8 best ac access points

AC (802.11ac) access points are networking devices used to provide wireless connectivity in various settings, such as homes, businesses, and public spaces. These access points are an essential part of Wi-Fi networks and play a crucial role in enabling wireless devices to connect to the internet and local network resources. Here's what you need to know about AC access points:

  1. 802.11ac Standard: AC access points are designed to comply with the IEEE 802.11ac standard, which is a wireless networking standard that offers significant improvements in terms of speed and performance compared to earlier Wi-Fi standards like 802.11n.

  2. Increased Speed: One of the primary advantages of AC access points is their ability to deliver higher data transfer rates. They can support data rates of up to several gigabits per second (Gbps), making them suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as HD video streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads.

  3. Dual-Band Operation: AC access points typically operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This dual-band capability allows for better performance and less interference, as devices can connect to the less congested 5 GHz band when available.

  4. Multiple Antennas: Many AC access points feature multiple antennas, often referred to as MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology. This enables them to transmit and receive data more efficiently, improving both speed and range.

  5. Beamforming: AC access points often support beamforming technology, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly towards connected devices, enhancing signal strength and reliability.

  6. Security Features: These access points typically come with advanced security features, including WPA3 encryption and various authentication methods, to ensure the security of wireless networks.

  7. Management and Configuration: AC access points can be managed and configured through web-based interfaces or dedicated management software.This allows network administrators to control settings, monitor performance, and update firmware as needed.

  8. Scalability: AC access points can be deployed individually or as part of a larger wireless network infrastructure. They are designed to be scalable, allowing additional access points to be added to accommodate growing network requirements.

  9. Mesh Networking: Some AC access points support mesh networking, which enables the creation of a seamless, self-healing wireless network that can cover a larger area without dead spots.

  10. Use Cases: AC access points are commonly used in various settings, including homes, offices, schools, hotels, airports, and public venues, to provide wireless connectivity to a multitude of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and IoT devices.

In summary, AC access points are essential components of modern wireless networks, offering improved speed, reliability, and performance compared to earlier Wi-Fi standards. They are versatile and can be deployed in a wide range of environments to provide wireless connectivity for various devices and applications.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ac access points on the market
  

Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC Lite - Wireless Access Point - 802.11 B/A/G/n/AC (UAPACLITEUS), White

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22

  • Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22
  • 2.4 GHz Speed : 300 Mbps, 5 GHz Speed : 867 Mbps

User questions & answers

Question: Does this come with any power adapter
Answer: Yesy that's right: Radio Frequency Band ISM Band: 2400-2483.5 MHz (2.4 GHz) The specs are here: http://www.belkin.com/pbs/450535.pdf
Question: How many ssids can this access point have
Answer: Yes
Question: what router does everyone use with this? I have an asus rt-65, is that sufficient
Answer: If you have bought it in USA or places that have 110v then you must buy a separate power supply for 220+v. I fried my 110v connecting to 220v.
Question: What is the difference between Lite vs Pro
Answer: Yes.
Question: Do you need a cd
Answer: I have an AC 900 db and it is not dd-wrt capable. The 1000 is not listed on their web site so I doubt it is but...
Question: What is the max range for reception
Answer: The GR60 is just the outdoor Wireless Access Point. You will need a gateway/router device. Meraki GO has the GX20 which is the Security Gateway device. You would then plug your GR60 into this device to supply WiFi. https://www.amazon.com/Security-Gateway-Firewall-Managed-GX20-HW-US/dp/B07Z5CV8KN/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=GX20-HW-US&m=A2ZCJPILC4TAIT&qid=1604070225&s=merchant-items&sr=1-1 Please feel free to contact our office at 877-449-0458 with any additional questions. Regards Corporate Armor
Question: Does the installation cd come with the router...i am interested in purchasing it. Thanks
Answer: Yes, Maraki Go access points can be powered over Ethernet either from a compatible switch or from a stand alone PoE power supply

TP-Link Omada AC1350 Gigabit Wireless Access Point | Business WiFi Solution w/ Mesh Support, Seamless Roaming & MU-MIMO | PoE Powered | SDN Integrated | Cloud Access & App for Easy Management (EAP225)

TP-Link

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EAP225 supports both 802.3af PoE and passive PoE power supply, can be either powered by a PoE switch or the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible.



