wireless access point v. wireless router

Question

hi everyone-

can anyone explain the difference between a wireless access point (WAP) and a wireless router? there seems to be a pretty big cost difference between the two, but i'm not quite sure how each one is/can be used.

i'm trying to set up a wireless network in my home to share a DSL connection and files between one desktop and one laptop. do i need both a WAP and a wireless router, or just one of them? if only one, which one?

i'm new to networking, so a minimum of technical jargon would be great.

thanks in advance

volcano11 · Answer

A WAP is a device that allow you to create a wireless network between one or more wired computers (how many wired computers can connect depends on the model of the WAP). A wireless router serves the same function as a WAP, but also allows you to share an internet connection between all of the computers, both wired and wireless. What you need is a wireless router. This will allow you to share the dsl connection and also allow you to share files and printers between the computers. To learn more about networking, see the following sites:

www.homenethelp.com

www.practicallynetworked.com

Steve

mattcowger · Answer

If you want to share a broadband connection, you need a wireless router. The access point is used if you already have a wired only router and you want to expand it to be able to do wireless.

econguy · Answer

thanks volcano11 and mattcowger...it's much clearer now.  i appreciate the quick responses.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

wireless access point v. wireless router

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