Wireless router or access point. How is an access point different from a router? What to choose. What is the difference between APN and a router and how to configure it
28.12.2017
First of all, you should find out the differences between a switch (switch) and a router (router). It is known that if a local network is built normally, then the IP addresses of all network devices must be from the same subnet. A switch is used to connect computers into a local network. The switch cannot connect multiple local networks.
The wireless network is divided into 4 types. Such networks use ordinary radio waves, which are transmitted using an adapter that receives, decodes and emits the signals. Remembering that this diffusion can be made open or in a closed way. “It’s so much information that we even got lost.” Have you ever heard or repeated this phrase?
Well, the Internet brings many benefits to people's lives, but it is also capable of generating losses. Too much content can be overwhelming. In addition to scattered attention with thousands of calls, large amounts of information tend to cause fatigue and even stress.
This is where the need for a router appears that can combine networks with different IPs.
Now let's look at the difference between an access point and a router. To work on the Internet you need an IP address. One computer – one IP address. But what to do if there are many people who want to get the Internet, but there are not enough funds to connect to each computer. In this case, if the connection is via a dedicated line, then you can use a switch (wires) or an access point (WI-FI).
There is an option in which you win. This is the creation of a local network. This is done by connecting the provider's network to the router, and using the router you create your home network. And in this case you will pay the same tariff. Such connection methods are the best way to connect to the Internet if the number of computers is more than 4.
And who has never messed up various links? Unintentionally clicking a button or inducing a malicious click are other problems that arise from this exaggeration. Many times the user even sees the link and when he realizes he is already redirected to another page.
Machine infection by virus, hater attack, fake profiles and digital theft are other harmful problems that usually originate from the Internet, among many others. But, in fact, it is important to say that the whole part of the action is who is the front of the device. This is why it is so important to create specific campaigns for correct use networks.
In fact, both WiFi routers and WiFi access points perform the same functions - they create radio coverage (AP mode), in which any device can connect to the network in AP-Client mode. This is where the similarities between the devices end.
These devices differ both visually and structurally.
At the classic point WiFi access There is only one Ethernet port.
Identifies various public, private and third sector agencies around raising awareness of the safe, ethical and responsible use of the Internet. In Brazil, events begin in January and develop until the end of February, publishing and opening campaigns, educational materials and services that are available online throughout the year.
The theme chosen was “do your part for a more positive internet.” Therefore, nothing is fairer than to take the opportunity to see some tips that contribute to this task. Accessing the network is opening windows to a world where, of course, there are many dangers. So before you navigate, make sure your computer is properly protected with reliable antivirus software and other security systems such as backups and encryption. Once inside the Internet, be very careful with links and strange pages.
Classic WiFi routers have 5 of them. At the same time, there is a separate WAN port, which is used to connect the provider’s cable. The remaining Ethernet ports are labeled as LAN - they are used to connect local network clients created by the router via twisted pair cable.
In the factory settings, the access point has a DHCP server disabled and to connect to it via Ethernet or WiFi, the network adapter must be assigned a static IP address that lies in the same subnet as the factory IP address of the access point.
Give preference to websites, emails and invitations of known origin. This also applies to virtual stores, where there are many scams and thefts. Never leave your details in any form or make payments without being sure that the company is reliable.
The opinions and content you post may also compromise your integrity. False information, accusations, biases and some details about your routine can lead to many complications. The best thing to do is to first check the content of any post that is to be posted. General advice here: don't do it on impulse!
Routers have a DHCP server enabled in the factory settings, and any client of the router can obtain an IP address from this server automatically. To do this, you need to configure the DHCP client service of the adapter used to connect to the router to automatically obtain IP addresses.
In addition to the DHCP server enabled in the factory settings, the routers are equipped with a software and hardware firewall, which minimizes the likelihood of hacker attacks and theft of confidential information from clients of the local network that it creates, but does not guarantee 100% protection.
It is very easy to get lost on the Internet and especially in. Even if you don't realize it, fragmented access can cause your productivity at work to drop dramatically. A few minutes here, others there and, soon, the day is gone, leaving many tasks to recover.
There are also those who, even at home, suffer from unrestrained Internet use because they lose the opportunity to do other programs and isolate themselves, because they do not fulfill their obligations or because they waste precious hours of sleep. The best way to avoid these problems is to set how much time you can spend on the Internet. From there, you can mark specific periods throughout the day. Analyze your routine and create schedules that suit your needs. There is nothing better than enjoying life to the fullest.
