---

---

A wireless network may contain several different types of equipment. The wireless access point joins a WiFi local network to a wired broadband router or other Ethernet network. WiFi routers contain built-in wireless access points.
An Access Point is a radio transmitter/receiver that is most widely used to bridge wireless and a wired (ethernet) network. A Wireless router has both the functionalities of a router and an access point in a single unit.

---

Posted by waqasahmad

Wireless Access Points add wireless connectivity to an existing network. An access point will not share your internet connection; you will still need a router for that. Wireless routers will share your internet connection for you as well as add wireless to your network.

---

Posted by michaelcoyne

As far as speed, performance and range. It would make no difference as to which hardware you use. However, the location of the router/AP will. If running a cable out from a router to an access point allows you to locate the Access Point in an optimal, high central location, that would be best. Placing the Access Point in the center of a room at or near the celling will give far better coverage than sitting on a table in the corner of the room. I would go with the access point. Also, you could add an additional Access Point later on if you find you need increased coverage.
Location-Location-Location

p.s. The wireless router is just a router and an access point in one. You can run it as just an access point if you want.

---

Posted by sagitraz