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Wi-Fi access points (WAPs, or APs) are similar to extenders, with one significant difference: an AP connects to the existing network, namely your router, using a network cable. And that changes everything.
While APs might sound foreign, they are the ideal solution for many modern wired homes where the Internet terminal is located at a place unsuitable for a Wi-Fi broadcaster — a closet, a concrete basement, or a metal box.
I’ll explain briefly in this post the idea of Wi-Fi access points, offer tips on picking the best for your network, and also include a list of the top five APs I’ve tested.
Table of Contents
Wi-Fi Access Points: Building a network with wired backhauling
Using a Wi-Fi access point means you build a network using network cables. That’s the traditional way and also the only way for best-performing networking. That’s especially true with the help of Multi-Gig.
But first, what is an access point exactly?
Access points in a nutshell
An access point is a device that broadcasts Wi-Fi signals. It’s the minimum requirement to have an infrastructure Wi-Fi network.
In many ways, an AP is like a network switch, but instead of Ethernet ports, it incorporates radio bands that emit wireless data signals using one or more Wi-Fi standards for clients to latch on.
An AP must have at least one network port to connect to the existing network. Some even have more for you to add wired clients to the network. Many access points also feature Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), allowing you to avoid running electrical wire to its location — the network cable also delivers power to the AP.
So, in a sentence, an AP is the required hardware component that allows your device to connect to the local network without wire.
Access points vs Wi-Fi routers: We often experience Wi-Fi via a Wi-Fi router — or an ISP-supplied residential gateway.
A Wi-Fi router is a standard router with built-in Wi-Fi access points. You have multiple functions in a single hardware box.
Consequently, most Wi-Fi routers can also work as standalone access points. Conversely, you can disable their Wi-Fi radios to render them non-wireless routers.
Popular roles of a Wi-Fi router
Below is the breakdown of four typical roles of a router. Not all hardware supports all of these, but most will have at least the first one plus another.
Some routers have even more roles — those from Asus, for example, also feature the proprietary AiMesh node role.
1. Wireless Router
This role is the default — the hardware will work as such unless you actively change that.
The hardware works as a Wi-Fi router that gets the Internet connection and then distributes that to the rest of the network via wired and Wi-Fi connections.
In this role, you must use the router’s WAN port for the Internet source. It’s also the only role in which the router’s routing and networking features (QoS, Parental Control, Dynamic DNS, VPN server, port-forwarding, etc.) are available.
Essentially, the hardware is now a standard routing box with a built-in managed switch and Wi-Fi access point(s).
2. Access Point (AP)
Important note: Certain vendors call this role “Bridge.”
In this mode, the hardware now works as an access point. It connects to an existing router via a network cable and extends the network farther, both wired and wireless.
In this role, none of the routing and features are available. All of the device’s network ports function as LAN ports. Essentially, the router is now a network switch with built-in Wi-Fi broadcaster(s).
By the way, if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router with a Multi-Gig WAN port, using it as an AP is the only way you can take advantage of this port’s high speed locally — without a Gig+ Internet connection, that is — assuming you have a Multi-Gig switch.
3. Repeater
The router now works as a Wi-Fi extender.
Specially, you use one of its bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, or 6GHz) to connect to an existing Wi-Fi network — this is the backhaul band. After that, you can configure one or all of its bands (including the backhaul band) with separate SSID(s) to serve clients.
In this mode, all of the router’s network ports will work as LAN ports of the existing network.
4. Bridge or Media Bridge
Important note: Certain vendors — those that use “Bridge” to call the “Access Point” role as mentioned above — name this mode “Wireless Bridge.” There might be other arbitrary names for this role.
In this mode, the router works essentially as a Wi-Fi-to-Ethernet adapter.
Specifically, you use one of its bands to connect to an existing Wi-Fi network. Now, you can connect wired devices to the router’s LAN ports to make them part of the network. (In most cases, you should leave the WAN port alone, but some routers turn this port into another LAN.)