Maximum wireless transmission rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Range and coverage specifications along with the number of connected devices were defined according to test results under normal usage conditions. Actual wireless transmission rate, wireless coverage, and number of connected devices are not guaranteed, and will vary as a result of 1) environmental factors, including building materials, physical objects and obstacles, 2) network conditions, including local interference, volume and density of traffic, product location, network complexity, and network overhead and 3) client limitations, including rated performance, location, connection quality, and client condition.



MU-MIMO capability requires client devices that also support MU-MIMO.



Seamless roaming requires both the access point and client devices to support 802.11k and 802.11v protocols.

  • 【Superior Speeds with MU-MIMO】Designed with the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, the EAP225 reliably delivers dual-band Wi-Fi speeds up to 1350 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time.
  • 【Integrated into Omada SDN】Omada’s Software Defined Networking (SDN) platform integrates network devices, including access points, switches and gateways. Pick your preferred method of network management from these Omada offerings - Omada hardware controller, Omada software controller or Omada cloud-based controller. Standalone Mode also applies.
  • 【Cloud Based Controller】Zero-Touch provisioning (coming soon) allows remote deployment and configuration of multi-site networks. AI-Driven Technology (coming soon) delivers stronger performance and easy network maintenance. Additional fees apply for use of cloud-based controller.
  • 【Cloud Access】Remote Cloud access and Omada app brings centralized cloud management of the whole network from different sites—all controlled from a single interface anywhere, anytime.
  • 【SDN Compatibility】For SDN usage, make sure your devices/controllers are either equipped with or can be upgraded to SDN version. SDN controllers work only with SDN APs, Switches and Routers. Non-SDN controllers work only with non-SDN APs. For devices that are compatible with SDN firmware, please visit ‘From the manufacturer – Q&A’ section or tplink website.
  • 【Advanced Wireless Tech】Support Mesh WiFi, Seamless Roaming, Band Steering, Airtime Fairness and Beamforming technologies.
  • 【Multiple PoE Options for Easy Installation】EAP225 supports both 802.3af/at PoE and Passive PoE power supply, can be either powered by a PoE switch or the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible.
  • 【Limited Lifetime Warranty】Backed by our industry-leading limited lifetime warranty and free 24/7 technical support, you can work with confidence.

Product features

Seamless Roaming

Seamless roaming switches clients to the AP with the best signal automatically, even when moving. This allows sensitive applications like VoIP and video conferences to go uninterrupted.

Omada SDN with Flexible Management and Cloud Access

Omada SDN integrates network devices including access points, switches & gateways with multiple control options provided - Hardware controller, Software Controller & Cloud-based Controller. Centralized cloud allows for remote management of the entire network via a single interface anywhere, anytime.

Cloud-Based Controller Unlocks More Possibilities

Zero Touch Provisioning (coming soon) allows for remote deployment and configuration of multi-site networks. AI-Driven technology (coming soon) delivers stronger performance and easy network maintenance.

Both require the use of cloud-based controller.

NETGEAR Wireless Access Point (WAC510) - Dual-Band AC1300 WiFi Speed | Up to 200 Client Devices | 1 x 1G Ethernet LAN Port | MU-MIMO | Insight Remote Management | PoE or Optional Power Adapter

NETGEAR

Based on 493 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR AC Wi-Fi Business Access Point WAC510 delivers high performance with high client density for enterprises requiring ubiquitous and reliable wireless for all business applications. The WAC510 is managed by NETGEAR Insight app, for a more intuitive and innovative support, with no need for extra management hardware. The WAC510 features Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO) to achieve aggregate speeds up to 1.2 Gbps, option to configure as NAT or Access Point modes, and comes with two Ethernet ports, including a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) 1Gb port. WAC510 comes with lifetime limited warranty, and 24/7 support including lifetime chat.

