Wireless Access Point

In computer networking, a wireless access point (WAP or AP) is a device that allows wireless communication devices to connect to a wireless network using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and related standards. The WAP usually connects to a wired network, and can relay data between the wireless devices (such as computers or printers) and wired devices on the network.

Some people confuse Wireless Access Points with Wireless Ad-Hoc networks. An Ad-Hoc network uses a connection between two or more devices without using an access point: the devices communicate directly. An Ad-Hoc network is used in situations, such as for a quick data exchange, or for a Multiplayer LAN game, because it is easy to set up and does not require an access point. Due to its peer-to-peer layout, Ad-Hoc connections are similar to Bluetooth ones, and are generally not recommended for a permanent installation.

Internet access via Ad-Hoc networks, using features like Windows' Internet Connection Sharing, may work well with a small number of devices that are close to each other, but Ad-Hoc networks don't scale well. Internet traffic will converge to the nodes with direct internet connection, potentially congesting these nodes. For internet-enabled nodes, Access Points have a clear advantage, being designed to handle this load.