An AccessPoint is a physical device which allows wireless users to access a wired network. Thus, APs are designed to act as the wireless equivelent of an ethernet hub or switch. They allow multiple wireless clients (["NIC"]s) to connect to one central hub in InfrastructureMode (aka. ["bss"]). Basically this means that from the physical connectivity point of view (think twisted pair or Cat5 wires of traditional ethernet) they act as a star network. Every wireless client talks to every other one via the AccessPOINT.

As we gain experience with these devices we will be posting AccessPointReviews to help you select which ones are good buys.

There is also work underway to create a LinuxAccessPoint or a BsdAccessPoint. The main problem with these efforts is lack of low level knowledge of how the cards work. As the authors of the OpenSource drivers learn more hopefully these efforts will become more fully featured. -- AdamShand

If you are trying to connect to a public PersonalTelco AccessPoint please go to the WirelessConnection page for instructions. -- LonnieWormley

[CategoryGlossary]