Things to Consider When Choosing a WAP

Now since the intelligent mobile phone is more and more convenient, people have stronger and stronger demands for the Internet. As a result, the programs of wireless coverage have been increasing. At the same time, many people are confused about choosing a wireless access point (WAP). The post summarizes some tips for your reference when choosing a WAP.

Range

The distance covered is an important parameter in buying an AP. WAPs with range enhancements are advantageous as they reduce the number and general costs of access points. In general, adequate range lowers overall expenses to the client since fewer access points are required. Majority of enterprise wireless access points are able to give a coverage for an area between five thousand to ten thousand square feet. The range of a typical residential Wi-Fi network is dependent upon antenna sensitivity and one’s need.

Speed

This refers to the rate of information traveling, usually measured in bps (bits per second), kilobits, megabits or gigabits. In general, the speed of a wireless AP can reach 300Mbps or higher if the precise 802.11n protocol being supported, which is six times faster than 802.11n. While WAP supporting 802.11ac protocol can reach 1200Mbps.

Price

The price would depend on several factors. But one should keep in mind that not the higher the price is, the better an AP will be. High price would not only increase the cost, but also result in the waste of function and performance of product; on the contrary, low price would induce people to buy inferior-quality or fake products. So you should have a clear understanding of the actual performance of WAP in order not to be tempted by exaggerated advertising effect.

Purchase WAP

Features

Although there is a broad variety of features, they might not be what you need. You should select what you need most, and then do a bit of research into the device that you are going to buy. Be sure to take bps and range into consideration.

WAP Capacity

The capacity of a WAP is the number of users that it can support without a degradation of performance. Capacity is also an important factor when choosing a wireless AP. Although all manufactures will emphasize throughput in advertisements, few of them will reveal the specific number of users that their gadgets are capable of supporting.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Power over Ethernet has some evident advantages. For example, PoE support on wireless access points greatly simplifies the installation, reduces the cost, and saves data and power cables separately for each network device. It has high flexibility since the network device can be installed in any location without having to approach an existing power outlet. Last but not least, it has high reliability; a PoE device with SNMP capabilities can carry out remote detection and control, and can effectively handle or repair power consumption or malfunction of the device. Based on this, PoE is of great importance in choosing a WAP.

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Gain Antenna

The antenna of wireless AP is basically built-in, unlike routers whose antenna is external. Therefore, the wireless AP antenna is very important, and it will directly affect the signal strength of wireless AP and the range of transmission. When you are purchasing a wireless AP, you’d better choose one with gain antenna.

Conclusion

Now there are a number of new devices which are more powerful and can support a wider area in the market for you to opt for, but be sure to find the right wireless access points based just on your needs and at the same time take a few factors into consideration such as range, speed, price, features, WAP Capacity, PoE, gain antenna, etc. And what’s more, it would be wise to checkout some of the feedback and reviews from a few products before you make your final decision.

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