Best 802.11 Ac Access Point For Home (2024 Update)
Choosing the best 802.11ac wireless access point for your home can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With some key considerations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to faster Wi-Fi speeds and better wireless coverage throughout your home.
First, think about the size of your home and where you need stronger wireless signals. An 802.11ac access point can provide faster speeds at longer ranges than older Wi-Fi standards, but larger homes may need multiple access points for full coverage. Consider your modem location and look for centrally located spots to install your new wireless access point.
You’ll also want to make sure your devices are 11ac compatible to take full advantage of the faster speeds. The newest smartphones, laptops, and tablets should have 11ac wireless built-in, but older devices may be limited to slower speeds. A dual-band access point will allow both newer and legacy devices to connect.
Do you have a high-demand environment with many users and devices connecting simultaneously? You’ll want an enterprise or prosumer grade 11ac access point with features like band steering, airtime fairness, and beamforming for the best performance under heavy load. Consumer grade options may struggle with lots of competing wireless traffic.
Ready to upgrade your home’s Wi-Fi network? With an understanding of wireless range, device compatibility, and performance needs, you’ll be off to a great start in your search for the best 802.11ac wireless access point. Fast speeds and seamless roaming await!
10 Best 802.11 Ac Access Point For Home
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The product is ideal for providing high-speed wireless internet access in homes or small offices.
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The product is ideal for providing reliable and fast Wi-Fi coverage in commercial or home settings.
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Creating a reliable and expandable WiFi network for large areas or multiple buildings.
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The product is ideal for providing Wi-Fi access in-wall and creating a seamless network coverage.
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Ideal for providing high-speed wireless internet access to homes, small offices, and commercial spaces with multiple devices.
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Ideal for providing Wi-Fi coverage in open areas or outdoor spaces with high user density.
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The product is ideal for providing high-speed wireless internet access over a long range.
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The product is ideal for providing fast wireless internet and wired connections to multiple devices in homes or small offices.
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This product is ideal for providing scalable, high-speed Wi-Fi coverage in enterprise settings with long-range needs.
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Ideal for providing high-speed wireless internet and network coverage in small to medium-sized homes or businesses.
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1. Mikrotik Hap Ac Routerboard, Triple Chain Access Point 802.11ac (Rb962uigs-5hact2hnt-Us)
The hAP ac is a versatile and powerful device that boasts dual-band technology and Gigabit ports, providing fast and reliable Internet access. It maintains compatibility with legacy devices in 2GHz 802.11 b/g/n and 5GHz a/n modes, allowing users to enjoy the full advantages of 802.11ac technology speed while still being able to connect with older devices.
The omnidirectional antennas of the hAP ac allow it to be mounted in any location, ensuring excellent coverage for mobile devices within your home, office, or any public setting. Additionally, the high power transmitter enhances the device's coverage, providing even better connectivity.
The hAP ac is equipped with several helpful features, including a USB port for connecting extra storage or 3G/4G modems. The PoE output on the last Ethernet port enables you to power other RouterBOARD devices without needing an additional power adapter. The SFP cage is another notable feature, allowing you to connect active or passive components.
The hAP ac boasts impressive specifications, including a 720 MHz CPU nominal frequency, 128 MB RAM, and 16 MB storage. These specifications make the device capable of handling even the most demanding Internet activities with ease.
It is important to note that the RB962UiGS-5HacT2HnT-US (USA) version is factory locked for 2412-2462MHz, 5170-5250MHz, and 5725-5835MHz frequencies. This lock cannot be removed, so it is essential to check the device's compatibility with the desired frequency before making a purchase.
2. Ubiquiti Uap-Ac-Lite Unifi Ap Ac Lite 802.11ac Gigabit Dual-Radio Poe
The Ubiquiti UAP-AC-LITE UniFi AP AC LITE 802.11ac Gigabit Dual-Radio PoE is an impressive networking device that is designed to provide excellent wireless connectivity for your home or office. This product is available in an OPEN BOX, which means that it has been opened but has not been used. It is in excellent condition and comes with all the necessary accessories.