In the Media Bridge mode, the rest of the router’s Wi-Fi bands are unavailable.
Extra: Bridge mode in a gateway unit
In a gateway unit, which is a router + modem combo box, the Bridge mode is a bit different.
That’s when the gateway will work solely as a modem and no longer has any router-related function.
You can read more on this in the post about how to get the most out of ISP-supplied equipment.
This post discusses standalone access points that you can use to add Wi-Fi to an existing network. That brings us to the first question: When do access points make sense?
When should you use an access point(s)
You can consider using access points only when your home is wired. Or let me put it this way: it never hurts to get your home wired so you can use access points.
All network needs a router. To use access points, you only need a non-Wi-Fi router — you can disable the Wi-Fi function in most Wi-Fi routers if need be.
After that, access points are applicable when:
- you have a non-Wi-Fi router, such as the Firewall Gold, and want to add Wi-Fi. (You can always disable the Wi-Fi function to have a non-Wi-Fi router, if applicable.)
- you have a router with dated Wi-Fi standards. In this case, you can use an AP to upgrade your Wi-Fi network.
- you want to extend the Wi-Fi coverage via a network cable to that far area of a property.
- you want to build a robust enterprise-class Wi-Fi mesh system
No matter the scenario, APs allow for flexibility in Wi-Fi availability. Generally, you place one in an area where Wi-Fi is needed.
And that brings us to the second question: How do I pick the correct AP for my need?
Tips on picking access points
How you arrange access points is the same as how you do a mesh system with wired backhauling. In such a mesh system, each satellite unit is, in fact, an access point.
So there are a couple of things to note, depending on how much coverage you need.
The number of units
In most homes, you’d need just one access point. And that’s easy: pick one of the Wi-Fi grades and features you’d like to have.
Generally, a standalone access point requires you to manage it individually, and that’s not a huge deal with a single unit — you have only one Wi-Fi network anyway. In this case, you generally want an AP that can be managed locally (instead of a vendor-assisted web portal and a required login account.)
On the other hand, if you need multiple units to blanket the desired area, it’s best to get those that can work together — essentially a Wi-Fi system — so that you still have a single Wi-Fi network.
That’s because managing multiple individual access points can be a pain. That’s not to mention many of them — especially those from different vendors — don’t work well together.
So, when multiple APs are necessary, it’s best to get access points that belong to a managed ecosystem, such as Omada of TP-Link, Insight Managed of Netgear, or Cloud To-Go of Engenius. That’s generally how an enterprise-class Wi-Fi network is built, by the way.
Managed access points from most vendors — not all, such as the case of Engenius — also have a local web portal for you to manage them individually, again, applicable when you only need a single unit.
Power-over-Ethernet standards
The second thing to note about getting APs is Power-over-Ethernet. As detailed in this post on PoE, this feature allows you to use the network cable to both data signal and power to the supported access point.
PoE is perfect when you need to place an AP at a location without an electrical outlet, such as an outdoor location — in the middle of a large yard — or the attic.
In this case, you might also need a PoE switch or a separate PoE injector. Ensure you have them of the same PoE standard (PoE, PoE+, or PoE++).
All business-class access point support PoE, but most home access points, which generally also work as extenders, don’t and require a separate power adapter.
Extra: Access points vs extenders vs mesh systems
A mesh system consists of multiple broadcasters that work together and can be managed in one place, such as a mobile app or the web user interface of the router unit.
In a mesh with wireless backhauling, each satellite unit of the system is essentially a centrally-managed Wi-Fi extender.
In a mesh with wired backhauling, each satellite unit of the system is essentially a centrally-managed managed access point.
But using multiple individually managed extenders or access points in a network doesn’t give you a Wi-Fi system and is not ideal from the management’s perspective. Additionally, you’ll experience no seamless handoff and have to deal with inevitable slow performance in the extenders’ case.
With that, if you’re in a hurry, below are the top five access points I’ve reviewed.
