The phrase “access point” refers to an object that serves as a connection or medium for other devices to gain access to the Internet or to other devices in the network. This “access point” can be a small device, a computer program or software, or even an area where network data can be sent and received. Access points, depending on the kind, can connect one or multiple users. With the necessity of modern devices such as laptops and mobile phones, many households today have access points for all devices to connect to the Internet. Public areas such as parks, restaurants and malls provide unsecured access points for public consumption and usage.
A common example of an access point is a router, a device that receives and sends data when a computer or other devices are linked to it. Earlier uses of a router needed an actual cable or wire connection linking it to a computer. A wired network was found to be a hassle, especially in schools and offices, where multiple computers should be connected to just one access point with numerous cables. All the wires took up much space on the ceilings, inside the walls, and on the floors. The development and arrival of a wireless access point (WAP) became the solution to this problem.
WAP is a kind of access point that enables devices to connect to a network without the use of multiple cables. Usually with an antenna, the WAP is a small device connected to the router through a cable. Once the router and the WAP are turned on, any devices such as a laptop can have a network connection and Internet access, provided that the device has wireless capability enabled. Homes that have WAPs should always secure their networks with an encryption or a password to prevent any unauthorized connection. The rule of thumb with WAP is that the nearer a device is to the access point, the better the connection.
Another kind of access point is the Bluetooth™. The difference between a WAP and Bluetooth™ is the distance, as the latter can only perform in a short-ranged distance. Bluetooth™ allows devices to connect, send and receive data to each another. Due to its short-ranged performance, Bluetooth™ can also be used in other ways, such as in a hands-free and wireless headset, wireless connection of external devices such as keyboard and mouse, and even a multi-player game setting in a player console.