The UAP-AC-LITE UniFi AP AC LITE 802.11ac Gigabit Dual-Radio PoE allows you to connect to the internet wirelessly and offers high-speed data transfer rates of up to 867 Mbps. It is equipped with advanced features such as dual-radio, PoE support, and 802.11ac technology, which ensures that you get the best possible wireless connectivity.
The UAP-AC-LITE UniFi AP AC LITE 802.11ac Gigabit Dual-Radio PoE is easy to set up and configure. It comes with a user-friendly interface that allows you to manage your network easily. You can also monitor the performance of your network using the UniFi Controller software, which is available for free.
This networking device is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. It comes with a Gigabit Ethernet port that provides a stable wired connection for devices that require high-speed internet connectivity.
The UAP-AC-LITE UniFi AP AC LITE 802.11ac Gigabit Dual-Radio PoE is an ideal choice for small to medium-sized businesses that require high-speed wireless connectivity. It is also perfect for home use if you have multiple devices that require internet connectivity.
3. Ubiquiti Networks Uap Ac In-Wall Access Point 5-Pack (Uap-Ac-Iw-5-Us)
The Ubiquiti Networks UAP AC In-Wall Access Point 5-Pack (UAP-AC-IW-5-US) is a high-performance Wi-Fi access point that is designed to be installed in a wall. This product is built to support 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi standards, which means that it can provide high-speed wireless connectivity to devices that are compatible with these standards. With dual-band support for 2.4 and 5 GHz frequency bands, the Ubiquiti Networks UAP AC In-Wall Access Point 5-Pack can provide optimal wireless coverage and performance.
This product includes three Gigabit Ethernet ports, which allow you to connect wired devices to your network with fast and reliable connectivity. With these ports, you can connect devices such as computers, printers, and other network-enabled devices to your network, which can help to improve your productivity and efficiency.
The Ubiquiti Networks UAP AC In-Wall Access Point 5-Pack has a compact design, with dimensions of 139.7 x 86.7 x 25.75 mm (5.5 x 3.41 x 1.01 "). This means that it can be easily installed in a wall, and it won't take up much space. This product is ideal for use in offices, hotels, schools, and other environments where reliable Wi-Fi connectivity is essential.
4. Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-Ac Lite – Wireless Access Point – 802.11 B/a/g/n/ac (Uapacliteus), White
The Ubiquiti Networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22 is a top-of-the-line wireless access point that provides seamless and high-speed internet connectivity. With its sleek and modern design, it can easily blend into any environment without compromising on performance.
The device boasts of a 2.4 GHz speed of 300 Mbps and a 5 GHz speed of 867 Mbps, making it perfect for heavy internet usage such as streaming, online gaming, and video conferencing. These speeds ensure that users can access the internet without any lags or interruptions, providing a smooth and uninterrupted internet experience.
The Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22 is designed to provide reliable and efficient wireless coverage, thanks to its advanced technology. It uses the latest Wi-Fi 802.22 protocol, which ensures that it is compatible with most devices and can provide high-speed internet to a large number of users simultaneously.
The device is also easy to set up and install, making it an ideal choice for both personal and professional use. It comes with an intuitive and user-friendly interface that allows users to manage their internet connections and network settings effortlessly.
In addition, the Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22 is built to last, with a robust design that can withstand harsh weather conditions and other environmental factors. This makes it a perfect choice for outdoor use, and also ensures that it can provide reliable and uninterrupted internet connectivity all year round.
5. Unifi Ac Mesh Dual-Band Access Point.
The Ubiquiti Networks UAP-AC-M 802.11AC Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi Access Point is a high-performance device that can provide seamless Wi-Fi connectivity both indoors and outdoors. This access point is equipped with plug and play mesh technology that enables users to cover a large outdoor area with minimal infrastructure. With just a few mesh access points, you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity throughout your premises.
This access point comes with a 10/100/1000 Ethernet port for networking interface and can be powered using multiple power options. It is compatible with 802.3af PoE Alternative A and 24V passive PoE. You can power it using an 802.3af Alternative switch, EdgePoint EP-R6, UniFi PoE Switch, or the included Gigabit PoE adapter.
