what is access point

An access point is a networking hardware device that allows other Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network. It creates a wireless local area network (WLAN) and connects to a wired router, switch, or hub via an Ethernet cable, projecting a Wi-Fi signal to a designated area. An access point can be a standalone device with a wired connection to a router, or it can be an integral component of a wireless router. Access points are used to extend the wireless coverage of an existing network and increase the number of users that can connect to it. They can handle over 60 simultaneous connections each, and by installing access points throughout the office, users can roam freely from room to room without experiencing network interruptions. An access point is different from a wireless router, which has both the functionalities of a router and an access point in a single unit.