How a wifi hotspot works

The greatest confusion is observed in the domestic sphere, because all the devices on the market are very similar to each other. At the same time, their operating purpose and functional features are different. The cost may also be approximately similar.

Outdoor equipment for Wi-Fi Internet – routers and access points

The Internet has become an integral part of life for most people from civilized countries of this world. Some just can't imagine a day without the internet. It provides tremendous opportunities for learning, entertainment, work and other areas. That is why many companies on the type of cafes and restaurants set up in their establishments and on summer sites free Wi-Fi access points. Logging in to them is possible, for example, through SMS confirmation or after paying for the order by the code from the receipt. This is a great solution for popularizing your place. Some people install outdoor Wi-Fi hotspots in their homes and lots so they can sit in a gazebo and watch a movie or play games. In this material we will consider what is an outdoor Wi-Fi access point, what outdoor Wi-Fi router to choose and what is better, a router or an outdoor Wi-Fi access point.

The advantages of wireless communication are obvious. If the Internet is provided through a cable that is plugged into a personal computer, only this device can use it. If the signal is extended through a router to other devices that, for technical reasons, cannot connect to wired Internet, it is much more convenient. Firstly, you can spread the network to a large number of devices that can connect to it at the same time, and secondly, without the use of cables extend the network over the air for a greater distance.

Using a street wi-fi also includes the following benefits. Running a cable to a specific location is problematic and inconvenient, because again, only one device will have access. For business owners, it is also a way to satisfy the needs of their customers.

Choosing Equipment for the Outdoors

It's worth remembering that wireless equipment that works outdoors must meet more stringent requirements, among them:

• Providing 100% wireless coverage of the entire room or a certain radius of the street;
• Providing support for a large number of connections, if the equipment is installed for a cafe or restaurant. An important parameter will be an increased stability of the devices;
• The ability to limit the connection speed and give a guaranteed speed. This rule again works for business solutions. For your own use, such a setting is not necessary;
• The same speed distribution on all channels. This is done to ensure that all connected devices have the same connection speed;
• An important parameter for commercial wi-fi will be the ability to embed advertising and other elements for the login home page.

Setting up an ASUS router in the access point (AP) mode

On ASUS routers, as a rule, AP mode is enabled in the control panel. After that, we just connect it to the router or modem and everything is ready. On some models, like the old RT-N13U, the modes are switched with a special switch on the device case. I will show you how to set up the access point by the example of the Asus RT-N12 router.

Let us connect to the router and at 192.168.1.1 address enter its settings. In the settings, go to the "Administration" tab. And at the top, go to the "Operation Mode" tab. Put a switch next to "Access Point (AP) Mode". Read the description of the mode, and click "Save".

In the next window, we need to set the IP settings. It is possible not to change anything, and just click "Next". But, in this case, to determine the IP-address of access point, you will need to use a special utility "Discovery". Or you can set "Obtain IP automatically" to no and change the last digit. For example, to 192.168.1.2. Now, the settings will be available at this address. DNS, if needed, can be specified as on the screenshot below. Or, you can leave it to obtain automatically.

In the next window, if necessary, change the Wi-Fi network settings of our ASUS access point, and click "Apply".

The router will reboot and go into AP mode. If you will enter to its settings at the address that you possibly have specified yourself, or that can be defined with the "Discovery" utility (you can download it by following this link), you will see a stripped down control panel. Where you can change the necessary settings, or, for example, return the device to the mode "Wireless router".

Access point from a Zyxel Keenetic router

If I'm not mistaken, only the Keenetic Lite III model has a mechanical mode switch on the case. In all other cases, go to the settings of our Zyxel Keenetic. I advise you to configure Wi-Fi network settings (network name and password if needed), so you don't have to deal with entering AP settings later.

To activate AP mode on Zyxel, go to the "System" tab, and at the top open the "Mode" tab. Highlight "Access Point – Wi-Fi Zone Extension with Ethernet Connection", and click "Apply".

Allow the router to reboot. After that, you can connect it to another router, and it will work in "Access Point" mode.

What would go to his settings, you can first go to the settings of the main router (modem), go to the list of clients, and look there IP address of our Zyxel. And by it go to the web interface. Or you can simply do a reset, and the router will work in the usual "Internet Center" mode.