One of the key features of this access point is its adjustable dual-band omnidirectional antennas that provide reliable and wide coverage. Additionally, this device can be used with any 5 GHz omni antenna for spot-beam coverage in high-density locations with numerous access points and clients. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses that require high-density Wi-Fi coverage.
The Ubiquiti Networks UAP-AC-M 802.11AC Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi Access Point is a versatile device that can operate in various environments. It is ruggedly designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor installation. With its mesh multi-hop technology, it can provide seamless connectivity in areas where running cables is difficult or impossible.
6. Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-Ac Long Range – Wireless Access Point – 802.11 B/a/g/n/ac (Uap-Ac-Lr-Us),white
The Ubiquiti UniFi AP AC Long Range is a high-performance wireless access point that is designed to provide reliable and fast internet connectivity to users. It is an excellent choice for users who require a robust and dependable wireless network in their office, home, or business.
It is important to note that the installation of this access point requires some networking knowledge to ensure that it is set up correctly and functioning optimally. However, for users who may not have the expertise to install it, there are resources available to help them get it up and running.
With its long-range capabilities, the UniFi AP AC Long Range can be used to provide wireless coverage to a large area, making it ideal for businesses or large homes. It can also support multiple devices simultaneously, allowing for seamless connectivity for all users.
Additionally, the UniFi AP AC Long Range comes equipped with advanced features such as guest access, VLAN support, and QoS for enhanced security and network management. Its sleek and modern design also makes it a great addition to any space.
7. Fastfi Access Point – Mikrotik Hap Ac2
The hAP ac² RBD52G-5HacD2HnD-TC is an advanced Dual-concurrent Access Point that offers seamless Wifi coverage for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies simultaneously. With this Access Point, you can enjoy high-speed internet connectivity across all your devices without any lag or interruption.
This device comes with five 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports that provide Gigabit connections for all your wired devices. Additionally, the USB port can be used for external storage or 4G/LTE modem, and the device supports IPsec hardware acceleration, which ensures faster and more secure data transfer.
The hAP ac² RBD52G-5HacD2HnD-TC boasts a new design universal case that allows the unit to be positioned either horizontally (desktop) or vertically (tower case), making it ideal for both home and office use.
Equipped with a powerful CPU core count of 4 and 128MB of RAM, this Access Point delivers lightning-fast performance. It also features Passive PoE in and can handle input voltage ranging from 18 – 28V, making it energy-efficient and cost-effective.
8. Unifi Long Range Wi-Fi Bundle
The innovative antenna design of this Wi-Fi access point provides a reliable and efficient wireless connection for any enterprise. Its scalable management system enables easy control and monitoring of multiple access points from a central location. The package includes five access points with specifications that are based on a single unit. However, it is important to note that the PoE injector is not included.
Measuring at ∅175.7 x 43.2 mm, these access points are compact and easy to install. The sleek design blends well with any environment, making it a versatile option for any business. Whether you're setting up a new network or upgrading an existing one, these access points can easily integrate into your current infrastructure.
With the ability to support multiple SSIDs and VLANs, this Wi-Fi access point offers flexibility in network management. It also has advanced security features such as WPA/WPA2 Enterprise and MAC filtering to ensure that your network is protected against unauthorized access.
The access point's management system is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to configure and maintain. It allows for centralized control of firmware updates, configuration changes, and network monitoring, saving time and resources.
9. Unifi Ac-Pro: High-Speed Wireless Access Point
The Ubiquiti Unifi AP AC PRO UAP-AC-PRO-US 802.11ac PRO Wireless Access Point is a top-of-the-line enterprise Wi-Fi system that boasts a number of impressive features. One of the most notable is its dual-radio 3×3 11AC MIMO technology, which can deliver speeds up to 5 times faster than traditional access points.
This access point supports simultaneous dual-band operation, allowing it to utilize both the 5 and 2.4 GHz radio bands to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, it features 3×3 MIMO technology for enhanced signal strength and reliability.
The UniFi AC Pro AP is a gigabit access point that can be powered by 802.3af, making it a versatile choice for indoor or outdoor use. It is built to withstand the elements and can be easily mounted on walls, ceilings, or poles.
