Router vs Access Point: Which is Right for Your Business?

As businesses increasingly migrate to the cloud, it's essential to understand the role of networking hardware in maintaining seamless connectivity. Routers and access points are two of the most commonly misunderstood devices in a network setup. While they may seem similar, their functions differ significantly, and choosing the right one depends on factors like the size of your business, the number of users, traffic, and bandwidth requirements.

What is a Router?

A router is a device that connects different networks, typically allowing communication between your internal local area network (LAN) and the internet. Routers manage traffic by directing data to its destination, ensuring that each device on the network can access external networks like the cloud. Routers also often come with built-in security features such as firewalls, and many businesses use wireless routers to provide Wi-Fi connectivity.

A router can support multiple devices and manage large amounts of traffic, making it ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with moderate bandwidth needs. High-performance routers can also handle a greater number of simultaneous connections, making them a good option for larger businesses.

What is an Access Point?

An access point (AP) is a device that provides wireless internet connectivity to devices within a network. It doesn’t route traffic between different networks but instead acts as an extension of an existing network. While routers have Wi-Fi capabilities, access points increase a network's range, offering better coverage in large offices or multiple floors.

In a setup with multiple access points, each AP connects back to the primary router, allowing wireless devices to connect to the internet no matter where they are in the building. Access points are essential for businesses with large offices, many users, or bandwidth-heavy applications that need consistent, uninterrupted Wi-Fi.

Key Differences Between Routers and Access Points

1. Primary Function:

   • Router: This device connects multiple networks and routes traffic between them (e.g., your local network and the Internet).
   • Access Point: Expands wireless coverage, acting as a gateway to the existing network.

2. Traffic Management:

   • Router: Manages and directs data between devices and networks.
   • Access Point: Extends Wi-Fi connectivity without managing or routing traffic independently.

3. Security:

   • Router: Offers built-in security features like firewalls and can manage traffic between networks securely.
   • Access Point: Relies on the security protocols set up by the router.

4. Use Case:

   • Router: This is best for small to medium-sized businesses where all devices can connect directly to the router, either wirelessly or through Ethernet.
   • Access Point: This is ideal for larger businesses with many devices spread over a large area where one router may not provide adequate Wi-Fi coverage.

Pros and Cons

Router:

• Pros:
  • Can manage and route traffic between networks.
  • Includes security features like firewalls.
  • Good for handling moderate to high amounts of network traffic.
• Cons:
  • Limited in terms of Wi-Fi coverage, a single wireless router may not cover large office spaces.
  • May slow down with too many devices connected directly.

Access Point:

• Pros:
  • Expands Wi-Fi coverage, ensuring all areas in a large office have a strong signal.
  • Can support a large number of wireless devices.
• Cons:
  • Dependent on a router for traffic management and security.
  • Setup can be more complex, requiring proper configuration to avoid interference or signal overlap.

When to Use a Router vs. an Access Point

A high-quality wireless router may be sufficient for small businesses with a relatively limited number of devices and moderate bandwidth requirements. However, larger businesses with multiple floors, numerous devices, or bandwidth-heavy applications may need to invest in access points to ensure seamless connectivity across the entire workspace.

It’s also important to consider future growth. If you anticipate adding more users or devices over time, opting for a setup with routers and access points might be a better long-term investment to ensure your network can scale with your business needs.

Conclusion

While both routers and access points are essential components of a business’s network infrastructure, understanding their differences is crucial for selecting the right hardware. A router can handle network management and Wi-Fi needs for companies with moderate traffic and fewer users. On the other hand, businesses that need to extend wireless coverage across larger spaces or support more users should consider incorporating access points to avoid bottlenecks and maintain reliable connectivity.

Related reading:

Why ethernet switches are still needed

Cisco vs Meraki: Comparing Switches for Business Needs