Time: November 21st, 2023
What is
access point
mode
and how does it differ from a
router
? In this article, we will explain what an access point is and how to use it for your Wi-Fi network.
Wi-Fi is a technology that lets you connect your devices to the internet and, to each other. However, there may be times when your Wi-Fi signal's not strong enough to cover your home or office or when some of your devices aren't compatible with the Wi-Fi standard of your
router
. In some situations, you might need to use an
access point
to extend your Wi-Fi network and enhance your
connectivity
.
What is an
Access Point
?
An
access point
is a device that links to your existing
router
either through an
Ethernet
cable or a wireless bridge. It then broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal for your devices to connect with. In creating a network an access point expands the reach of your existing one. Access points can have antennas, and support various Wi-Fi standards like
802.11ac
or
802.11ax
which offer faster and more reliable performance compared to what your router provides. Additionally, access points often come with features, like mesh networking, guest networks, and security settings.
What is
Access Point
Mode?
Access point
mode is a setting that allows you to transform your
router
into an access point.
This implies that your
router
will cease its routing functions such, as assigning
IP
addresses, managing traffic, and providing firewall protection. Instead, it will only function as a
transmitter
. The primary router will continue handling these tasks and serve as the
gateway
to the internet. Utilizing
access point
mode can be advantageous if you have a router that you wish to repurpose or if you need to use a router with a Wi-Fi standard compared to your main router.
How to Enable
Access Point
Mode for Your Wi-Fi Network?
To enable
access point
mode for your Wi-Fi network you'll require two routers; one designated as the
router
and another intended for use as an access point. Additionally, an
Ethernet
cable is needed to connect them or a wireless bridge can be used if you prefer avoiding cable connections. Here are the steps for configuring access point mode on your Wi-Fi network:
1. Connect your
router
to your modem. Set it up normally. Ensure that your main router has an
SSID
(network name) and password compared to your
access point
router. For instance, you can name your router as "MyWiFi 5G". The access point router is "MyWiFi 2.4G".
2. To connect your
access point
router
to your router you have two options. Using an
Ethernet
cable or a wireless bridge. If you choose the Ethernet cable option simply plug one end into the LAN port of your router and the end, into the
WAN
port of your access point router. In case you prefer a bridge refer to the instructions provided with your bridge device to pair it with both your main and access point routers.
3. Next log in to the web interface of your
access point
router. Locate the operation mode settings. This may differ based on your router model and firmware. Is typically found under network settings or advanced settings. Change this mode to "access point" mode.
4. Once that is done you can configure Wi-Fi settings on your
access point
router
such as
SSID
(network name) password, channel selection, and security mode. You have the option to use the SSID and password as that of your router for a seamless network experience or choose different ones if you wish to create a separate network. Additionally consider selecting a channel and security mode based on
compatibility
, with devices connected to both routers.
5. After making these changes save all settings.
Reboot
your
access point
router
for them to take effect. You should now be able to connect your devices to the Wi-Fi network of your access point router and enjoy an improved coverage of Wi-Fi.
In conclusion
The
access point
mode is a feature that allows you to transform your
router
into an access point thereby expanding the reach of your Wi-Fi network. This mode comes in handy when you have an area to cover or devices connected or if you are facing issues, with weak
signal strength
or performance. To utilize access point mode, you will require two routers; one as the router and another, as the access point. These routers need to be connected either through an
Ethernet
cable or a wireless bridge and their settings must be configured accordingly. We hope that this article has provided you with an understanding of what access point modes can benefit your Wi-Fi network usage.
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