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Difference between WAP and Router

Difference between WAP and Router

In order to understand the difference between WAPs and routers, one must first understand what each term means. A wireless access point (WAP), as the name suggests, provides an access point for devices to connect to a network wirelessly. A router is a device that forwards data packets between computer networks, creating an overlay internetwork. It can be used to host a local network and connect multiple separate Local Area Networks (LANs) together. This article will provide an in-depth explanation of both concepts, as well as their respective benefits and drawbacks.

What is WAP?

WAP (Wireless Access Point) is a device used to connect wireless devices to a wired network. WAPs usually have a built-in radio receiver and transmitter that allow them to communicate with wireless devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. WAPs also have an Ethernet port that allows them to be connected to a wired network. WAPs are typically used in homes and small businesses because they provide a convenient way to connect devices that would otherwise require a physical connection. WAPs can also be used in public areas such as airports and coffee shops, where they provide wireless access to the internet for customers.

What is Router?

The router is a computer networking device that connects two or more networks and forwards data packets between them. A data packet is a small unit of data that is sent over a computer network. The router uses protocols to decide the best route for forwarding the data packets. The router uses software algorithms to make these decisions. The router also maintains a routing table that contains information about the reachable networks and the best routes to them. The router uses this routing table to make forwarding decisions. The router can also be used to connect two or more computers in a home or office network.

Router forwards data packets between these computers. The router is also used in wide area networks (WANs). WANs are computer networks that cover large geographical areas such as countries or regions. The router connects different parts of a WAN and forwards data packets between them. The router also provides security features such as a firewall and Network Address Translation (NAT). NAT hides the internal IP addresses of computers from the outside world. This helps to prevent hackers from gaining access to a computer network. The router also provides Quality of Service (QoS) features that help to improve the performance of real-time applications such as voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming.

Difference between WAP and Router

WAPs and routers are both devices that are commonly used to connect devices to a wireless network. However, there are some key differences between the two. WAPs, or wireless access points, act as a bridge between a wired network and wireless devices. Routers, on the other hand, connect multiple networks together, routing traffic between them. In terms of function, WAPs are more limited than routers. However, WAPs are typically easier to set up and use than routers. WAPs also tend to be less expensive than routers. As a result, WAPs are often the best choice for small businesses or for home users who want an easy way to connect their devices to the internet.

Conclusion

A wireless access point (WAP) and a router are both devices used to create a local area network (LAN). However, they serve different purposes. A WAP is mainly used to provide wireless Internet connectivity for devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. A router is used to connect multiple devices to the Internet using one broadband connection. Routers also have additional features that allow you to share files and printers between connected devices on your LAN. If you are looking for a device that will allow you to connect multiple devices wirelessly to the Internet, then you need a router. If you only need to connect a few devices wirelessly and do not require file or printer sharing, then you can use a WAP.

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