Access points can be connected by their Ethernet port to providers that use the DHCP or Static IP connection protocol (find out your protocol). While WiFi routers (in addition to the DHCP/Static IP protocols) can “raise” VPN tunnels using the PPPoE, PPTP, L2TP protocols and work with Russian Internet providers using VPN technology. In the case when a WiFi router supports these protocols, but with the “Russia” prefix, they say that this model is optimized to work correctly with the networks of Russian Internet providers. It is the support for the Russian PPPoE, Russian PPTP and Russian L2TP protocols that you should pay attention to first of all when choosing a particular model. This information, as a rule, is not on the box and in the equipment specifications, but it can be found on the official website of the manufacturer, in the product catalog.
But it definitely doesn't just happen inside a computer or cell phone screen. There's a world of possibilities out there that needs to be cleared! Having rules for internet use, like the advice above, helps discipline the habit to maintain more balanced behavior. Even those who work with digital media must find ways to abstain from it from time to time. This requires moments of rest.
Visiting a friend, traveling, walking in the park, watching movies, staying with family, trying out a new restaurant, and many other activities that require physical presence are part of human development. You have a healthy offline life, so your online presence is also more beneficial.
Often, WiFi routers are called gateways or routers. Routers really act as a gateway to access the Internet, since they “stand at the junction” of two or more networks (WAN - provider network, LAN - wired local network, which he creates and WLAN - wireless local network WiFi technology). This opportunity is given to the router by the network address translation protocol implemented in it, called NAT (not implemented in access points). Thanks to the NAT protocol, the router converts one IP address received from the provider for working on the Internet into several local IP addresses (often these are class “C” addresses - like 192.168.0.0-192.168.255.255). Routers allow you to enter into one contract with a provider and use one channel at the same time for several clients. Thus, routers allow subscribers of providers to save on the number of contracts, and providers - on IP addresses.
Look for content that enriches
As stated at the outset, too many appeals are tiresome, distracting, and cause all sorts of confusion. To avoid being swallowed up by a sea of content, it is important that the user achieves this selective attention. Discard anything that doesn't really interest you, avoid random links, and stop giving your audience these useless sites. It's interesting that you need to use the Internet to your advantage. So, better choose what you read, comment and share. It has great opportunities to open your mind, learn new things, develop skills and add personal and professional value.
WiFi router is more functional and universal device for building a home WiFi network or a small office network. Access points that have richer functionality in terms of various WiFi network settings are more often used to create WiFi networks over large areas.
To be honest, I’m too lazy to write another instruction today, so I decided to talk about access points. What is an access point, what are they for, how do they differ from routers, and how to make an access point from a router. Some specific ones step by step instructions You won't find it in this article. Later, in a separate article, I will write about how to use a Wi-Fi router in AP (Access Point) mode.
Wireless access point: what is it and what is it for?
First of all, an access point is a separate device. A router and an access point are not the same thing. Yes, they are similar in many ways. We can say that an access point is a stripped-down, simpler version of a router. The fact is that a wireless access point is designed to connect devices to an already created network. Its task is simply to organize an Internet connection via Wi-Fi. Also, it can operate in different modes: wireless client, bridge, repeater, access point. It all depends on the specific model.
The access point does not distribute IP, does not connect to an ISP, does not have a built-in firewall, etc. It simply receives the Internet from a router or modem and distributes it via Wi-Fi. Some wireless access points that are on sale can distribute IP, organize a separate network, and even connect to an Internet provider. But, only via the Static IP protocol, or DHCP. Most likely, you can’t do everything without a router or modem. And one more important point, the access point has only one network connector. So, it does not distribute Internet via cable.
For example, if you need to distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi from an ADSL modem, or expand an existing Wi-Fi network, then an access point is perfect in this case. This is what they are created for. As I wrote above, many models can work in client mode, or . Many modern routers can also work in all of these modes.
In access point mode, we connect it to a router or modem via a network cable and access the Internet via a Wi-Fi network. If you want to connect a wireless access point over the air, you can configure it in bridge mode (WDS), or in repeater mode. You need to look at what is best suited specifically in your case.
