This is for people like me who didn’t know the difference between Router and Access points. This morning I had a need to prepare a business document where I had to put the details of routers and access points for Intelape Limited, a company in Abuja that provides networking services. I honestly didn’t know the difference between the two so after taking the time to check and read about the two separately and knowing what they do differently, I decided to share.
Basically, a router is a device that serves two functions:
- It connects multiple computers, phones, tablets, or other devices to form a manage a local area network.
- It provides internet access to all of the compatible devices that are connected to the router.
To set up a local area network, it can be done by simply deploying a router and connecting one or several devices to it. Some of the modern routers we now allow for various devices to be connected both via Ethernet cables or wirelessly.
However, for the router to distribute and deliver data to the devices within the local area network, it must be connected to an internet service provider’s customer premises equipment using cables.
On the other hand, an access point is a wireless network device that acts as a portal for devices to connect to a local network. Access points are used to basically extend the wireless coverage of an existing network and increasing the number of networks that can connect to it.
On the part of the router, it has firewall and password protection functionality. This ensures that the connected wireless devices are protected against any threats that may arise from outside of the local area network.
Now that we know what the two of them does, the main differences could be that the router is a hub that sets up a local area network and manages all of the devices and communication in it. While an access point acts as a sub-device within the LAN which extends or provides another location for the devices to connect to and be on the network.
Talking about which one to use or which is better, the choice is dependent on the need. It could be for residential apartments or for office complexes. So, if it is a large range, you could think about using the router and some access points. If you have an enclosed small range space, you could use only the router, as long as it will be sufficient for the number of devices expected to be on the network.