  • MULTIPLE DEVICE PERFORMANCE: Dual-Band AC1300 speed, coupled with MU-MIMO technology, supports up to 200 client devices.
  • WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Plug in a printer, storage, or other nearby wired devices into the extra 1 Gigabit port for maximum speed.
  • PoE or AC POWERED: Simplified deployment with PoE, or power using the optional PAV12V power adapter (sold separately).
  • LOCAL AND REMOTE MANAGEMENT: Includes 1 year free insight subscription for remote management from anywhere, and no additional hardware or cloud key required. Setup, configure, and manage with the Insight app.
  • FLEXIBLE MOUNTING: Easy to securely install on the wall or a suspended ceiling with included hardware.
  • BUSINESS CLASS SECURITY: Supports WPA, WPA2, and rogue AP detection.
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Supports load balancing, band steering, and assisted roaming.

User questions & answers

Question: Can wac540 work with poe of gc110p switch
Answer: I can not say with a specific model. As long as it is true POE with sufficient output per port then it should. I use mine with a BV Tech 8 port POE switch that has 130W Max Power (up to 30W per port) and this works perfectly with the POE line extended 100 ft per line.
Question: Can it work as an extender of wnd930 ap
Answer: I don't know the precise definition of "extender", but I know that you can set up two WAC5xx units in bridge mode, with one connected to the wired network and one freestanding, to "extend" your network. If there is a bridge mode option on the wnd930 ap, it may be compatible.
Question: So if one wanted a single ethernet port for a hard wired device, would the lan2 plug work? or do i need a separate router outside of this
Answer: Yes, the second port can be used to connect to another device. I have a cat8 Ethernet cable coming from the second port to a 1 gb switch and have three other computers connected to that switch and the throughput is 1000mbs just as it is from the switch that this access point is connected to. No speed loss. My cable from switch that has xfinity internet up to the Netgear access point is cat7 heavy duty outdoor. I have had no issues or drops in speed.
Question: How do they comapre to uibiqiti unifi uap-ac-pros or uap-ac-lites
Answer: WAC510 has better rateVsrange than uap-ac-lite and uap-ac-lr. WAC540 is a 4x4 and is better than uap-ac-pro.

Product features

Power to Match Your Workplace

Easy to power via PoE or with PAV12V AC adapters sold separately.

Flexible Mounting Options

Easy installation on a wall or a suspended ceiling. Attaches securely to the ceiling t-bar, not an unsecured loose tile. Mounting hardware included.

Optimize Your Access Points Automatically with NETGEAR Instant WiFi

Instant WiFi continuously optimizes power and traffic across all channels and bands, minimizing interference and maximizing performance for everyone on your network.

Ubiquiti Networks Unifi Access Point AC Long Range (UAP-AC-LR-5-US) 5-pack, 802.11AC Scalable Enterprise Wi-Fi Technology

Ubiquiti Networks

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ideal for long-range deployments, the UniFi AC LR AP offers simultaneous, dual-band operation with 3x3 MIMO in the 2.4 GHz band and 2x2 MIMO in the 5 GHz band. The innovative antenna design provides a long-range, symmetrical-link coverage area, and the antenna gain of the UniFi AC LR AP performs better than one-way, high transmit power does for connecting distant clients. It is available in single- and five‑packs. This listing is for a five-pack.

  • Innovative antenna design
  • Scalable enterprise Wi-Fi management
  • Packaged Quantity: 5 (specifications are for single item)
  • Does not include PoE injector
  • Dimensions: ∅175.7 x 43.2 mm.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with poe injectors? what else do i need to buy? controller, software... i need to know what a complete kit costs for a small office
Answer: This one does NOT include a PoE injector. You would need a PoE switch or injectors. If you have a large project generally you use a PoE switch so you can manage the connections. The software is FREE and works great. If you want to operate it from your phone or manage multiple offices/networks you'll have to purchase a cloud key for them.
Question: This comes with individual adaptors only
Answer: The five pack and the three pack don't come with the power injector, you will have to buy them in addition to this item, only the single pack come with the adapter
Question: Los 5 aps incluyen los inyectores poe
Answer: No they do not include Poe adapters.
Question: Do these still require 24v passive poe or do these now support 48v 802.3af/a
Answer: I've just bought two of these 5-packs and both of them are still 24V passives. Meanwhile on another site I ordered 3 or 4 individual units that all came as the newer 802.3af standard. I haven't been able to see any official word from UBNT on direction unfortunately.

