# Access Point ## What is a Wireless Access Point A wireless access point, commonly abbreviated as AP or WAP, is a networking device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network. The access point acts as a bridge between the wireless and wired portions of the network. It connects to a switch or router through an Ethernet cable and broadcasts a WiFi signal that wireless devices can connect to. Once a wireless device connects to an access point, it can communicate with other devices on the wired network and access the internet as if it were connected directly to the network with a cable. ## How an Access Point Works The access point continuously broadcasts its network name, called the Service Set Identifier or SSID. Wireless devices within range detect this broadcast and can attempt to connect to the network. When connecting, the device goes through an authentication process to prove it has the correct credentials. After authentication, the access point associates the device with its network and begins relaying traffic between the wireless device and the wired network. The access point handles the conversion between the wireless 802.11 protocols and the wired Ethernet protocol. ## Basic Service Set and Extended Service Set A single access point creates a Basic Service Set or BSS. All wireless devices connected to that access point are part of the same BSS. When multiple access points are connected to the same wired network and configured with the same SSID and security settings, they form an Extended Service Set or ESS. Wireless devices in an ESS can roam between access points without losing their network connection. As a device moves out of range of one access point and into range of another, it seamlessly transitions to the closer access point. This roaming capability is essential for providing wireless coverage throughout large buildings and campuses. ## Wireless Standards and Frequencies Access points implement the IEEE 802.11 family of wireless standards. Modern access points typically support multiple standards including 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax. They may operate on the 2.4 gigahertz frequency band, the 5 gigahertz band, or both simultaneously in a configuration called dual-band. Some advanced access points also support the 6 gigahertz band introduced with WiFi 6E. ## Access Point vs Router A router and an access point serve different functions. A router connects networks and routes traffic between them, including connecting a local network to the internet. An access point provides wireless connectivity to an existing network. Home WiFi routers combine both functions into a single device, acting as both a router connecting the home network to the internet and an access point providing wireless connectivity to home devices.