How do I connect my Android hotspot?

Most people use Android phones. Their advantages are convenience, reliability, wide functionality and affordable price. In order to give out the Internet, you need to know how to set up an access point on your Android phone. Keep in mind that some operators charge extra for using the mode, so check this with your operator before you connect.

To turn on the hotspot on your Android cell phone, follow these steps:

Above we looked at how to make a WiFi hotspot on your Android phone and secure the connection. In the next step, proceed to connect another device to the Network. To do this:

If necessary, you can connect using Bluetooth. To do this:

Check that the Internet is working. If the wifi hotspot on your Android does not turn on, and you can't set up a Bluetooth connection, connect via USB. To do this, pair your smartphones with a USB cable, open the settings, and under Access Points (Network and Internet), turn on the USB modem.

Knowing how to create a WiFi hotspot on Android, you can use your mobile device as a modem at any time and connect the Internet on other devices. To extend battery life, plug the charger into an outlet, and unplug the connection when not in use. If you have an auto-disconnect feature, activate it.

How to turn on the hotspot on your iPhone

Apple phones with the iOS operating system have become increasingly popular in recent years. If you know how to turn on the access point on your phone, you can use the device instead of a router. By the way, this option will also work if your router does not give out Wi-Fi and you need time to solve the problem. Follow these steps:

On the second device you want to connect, go to Settings, go to WiFi, and find the new network.

Then connect to it and surf the Internet as usual.

If the desired mode is not on the screen, call the operator and clarify how to make your smartphone a WiFi access point, and whether this option is available in the proposed tariff plan.

After you connect your device to the new network, the status bar changes color to blue and reflects the number of connected devices. The maximum number of devices that can be connected is limited by the model of the cell phone or carrier.

If you don't understand how to use a WiFi hotspot on your phone, you can use alternative methods of connection – via Bluetooth or USB. In the case of bluetooth, you need to enable the appropriate mode in the settings of your smartphone, and then connect to another device to transfer data. If the USB option is selected, the same actions are required – go to the settings and select the appropriate modem mode.

Setting the Android access point requires a password, and in the case of the iPhone, the same principle applies. To set the key, do the following:

Access point on a laptop or computer : 4 comments

1. Elena Zhuykova20.07.2018 at 11:39 Hello, a router with POE technology can simultaneously receive both traffic and electric current through the same cable – this simplifies the choice of location for installation. Ceiling TDs have a special shape and location of the WiFi module, if the existing TD will have an aesthetic appearance on the ceiling (or if it does not matter) – then you can use. It is worth paying attention to the fact that the built-in module is not directed to the ceiling – this will reduce coverage and signal quality.

1. Elena Zhuykova20.07.2018 at 11:38 Good afternoon. The access point will only be able to transmit the received signal, while the router is able to distribute the signal according to the settings. The difference in price is insignificant, but the functionality of the router is wider, so routers are more popular among users.

What is a wireless access point?

A wireless access point (also called a wireless AP or WAP) is a networking hardware device that adds Wi-Fi capabilities to an existing wired network, connecting traffic from a wireless station to a wired LAN. The wireless access point can act as an independent device or as a component of a router.

Generally speaking, a wireless AP allows devices without a built-in Wi-Fi connection to access a wireless network over an Ethernet cable. In other words, the signal from the router to the AP is converted from wired to wireless. In addition, if future access requirements increase, WAP can also be used to extend the reach of existing networks.

Figure 2: Wireless Access Point Connection Scenario

Wireless AP vs. Router: what are the differences?

Both wireless access points and wireless routers support Wi-Fi network connections and play a similar role. So there's been some confusion. In fact, the two networking devices are more like cousins than twins. The differences between them will be explained below.

Function

Typically, most wireless routers combine the functions of a wireless access point, an Ethernet router, a basic firewall, and a small Ethernet switch. Wireless access points

are usually built-in components of devices such as routers or Wi-Fi extenders. In short, wireless routers can act as access points, but not all access points can act as routers.

