number of features that any access point should have. However, in addition to this obvious list, additional features are also sometimes found. In some situations, these additional features can be extremely useful.

Such functions can be completely different, and regarding the most common ones, the following can be noted at the moment:

  1. A function that allows you to connect a printer to the Wi-Fi station, which can be accessed from any computer on the network. This can be a very convenient solution for offices when there is a need for frequent printing of certain documents, since it will be possible to do this from any computer.
  2. PoE support function that allows you to transmit both information and electrical energy, which can be used to power various devices on the network.
  3. An FTP server function that allows you to store all kinds of files on the hard disk or flash drive of the access point.

If any of these features can be useful to you, then be sure to buy a device that has it. Usually, such functions have a certain number of options, but you should not worry about setting up a yota access point or any other access point that has these functions, it will not become more complicated.

Manufacturer

If you have already figured out all the necessary parameters of the access point, have decided on the amount of money that you will be willing to spend on its purchase, in this case, you can proceed to choosing a manufacturer. At the moment, there are approximately five of the most popular manufacturers in this market, whose products are dominant. These manufacturers include: D-link, TP-LINK, Asus, ZyXEL and TRENDnet.

Each of the manufacturers listed above has big amount models, some of which are in the lowest price range, and some of which have very impressive prices. As for access points, this is the case when it is very important to stick to the golden mean, and in some cases you can even save money. The main thing you need to get from it is the full coverage of the room you need, which depends on the power and gain of the antenna. If these parameters allow you to achieve the desired result, then you can save on some others. However, in any case, you should not buy the cheapest access points, as they fail very quickly.

And as for the manufacturer, it is better to focus on a specific model than on the manufacturer. The fact is that technologies in this direction are developing very rapidly and almost all companies operating in this market have access to them. Therefore, the quality is very often the manufacturers are almost the same.

Output

As you can see from the article, the yota wireless access point, like any other access point, is a very convenient and useful device. Such an apparatus makes it possible to simplify a number of operations, such as those relating to the creation of a network from a group of computers. It is also very convenient at home, as it is able to distribute high-quality Internet to various mobile devices and laptops.

In the same case, if there is any problem with the wireless network adapter or access point, it is usually solved very quickly, since almost all modern devices have very flexible settings and can be quickly repaired even in the event of a breakdown.

It should also be noted that in some cases, in order to enjoy all the benefits of an access point, there is no need to buy the device itself. Since you can make a laptop a wifi access point using certain settings. However, in most cases it is much more convenient to simply buy an access point.

What is and how is a wireless access point created was last modified: May 13th, 2016 by MaximB

It's no secret that despite the claimed ability to transmit a Wi-Fi signal at a distance of up to 400 meters in open space and up to 100 meters indoors, the real figures are much lower.

What is the problem with Wi-Fi

The culprit is the barriers in the form of walls, interference with other wireless networks that are teeming with modern world, and the very power of wireless devices is often limited due to legislative regulation and banal economic reasons.

As a result, many users experience problems when wireless connection via Wi-Fi in the form of slowdowns, freezes and periodic “falling off” of the Internet.

Surprisingly, not only owners of large estates and office workers face this, but also relatively small apartments, since the signal in them is often interrupted by interference from neighboring routers. I have seen this picture more than once in a Wi-Fi analyzer.

Wi-Fi technology of the most common standard 802.11n operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz and provides only 3 non-overlapping bands. This means that if there are more wireless networks that you see on your laptop or smartphone, they begin to interfere with each other. There are several ways out of this situation.

Transition to 5 GHz

This option is more radical and involves the transition to more modern standard 802.11ac at 5GHz, which provides significantly more non-overlapping bands. In addition, this frequency is not yet overloaded by other networks.

But the transition to 5 GHz has several significant disadvantages. First of all, it is the need to purchase a more expensive wifi router but.

You will also need to purchase a separate 802.11ac adapter for each device (computer, laptop) that does not support this standard. That's a big additional cost.

Many smartphones and tablets cannot be connected at all, since they do not support the 5 GHz frequency, and connecting an adapter to them is quite problematic and inconvenient.

In addition, Wi-Fi at 5 GHz is significantly less ranged and more drowned out by obstacles. So in the case of even a medium-sized apartment, 2-3 walls from the router can significantly drown out the transmitter signal.

Signal amplification 2.4 GHz

In this case, everything is much simpler and cheaper, you only need to amplify the signal in the common 802.11n range, which is supported by all modern devices.

A stronger signal will be better at penetrating walls, longer distances, and dominating competing networks without being drowned out by interference.

Often, it is enough to change the router to another one with a more powerful transmitter and antennas with higher gain.

You won't have to purchase additional adapters for other devices, and smartphones and tablets will connect without problems at all.

