Difference Between Access Point’s & Router

Access points and routers are both devices used in networking, but they serve different purposes and have distinct functions. Here are the key differences between an access point (AP) and a router:

Router:

1. Function: A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks together. It is responsible for routing data between devices on a local area network (LAN) and devices on wide area networks (WAN), typically the internet. Routers determine the best path for data packets to travel between networks.
2. Network Address Translation (NAT): Routers often perform Network Address Translation (NAT), which allows multiple devices on a LAN to share a single public IP address for internet access. NAT hides the internal IP addresses of devices on the LAN from the internet.
3. DHCP Server: Routers frequently include a built-in DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server. This server assigns IP addresses to devices on the local network, making it easier to manage IP allocations.
4. Firewall: Many routers include firewall capabilities to provide security by blocking or allowing incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined rules.
5. WAN Port: Routers typically have a WAN (Wide Area Network) port used to connect to the internet, as well as LAN ports for connecting devices within the local network.
6. Wireless Capabilities: Some routers also include built-in wireless capabilities and function as wireless access points.

Access Point (AP):

1. Function: An access point is a device that provides wireless connectivity to a wired network. It acts as a bridge between wireless devices (such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets) and a wired LAN. An access point’s primary function is to extend the coverage area of an existing network or create a new wireless network within a wired infrastructure.
2. No Routing: Unlike a router, an access point does not perform routing, NAT, or DHCP functions. It does not determine how data packets should be forwarded between networks.
3. SSID: Access points broadcast a Service Set Identifier (SSID), which is the network name that wireless devices connect to.
4. Wireless Signal: Access points provide the wireless signal, and they are often connected to a router or a switch within the wired network to facilitate communication between wireless devices and the rest of the network.
5. Multi-AP Networks: Large networks may have multiple access points to ensure wireless coverage throughout the entire area. In such cases, a controller or management system may be used to coordinate and manage these access points.

In summary, a router is primarily responsible for routing data between different networks, providing security features, and managing IP addresses, while an access point’s main purpose is to provide wireless connectivity within a local network. They often work together, with the router handling the routing and security functions and the access point handling wireless connections within the network.