Best Wireless Access Point
If you're anything like me, you're always looking for ways to make your life easier. So today I'm going to share with you the best wireless access points on the market and how they can benefit you. Keep reading to learn more!
7 Best Wireless Access Points
Detailed Overview
Let's take a closer look at each wireless access point and find out which one is right for you.
Author's Choice
The NETGEAR Wi-Fi 6 access point is a powerful, easy-to-use device that delivers high speed and bandwidth on two AX1800 bands (2.4 and 5 GHz) combined with MU-MIMO technology. Supports up to 128 client devices. It also simplifies deployment with PoE and supports WPA, WPA2 and WPA3, making it ideal for homes and small businesses that want to take advantage of the latest Wi-Fi technology.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- PoE+
- Small and unobtrusive
- Easy web-based configuration
Cons:
- Only dual-channel
People's Choice
The TP-Link EAP225 AC1350 Access Point is a reliable and affordable way to upgrade your home or small office network to the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology. With data speeds of up to 1350 Mbps, this access point can easily handle multiple devices simultaneously. The Omada app makes it easy to remotely manage your network from anywhere, and the SDN compatibility ensures seamless integration with your existing network infrastructure. Multiple PoE options make installation a breeze, and the sleek white design is sure to complement any décor.
Pros:
- Provides 450Mbps and 867Mbps in the 2.4Ghz and 5.0Ghz respectively
- The cloud management software is easy to use
- You get 802.3af PoE and passive PoE for convenience
Cons:
- Defaults to unsecured SSIDs
Premium Choice
The NETGEAR WAX615 Access Point is a high-speed, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 device ideal for homes and businesses that need fast, reliable Internet connectivity. With up to 256 client devices and 2,750 square feet of coverage, this access point will keep everyone connected. PoE+ simplifies installation, and the NETGEAR Insight app makes network management easy. For maximum speed and performance, connect wired Ethernet to the 2.5G port. And the included mounting hardware makes installation fast and easy.
Pros:
- Up to 256 Client Devices
- 2,750 sq. ft. of coverage
- PoE+
- NETGEAR Insight app
Cons:
- Some users didn't like how the app worked
Best Budget
The TP-Link CPE210 is an outdoor long-range wireless access point specifically designed for use in areas with extended coverage. It features dual-polarized 9dBi 2x2 directional MIMO antennas and can be configured for transmit power from 0 to 27dBm/500mW. In addition, the passive PoE adapter supports Power over Ethernet deployment up to 60 meters (200 feet) away, allowing you to remotely reboot the device. It features a Qualcomm Atheros chipset and a high-gain antenna, and is housed in a special case that can withstand temperatures from -40 to +70 degrees Celsius. Finally, built-in Wi-Fi ensures easy installation and operation.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use web-based management system for more specific device configuration
- Adjustable antenna transmission power
- Strong external protection – 6KV lightning and 15KV protection against electrostatic discharge
- Built-in 9dBi 2×2 dual-polarized MIMO directional antenna
Cons:
- Only for outdoor
Best for Small Business
The Aruba Instant On AP22 is a great choice for those looking for an easy to use and manage access point. The AP22 can be powered by Power over Ethernet (802.1af Class 2) or a local 12V power adapter, and features two-factor authentication for added security. This AP is capable of 1200 Mbps at 5 GHz (802.11ax Wi-Fi 6) and 574 Mbps at 2.4 GHz (802.11ax Wi-Fi 6) for a total throughput of 1774 Mbps. The AP22 also has one 100/1000 gigabit uplink. Thanks to Aruba's Instant On Cloud application management system, this access point is easy to set up and manage. The AP22's sleek design makes it a great addition to any office,small and medium-sized businesses, retailers and hospitality businesses. It's up and running in minutes.
Pros:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- Aruba's Instant On Cloud app
- Two-factor authentication for added security
- Easy to use and manage access point
Cons:
- Max Recommended Devices Per AP 75
Best Compact Size
The TP-Link EAP225 AC1200 Access Point is a powerful and easy to use device that can deliver dual-band Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1200 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time. It is equipped with the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology and can be used indoors or outdoors. The durable, weatherproof enclosure protects the access point against outdoor conditions and provides stable wireless coverage up to 200m+ range at 2.4GHz and 300m+ at 5GHz in outdoor settings. The TP-Link EAP225 AC1200 Access Point also comes with remote cloud access and the Omada app for easy management. It is SDN compatibility and has multiple PoE options for easy installation.
Pros:
- Omada SDN (Software Defined Network) Compatibility
- Supports 802.3af / on PoE and passive PoE power
- Self-recovery technology to route data in case of lost connection
- Indoor/Outdoor Use
- Small and unobtrusive
Cons:
- The software needs to be constantly updated
Flexible Control Options
The Zyxel Cloud NWA50AX Wireless Access Point is a powerful and easy-to-use WiFi 6 (802.11ax) access point that supports the latest WPA3 security protocol to provide safer connectivity. It also features dual 2x2 MU-MIMO for maximum data rates of up to 1775 Mbps and supports standard PoE+ for easy installation. In addition, the NWA50AX supports NebulaFlex technology to move between standalone and cloud management mode, making it a versatile and flexible solution for any business or home network. Finally, the access point adopts a front-and-back thermal panel design to avoid running too hot and ensure stability and longevity.
