AP mode (Access Point mode) turns a device into a wireless hub for an existing wired network, allowing Wi-Fi devices to connect.
Access Point mode is specifically designed for environments where a router network already exists. When a device, such as a router or a dedicated access point, is configured in AP mode, it acts as a bridge between the wired network and wireless clients.
Based on the provided reference from Buffalo Tech: "Access Point mode is designed for environments where a router network already exists; a user simply plugs in the 'access point' and it adds wireless capability to the established network."
Essentially, a device in AP mode does not perform routing functions like assigning IP addresses (DHCP) or managing network traffic between different networks. Its primary role is to take an existing internet connection (usually from a router via an Ethernet cable) and broadcast a Wi-Fi signal, extending wireless coverage to new areas or adding Wi-Fi capability where there was none.
How AP Mode Works
When a device is set to AP mode:
- It connects to your existing router or network switch via an Ethernet cable.
- It receives an IP address from your main router's DHCP server.
- It broadcasts a Wi-Fi network (SSID) with a password.
- Wireless devices (laptops, phones, tablets) connect to the AP's Wi-Fi signal.
- The AP forwards traffic between the wireless devices and the wired network/router.
- All connected wireless devices remain part of the main network managed by the primary router.
When to Use AP Mode
Using AP mode is beneficial in several scenarios:
- Extending Wireless Coverage: If your existing router's Wi-Fi signal doesn't reach all corners of your home or office.
- Adding Wi-Fi to a Wired Network: In a setup with only wired connections (e.g., a large office building with switches), an AP adds necessary wireless access points.
- Upgrading Wi-Fi Technology: If your main router has older Wi-Fi technology (like Wi-Fi 4/802.11n) but you want faster Wi-Fi 6/802.11ax speeds, you can add a Wi-Fi 6 access point in AP mode connected to your existing router.
- Using a Dedicated AP: Dedicated access points are designed purely for broadcasting Wi-Fi and often offer better performance and features than a multi-function router in AP mode.
AP Mode vs. Router Mode
It's helpful to understand the core difference:
- Router Mode: A device in Router mode creates and manages a network. It typically connects directly to the internet source (like a modem), assigns IP addresses (acting as a DHCP server), manages firewalls, and routes traffic between the internet and the local network.
- AP Mode: A device in AP mode joins an existing network managed by another router. It does not assign IP addresses (relies on the main router's DHCP) and simply provides wireless access to the network the main router controls.
Think of the main router as the traffic controller for the entire network, while a device in AP mode is simply a bridge allowing Wi-Fi devices to access that network.
In summary, AP mode is a function that allows a network device to serve as a wireless access point, seamlessly integrating into an established wired network to provide or extend Wi-Fi connectivity.