Top five access points for all different use cases
These access points are not sorted in any particular order. The numbers are just numerical and not the ranking.
I’ll explain each one and the case you should use it. One might be more applicable to a particular situation than others. And by that, I mean a home or small office. Advanced users should consider this list instead.
1. TP-Link EAP670: Representing the Omada family of managed access points
The EAP670 is one of the latest APs in TP-Link’s Omada family. It’s one of my favorites due to its excellent cost, performance, and features combo.
Each Omada access point can be managed locally as an individual unit, or you can get multiple units — of the same model or a mix — to create a robust mesh system via a controller.
As a system, Omda offers both local management and a cloud portal, requiring no additional cost in either case.
So, as a standalone access point, the EAP670 is a safe high-end choice, but you can pick any Omada AP, including the entry-level EAP610, that fits your needs and budget.
TP-Link Omada Wi-Fi 6 Access Point (via EAP670 and EAP610)'s Rating
Pros
Excellent Wi-Fi 6 performance and coverage at a low cost
Lots of settings and features, including Wi-Fi captive portals and mesh function
Power adapter included
Easy to mount with included accessories
Cons
The EAP670 is bulky, and the EAP610 has no Multi-Gig port; both could be more user-friendly for home users
Controller required for mesh-related features
No Smart Connect; PoE injector not included
2. Netgear WAX630E: Representing the Insight Managed family
The WAX630E is one of the first Wi-Fi 6E access points, and it’s a perfect unit to buy if you need a single AP that gives you all Wi-Fi flavors.
As part of Netgear’s Insight Managed family — as shown in the drawer below — the WAX630E can work with others or in multiple units to deliver a robust mesh system. However, in this case, you must pay a subscription fee per unit — there are no free options.
Netgear’s Insight Managed access points
| Model | WAX630E | WAX630 | WAX620 | WAX610 |
| Name | Insight App Managed Wi-Fi 6E Tri-band AXE7800 Tri-band Wireless Access Point | Insight App Managed Wi-Fi 6 AX6000 Tri-band Wireless Access Point | Insight App Managed Wi-Fi 6 AX3600 Dual-band Wireless Access Point | Insight App Managed Wi-Fi 6 AX1800 Dual-band Wireless Access Point |
| Wi-Fi Standards | Tri-band AXE7800 | Tri-band AX6000 | Dual-band AX3600 | Dual-band AX1800 |
| 1st Band 2.4GHz (channel width) | 2×2 AX Up to 600Mbps (20/40MHz) | 4×4 AX Up to 1200Mbps (20/40MHz) | 4×4 AX Up to 1200Mbps (20/40MHz) | 2×2 AX Up to 600Mbps (20/40MHz) |
| 2nd Band 5GHz (channel width) | 4×4 AX Up to 4800Mbps (20/40/80/160MHz) | 5GHz-1 (Lower channels) 2×2 AX Up to 2400Mbps (20/40/80+80MHz) | 4×4 AX Up to 2400Mbps (20/40/80MHz) | 2×2 AX Up to 1200Mbps (20/40/80MHz) |
| 3rd Band (channel width) | 6GHz 2×2 AXE Up to 2400Mbps (20/40/80/160MHz) | 5GHz-2 (Upper channels) 2×2 AX Up to 2400Mbps (20/40/80MHz) | None | None |
| Backward Compatibility | 802.11ac/n/g/a/b | 802.11ac/n/g/a/b | 802.11ac/n/g/a/b | 802.11ac/n/g/a/b |
| Power over Ethernet (PoE) | 802.3bt or 802.3at (50% 5GHz performance) | 802.3bt or 802.3at (50% 5GHz-1 performance) | 802.11at or 802.3af (60% performance) | 802.11at or 802.3af (60% performance) |
| Power Consumption | 27.64W | 30.1W | 25.5W | 15.3W |
| Network Port | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE, 1x Gigabit | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE, 1x Gigabit | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE |
| Security | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 |
