We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Networking

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a WLAN Port?

M. McGee
By
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 35,469
Share

A wireless local access network (WLAN) is a limited local wireless network. A WLAN port is a device that allows computers to connect to the WLAN. In essence, a WLAN port is a type of router. The difference between these devices and a standard router is usually in the wired ports. Most routers have at least two wired ports for standard network connections, while a WLAN port generally has none. The only way to connect to one of these devices is via a wireless connection.

In order to understand what a WLAN port is and what it isn’t, it is necessary to know a few networking terms. A local access network (LAN) is the network that exists within a home or business to which all of the computing devices connect. A wide area network (WAN) is the network outside the LAN, often simply the Internet as a whole. A router allows the user’s computing devices to connect to the network; it is basically the center of the system. Lastly, a wireless router contains both ports to physically connect devices, like computers and gaming consoles, and wireless systems, like laptops and some cellphones.

In most cases, a wireless or wired router will have at least two wired ports, but can have many more. As computing devices move more towards wireless connections, these ports are being used less. Some router companies have begun making routers that have no wired ports at all; they only allow the connection of wireless systems. These devices go by several names, one of which is WLAN port.

In general, a WLAN port is exactly the same as a standard router except for the wired connections. It will perform all the routing functions and provide a basic firewall, just as a user would expect a standard router to do. The biggest difference is in the initial connection. Many standard routers require a wired connection to perform the initial setup processes; since this isn’t possible in this case, that isn’t required.

There is a small amount of confusion regarding these devices, mostly because of the similarity between WLAN and WAN. All routers, regardless of type, have a WAN port. In many cases, it is labeled 'WAN,' but occasionally it will go by a less technical name like 'Internet port' or 'uplink port.' Regardless of the name, it is a WAN port. The WAN port connects the router to the greater network, usually via the modem supplied by an Internet service provider.

The confusion comes from people mixing up the two names. A WLAN port, also known as a wireless router, has a WAN port, a connection to the Internet. A wired router also has a WAN port, whether it is wireless or not.

Share
EasyTechJunkie is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
M. McGee
By M. McGee
Mark McGee is a skilled writer and communicator who excels in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences. With a background in communication-related fields, he brings strong organizational and interpersonal skills to his writing, ensuring that his work is both informative and engaging.
Discussion Comments
M. McGee
M. McGee
Mark McGee is a skilled writer and communicator who excels in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences....
Learn more
Share
https://www.easytechjunkie.com/what-is-a-wlan-port.htm
Copy this link
EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.