An access point receives data by wired Ethernet, and converts to a 2.4GHz or 5GHz wireless signal. It sends and receives wireless traffic to and from nearby wireless clients. An access point is different from a wireless router in that it does not have firewall functions and does not protect your local network against threats from the Internet.
You can use an access point together with a router to extend the wireless coverage around your home or business to dead spots, distant rooms, or other floors. However, using a wireless extender halves your bandwidth. This is because the equipment is half duplex, meaning that either the router or extender can transmit data, but not both at the same moment.
When you set up your access point using a wired connection, the access point functions as a WiFi base station or, if you use a mesh WiFi network, as a root access point. With a wired connection to the Internet, your access point can function as a WiFi base station or root access point for up to four other access points. These access points function as WiFi repeaters or, if you use a mesh WiFi network, extender access points. These access points connect to the Internet through the WiFi base station or root access point over a WiFi connection.
For more information:
- Insight Managed Access Point Product Page
- Knowledge base landing page for Insight Managed Wireless Access Points
- WiFi 6 Landing Page
- How do I set up a wireless bridge WDS on my WAC505 WAC510, WAC540, or WAX610 access point?
- How do I set up a root access point in an Insight Instant Mesh network?