Pros:
- Excellent Thermal Design
- Simple Installation
- True Wi-Fi 6 with Full OFDMA Support
Cons:
- No power supply
Best Wireless Access Points (WAP) - Buyer’s Guide
Consider the Following Parameters while Choosing your WAP
Coverage is one of the most critical parameters to consider when purchasing a Wireless Access Point. If you at least have a rough idea of how much area a Wi-Fi signal should cover, it will help you choose the right WAP. WAPs with greater long-distance coverage are preferred as they reduce the need to add additional access points. In general, indoor coverage range is between 30 and 100 meters while outdoor range is between 100 and 300 meters. The outdoor range can be even greater with specialized equipment. To get an idea of what sort of coverage you need, consider the dimensions of your home or office and the number of walls and other obstacles that might block the signal. Once you have a general sense of the coverage area you need, you can start narrowing down your choices of WAPs.
Speed is important to all users. Usually the speed of a Wireless Access Point device is measured in megabits or gigabits per second. The Wi-Fi protocol supported by the WAP device determines the speed of the Wi-Fi connection. Speed has always been a concern for users. No one wants to use a slow Internet.
Capacity. When shopping for a Wireless Access Point device, it is important to consider the number of Wi-Fi devices that it can support. The capacity of a WAP device is determined by the number of devices that it can connect to without affecting performance. The more devices that a WAP device can support, the higher the price of the device. However, it is important to only buy a WAP device that has the capacity to support the number of devices that will be connected to it. Otherwise, the WAP device will not be able to provide optimal performance for all of the devices that are connected to it. Therefore, it is essential to check out how many devices need to be connected to a Wireless Access Point device before making a purchase in order to pick the right device for your needs.
Dual-band support is becoming increasingly common, as it offers better performance and reliability.
Coverage is an important consideration, as you'll want to make sure your router can provide good indoor and outdoor coverage.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a great option for reducing installation costs and allowing devices to be installed anywhere.
MU-MIMO technology is something to look for if you want the best possible performance. All of these factors should be considered when choosing a wireless router.
Remote management of Wireless Access Point devices is much easier when you have software to do it for you. If you have multiple devices installed in different locations, it can be difficult to keep track of them all and make sure they are working properly. With the right software, you can manage and control all of your devices from one central location. This allows you to quickly diagnose and solve problems as they arise, without having to physically visit each device. In addition, remote management software can often provide valuable insights into the performance of your network, helping you to identify potential areas for improvement. Ultimately, using WAP management software can save you time and money by making it easier to keep your network running smoothly.
WAPs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used for both home and office networks.
Top Benefits of Using a Wireless Access Point:
1. Increased flexibility – A WAP gives you the ability to add wireless devices to your network without running new cables. This can be especially helpful if you need to add devices in hard-to-reach places.
2. Improved performance – A WAP can improve the performance of your wireless network by providing a stronger signal and better coverage.
3. Enhanced security – A WAP can provide enhanced security for your wireless network by encrypting data traffic and restricting access to authorized users.
4. Reduced costs – A WAP can save you money by eliminating the need to run new cables or hire a professional to install them.
5. Easy installation – Many WAPs are designed for easy installation and can be up and running in minutes.
If you're looking to extend the reach of your wireless network or improve its performance, a Wireless Access Point may be the perfect solution.
Best Wireless Access Point (WAP) - FAQ
What is a Wireless Access Point?
A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a device that connects wireless devices to a wired network. It usually consists of a router and an antenna. WAPs are used in homes, offices, and public spaces to provide wireless access to the internet or a private network.
How does a Wireless Access Point work?
A WAP connects to a wired network and creates a wireless signal that can be picked up by wireless devices. The signal is then used to connect to the internet or a private network.
What are the benefits of using a Wireless Access Point?
There are many benefits of using a WAP, including:
- Convenience - WAPs allow users to connect to the internet or a private network without having to worry about cables.
- Mobility - WAPs allow users to move around freely while still being connected to the internet or a private network.
- Cost-effectiveness - WAPs are typically cheaper than other methods of connecting to the internet or a private network.
What are some things to keep in mind when using a Wireless Access Point?
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a WAP, including:
- Security - WAPs should be properly secured to prevent unauthorized access.
- Range - The range of a WAP can be limited by factors such as walls or furniture.
Conclusion
So, what's the best wireless access point? The answer to this question depends on your needs and budget. We have described several factors to consider when buying a WAP, this will help you choose the best model for your needs and get years of reliable performance from your WAP. We hope this review has helped you make an informed decision about which product is right for you.