| Local Managed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud-Managed | Netgear Insight Premium or Pro | Netgear Insight Premium or Pro | Netgear Insight Premium or Pro | Netgear Insight Premium or Pro |
| Mobile App | NETGEAR Insight App | NETGEAR Insight App | NETGEAR Insight App | NETGEAR Insight App |
| Mode | Access Point, Bridge, Repeater Mode | Access Point, Bridge, Repeater Mode | Access Point, Bridge, Repeater Mode | Access Point, Bridge, Repeater Mode |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 10.49 x 10.56 x 2.18 in (266.6 x 268.3 x 55.5 mm) | 10.49 x 10.56 x 2.18 in (266.61 x 268.29 x 55.5 mm) | 8.09 x 8.09 x 1.35 in (205.7 x 205.7 x 34.3 mm) | 6.33 x 6.33 x 1.30 in (160.9 x 160.9 x 33.25 mm) |
| Weight | 2.31 lb (1050 g) | 2.10 lb (956 g) | 1.72 lb (783 g) | 0.90 lb (412 g) |
| LED | Power and Cloud, LAN speed, 2.4GHz status, 5.0GHz status, 6.0GHz status | Power and Cloud, LAN speed, 2.4GHz status, 5.0GHz-1 status, 5.0GHz-2 status | Power and Cloud, LAN speed, 2.4GHz status, 5.0GHz status | Power and Cloud, LAN speed, 2.4GHz status, 5.0GHz status |
| US Retail Cost (at launch) | $349.99 $369.99 (with power adapter) | $329.99 $339.99 (with power adapter) | $229.99 | $179.99 |
| Warranty | 5-year | 5-year | 5-year | 5-year |
WAX630E vs WAX630 vs WAX620 vs. WAX610
For this reason, financially, for a home or small office you should only consider the WAX630E or any Netgear business access point when you just need a single unit.
Netgear WAX630E's Rating
Pros
Wi-Fi 6E support, reliable performance with excellent coverage
2.5 Gbps PoE network port, extra Gigabit port
Excellent web local interface, tons of Wi-Fi settings, and lots of AP-related features
Cons
Bulky design, no power adapter or PoE injector included
Sustained throughput speeds could be better
No support for multiple units via local management, no free level of Insight cloud-based management
3. EnGenius EWS850AP: An excellent outdoor Wi-Fi 6 access point
The EnGenius EWS850AP is available as an individual access point designed for outdoors. It has excellent performance and can handle the weather exceptionally well.
If you need to extend Wi-Fi coverage for a large backyard, it’s a perfect fit.
EnGenius EWS850AP Access Point's Rating
Pros
Reliable performance, excellent coverage
Full web interface that's responsive and comprehensive
Includes all parts and accessories to work right out of the box
Weatherproof
Convenient mobile app
2.5 Gbps PoE network port
Cons
No 160 MHz channel width support
Included PoE injector caps at 1Gbps
No web portal sign-in option for Guest Wi-Fi
Bulky, no separate power port
4. TRENDnet TEW-921DAP: An excellent local low-cost access point
The TRENDnet TEW-921DAP is a frill-free entry-level access point you can safely get for your home — only if you need a single unit since it has no mesh capability.
Alternatively, you can also consider the Netgear WAX214 or WAX220 to have a similar experience.
TRENDnet TEW-921DAP's Rating
Pros
Reliable Wi-Fi with up to 16 separate SSIDs and captive portal support
Compact design, easily accessible web user interface
No login account with vendor required, lots of Wi-Fi settings, responsive web user interface
No login account required
Wall/ceiling mounting accessories included
Cons
Comparatively expensive
No 160MHz bandwidth or Multi-Gig port, modest Wi-Fi specs and performance
No performance-favored Wi-Fi settings, no power adapter or PoE injector included
5. Asus RP-AX56: Representing consumer-grade non-PoE access point
The Asus RP-AX56 is a home device and the only access point on this list that’s not PoE-ready.
