You need a wireless acsess point when you have a device that you want to connect to the internet and you do not want to use a twisted pair network cable to do that.
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You would use it in places where it is to difficult to put too many Ethernet cables or if there is no where to put a switch box.
When you want a Network distant from the hub.
If you want to connect wirelessly to a network, wouldn't you need a way to do it?
The only other alternative is using a cable.
That depends on what you are attempting to do. If you are trying to access the internet, then no, a wireless router is not needed.
If the access point has a wireless interface and if your laptop supports the wireless network type, no you do not need a router. <><><><><> If the laptop is not near enough to an access point, it will not be able to connect. The router is immaterial.
You will need to add a wireless access point to the wired network.
You need a WAP - WIreless Access Point. This is a bridge device that connects the two types of networks together. Or, use a router.
You need to check log files while logged in to your access point.
Wireless keys are stored in the memory of the access point; to retrieve it you would need to know the admin password to get into the configuration page.
It's best to use a wireless access point whenever the cost of running Ethernet is either too expensive, or inapplicable to certain settings. For example, if you worked in an office building that had false ceilings, it would be somewhat easy to have someone come in and run Ethernet. However, if you worked in a warehouse that is constantly re-utilizing it's space, it is unlikely that running Ethernet would be a good investment. Thus a wireless access point, or several access points would be used instead.
The best thing to do is to set up a wireless router at your downstairs point and then access the Internet anywhere in the house from that. Presuming you have a laptop that has wireless access. Then you don't need to worry about the line going upstairs. Your PC at the point of access can still access the net direct via the line, so it doesn't need to have wireless. So just get yourself a wireless router.
I personally feel that I am getting everything I need out of my access point. I am very happy with my wireless plan and do not feel that it is necessary to change at the current time.
No, why would you? I suggest just buying a wireless PCI card for the two desktops. It would make life much more easier. You can, what you need is a wireless router... this will allow you to have approximatly 4 ethernet ports and wireless access to your network, but look in your manual to make sure you encrypt the data so as to protect from wireless predators...
The needed devices are wireless access point (WAP), a wireless router. You need computers with wireless networking adapters. And you need a "wired" connection to the internet for the router to plug into. Most people are able to install it themselves but your ISP will install it if you are more comfortable with that.
You'll need to purchase and install a "wireless adapter" for your computer -- and today the most popular ones are little "dongles" that plug into your USB port. You'd spend anywhere from about $30 to $80 for an adapter. One that is installed, you will need to connect to a wireless network -- which is either going to be in a Hotel, coffee shop, or at your home if you've installed a Wireless Router or an Access Point. The adapter in your PC will "associate" to an "Access Point" -- and the Access Point will put your signal onto the network so you can access resources and/or the Internet.