Gone are the days when you have to pass cable wires around personal or public PC. The advent of wireless access points has made everything easier. Just set up a wireless connection, and your PC is connected to internet services. Also, it can see other computers on the network and access files. Let's explore important things you need to know about it.
What a Wireless Access Point Is?
The wireless access point is referred to as WAP or wireless AP. It is a networking hardware appliance that improves Wi-Fi capacity in an existing wired network. It bridges traffic into wired LAN from wireless stations and can function as a router component or a stand-alone device.
It creates a strong local network area (LAN) in organizations such as a bank, federal agency offices, and a learning environment. It also uses an Ethernet cable to send a Wi-Fi signal to a particular PC designed by a network engineer. For instance, an access point can be installed in a particular area in the office building, and an Ethernet cable can be passed through the office wall or a ceiling into the server room.
Things Involved in Wireless Access Point
Some components make up a wireless access point and are necessary to have one. Below are the necessities:
A computer
You must configure the settings on your computer, especially if you are using it as the access point for another PC.
An access point
It is the primary tool needed to set up a wireless connection. The access point provides a connection for location between the end device and the local network area. The purpose is to expand the local network area coverage.
Router
If the wireless access point is for a bigger organization, the router is ideal for data distribution and management.
Ethernet cables
They are the unavoidable wires needed for connection for data transfer between access points and other devices.
AC/DC adapter
It is not for all access points in all cases, but some may need an adapter for power to function. Nevertheless, the recent modern access points do not need an adapter as there is power in-built into them to function for a while.
Modem
The modem is only applicable if you cannot connect too much PC to browse the Internet.
Other items include extension cords, wall mounts, installation discs, and other necessary things, depending on the situation.
How to Set up an Access Point
Although it is advisable to call an expert to help set up an access point. However, the process can be explained if you want to set it up yourself. Below is the process:
Find a good spot for the installation
There must be a good location you have cited for installation. It must be a good spot that can distribute connections without any issues. A good spot guarantees prompt data circulation and reduced interference in connection. It is applicable if you are using a router or a switch.
Set up the router or switch, connect the important wires, and plug into a power source. In some cases, some router or switch comes with a power source that can power on automatically or manually.
Trimming and prepping the wires
Many times, the wires for connection are usually longer and may require trimming by the person installing them. Some organizations use fancy wall brackets to ensure the wires are not seen. However, prepping the wires along the wall is important until it gets to where the PC is for connection. Do not attempt to trim, if you are not a professional, as you can likely damage them.
Connect your cables
There are different cables to connect. It begins from the access point to the router and then the computer. Insert the cable into a LAN port attached to the router and the main access point, the Ethernet port. This creates a bridge from the access point to the router's local area network.
An organization such as a bank or school organization needs to make the Internet accessible through the local area network. After that, connect to the computer(s) Ethernet, which puts the PC on the network. It also creates direct access for the computer into the LAN and access point.
Configure the computer to Lan and wireless access point
Although your computer will receive the signal of a new network, it still needs to be configured before it can work. Go to your network area to see the network and then set it as a primary connection. Once you do this, browsing and accessing other network connections are activated.
How Wireless Access Point Work
Wireless access point helps smooth and faster flow of communication between network and computers. For instance, you may need to copy out a file from another computer; there is no need to stand up from your seat and then insert a flash or hard drive. With wireless access points in place, everything becomes easier to connect.
Also, it makes the network secure and strong within its vicinity. The Wi-Fi is even extended, and users can communicate effectively without having to do it manually. In simple words, it is better than a range extender, which is majorly used by home group computers.
Advantages of the wireless access point
Numerous advantages come with making your access point a wireless one. It is more exciting if you are using a 5G network. Below are the advantages:
- It is suitable for modern business.
- The wave of connection is five times faster than a normal modem.
- It works perfectly on more than ten computers.
- You can limit access without tampering with network settings.
Final thoughts
If you have trouble setting up yours and need a professional service, the Carlcare office is always open for your inquiries. Aside from offering quality Android repair services and sales of phone spare parts, our technicians are knowledgeable in setting up a solid access point connection. Visit us and we will be happy to attend to you.