Ubiquiti Networks Unifi 802.11ac Dual-Radio PRO Access Point (UAP-AC-PRO-US), Single,White

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AP AC Pro.

  • Manage Your Networks from a Single Control Plane
  • Intuitive and Robust Configuration, Control and Monitoring
  • Remote Firmware Upgrade
  • Users and Guests
  • Guest Portal/Hotspot Support

User questions & answers

Question: is this the new AC-Pro version that has a max speed of 1300mbs or the older Pro model
Answer: It will automatically switch to other non-DFS channel so you will have to manually select DFS channel after radar event.
Question: What is the range on this
Answer: It does not generate any substantial heat
Question: Does this package include a POE injector
Answer: I’m sorry I can’t answer that at this time because it was a gift for my daughter and she’s not available right now. I know she loved it tho! Dog w more and research on it ok on amazon and you should be able to find out ok👍
Question: Does anyone recommend a good router to use with these? I don't want licensing fees and content filtering / firewall stuff is important to me
Answer: it uses usb mini

Product features

Ubiquiti Networks Unifi Dual-Radio PRO Access Point

Deploy the UniFi AC Pro AP indoors or outdoors, in wireless networks requiring maximum performance. Sporting a weatherproof design, the UniFi AC Pro AP features simultaneous, dual-band, 3x3 MIMO technology and convenient 802.3af PoE/802.3at PoE+ compatibility.

Ubiquiti LBE-5AC-16-120 5GHz 2-Pack LiteBeam AC 11ac Access Point 16dBi 120 PoE

Ubiquiti Networks

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Model: LAP-120-US (Formerly LBE-5AC-16-120)



LiteBeam AC 2x2 MIMO airMAX ac Sector AP



The LiteBeam ac AP is an ultra-lightweight airMAX ac Access Point with incredible performance and disruptive pricing.



LBE-5AC-16-120 is an airMAX LiteBeam CPE with both point to point and point to multipoint funcitonality, operating on 5GHz with 16dBi gain. LiteBeam is ideal for a cost-effective WISP deployment in an airMAX ac Point-to-Multi-Point network.



airMAX ac Sector Coverage

The LiteBeam ac AP features a 2x2 MIMO antenna and communicates with multiple airMAX ac CPEs within a 120° coverage area.



Now with airOS 8

airOS 8 provides powerful features, including airMAX ac protocol support, real-time RF analytics, and an all-new design for enhanced usability.



Lightweight and Sleek Design

The LiteBeam ac AP features a lightweight antenna with an integrated radio in a sleek and highly efficient design.



Installation Flexibility

Featuring the freedom of three-axis alignment, the LiteBeam ac AP fully assembles in seconds – no tools needed. Only a single wrench is required for pole-mounting.

  • LiteBeam AC LBE-5AC-16-120(2-PACK) airMAX ac Sector AP 5GHz 2x2 MIMO 16dBi 802.11ac
  • The LiteBeam ac AP LAP-120 is an ultra-lightweight airMAX ac Access Point with incredible performance and disruptive pricing.
  • airMAX ac Sector Coverage The LiteBeam ac AP features a 2x2 MIMO antenna and communicates with multiple airMAX ac CPEs within a 120° coverage area.
  • Capable of high-speed: 18+ mi (30+ km) links
  • Networking Interface: 10/100 Ethernet Port

User questions & answers

Question: usa or international version
Answer: Hi. The Belkin F5D8235-4 comes with a Belkin Setup Assistant Software CD for the setup process. However, there is an alternate method of setting it up using the web-based advanced user interface. The same hardware connections, but you need to manually configure its settings.
Question: son version internacional
Answer: About 50 ft. In a normal house.
Question: can i configure 2 of them as wireless access point with 1000 ft distance
Answer: I bought this used. It did come with the cd, but I think it depends on the seller.
Question: On average how many clients could I possibly hook up to one of these sectors? Also what are recommendations between these and other sectors with M5s
Answer: Yes, it is fully operarional i bought it on 2010 and it still working as new.. I recommend it 85% the other % is in the new generation routers :9 but it's pretty good