But this method also has several disadvantages. A more powerful router will cost 1.5-2 times more than a regular one. By installing such a router, you will already interfere with your neighbors and interrupt their Wi-Fi. In addition, excessive radiation in the 2.4 GHz band is not very good for health.

Setting up an access point

The most reasonable and correct option would be to install an additional access point, which can be both in the 5 GHz band and in the good old 2.4 GHz. This method has a number of significant advantages.

An access point usually costs less than a similar router in the same frequency range and it is specifically designed to relay a signal, while not all routers can work in bridge mode.

In a large house or apartment, you can install several additional access points that will provide good coverage throughout the premises. They are usually small and can be hung anywhere - on the wall, ceiling or just put on the nightstand.

The access point is quite compact, does not require the laying of an information cable, it only needs a nearby socket or a separately extended power cable, and some can simply be plugged into a socket.

The power of the access point is limited to standard values, it will not interfere with your neighbors, have an unnecessarily negative impact on health, and at the same time ensure a reliable connection of your devices to the Internet, as it will simply be closer to them.

You can buy an access point at any computer store. But, if you are interested in high-quality professional equipment for a large living space or office in Ukraine, then we recommend that you contact the website http://www.technotrade.com.ua/catalog-654, where you can also purchase separate powerful antennas for remote areas or countryside and a variety of network equipment.

Wifi surrounded us everywhere. We can no longer imagine life without these networks that allow us to connect to the Internet anywhere. But they cannot arise on their own. For this, special network devices are used. They are produced in large numbers. In this article, we will consider one of these devices and figure out what it is. wifi hotspot access.

Let's first look at the definitions of each of these devices.

An access point is a small station that creates a connection to an already existing network. It receives the Internet connection from the router and transmits further. There are more expensive models that allow you to do this without routers, but they differ greatly in price. It should also be noted that the access point has only one connector.

Router ( router) is a special network device with several interfaces. It allows you to exchange data between different devices on the network. The router is able to distribute Wi-Fi to all devices in the vicinity.

What do a router and an access point have in common? The answer is pretty simple. Most modern routers have the function of creating a new wireless network. Access points operate on a similar system. This allows all home devices to use wifi.

But the access point has additional features. It allows you to create a Wi-Fi connection based on an existing one. This is necessary in cases where the router cannot distribute the Internet at the desired distance on its own. It can also help reduce the load on the router. Many applications can be found.

Next, let's talk about how to choose an access point

access points and their applications

Access Point Specifications

Manufacturing materials

The device is divided into the following types, based on the materials of manufacture:

  • For outdoor placement. Used when you need to place the device outdoors or in other unpredictable environments.
  • For indoor placement. Placement in the office or at home.

It should be noted that the first type requires stronger materials in order for the device to work as much as possible.

Setting up an access point

Also, the device can be placed different ways. Standard placement options - on the table or on the wall. But you can also plug it into a power outlet, which is ideal for repeater mode. This is the most convenient and easiest way of all.

  • Operating frequency

Transmitters can have different frequencies to work - 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Models are also sold that support these frequencies simultaneously.

  • Transmitter power

The resulting transmitter power affects the strength and distance over which the signal is transmitted. The higher it is, the farther it will be possible to distribute the wifi network. Also, with high power, the network passes better through walls and other obstacles.

But it is unlikely that you will be able to buy a device with the strongest signal without obtaining special permissions. The maximum allowed transmitter power in our starn is 20dBm. Anything more is professional equipment that must be registered with special authorities.

  • Maximum wifi speed

Each access point has its own supported communication standard. It allows you to draw conclusions about the speed at which you can use the Internet. Standard data must be clarified before purchase. The best thing to do here is to consult with a specialist.

  • Number of antennas

This option is fully related to the previous point. The more antennas a wi fi access point has, the greater its speed. But you need to understand that not all antennas can be used. Some of them will not work if the receiving device, such as a laptop, has fewer of them.

Antennas can have different operating ranges.

  • Antenna types

There are two types of antennas:

  1. internal;
  2. external.

The second type of antenna can often be removed in order to replace it with a more powerful and suitable one. This helps to amplify the signal.

  • Ethernet Port Speed

These ports connect the transmitter to a wired network. If you are the owner of a high-speed Internet connection, then you should choose the maximum allowable speed of these ports, i.e. up to 1000 Mbps. If your provider does not allow you to use very fast connection, then a speed of 100 Mbps will be sufficient.

  • PoE support

This is a special function that transmits electrical energy and data using a transmitter. It is used in cases where the transmitter is located at a considerable distance from sockets and other means of filling with electricity. But such a function

significantly increase the cost of the access point. This function is used mainly in professional models.