One of the standout features of this access point is the intuitive and user-friendly UniFi controller user interface. The UniFi controller allows for easy installation, configuration, and management of all UniFi APs, making it simple to set up and maintain a robust Wi-Fi network.
Best 802.11 Ac Access Point For Home FAQs
Can an 802.11ac access point support multiple Wi-Fi networks in my home?
Yes, an 802.11ac access point can support multiple Wi-Fi networks in your home. This is achieved through a feature called Virtual LAN (VLAN) which allows you to create multiple logical networks within a single physical network. Each logical network can have its own unique settings such as SSID, security settings, and access controls.
This feature is particularly useful if you have different groups of users in your home who need different levels of network access. For example, you could create a separate network for your guests that has limited access to your home network resources. Alternatively, you could create a network specifically for your smart home devices that is separate from your personal devices.
To set up multiple Wi-Fi networks with an 802.11ac access point, you will need to log in to the access point's configuration page and create the VLANs. Most modern access points have user-friendly web interfaces that make this process relatively straightforward. Once you have created the VLANs, you can assign them to different SSIDs and configure their settings as desired.
Do I need to upgrade my router to use an 802.11ac access point?
Yes, you will need to upgrade your router to use an 802.11ac access point. This is because 802.11ac is a newer and faster wireless standard than the older 802.11n standard that most routers use. The 802.11ac standard allows for higher data transfer rates and better overall performance. However, in order to take advantage of these benefits, your router must also support the 802.11ac standard.
If your router is not capable of supporting 802.11ac, you will not be able to fully utilize the features of an 802.11ac access point. This means that you may experience slower speeds and reduced performance compared to what you would get with a newer router that supports the 802.11ac standard.
In summary, if you want to take advantage of the faster speeds and better performance offered by 802.11ac access points, you will need to upgrade your router to an 802.11ac compatible model.
How do I configure my 802.11ac access point for optimal performance in my home network?
To configure your 802.11ac access point for optimal performance in your home network, there are several key factors to consider:
1. Placement: Position the access point in a central location, away from walls, metal objects, and other potential sources of interference.
2. Channel congestion: Use a WiFi analyzer tool to determine the least congested WiFi channel in your area, and set your access point to use that channel.
3. Security: Configure your access point to use WPA2 encryption, and create a strong password to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Quality of Service (QoS): Enable QoS on your access point to prioritize important traffic, such as video streaming or online gaming.
5. Bandwidth allocation: Set bandwidth limits on your access point to prevent any single device from using up all available bandwidth.
6. Firmware updates: Keep your access point's firmware up to date to ensure optimal performance and security.
By taking these steps, you can configure your 802.11ac access point for optimal performance in your home network, providing reliable and fast WiFi to all of your devices.
How many devices can an 802.11ac access point handle simultaneously?
An 802.11ac access point is capable of handling a large number of devices simultaneously. The exact number of devices that an access point can handle depends on various factors such as the number of antennas, channel width, and the capacity of the processor. However, most high-end 802.11ac access points can handle anywhere between 100 to 200 devices simultaneously without any performance degradation.
The reason why 802.11ac access points can handle so many devices is because of their advanced technology such as beamforming and MU-MIMO. These features allow the access point to communicate with multiple devices at the same time, improving the overall efficiency of the network.
It is important to note that even though an 802.11ac access point can handle a large number of devices, the actual performance of the network may still be affected by the number of devices connected. Therefore, it is recommended to properly plan and design the network to ensure that there is enough capacity to handle the expected number of devices.
What are the top-rated 802.11ac access points for home use?
When it comes to selecting the best 802.11ac access points for home use, there are several options to choose from. However, based on expert reviews and customer feedback, some of the top-rated access points available in the market are:
1. Google Nest WiFi – This access point offers high-speed internet coverage of up to 2200 sq. ft. It also boasts of an easy setup process and a user-friendly mobile app that allows you to manage your network.
2. Netgear Orbi – This access point is known for its exceptional coverage of up to 5000 sq. ft. It also comes with advanced parental controls and guest Wi-Fi access.
3. TP-Link Archer C7 – This access point is a budget-friendly option that offers excellent coverage and speed. It also comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two USB ports for added functionality.
