These two are easily confused. A simple explanation is first to consider wired technology is called a local area network (LAN).

• This is a series of cables that join lots of computers together as well as other devices such as printers.
• These machines can be used to communicate with each other within the network.

A network is physically joined and offers a measure of security by virtue of that fact.

• It is closed to outside access.
• This allows for all sorts of software and hardware resources to be shared across the network.

A wireless access point is the same idea, except that access to the network is not with a physical cable.

• It is through the use of wireless technology.
• Hence the term wireless local area network (WLAN).

In contrast, a hotspot is basically access to the internet through a WiFi connection.

• It can be used to remotely access a network, but it is more often used as an access point to the internet and
• Not a closed network.

Technology is changing fast. That includes wireless access points. They have become more capable in terms of the number of devices that connect through them. The level of security has increased.

• The range with which you can still receive the WiFi signal has increased.
• Plus, the way multiple wireless access points can be configured and controlled has advanced significantly.
• When multiple access points are linked together, it seems you can increase the range to cover your entire business property, no matter how big it is.

However, like all technology, everything has a lifespan beyond which servicing is not possible or practical.

Therefore if you are already using access points in your business but they need changing, then it is a good idea to re-evaluate your whole network and make sure your new access points will meet your needs.

The answer, of course, depends on your business and to what application your WiFi network will serve.

That said, one of the main advantages of using access points for your network is mobility. So the real consideration is how will increased mobility of your devices and the data that they can collect help your business?

Here is an example of some of the mobile technology you can use in your business.

Some of the benefits from setting up wireless access points in your business;

• Transfer of data from devices to the network,
• Allows for further processing for customer relationship management  and
• This leads to improved logistics and accounting.

Once your network is in place, you also have room to further innovate and take advantage of the freedom that wireless gives you.

This is probably the opposite of what you were told when you were a child.

But a lot has changed since then. Modern wireless access points do not need a separate network controller. Instead, the network can be set up and managed from the cloud.

This is a big advantage!

• It allows for flexibility
• Your control system will continue to update and improve and
• Further enhancing the efficiency and functionality of your wireless network.

When choosing the hardware for your network don’t choose wireless access points only based on today’s technology.

Many specifications for access points far exceed the capability of mobile devices and mobile computers as they are now. However, technology is developing at a breathtaking pace.

Don’t limit your network. Wherever possible opt for higher specifications than needed, expecting that in time your hardware will upgrade and improve so that you can take advantage of the full specifications on offer for your network. This is future proofing your set up.

Something to keep in mind even now is opting for dual band. This will give you the choice of using 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.

Make sure the devices you purchase allow you to use both these frequencies at the same time.