Transmitter operating modes

  • Access point

The most popular and used mode of operation, which creates a wifi network for connecting devices. It is also possible to create a network based on an existing one.

A bridge connects two wireless networks together. This increases range and capability.

  • Repeater

The wifi access point is used as a signal repeater. Allows you to repeat an existing signal, which greatly increases the network coverage area.

This is what allows you to turn the received wireless signal into a wired one. Used for desktop computers.

  • router

Allows you to create a new wifi connection with your own settings.

Making a choice

We have already decided on hotspot and what is it. Now let's move on to the selection.

First of all, you need to choose in which mode your transmitter will be used, the options are:

  1. If you want to create wifi on an existing wired network, then select the "access point" mode
  2. If you need to connect two networks into one, then select support for the "bridge" mode.
  3. If you want to expand the coverage area of ​​one wifi network, you must choose models with repeater support.

After you decide on the mode of operation, proceed to the choice of connection speed. A common range is 2.4 GHz. It is cheaper than other options. 5 GHz is suitable for residents of high-rise buildings, which require less network congestion. Also, when choosing a speed, keep in mind that devices must support the same connection standards.

Summing up

We answered the question about what is a wi fi access point. This is a way to create or extend the coverage area of ​​a signal. Do not buy models with a large number of antennas or high speed if it's not needed. Choose a device that meets your individual requirements.

An access point is a wireless base station designed to provide wireless access to an existing network (wireless or wired) or create an entirely new wireless network. Wireless communication is carried out using Wi-Fi technology.
Drawing an analogy, the access point can be roughly compared with the tower of a cellular operator, with the proviso that the access point has a smaller range and communication between devices connected to it is carried out using Wi-Fi technology. The range of a standard access point is approximately 200-250 meters, provided that there are no obstacles at this distance (for example, metal structures, concrete floors and other structures that do not transmit radio waves well).

Scope of application

In most cases, wireless networks (using access points and routers) are built for commercial purposes to attract profit from customers and tenants. Employees of the Get Wifi company have experience in preparing and implementing the following projects for the implementation of network infrastructure based on wireless solutions:

It is important to note that for proper operation in the “repeater” and “bridge” modes, the SSID (wireless network identifier), channel and encryption type must match.

Wireless networks from multiple access points are installed in large offices, buildings and other large facilities, mainly in order to create one wireless network. local network(WLAN). Up to 254 client computers can be connected to each access point. In most cases, it is impractical to connect more than 10 computers to one access point, because. the data transfer rate for each user is distributed in equal proportions and the more “clients” one access point has, the lower the speed for each of them. For example, according to our measurements real speed data transfer from an access point operating on the 802.11g standard is 20-25Mbps, and when 10 clients are connected to it, the speed for each will be around 2.5Mbps.
When building geographically distributed networks or wireless networks in buildings, access points are combined into one common network through a radio channel or local area network (wired). In this case, the user can freely move with his mobile device within the range of this network.

In a home network, wireless access points can be used to connect all home computers into one common wireless network, or to "extend" an existing network built on a wired router, for example. After connecting the access point to the router, clients will be able to join the home network without having to reconfigure the local connection.

The access point is similar in structure to a wireless router (wireless router). Wireless routers are used to create a separate network segment and support the connection of all computers with built-in wireless network adapters to them. Unlike an access point, a network switch (switch) is integrated into a wireless router so that clients can additionally connect to it via the Ethernet protocol or to connect other routers when creating a network of several wireless routers. In addition, wireless routers have a built-in firewall that prevents intruders from unwanted intrusion into the network. Otherwise, wireless routers are similar in design to access points.

Like wireless routers, most access points support 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, or combinations of these.

How does a wifi router work?

WiFi router works on the principle of towers mobile operators. But, unlike towers that emit a large stream of radio emission, the router does not do any harm to our health, so it can be safely installed in apartments.
An ordinary WiFi router distributes a signal to an area with a radius of up to 100 meters, but this is considered for open spaces. If you are a happy owner of more than 2 devices working on a Wi-Fi network, then having a WiFi router will be very convenient for you. With it, you can set up a wireless home network in your home.

But at the same time, you need to take into account that any device connected to the router will reduce the speed of your Internet. Of course, the overall speed of your Internet will not decrease, but individually the Internet will work a little slower.
To understand the principle of operation of a WiFi router, there is nothing complicated: an Internet provider runs a wire to your apartment that connects to a WiFi router, to which all kinds of devices can be connected via a WiFi network: laptops, desktop computers, digital TVs and even cameras. The task of the router is to share received from the provider between all devices. Therefore, it is advisable to protect the connection to your WiFi network with a password.

Consider the three main modes of operation of the access point:

2.) Bridge mode