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Access Point

From Catherine Roseberry, for About.com

Definition: An access point is either:
1. A stand alone devices that connects to a wireless LAN. Your home office, corporate office or an Wi-Fi hotspot will have access points. The access point connects to a wireless router or an Ethernet hub or server. You can roam within the range of the access point with your laptop or other mobile device to access the Internet or corporate system.
2. The radio device that receives the signal from the base station. It attaches to your laptop or mobile device via USB, PCI slot, or Ethernet.
3. A physical area (Hot Spot) where you can pick up Wi-Fi signals.
Examples: Using the access point in the Internet Cyber Cafe allows a mobile worker to check their email without returning to their office.

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