Router and access point
The router itself also acts as an access point; it allows you to connect to a Wi-Fi network. In addition, almost every router can operate in AP mode. For some manufacturers, for example ASUS, ZyXEL, this mode is simply enabled in the router settings. Later, I will definitely write detailed instructions on setting up this operating mode on routers different manufacturers.
In access point mode, the distribution of IP addresses (DHСP), firewall, and IP address translation (NAT) must be disabled on the router. It simply disables several features of the router and turns it into an Access Point.
On some routers, there is no AP operating mode as such. There you just need to manually disable the DHCP server and make a few more settings.
Conclusions
If you do not know what device you need, a router, or an access point, then it is better to ask knowledgeable people, or buy a regular router. Buy an access point only if you know for sure that it suits you.
Almost any router can operate in Access Point mode. And the access point itself cannot act as a router. It lacks many of the features that a regular router has.
By the way, an ordinary laptop or computer with a Wi-Fi adapter can also be turned into a wireless access point. I already wrote, . And if you have Windows 7, then look.
That's all. If you still have any questions, you can leave them in the comments. Best wishes!
It is more convenient to view browser pages and edit documents from a laptop than from a smartphone or tablet. Use your Android gadget as a wireless modem to set up and distribute Wi-Fi using an access point.
What is a Wi-Fi hotspot
Wi-Fi access point is a station that provides access to a wireless network for several devices. A gadget with the Android operating system can act as an access point. Device requirements:
If your smartphone or tablet does not support GSM/3G, but works with OTG technology, that is, it detects connected flash drives, you can connect a USB modem to it and use it as a wireless access point.
The modem interacts with the tablet via a cable using OTG technology
When turning on an access point, remember: by distributing Wi-fi, you spend mobile traffic. If the tariff is not unlimited, monitor your balance after surfing the Internet. Also, an active access point increases battery consumption.
How to distribute the Internet from a phone, smartphone or tablet
There are two ways to distribute Wi-fi from a smartphone or tablet - using standard Android tools or using a third-party application. Please note - you can only distribute mobile traffic from the connectionGSM/3G. It is not possible to configure the access point usingWi-fi network connection.
Setting up an Android device as a router
The Android system, starting from version 2.3.x, allows you to broadcast Wi-fi to other devices. To set up an access point, make sure that it is turned on mobile internet and go to the gadget menu. Example of setting up LG G3, Android 5.0 version:
You can enable mobile Internet (data transfer) by using the menu item “Settings - Wireless networks - Mobile data”.
On Android earlier versions, to set up an access point:
Once the connection is activated, you will see the corresponding icon in the notification bar at the top of the screen.
It is enough to set up an access point once; for subsequent connections, it will be enough to activate the function in the network settings or by pulling out the notification shade at the top of the screen and clicking on the “Access Point” button.
Photo gallery: setting up an access point in the Android menu
Step 1. Open Settings Step 2: Select “Tethering & Networks” Step 3. Select “Access Point...” menu Step 4. Create a Wi-fi hotspot Step 5. Configure hotspot settings Step 6. Enable hotspot When reconnecting no need to configure an access point
Using Applications
Use apps to distribute Wi-Fi access if your smartphone or tablet does not support standard settings. Well-known programs: Osmino, mHotspot, MyPublicWiFi.
Setting up a Wi-Fi connection using the Osmino program as an example:
The smartphone or tablet will switch to modem mode. To disable the access point, go to the application and click “Stop distribution”.
Photo gallery: how to enable Wi-Fi distribution in the Osmino application
Step 1. Download the application Step 2. Specify network parameters and enable distribution Appears when you turn on the program for the first time
Why does the Internet not turn on and work through the access point?
After connecting the mobile Internet and activating the hotspot, the user may encounter difficulties. There are three reasons why a Wi-fi access point may not work correctly.
An antivirus that protects your smartphone in real time can block network connections. Go to the application, disable the firewall and activate the access point. If there is no connection, uninstall your antivirus program and try again.
Installed applications change the way you work operating system. Check your smartphone with antivirus and block malicious files. Using Application Manager, find out which program has rights to control network connections and remove it. Then turn on the access point.
If the previous methods do not work, reset your gadget to factory settings. To do this:
By performing a factory reset, you will lose all data saved in the device memory. Create a backup copy first.
