Choosing the right access point for your wireless network is crucial for ensuring reliable and efficient connectivity. However, several misconceptions can hinder your decision-making process. In this blog, we will debunk four common misconceptions surrounding the selection of an access point. By understanding these misconceptions, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed choice that meets your network requirements.
But, before that, let’s understand what an access point is and its types.
About Access Point and Its Types
An access point functions as a tool enabling wireless devices to establish a connection with a network. Acting as an intermediary, access points serve as a link between your devices and the internet, facilitating communication between your devices and enabling interaction with the global network.
Types based on the environment in the access point intended to operate
Indoor Access Point
Indoor access points are the prevailing type of access point and are commonly affixed to walls or ceilings within buildings or enclosed areas. They typically bear the greatest responsibility in a wireless network setup, facilitating connections for various devices such as laptops, printers, and other access points, ensuring comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout the space.
Remote Access Point
Although they can typically be installed on walls or ceilings, a remote access point is commonly positioned on a desk. These access points not only offer Wi-Fi coverage but also establish connections with nearby devices through wired Ethernet.
Remote access points are sometimes referred to as hospitality access points because of their widespread use in hotels and other hospitality establishments. They are also favored in small office/home office setups, medical clinics, financial institutions, and remote work environments where strict security policies need to be enforced outside the primary building.
Outdoor Access Point
Outdoor access points are specifically built to withstand a wide range of challenging conditions, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and extreme temperatures. They offer dependable connectivity in outdoor settings such as parking lots, open-air malls, and similar environments.
It is crucial to ascertain the IP ratings for water and dust resistance, as well as the resistance to shocks, vibrations, and salt, among other factors that the outdoor AP can endure. The most reliable sources for obtaining this information are data sheets and certification records.
Ruggedized Access Point
Access points equipped with ruggedized housing are constructed to endure harsh environments found in hazardous locations that may contain flammable gases and chemicals. These ruggedized access points can function as outdoor access points, although some are limited to indoor use only.
Misconceptions about Choosing an Access Point
Misconception: Higher Price Equals Better Performance
The most common misconception is that access points that are highly priced perform better. While more expensive access points frequently offer greater features and capabilities, this does not always imply that they are the best solution for your unique needs. The performance of an access point is heavily influenced by factors like as coverage area, deployment environment, and user density.
Consider your network requirements and assess based on their compatibility with your specific context. A lower-cost access point that meets your requirements and provides enough coverage may be a more cost-effective solution than a high-cost access point with unneeded capabilities.
Misconception: Maximum Data Rate Is the Key Factor
Another common misconception is that an access point’s maximum data rate is the only indicator of its performance. While data rate is crucial, it is only one part of overall network performance. Signal strength, interference, and the number of connected devices all have a substantial impact on an access point’s real-world performance.
It is critical to examine the environment in which the will be deployed to ensure optimal performance. Signal propagation and coverage range can be affected by factors such as building materials, the existence of physical barriers, and the layout of your space. A detailed site assessment or the use of predictive modeling techniques can assist in determining the number and location of access points required for maximum coverage and performance.
Misconception: One Access Point Fits All
Many consumers believe that a single may provide adequate coverage for their entire property. But, this is not true for larger or more complicated network coverage. Building materials, impediments, and the architecture of your area can all have a big impact on an access point’s coverage range.
You may need to carefully deploy numerous access points to maintain smooth connectivity across your facility. A thorough site survey will assist you in identifying regions with poor signal strength or dead zones, allowing you to establish the ideal number and placement of access points.
Consider your network’s capacity as well. A single is not a feasible choice if there are a large number of users or devices joining at the same time. In such instances, establishing numerous access points might help to disperse network traffic and improve user experience.
Misconception: Brand Reputation Is Everything
While brand reputation is important when choosing an access point, relying only on it can be misleading. Established businesses frequently have a track record of quality, but this does not necessarily imply that their access points are the ideal choice for every case. Various brands provide different features, performance levels, and pricing possibilities.
Evaluate multiple brands and their product offers to make an informed conclusion. Consider the technical characteristics of the access point, compatibility with your existing network infrastructure, and the quality of support supplied by the brand. Reading customer reviews and seeking suggestions from reputable sources can also provide useful information about the performance and dependability of various access points.
You can now approach the decision-making process with greater confidence after debunking these four frequent misconceptions about access point selection.
Author: TechBlonHub
As a passionate blogger, I'm thrilled to share my expertise, insights, and enthusiasm with you. I believe that technical knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. That's why I take the time to craft detailed, well-researched content that's easy to follow, even for non-tech. I love hearing from you, answering your questions, and learning from your experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that's tailored to your needs and interests