Marketed as an extender, the little snap-on device has a Gigabit port and can also work as an excellent individual access point for any existing network.
Better yet, if you use it with an Asus AiMesh router via wired backhauling, it’ll be an excellent mesh satellite.
Asus RP-AX56 Repeater's Rating
Pros
Affordable
Reliable and relatively fast Wi-Fi with good coverage
Can work as an Access Point, a Media Bridge, an Extender, or an AiMesh node (via wireless or wired backhaul)
Convenient design, excellent web interface
Cons
No 160MHz bandwidth, modest specs
The Initial firmware is a bit buggy (at launch)
Bulky for a snap-on device
The final thoughts
Individually, Wi-Fi access points are excellent ways to build a Wi-Fi network because they all use network cables. When deployed correctly, they can work together as a robust mesh system.
You do need a router before you can take advantage of APs. This router decides all the features of your network — the access points generally only handle the Wi-Fi portion.
They are going that direction. But I have their WAPs and router and run Unify. They are REALLY trying to get me to let their cloud manage. 10 devives and free. I just couldn’t need 10! But I staill manage WAPs… They have been great too, but I’m thinking you’re referring that some features only work with their full suite; router, switch, WAP.
Help me!! I am set for ceiling or even upper wall PoE mount. I can’t find a ceiling mount WiFi 6E!! I NEVER thought it would be a prob!!
I have an Asus GT-AX6000 main router with numerous other Asus access points, each WIRED to the main router. I am going to need outdoor WiFi in a freestanding pergola I am building.
I’m thinking about either getting another Asus access point (like the ZenWiFi XD5) and putting it in a waterproof box or getting something that’s meant to be outdoors (but obviously doesn’t integrate with Asus). In either case, I’ll be able to create a WIRED connection to the main router. Any opinions on the tradeoff between keeping everything Asus vs. using hardware intended for outside?
That’s the same as using a standalone access point, Jason, as detailed in this post.
This is slightly off topic but I have a question about your usual recommendations on best way to get food Wi-Fi coverage. Your recommendation is a mesh system with wired back haul. You are right but……..
I would venture to say most people that go to a mesh system to get coverage do not have the easy ability to implement “wired” backhaul, if they did them they likely wouldn’t need a mesh network as they would have the ability to used the wired network for coverage. Am I wrong?
It seems you’re stuck with the archaic definition of what a mesh is, or the idea that things and opinions are categorized as “wrong” or “right”. To answer your question, you’re just dated. Time for a new “firmware.” 🙂
All I’m trying to say is if you are going mesh you will probably have to go wireless backhaul. Not what is right or wrong
Or you don’t have to go wireless backhaul — and you shouldn’t. That’s what I was telling you. Your idea of “mesh” was applicable about 10 years ago. And I was there.
Sorry still confused. Have high speed cable into the 3 floor. No Ethernet anywhere in the house, how do I get coverage to the 1st floor (or basement or backyard) without wireless backhaul. How is this 10 years ago concept.
Am truly wondering what I have missed.
You can use wireless backhaul, but it won’t deliver the speed you’d like — wired backhauling is not a must. Like I said in the first reply, it’s not about zero terms, as in “wrong or right,” but always somewhere in between. Give this post a good read again, and more in this one. Please make sure you read before commenting as stated by the comment rules. I reply to all questions with the assumption that folks have followed the rules.
Pretty much. You can’t go wired everywhere. Unless you like walking around w/ your Tablet and a LONG PoE Cat6 cable w/ adapter. You need mesh in a decent sized house for portable devices. Maybe some are lucky enough that everything wifi is in same area, but chances are there will be a dead spot.
Like I said, portable devices aren’t suited for hardwire. Then if you are a smart home nut like me, you know that things like the TV and AV Receiver can (and DEFINITELY are hardwired). But wifi is used as well, or the smarthome won’t pick the device up often.