Your mobile operator can block the distribution of traffic via Wi-Fi. If you set up an access point on Android according to the instructions and eliminated the errors described above, contact the contact center with a request to check the network settings and the presence of blocking.
Nowadays, the Internet has become so integrated into the lives of ordinary people that the first thing that arises when moving to a new home is the question of running an Internet cable there. But if previously most people had only one computer in their apartment, now each family member has a separate personal gadget with Internet access, and they are all connected not via a cable, but via a Wi-Fi interface, so the problem of purchasing equipment arises. which can satisfy these needs. When you come to the store, you will see a huge amount various types devices (routers, access points, repeaters) that are similar in functionality, and how can you buy exactly what you really need from everything presented?
Network equipment, although it performs similar tasks, differs in its functionality and capabilities
When choosing wireless communication equipment for their home, many users do not see the difference between Acess Point and Router and often buy the wrong thing. It would seem that both equipment distributes a Wi-Fi signal, but the difference between them is colossal.
What is an access point?
An access point is a regular wireless interface splitter that allows you to cover a certain area of your apartment with a radio signal. Most often, the device is used to:
- Receive Internet traffic and broadcast it to other gadgets via Wi-Fi. That is, we connect our AP to existing network equipment (to a router that does not have a wireless interface or to a computer) and it, in turn, transmits a signal via radio frequencies to your gadgets.
- Receive radio signals from your gadgets and transmit them further via cable (feedback).
- Acess Point is also used in repeater (repeater) mode to increase the coverage area of an existing Wi-Fi. That is, if you already have a Router and you need to transmit the signal further to client machines, then installing an AP will help solve this problem.
What is a router?
Routers, or routers as they are also called, are a much more complex device. Among other things, they differ in that with their help you can organize a new network, and the AP is already built in there. Router features:
- Distribution of Internet data packages between devices.
- Assignment and distribution of IP addresses for gadgets connected to it.
- Protection against hacker attacks from external networks (built-in firewall).
- Internet speed limit for various devices your network, as well as filtering MAC addresses, IP addresses and other parameters to limit the penetration of other clients into your network.
From this we can conclude that a Wi-Fi router is a router with a built-in access point, and the AP itself cannot do anything except distribute Wi-Fi. That is, if we need to provide ourselves with a wireless interface in our apartment, then we need to buy a router. You can limit yourself to purchasing an AP only if you already have a router without Wi-Fi function.
Let me start with the fact that the router itself, which you want to make an access point, is an access point, only more functional. It runs a DHCP server that distributes IP, most likely there is a firewall, and roughly speaking it builds routes between connected devices, which is why it is a router. So, to turn a router into an access point, you just need to disable some functions in it and connect it via cable to another router, or to a modem.
In the hotel article, I already wrote. You can read it if interested. There I promised to show in detail, using the example of different routers, the settings that need to be made to use the router as a Wi-Fi access point.
Let's use an example to find out for what purposes this mode of operation may be suitable. Let's say you have a modem or router installed on the ground floor, or at one end of the house. Which may or may not distribute Wi-Fi, it doesn’t matter. So, at the other end of the house, or on another floor, we need to install an access point to distribute Wi-Fi. In this case, the connection between the router and the access point will be via a network cable.
If we install an access point at the other end, the main router will distribute IP addresses, and the devices will be on the same network, which is often very important. Also, the access point mode can be useful for distributing Wi-Fi from a modem that does not have this capability. In fact, there are many possible uses. Otherwise, access points simply would not be sold as separate devices. Because they wouldn't make sense.
Please note that most routers can operate in other modes, which may suit you better:
- Repeater mode– suitable if your goal is simply to expand your existing Wi-Fi network with another router. On our website there are instructions for, as well as. After setup, there will be one Wi-Fi network, just enhanced. Internet via cable from the “repeater” will also be available.
- WDS Wireless Bridge Mode– this is practically the same as the access point mode, but here the connection between the routers is not via cable, but via a Wi-Fi network. I wrote in more detail about setting up such a connection in the article: . It is shown in detail using the example of popular routers: ASUS, TP-LINK, D-Link, Zyxel. There is also a detailed one.
Sorry that there is so much information and links already at the beginning of the article, but these issues needed to be sorted out.
As for the “access point” operating mode, also known as AP (Access Point), this mode is configured differently on routers from different manufacturers. For example, on routers from ASUS and Zyxel, you just need to enable Access Point mode in the control panel, connect the devices with a network cable, and you're done. But on devices from TP-LINK, you need to manually change the router’s IP address and disable the DHCP server.
