What are Access points ?

There are 2 types of local area network (LAN) , Wired LAN and Wireless LAN. We already understand what a wired LAN is and we know that in a wired environment, ALL devices that need to communicate must be connected via a wire called Cat 5,Cat 6, Cat7 or even Cat 8 cable. Now, when you need to connect you mobile phones or laptop without using a cable, then you are switching to the wireless environment. In order to be able to connect your phones, laptops and other wireless devices, you need what is called THE ACCESS POINT.

An Access point is an EXTENSION of a network. It extends the network to areas in the building where you do not want cables passing through. The device broadcast wireless signals that can be received by mobile devices.

Home Router Vs Access Points

A router is used in the home If you just want wireless network at home to cover only several people, or an apartment, the wireless router is enough but if you want build more reliable wireless network, you may need a wireless access point. Note: A router can be a access point but a access point can’t be a router. They are 2 different devices.

The service provider /ISP gives you a router or tells you to buy one and plug into the wall where they already have a connection extended to. When you plug in your router to the wall as directed, what you are doing is routing traffic from your home (Private) to the service providers network and in turn, they will route your traffic to the internet. Why didn’t the ISP give you an AP? The reason is an AP will NOT be routing any traffic, meaning, it will ONLY be projecting a Wi-Fi signal to a designated area but a router can project and route.

Therefore, 

an access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network, or WLAN, usually in an office or large building.  An access point connects to a wired router, switch  via an Ethernet cable, and projects a Wi-Fi signal to a designated area. For example, if you want to enable Wi-Fi access in your company’s reception area but don’t have a router within range, you can install an access point near the front desk and run an Ethernet cable through the ceiling back to the server room.