He just said it’s ‘best’! It avoids an extra jump or two, since all talk straight to switch. Then, there are aesthetics.
I have a media cabinet where everything is hardwired cat6, (ip cams outdoors, extra ports, 2 rj 45 per bedroom, 4 in my office, 6 in home Theater, etc.. I have A LOT! But for a seamless install, they go into my walk-in closet. Although I’m going to graduate to a small server and build a very efficient closet for clothing, hidden stuff, and a cabinet that is temp controlled and shut. Temp sensor will turn on fans that pull filtered air in and through, exiting by pushed out into the attic. will have one-way flap.
Soon, when I make 10+ GB switch from 1 gb system.
Sorry I’m not at max clarity. I hope I answered right. It’s late and LONG DAY! I can just vouch for WAP PoE hardwire straight to switch. It is WIN-WIN-WIN! (I’m trying to find two AP WiFi 6e Mesh Sys to ceiling mount. Would think not so dang hard!!)
This is a good article, however I am surprised that there is no mention of Ubiquiti access points.
There are devices that have WiFi and Switch, as well as standalone Access points.
The Ubiquiti devices can be operated in conjunction with a Ubquiti Dream Router, a Dream Machine Pro or a PC/MAC with the appropriate Network APP installed
Having recently switched to a Dream Machine Pro with 3 Access points I have been totally amazed at the stability of my system, especially the IOT devices which no longer suffer disconnect issues previously experienced with an ASUS Mesh system
I mentioned them in this post, Stuart. UniFi is a bit proprietary. I don’t see a point in getting them as standalone APs.
UniFi is no more proprietary than the Omada line. Hard to see why it was left off.
As you point out, “But using multiple individually managed extenders or access points in a network is not ideal from the management’s perspective.” Yet of your list you only discuss Omada and maybe Asus as part of a system.
UniFi has several AP form factors, including ceiling, wall, tabletop, outdoor that makes tailoring a WiFi system to one’s property easy and comprehensive. And even sometimes cheap. A competent router (UniFi or not) plus a few U6 Lites can cover most residences at a cheaper price than the high-end consumer systems.
I’d not get an UniFi AP unless I have a UDR, UDM, or one of those Pro controllers, Bill. The post needed only five. If you use all of those I mentioned, you’d know why.
I completely don’t understand? A UniFi router/switch setup gives one a single management console including a controller. That’s it. The UniFi AP system works fine with other routers/switches. Lots of people (including power users who might use something like a pfSense or OPNsense routers) use UniFi for WiFi because the APs do work well and are not expensive.
Completely understand this, Bill: I’m not you — there are things about me and what I pick you will never comprehend or agree with. As I said and mentioned earlier in this thread, I only picked five, and those from the UniFi family don’t make the list. I put them on a different list, and that list doesn’t include some of the ones mentioned here.
Whatever. If you want to say that UniFi’s customer support can be iffy, or their firmware has historically sometimes been buggy that would be understandable. What’s not understandable is making a statement that using random APs together is not a good idea and then making 2-3 of your recommendations random stand alone APs. Omada is more or less an imitation of UniFi’s system. Both are pretty good especially for home users. Another AP system that is easily findable and usable for consumers (even available in Microcenter retail stores) would be HP Aruba Instant On. Also, your linked previous article had a couple of paragraphs on the UDM/UDR and was not about APs.
Please read the posts carefully, Bill. Looks like you just skimped them — or any text — over to validate your points and get the opportunity to express your frustration and “knowledge”. As stated in the rules, I reply to each comment with the assumption folks have followed them.
They are going that direction. But I have their WAPs and router and run Unify. They are REALLY trying to get me to let their cloud manage. 10 devives and free. I just couldn’t need 10! But I staill manage WAPs… They have been great too, but I’m thinking you’re referring that some features only work with their full suite; router, switch, WAP.
Help me!! I am set for ceiling or even upper wall PoE mount. I can’t find a ceiling mount WiFi 6E!! I NEVER thought it would be a prob!!