ligipääsupunkt

A ligipääsupunkt, or access point, is a hardware device that allows other Wi-Fi enabled devices to connect to a wired network and, consequently, to the internet. It is essentially a wireless local area network (WLAN) transceiver that is connected to a wired router, broadband modem, or switch via an Ethernet cable. This connection enables the access point to transmit and receive wireless signals, creating a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Access points are commonly used to extend the range of a wireless network or to add wireless capabilities to a wired network. They are frequently found in public places such as cafes, libraries, airports, and hotels, where they provide internet access to visitors. In businesses and homes, access points can be used to improve Wi-Fi coverage in areas where the main router's signal is weak.

Access points operate using wireless networking standards like 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, and 802.11ac, which define the speed and range of the wireless connection. Some advanced access points also offer features like Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize certain types of traffic, and security protocols such as WPA2 or WPA3 to protect the network from unauthorized access. While a wireless router often includes an integrated access point, standalone access points are specifically designed for wireless connectivity.