Top 10 Best Wireless Access Points for Business

What is a WAP (Wireless Access Point)?

A WAP or a wireless access point is a small electronic device designed to facilitate the connection of other Wi-Fi devices to a wireless or a wired network.

You can use these devices to enhance the coverage of a Wi-Fi router, extending its range to provide comprehensive wireless connectivity and eliminate dead zones, particularly in larger residences, outdoor spaces, apartments, offices, and buildings.

Setting up a WAP is a straightforward process that enables any Wi-Fi-enabled computer or device to join a Wi-Fi network without needing physical wires or cables.

How to Choose a Wireless Access Point

Business users must consider various factors when purchasing a new wireless access point (WAP).

Compatibility with existing WAPs and ensuring the new device can accommodate potential user growth are crucial. Additionally, you must address features like guest mode and the number of required SSIDs per WAP.

On the other hand, home users seek a hassle-free setup, excellent Wi-Fi range, and potentially multiple LAN ports for larger homes. Cost-effectiveness is essential, as it is very easy to exceed your budget.

WAPs can also be beneficial for managing bandwidth on different device sets if data limits are a concern. While cloud control is popular in the business market, home users prefer local AP control.

Here is our round-up of the best wireless access points for business. Most of these are included in the top Best Buy wireless access points.

Top 10 Best Wireless Access Points for Business

1. Aruba Instant On AP22 Wireless Access Point

Since 2002, Aruba has been a hidden gem in the US, consistently delivering seamless services that surprise its customers. One of their unique offerings is the Instant-On AP22, designed to handle hefty workloads.

This device is equipped with advanced 802.11ax standards and ensures reliability for current and future needs. Additionally, it features a powerful 802.1af Class 2 Ethernet, providing robust support.

Enhancing security, the AP22 offers two-factor authentication, safeguarding your network from unauthorized access by intruder devices. The impressive speed throughput is also worth mentioning, with the Aruba Instant On AP22 delivering a high transmission speed of 1200 Mbps on the 5.0 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.

With these capabilities, slow data speeds need to be updated. Aruba's Instant-On AP22 is a worthy choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performing wireless access point.

2. Cisco 240AC Wi-Fi 5 Access Point

Despite the emergence of Wi-Fi 6, the Cisco 240AC WAP offers a well-constructed, budget-friendly solution that caters to most users still using Wi-Fi 5. Powered by a Qualcomm quad-core CPU, 1GB of RAM, and 256MB of Flash memory, this WAP can handle up to 400 simultaneous clients, as stated by Cisco.

The unit's base features wall-mounting holes, and it comes with a flat Ethernet cable for power when connected to a PoE Ethernet switch. For expanded coverage, pairing the WAP with Cisco's 142AC mesh extender further enhances its range.

3. Cisco CBW150AX Access Point

The Cisco CBW150AX WiFi 6 access points provides fast wireless internet access throughout multiple rooms. Its robust processor efficiently handles multiple connections across various WLANs, and extending its range is possible by using additional mesh adapters.

Installation of this device is a straightforward process with clear instructions provided through the mobile application. Although the access point has a slow boot time, it maintains consistent performance without degradation once operational.

The CBW150AX offers valuable features like a firewall and RF optimization mode. However, the lack of cloud accessibility is a missed opportunity.

Additionally, you cannot block or identify users connected to the network. That may limit control over internet access, which may deter those seeking to restrict usage.

4. EnGenius EWS850AP Outdoor Access Point

EnGenius offers the EWS850AP, a mesh enabled WAP suitable for outdoor business environments or for achieving comprehensive wireless coverage in home backyards. Hence it ranks among the best home wireless access points on the market. You can conveniently power the device over Ethernet, and it comes with a 1Gbit PoE injector included, eliminating the need for a separate purchase.

Designed for outdoor use, EnGenius provides all the necessary hardware to mount the EWS850AP on walls or metal poles. However, its 2x2 Wi-Fi configuration is a drawback, supporting only two channels on each frequency with its four antennas.

Nevertheless, as a 2x2 Wi-Fi 6 access point, the EWS850AP delivers impressive performance and can connect via 2.5GbE, though a separate PoE injector is required.

5. Zyxel WAX630S Wi-Fi 6 Access Point

The WAX630S, offers excellent features including support for six simultaneous streams (four on 5GHz and two on 2.4GHz), a 2.5GbE PoE LAN connection, and an advanced internal antenna array.