Connecting an access point to a router (modem):
We connect both devices with a network cable. On the main router (modem), we connect the cable to the LAN port (Home Network), and on the access point router, also to the LAN port.
From an access point, the Internet via a network cable also works. For many this is important.
Setting up an ASUS router in access point (AP) mode
On ASUS routers, as a rule, the AP operating mode is enabled in the control panel. After which, we simply connect it to the router or modem and everything is ready. On some models, for example on the old RT-N13U, modes are switched with a special switch on the device body. I will show you how to configure an access point using the Asus RT-N12 router as an example.
We connect to the router, and at the address 192.168.1.1, go to its settings. In the settings, go to the "Administration" tab. And at the top is the "Operating Mode" tab. We put the switch next to “Access point (AP) mode”. Read the description of the mode and click “Save”.
In the next window we need to set the IP settings. You don’t have to change anything, just click “Next”. But, in this case, to determine the IP address of the access point, you will need to use the special “Discovery” utility. Or you can, where “Obtain IP automatically”, put no, and change the last digit. For example, on 192.168.1.2. Now, the settings will be available at this address. DNS, if necessary, can be specified as in the screenshot below. Or, leave it automatic.
In the next window, if necessary, change the Wi-Fi network settings of our ASUS access point and click “Apply”.
The router will reboot and go into AP mode. If you go to its settings, at the address that you may have specified yourself, or which can be determined using the “Discovery” utility (you can download it from the link), then you will see a stripped-down control panel. Where you can change the necessary settings, or, for example, return the device to the “Wireless Router” operating mode.
After setup, connect the Access Point to the router or modem via cable (there is a diagram above), and it will distribute Wi-Fi.
Access point from Zyxel Keenetic router
If I'm not mistaken, only the Keenetic Lite III model has a mechanical operating mode switch on the case. In all other cases, . I immediately advise you to set up a Wi-Fi network (set the network name and password, if necessary), so as not to have to deal with entering the AP settings later.
To activate access point mode on Zyxel, go to the "System" tab, and open the "Mode" tab at the top. Select "Access point - Wi-Fi zone extension with Ethernet connection" and click the "Apply" button.
Allow the router to reboot. After this, you can connect it to another router, and it will already work in “Access Point” mode.
To go into its settings, you can first go to the settings of the main router (modem), go to the list of clients, and look at the IP address of our Zyxel there. And then use it to go to the web interface. Or you can simply reset the settings, and the router will work in normal “Internet Center” mode.
TP-LINK router as a Wi-Fi access point
If you have a device from TP-LINK, you will need to manually change several parameters. Since there is no operating mode switch there. Now I’ll show you step by step what and how to do. I will show it using the example of a router.
1 First, go to the one that we want to configure in wireless access point mode. And change the IP address of the router. To do this, open the “Network” – “LAN” tab. We need to set an IP address the same as that of the main router (can be viewed on the device itself), just with a different number at the end. For example: if the IP address of the main modem (router) is 192.168.1.1, then in the TP-LINK settings you need to set 192.168.1.2 and save the settings. The router will reboot.
Go to settings again, but at a new address. In my case, it is 192.168.1.2.
2 Setting up a Wi-Fi network. If necessary, on the "Wireless" tab, set the Wi-Fi settings for our access point. Enter the network name and password.
3 Last step. Disable the DHCP server. To do this, go to the "DHCP" tab. Place the switch next to “Disable” and save the settings.
And reboot the router. You can do it through the control panel. "System Tools" tab - "Reboot", "Reboot" button.
We connect it to the main router (LAN - LAN), and we get a Wi-Fi access point.
Setting up Access Point on Netis routers
On my Netis router, I just changed the IP address, disabled DHCP, and everything worked. Go to settings at netis.cc.
Open the “Network” – “LAN” tab. Change the IP address. If the main router or modem has 192.168.1.1, then write 192.168.1.2. So that only the last digit would differ. We also disable the DHCP server there. And save the settings.
If necessary, go to the settings again (already at the new address that was specified), and on the “Wireless Mode” tab set the Wi-Fi settings.
We connect our Netis access point to the main device with a network cable (LAN - LAN), and everything is ready.
