Data Structure
Networking
RDBMS
Operating System
Java
MS Excel
iOS
HTML
CSS
Android
Python
C Programming
C++
C#
MongoDB
MySQL
Javascript
PHP
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Mathematics
English
Economics
Psychology
Social Studies
Fashion Studies
Legal Studies
- Selected Reading
- UPSC IAS Exams Notes
- Developer's Best Practices
- Questions and Answers
- Effective Resume Writing
- HR Interview Questions
- Computer Glossary
- Who is Who
Difference between WAP and Router
Routers and wireless access points are the two most popular networking devices available in the market, both networking devices are used to connect different devices to the internet. The WAP is a piece of hardware that provides wireless network access. A Router is used to transfer the packets of data between the computer networks. And it accesses the devices like LAN through the different ports of LAN, which connect to the internet through a port called WAN.
The equipment used to route data between networks is called a router. It is used to determine the best path for the transmission of data, and network security is provided. A router provides the connectivity of Wi-Fi to multiple devices, and it has additional functions like protection through a firewall and support for VPN.
WAP offers wireless access to a network, but a router offers a gateway for a number of devices to connect to the internet, along with extra functions for network management and security.
Read this article to find out more about WAP and Router and how they are different from each other.
What is WAP?
Wireless devices may connect with one another and with other network users due to WAPs, which function as a bridge between wireless and wired networks. WAPs often join a wired Ethernet network and extend Wi-Fi coverage to a particular space, like a room, structure, or campus.
A network interface for connecting to the wired network and an antenna or group of antennas for transmitting and receiving wireless signals are generally included in WAPs. Other characteristics offered by WAPs include security, quality of service (QoS), and network administration.
WAPs are network-connected independent devices that can be a part of an existing network or they can be built into other network hardware like switches, routers, and firewalls. WAPs are constantly utilized in places, workplaces, public areas, and other settings where required the wireless communication.
WAP gives wireless connectivity to a wired network, enabling wireless devices to access the Internet and other network resources, as well as providing a practical and adaptable approach for users to connect to the network from a variety of colorful places.
What is a Router?
In order to connect computers and other devices in a network to one another and to the wider Internet, routers are essential parts of the internet's infrastructure. It is a networking device that forwards data packets.
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model's network layer, or layer 3, where a router functions, is in charge of directing data among various networks. In order to decide which route data packets should take, the router uses routing tables and protocols.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), which assigns IP addresses to devices; NAT (Network Address Translation), which allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address; and VPN support, which enables remote users to securely connect to a private network, are three fresh network services that a router offers.
Ultramodern routers constantly come with Wi-Fi connections, firewalls, and Quality of Service (QoS) controls in addition to these features. This enables simple network setup and operation and offers a wealth of cutting-edge features for both commercial and domestic customers.
Difference between WAP and Router
The following table highlights the major differences between Wireless Access Point and Router −
Characteristics |
WAP |
Router |
|---|---|---|
Definition |
WAP offers wireless access to a network, but a router offers a gateway for a number of devices to connect to the internet, along with extra functions for network management and security |
It is a networking device that forwards data packets. |
Purpose |
increases the user count and extends the range of a wireless network. |
Each connected device must have internet access in order to connect multiple devices, such as computers and mobile phones, to create a controlled original area network. Controlling data inflow, having segmentation foresight, determining the most applicable path to transfer data packets, etc. |
Suitable |
WAP is suitable for larger enterprises, firms, and organizations. Instant messaging |
The router is suitable for small businesses, apartments, and households. |
Subtypes |
The subtypes of WAP are in-wall access point, controller access point, dual band access point, commercial access point, enterprise level access point, and single frequency access point. |
The subtypes of router are wireless routers, wired routers, edge routers, core routers, and virtual routers. |
Maintenance |
The maintenance cost of WAP is very high. |
The maintenance cost of the router is low compared to the WAP. |
Range |
The wireless access point range is up to 2000 sq. ft |
The router range is up to 150 ft. |
Data Packets Deliver |
WAP cannot deliver the data packets. |
The data packets can be delivered by the router. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a WAP is a networking device that offers wireless access to a network. The networking device that forwards data packets are known as routers. It's actually possible to use a single device to provide both wired and wireless connectivity because numerous contemporary routers come equipped with built-in routers wireless access points. In these circumstances, the router serves as a focal point for all network traffic, both wired and wireless, giving the network a solitary point of operation and control.
2K+ Views