Combined with specialized hardware filters, the antenna design minimizes interference from 5G/4G masts and other wireless transmitters. Additionally, the versatile unit performs equally well when wall or ceiling-mounted, providing deployment flexibility.

As part of Zyxel's Nebula management tools, the WAX630S is a sophisticated access point for city offices and other challenging wireless environments. However, its pricing positions it against similar or even better-specification hardware available at a more affordable price point.

6. Zyxel WAX610D Wi-Fi 6 PoE Access Point

Zyxel's WAX610D WAP offers reliable Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for home offices or businesses and is mountable on walls or ceilings. The device boasts high-quality components and features like a 4G/5G filter to minimize interference and surge/ESD protection.

With a robust quad-core CPU, two Ethernet ports (one at 2.5Gbps), and top-notch internal antennas, it excels in performance. Although it may have a slightly higher price point, the WAX610D allows for remote management through an app and free cloud service, adding convenience and flexibility to its impressive capabilities.

7. Ubiquiti Networks UniFi AC Pro AP

Ubiquiti is renowned for delivering exceptional network devices, and the UniFi UAP-AC-PRO continues this tradition of excellence. While it may require a slightly higher investment, it is well worth it.

This compact Wireless Access Point can easily withstand harsh weather conditions, operating flawlessly in temperatures ranging from -10 to 70°C. It also exhibits remarkable durability against humidity.

One of its standout features is its fast access point capabilities. With 3x3 technology, this dual-band Wireless Access Point ensures a robust data connection across multiple devices.

It supports 802.11AC standards, providing a decent speed of 450 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 1,300 Mbps in the 5.0 GHz band. The device is easily manageable through a user-friendly app, granting you complete control over its settings.

The UniFi UAP-AC-PRO from Ubiquiti is a reliable and high-performing Wireless Access Point that delivers durability and speed, making it a valuable investment for your network needs.

8. TP-Link EAP660HD Wi-Fi 6 Access Point

TP-Link introduces the EAP660HD, a Wi-Fi 6 access point for small and home offices. Encased in a sturdy plastic body, this access point boasts remote management capabilities and high-gain antennas. It delivers a strong performance with eight antennas catering to the two radio bands.

The quad-core Qualcomm CPU and ample memory ensure excellent responsiveness. Supporting up to 16 SSIDs and facilitating multiple concurrent connections offers smooth video content streaming with minimal packet drops.

TP-Link distinguishes itself with special software and tech support for the EAP660HD. The Omada Cloud application enables easy remote access to the access point, even over the Internet.

Regular software updates address potential vulnerabilities, while user-friendly mobile apps are available for Android and iPhone platforms. However, a limitation of the EAP660HD is its underutilization of Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, as it employs an 80MHz bandwidth for the 5GHz band.

The EAP660HD excels overall, particularly with TP-Link's robust software ecosystem and reliable support.

9. Netgear WAX214 Wi-Fi 6 PoE+ Access Point

Netgear's WAX214 is best for effortless setup in offices or homes. Despite supporting fewer concurrent users than pricier options, it offers affordable Wi-Fi 6 support and performs well in large homes and offices. The WAX214 includes mounting brackets for wall or ceiling placement.

It lacks a power adapter but supports Power over Ethernet (PoE). You need a PoE switch or injector via a LAN cable to power the device. The WAX214 is a dual-band WAP supporting 2.4GHz and 5GHz, capable of handling up to 128 devices simultaneously, according to Netgear.

10. Netgear Powerline 500 Wi-Fi Access Point

Wrapping up our list is the Netgear Powerline 500 Wi-Fi Access Point, an efficient device that serves as a powerline adapter. This innovative solution empowers you to expand your network by leveraging the power lines in your home or business, extending the network's coverage, and converting it into a wireless signal.

While the included adapters boast a compact design, it is essential to note that they are limited to delivering speeds of 100 Mbps over Ethernet and 300 Mbps through the access point.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best wireless access points in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape can be challenging. The ideal access points should incorporate the latest technologies to cater to the needs of small and medium businesses, enabling the creation of scalable wireless networks.

That said, with the increasing demand, the market has become flooded with numerous options, making it a daunting task to identify the top contenders.