There is no doubt that a wireless router, acting as an Ethernet hub, helps create a local network by linking and controlling all the devices connected to it. However, the access point is an auxiliary device in the LAN and only provides access to the network set up by the router. Therefore, if you are a network administrator, you can use a wireless router to change network settings, but a wireless access point does not have this function.

Connecting

Router mode vs AP mode, the connection method is different. A wireless AP cannot connect to a modem. Usually a switch or router will be used as an intermediary. a wireless router has a broadband dial-up function and can be directly connected to a modem to access the internet.

Coverage

Wireless routers are the most common networking equipment today. But if a router can't cover a Wi-Fi signal, it will have weak or no signal. Conversely, wireless access points can be added in places with poor network conditions, eliminating dead spots and expanding the wireless network.

Access point placement

Also, the device can be placed in a variety of ways. Standard placement options are on a desk or on the wall. But you can also plug it into an outlet, which is ideal for repeater mode. This is the most convenient and easiest way of all.

Transmitters can have different frequencies for operation – 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Models are also sold that support these frequencies simultaneously.

The final transmitter power has an effect on the strength and distance over which the signal is transmitted. The higher it is, the farther the wifi network can be distributed. Also, with high power, the network passes through walls and other obstacles better.

But it is unlikely to buy a device with the most powerful signal without obtaining special permits. The maximum transmitter power allowed in our country is 20dBm. Anything more is professional equipment, which must be registered at special authorities.

Each access point has its own standard of communication supported. It allows you to draw conclusions about the speed at which you can use the Internet. Data on the standard should be clarified before purchase. The best thing to do here is to consult a specialist.

This parameter is completely related to the previous point. The more antennas the wi fi access point has, the higher its speed. But you must understand that not all antennas can be involved. Some of them will not work if the receiving device, such as a laptop, has fewer of them.

The second type of antenna can often be removed in order to replace it with a more powerful and suitable one. This helps to boost the signal.

Use these ports to connect the transmitter to a wired network. If you have a high-speed connection to the Internet, it is worth choosing the maximum allowed speed of these ports, i.e. up to 1000 Mbit/s. If your ISP does not allow for very fast connections, then a speed of 100 Mbit/s will be sufficient.

This is a special feature that transmits electrical power and data using a transmitter. It is used in cases where the transmitter is located at a considerable distance from outlets and other means of filling with electricity. But such a feature will significantly increase the cost of the access point. This function is used mainly in professional models.

Modes of operation of the transmitter

The most popular and used mode of operation, which creates a wi-fi network to connect devices. It is also possible to create a network based on an existing network.

A bridge connects two wireless networks together. This increases the range and capabilities.

A wi-fi access point is used as a signal repeater. It allows you to repeat the signal you already have, which greatly increases the coverage of the network.

This is what allows you to make a wired signal out of the wireless signal you receive. It is used for desktop computers.

Antenna power

TDs can have from one to three antennas. The number of them determines the area to which a high-quality and powerful signal is applied. For stable and high-speed communication, you should choose a device with the required power and sensitivity. The first figure (gain) is measured in dBi (dBi) or milliwatts. Sensitivity is measured in dBm and is always in the negative range.

Office or home applications do not require high power built-in antennas. Standard devices with two or three antennas are suitable. For production sites and their subdivisions, which are located at a distance, it is better to buy special production devices with more powerful antennas. Information about these parameters is usually displayed in the technical documentation for the equipment.

The access point is not cardinally, but different from the usual router. Both devices are similar in appearance, but have different functionality. There are several types and varieties of APs. Equipment can work in two frequencies. Modern devices support both at once. They can be installed and operated in open areas or indoors, there are portable versions. The power of the antennas can also vary. This determines the bandwidth and range of operation.

Podgornov Ilya Vladimirovich All articles on our site are audited by a technical consultant. If you still have questions you can always ask them on his page.

How to distribute the Internet from a mobile device

Your phone or tablet can become an access point. You can do this using the standard capabilities of the Android OS or using special programs. Pay attention that only mobile Internet via GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G connection can be handed out. It is not possible to set up sharing from WiFi.

Setting up an Android device as a router

Starting with Android 2.3, the operating system allows you to act as a connection translator for other phones, tablets, and laptops with a WiFi module. Before creating the AP, make sure that data transfer in the mobile network is enabled.

