In networking a wireless access point is a device that connect wireless devices to a wired network. They are not capable of connecting directly to the internet. For example an internet connection that goes over PPPoE protocol cannot be connected to using an AP. A router would be required to do this job. The access point usually is used to connect wireless devices to a router using a LAN cable between the two.

Today, dedicated access points are less popular. Users generally go for routers as they also fulfill this function. With this things in mind we were able to select 10 different models. Some of them are routers with an access point feature while others are just simple access points. To keep things short here is our list of the top 10 best computer networking wireless access points in 2017 reviews.

10. TP-LINK Access Point TL-WA801ND

TP-LINK TL-WA801ND is an affordable solution that provides decent transfer rates and comes with a low price tag. The model works with 802.11b/g devices. It can also work with wireless n devices which means it can reach transfer rates that can reach 300 |Mbps.

The model is fairly easy to configure as an AP. It has all the wireless protection tools and can function as a repeater as well. The two antennas it comes with provide a decent coverage making it suitable for a small apartment or house.

9. Netis WF2780 Wireless AC1200 Router

Netis WF2780 is a smaller brand that offers decent networking hardware. Their WF2780 wireless router comes with a lot of features including an access point mode. One interesting thing about it is the use of four high gain antennas. This makes it recommended for use in areas with interior walls where extra coverage is needed.

The model itself supports transfer rates that can reach 867 Mbps in dual band mode and comes with plenty of security features. Setting the device up is fairly easy using the web management page while the technology used enables it to work with all 802.11a/b/g/n/ac capable devices.

8. Linksys WAP300N IEEE 802.11n 300 Mbps Wireless Access Point

The Linksys WAP300N is an advanced access point that supports the latest wireless N technology and features a 5 GHz band mode. This translates into transfer speeds of about 300 Mbps.

To obtain better interior coverage the model has been fitted with two high gain antennas. This enables it to create a wireless network in areas that are difficult to reach. To set it up the device must be connected to w wired network using the 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port. The wireless network is easy to secure and takes just a couple of minutes to setup.

7. D-Link Wireless AC1200

D-Link AC1200 can handle a lot of things due to all the features it comes with. The device can work as a range extender, mead bridge and as an AP. All these features can be configured using the web based interface or the mobile app that comes with the device.

In terms of performance the D-Link can reach speeds of 867 Mbps and 300 Mbps in dual band mode. The internet connection is provided via one of the 4 gigabit Ethernet ports while the wireless setup allows the user to get full control over the network.

6. Cisco-Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point

Cisco-Linksys WAP11 is one of the models that managed to survive the test of time. Even if its transfer rates are not that astonishing its stability made it a reliable and affordable option. The model offers a great coverage that reaches 500 meters outdoors and 150 meters indoors.

Even if it does not have a router function the model can be connected using one of its Ethernet ports to a router that can distribute internet over the wireless network.

5. ASUS N300 RepeaterAccess PointMedia Bridge (RP-N12)

The Asus RP-N12 is a great little device that provides all the tools required to configure a wireless network as secure as possible. It two high gain antennas that can boost wireless signal and an Ethernet port at the bottom.

The model is fairly easy to setup and comes with plenty of security options. It features an easy to use web based interface and LED indicators that makes it easy to see the activity of the device. Last but not least it is extremely compact and quite affordable.

4. Cisco WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point

Cisco WAP4410N is one of the more advanced models from the reputable tech giant. Unlike their consumer grade division known as Linksys, the WAP4410N features more options and security features that grant the user more control over the network.

The model comes with 3 omnidirectional high gain antennas and supports wireless-N devices. This enables higher transfer rates and lower latency. As for security the model supports WEP and WAP protocols as well as 802.1x authentication.

3. TP-LINK TL-WR702N Wireless N150 Travel Router

The TP-LINK TL-WR702N is one of the most compact routers and access points in our list. It was made to be travel friendly and easy to configure. The model comes with a wide range of features including a repeated mode, a bridge mode and an access point mode.

Performance wise the device supports transfer rates of about 150 Mbps and low latency. Configuration is fairly straight forward as the web interface was made easy to use even for a non-technical person.

2. TP-LINK Wireless N300 3T3R Access Point TL-WA901ND

TP-LINK TL-WA901ND is a great inexpensive option for the ones that need to extend the range of their wired network and setup an access point. The model features 3 omnidirectional high gain antennas and supports IEEE 802.1b/g/n wireless standards.

The model offers excellent transfer rates that reach up to 300 Mbps. Its latency is also quite low while the setup offers all the customization required even by a demanding user.

1. Securifi Almond – (3 Minute Setup) Touchscreen Wireless Router

Securifi is well known for designing products that are easy to use and come with a great design. The Almond is a simple wireless router that can work as an AP. One of the interesting features is the addition of a color LCD touchscreen. It can be used to setup the access points and according to the manufacturers it takes about 3 minutes to have it full working.

The model supports 802.11b/g/n devices which means it is fast and reliable. Also it is compatible with almost all types of devices running Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS.

Wireless access points do offer quite a few advantages but in the lights of today’s market it is much more convenient to get a router that also has this function. This is one of the reasons why we included routers in our list. They are priced almost the same and can also provide the same features.

In terms of configuration, all the models listed are consumer grade which means even if they have a lot of options available, they feature an easy to use interface and a wizard that can assist the user to get everything working.