Wireless network access points provide a convenient way to connect desktop computers, laptop computers, printers and gaming consoles to an existing Local Area Network (LAN) or to the Internet. Using unlicensed spectrum, and following IEEE Standard 802.11, these devices provide high-speed transfer without the hassle of installing wiring. When originally introduced, the complexity prevented most people from using this technology; however, ease-of-use has improved dramatically with the work of the Wi-Fi Alliance. Virtually all commercially available access point products now come with Wi-Fi certification.

Wireless technology continues to evolve, as indicated by the different letter given to each revision of the standard for wireless access points. When you look for access points, you might want to consider the following information:

1. Consider how much information you'll send wirelessly and how quickly you need to send it. Multimedia and real-time applications, like gaming and Internet telephony, require higher transfer rates.

2. Determine the required wireless access point range.

3. Evaluate your needs for a secure access point and determine how much you want to spend on your wireless network.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the best wireless network access point system

Whether you aren't sure what type of access point to buy or you want industry specific advice, you might want to consider working with a company that can offer consultation as well as services and products.

I recommend: NETGEAR provides solutions for both large and small businesses and can help you determine which type of access point will work best for your needs. It also provides a section on awards won for its products. BelAir Networks provides solutions for municipal, hospitality and entertainment industries. It can set up a network designed to allow people to use their own devices to use your access point.

Provide wireless network access points for your employees

Wifi access points help increase productivity and allow businesses the opportunity to network multiple aspects of the business via the access point. Some businesses may want to provide an access point with enough broadband to handle multi-media applications.

I recommend: Cisco Systems helps businesses integrate an access point for a wireless network. It offers a three-part webcast on the 802.11n network access point. 3Com is another company specializing in wireless networks for businesses. It offers the 802.11 and provides information on the benefits of this access point.

Incorporate a network access point for a home office or small business

While large corporations need to implement a network system, many people find a small device designed for home offices or small businesses works well, costs less and provides what they need. A business representative can buy most of these types of access points from stores that carry computer products, or can look for them online.

I recommend: D-Link provides a variety of wireless access points for use in a home office or small business. LinkSys by Cisco moves wireless networking to a scope more suitable for a home office or small business. It offers a variety of networking solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Protect your wireless network from unwanted intruders. Make sure you encrypt an access point for wireless network, which the default may disable, and your interface to the Internet should have a hardware firewall.