Ubiquiti Networks UAP-AC-M-PRO US UniFi AC Mesh Wide-Area Outdoor Dual-Band Access Point

Ubiquiti Networks

Based on 140 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Model: UAP-AC-M-PRO-US UniFi ac Mesh Pro 802.11AC 3x3 MIMO Outdoor Wi-Fi Access Point The outdoor UAP-AC-M-PRO-US UniFi AC Mesh Wide-Area Dual-Band Access Point from Ubiquiti Networks users benefit from a wide coverage area reaching up to 600' along with enhanced data transfer rates of up to 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz frequency. These enhanced data rates and coverage capabilities are supported by a 3x3 MIMO internal antenna configuration supporting multiple data paths for a more efficient end user network connection. Installation of the UAP-AC-M-PRO-US is simple as it comes 802.3af PoE compliant and includes a pole mounting kit. Once installed users can take advantage of 802.11ac Wi-Fi access with speeds of up to 1300 Mb/s in the 5 GHz radio band, and up to 450 Mb/s in the 2.4 GHz radio band.

  • 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi Standards
  • Range of up to 600
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet Ports
  • Integrated Omni Antennas
  • Passive Power over Ethernet

User questions & answers

Question: I have a viasat modem, i need to get a signal over to my workshop 150 feet away. do i need to purchase anything in addition to this
Answer: The TiVo Mini LUX and TiVo Mini VOX ONLY work with this adapter if you want to connect by wifi...so the answer to your question is yes.
Question: nd ethernet can one attach a "device"? this implies that the ap has the ability to function as some sort of switch i think, but i'm not technical
Answer: My router is upstairs and shares room with the Bolt. My mini vox is downstairs and connects to router via WiFi extender. When Bolt was on wireless mini often reported cannot find TiVo. I put Bolt on Ethernet and now mini works more stable. If you don't use WiFi extender and both mini and Bolt connected directly to router via WiFi maybe you won't have this problem.
Question: Is there a trick to getting it to adopt with the unifi outdoor flex switch? it adopts fine with injector, but adoption fails through flex switch
Answer: I am using this wifi adapter with the Tivo mini Lux. Easy connection and works well.
Question: This is the 3x3 mimo
Answer: This device brings Wi-Fi capability to a TiVo mini. It plugs into the TiVo mini. You connect the Mini to the tv. You also need a regular TiVo as the minis essentially just extend use of your TiVo to additional rooms. Note: the mini has to be updated while connected to the internet using a wired connection before this adapter will be recognized & operate.

Ubiquiti UniFi AC Lite AP - Wireless Access Point - 802.11 B/A/G/n/AC (UAPACLITEUS) 2-Pack Bundle

Ubiquiti Networks

Based on 194 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22 2 pack

User questions & answers

Question: Do I need to use the switch to make this work
Answer: It can configure via web browser without ezmaster.
Question: Not tech savvy here, if I run my CAT6’s to a POE switch will it power these devices and any other software needed to run? Thanks
Answer: It come with Power Adapter and compliant with standard PoE IEEE 802.3af.
Question: Can this access point sit on a desktop
Answer: The hardware specs are the same. The most significant difference (other than the physical dimensions) is the location of the RJ45 jack. On the 1250, the RJ45 jack is oriented facing the side of the AP. If mounted on a ceiling, the cat6 cable will be visible. On the 1300, the RJ45 jack faces the rear of the AP and the cat6 cable can be connected to the LAN port and isn't visible if the AP is mounted directly under the hole for the cable penetration. However, if your setting up the 1250 in a mesh or WDS configuration and not planning to have a hardwired connection to the LAN, then cable visibility won't be an issue. In addition to the different RJ45 jack orientation, I also prefer the low profile of the 1300. The cylinder-like design of the 1250 makes it more noticeable while the tapered face of the 1300 is more discrete from a visual perspective.
Question: Does the 2-pack come with poe injectors
Answer: Sorry for misunderstanding. You can either use included Power Adapter(Supply) or connect to PoE Switch

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