WAP

What is WAP (Wireless Access Point)?

In the network, WAP is a network device that provides wireless access services to terminals. APs are divided into two categories in terms of function and application: Fat AP and Fit AP. The product form of Fat AP is a common home router.

Fit AP is widely used in enterprises, shopping malls and some public places. Catering companies such as Starbucks use AP/AC wireless network solutions, which can allow a large number of users to access wirelessly with the help of WAP devices.

Fat AP and Fit AP

Each fat AP works independently and has routing functions. This type of product needs to be configured one by one and is usually used for Wi-Fi coverage in a small area.

Fit APs do not have routing functions and need to be networked with ACs (access controllers) and switches. They are usually used for seamless roaming Wi-Fi coverage. In enterprise scenarios, the AP we usually refer to is Fit AP by default.

Why Do Enterprises Need Fit WAP?

The biggest pain point in the home router experience is the inability to achieve seamless roaming. When the user leaves the coverage area of ​​an AP and the signal strength drops significantly, switching to another AP often requires manual operation. Fat APs can achieve fast roaming and automatic signal switching. There is no need for re-authentication or re-acquisition of IP addresses, and the network is always connected online.

Compared with conventional home wireless routers, Fat AP devices have much higher bandwidth and speed, which can reach 2000Mbps or even higher, allowing more users to access at the same time and greatly speeding up data transmission. For some enterprises that require high bandwidth and high coverage, such as the streaming media industry, high-speed AP solutions are the best choice for building wireless network solutions within the enterprise.

Advantages of WAP

The number of users connected to a single AP can reach hundreds, and each AP does not need any configuration. The AP is directly connected to the AC controller. After an AC is configured, all AP devices connected to it can be put into use directly. Advanced ACs can control thousands of APs, which greatly reduces management and operation costs.

In terms of security, in addition to traditional WAP encryption and authentication, AP can configure security policies and set access rights based on user type and location to ensure the security of network resources. For example, restaurant employees and users are connected to the same AP, but the AP can grant different access rights based on user names.

On the marketing side, AP can push advertisements and voice to all visitors, which is something that home routers cannot do. AP has higher signal power and its signal strength is greater than that of home devices, so its coverage and stability are significantly stronger.