{"id":16224,"date":"2020-10-28T10:17:18","date_gmt":"2020-10-28T15:17:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.firewalls.com\/blog\/?p=16224"},"modified":"2025-12-19T10:59:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-19T15:59:00","slug":"top-5-wireless-access-points-2020","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.firewalls.com\/blog\/top-5-wireless-access-points-2020\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Wireless Access Points of 2020"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Setting up wifi is a business imperative in 2020, and that means finding the best wireless access points is, too. The days of wireless networking being an option are long gone. But how do you go from knowing you need wifi to making it happen? What are the best options for getting your unique needs addressed and your network up and running? Why are we asking so many questions? Read on for the answers, and for the best wireless access points of 2020\u2026<\/p>

What does a wireless access point do?<\/strong><\/h3>

A wireless access point in essence creates your wireless network. With it, you\u2019re connecting to a hard-wired router, network switch<\/strong><\/a>, or other hub. In many business settings, that means not only offering access to the internet, but also to your workplace network, including its applications, files, etcetera. With the right wireless access point, you get built-in security and the ability to add separate guest wifi.<\/p>

Which is better, wifi extender or access point?<\/strong><\/h3>

A wireless access point is better than a wifi extender when it comes to performance and configuration capabilities. While extenders are normally less expensive, you get what you pay for. An extender replicates an existing network transmitted from a router, and extends its reach. However, the quality of the connection degrades. A wireless access point creates its own network, ensuring top notch performance for those in range. And you can manage and configure access points to your needs.<\/p>

How do I choose a wireless access point?<\/strong><\/h3>

Choosing a wireless access point comes down to which factors are most important to you. Access points come with a variety of radio and bandwidth options that affect performance. So it\u2019s important to consider how many users will need access simultaneously and your connection speed.<\/p>

Also, consider your space \u2013 as in walls that could hamper signal strength, wiring to power the devices (PoE options are available), and how you\u2019ll mount the devices (wall, ceiling, indoor\/outdoor). While some deployment scenarios only require one access point, many often need multiple APs to ensure quality connectivity.<\/p>

Security and management are additional factors. Each manufacturer offers its own management platform to gain visibility into your network and configure it to your needs. And built-in security options vary. Let\u2019s dive into the best wireless access points of 2020.<\/p>

The Best Wireless Access Points of 2020<\/strong><\/h3>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

SonicWall SonicWave 231c<\/a><\/h3>

Key Specs<\/strong><\/h4>