The following sequence of actions was performed using LG smartphone with Android 5.0 version as an example:

• Find the Settings shortcut in the menu, enter them and select the item with Networks;
• Then select "Modems and networks" – Creation of access point;
• Press "Create…";
• Assign all the parameters to the mandatory fields: search name, security and encryption protocols;
• Set the password to 8 characters or longer;
• Define the number of devices that can simultaneously connect to the network;
• When everything is finished, you can go back and activate the point.

Important! To enable data transfer via mobile network, you need to go to Settings (Options), select Wireless networks and go to Mobile Internet (data).

On the earliest versions of the system, you can configure it as follows:

Creation takes place once. After that, an icon will appear in the notification panel, and the point can be enabled by activating the slider in the network connection settings.

Using apps

In addition to the standard tools of Android, there are many programs that allow you to organize a hotspot. The most popular are: MyPublicWiFi, mHotspot, Osmino and others. On the example of the last program below will be given instructions on how to configure it.

Causes of the lack of Internet in hotspot mode

Having done everything correctly, a person can still encounter difficulties, which lie in the moments associated with:

Antivirus programs that protect the device in real-time often block all connections to the network. Before creating and enabling a TD, you should configure or disable the firewall in the same settings.

Viruses can get into your device with applications that were not installed from official sources. To eliminate them, the antivirus, on the contrary, should be turned on and check the system with a simple scan. If this does not help, you can install a "stronger" program.

Important! You can track the virus program on your own. To do this, go to the application manager (tasks) and find out what non-system software has the rights to control network connections, remove it. After that, turn on the device again and check the connection.

Another option is possible, which involves resetting all phone settings to factory settings. To do this, you need to:

Features of settings and operation

People who want to use such devices, should understand in advance the peculiarities of their operation. To configure a pocket Wi-Fi router, you will have to perform the following steps:

1. Connect to the router via PC or laptop.
2. Go to the web interface of the device. To do this, enter the IP 192.168.0.1 in the address bar of the browser.
3. Once in the menu with settings, you must change the connection mode to automatic.
4. Select one of the available modes. If it will distribute mobile Internet from a SIM card from Megafon or MTS, you need to set the 3G/4G mode.

To use the router, you must simply connect to it via Wi-Fi, specifying the username and password.

Portable AP mode

When this mode is turned on, the router receives the Internet signal and transmits it via Wi-Fi to the connected devices. To use the Wi-Fi adapter as a portable access point, you have to switch the toggle switch located on the case. Then you can connect to the router to access the Internet.

Key criteria for choosing a mobile router

Before you buy a pocket Wi-Fi router, you need to familiarize yourself with the basic criteria for choosing one. There are several factors to consider when buying such a device:

• Supported mobile networks. It is recommended to choose models that can work with 3G and 4G. This will allow you to enjoy high-speed Internet.
• Wi-Fi standard. It is important that the purchased router supports the most common standards – 802.11 b, a, g, n and ac.
• Operating frequency. It is recommended to choose models that support two bands – 2.4 and 5 GHz.
• Availability of Ethernet ports. It is necessary to buy a device with a LAN input. This will allow you to connect high speed wired Internet.

Important! When choosing a Wi-Fi modem, you should pay attention to its price. Especially if you have a limited budget.

Popular models

There are several popular varieties of mobile routers, which are used most often:

• HUAWEI E5576. This is a compact model that supports 3G and 4G networks. It works on 2.4 GHz frequency. The maximum data transfer speed is 300 Mbit/s.
• TP-LINK MR3020. The model is equipped with an Ethernet port for connecting a LAN wire. There is also a USB input, which is used to charge the device via the power supply. It supports 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies.
• Alcatel Link Zone. The device is equipped with a powerful and high-quality battery that provides continuous operation for 15-20 hours. The model supports 15 simultaneous connections.
• Xiaomi ZMI MF885 Router. The main advantage of the router is a 10,000 mAh capacity battery. Thanks to this, the router can work autonomously for 40-50 hours.
• TP-LINK M7350. A budget model that is suitable for 4G and 3G networks. This device has a weak battery of 2500 mAh. Therefore, without recharging the router only works for 10 hours.

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