4. Asus RT-AC86U – This access point offers a fast and reliable connection with a range of up to 2500 sq. ft. It also comes with advanced security features such as AiProtection and VPN server.
These are just a few of the top-rated 802.11ac access points available for home use. Choosing the best option depends on your specific needs and budget.
What features should I look for when choosing an 802.11ac access point for my home?
When choosing an 802.11ac access point for your home, there are several features you should consider to ensure that you get the best possible performance and coverage.
First, you'll want to look for an access point that supports dual-band operation, as this will allow you to take advantage of both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. This can be particularly useful if you have a lot of wireless devices in your home, as it can help to reduce interference and congestion.
You'll also want to look for an access point with multiple antennas, as this will help to improve both the range and the speed of your wireless network. Make sure that the access point you choose supports beamforming, which is a technique that allows the access point to focus its signal on specific devices, rather than broadcasting it in all directions.
Another important feature to look for is Quality of Service (QoS) support, which allows you to prioritize certain types of traffic (such as video or voice) over others, ensuring that you get the best possible performance for your most important applications.
Finally, look for an access point with easy setup and management options, such as a mobile app or web-based interface, to make it as simple as possible to get your network up and running.
What is the average lifespan of an 802.11ac access point for home use?
The average lifespan of an 802.11ac access point for home use can vary depending on several factors such as the quality of the device, the level of usage, and the maintenance of the device. Generally, a well-maintained 802.11ac access point can last between 3-5 years. However, factors such as the level of usage, environmental conditions, and firmware updates can also affect the lifespan of the device. For instance, if the device is being used heavily with multiple devices connected to it, its lifespan may be shorter compared to a device that is being used less frequently. Additionally, if the device is exposed to harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures or humidity, it may also shorten its lifespan. Proper maintenance such as regular firmware updates, cleaning, and ensuring proper ventilation can also help to extend the lifespan of the device.
What is the coverage range of an 802.11ac access point for home use?
The coverage range of an 802.11ac access point for home use can vary depending on several factors such as the size of your home, the number of walls and obstacles, and the power output of the access point. In general, an 802.11ac access point can cover a range of up to 150-200 feet indoors, but this can be affected by interference from other wireless devices in the area.
To maximize the coverage range of your 802.11ac access point, it is recommended to place it in a central location in your home, away from walls and other obstacles. Additionally, using a range extender or a mesh network can help extend the coverage range of your access point to cover dead spots in your home.
It is important to note that the actual coverage range of your 802.11ac access point may differ from the advertised range, as it can be affected by various external factors. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a site survey and perform regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and coverage range of your access point.
What is the maximum wireless speed I can expect from an 802.11ac access point for my home?
The maximum wireless speed you can expect from an 802.11ac access point for your home is dependent on several factors such as the number of devices connected to the network, the distance between the access point and the devices, and the level of interference from other wireless devices in the area. However, in ideal conditions, an 802.11ac access point can deliver speeds of up to 1.3 Gbps, which is three times faster than the previous 802.11n standard.
It is important to note that achieving these speeds requires that your devices also support the 802.11ac standard. Additionally, the actual speed you experience may be lower due to factors such as network congestion and signal interference. To maximize the performance of your wireless network, it is recommended to use a dual-band 802.11ac access point, which operates on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, and to ensure that your devices are up-to-date with the latest wireless standards.
Which brands offer the best 802.11ac access points for home networks?
When it comes to choosing the best 802.11ac access points for home networks, there are several brands that offer high-quality options. One of the most popular brands is Ubiquiti Networks, which is known for its reliable and easy-to-use access points. Their UniFi line of access points offers excellent coverage and performance, and they also have advanced features such as guest access and VLAN support.
Another great brand to consider is Cisco, which is a leader in networking equipment. Their Aironet access points offer excellent performance and range, and they also come with advanced security features such as WPA2 encryption and MAC address filtering.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, TP-Link is a great choice. Their Archer line of access points offers excellent performance and range, and they also come with a user-friendly interface that makes setup and management a breeze.
Other brands to consider include Netgear, ASUS, and D-Link, all of which offer high-quality 802.11ac access points for home networks. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and budget, so be sure to do your research and compare different options before making a decision.
