In the rapidly developing industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) field, wireless network technology plays a crucial role. Among them, wireless bridges, wireless access points (APs), and cellular wifi routers are the three pillars of wireless networks, each with unique features and application scenarios. However, for many practitioners in traditional industries, the differences and connections between these devices may not be very clear.
Wireless bridge, as the name suggests, is a bridging device for wireless networks. It can establish communication bridges between two or more wireless networks, enabling long-distance wireless data transmission. Wireless bridges work in the second or third layer of the OSI reference model, transmitting data frames or packets through wireless signals, overcoming the limitations of wired networks in difficult or costly environments.
In the industrial Internet of Things, wireless bridges are commonly used to connect devices or networks that are far away, such as ports, factories, warehouses, forest scenic spots, etc. It has the characteristics of high power, long-distance transmission, and strong anti-interference ability, which can ensure stable and reliable communication in complex environments. In addition, wireless bridges also support multiple working modes, such as point-to-point, point to multipoint, relay connections, etc., to meet communication needs in different scenarios.
Wireless AP, also known as wireless access point, is one of the core devices in wireless networks. It is equivalent to a "base station" in wireless networks, providing access services for wireless devices. Wireless APs communicate with wireless devices such as smartphones, laptops, sensors, etc. through wireless signals and connect them to wired networks.
In the industrial Internet of Things, wireless APs are widely used in places that require wireless coverage, such as offices, workshops, warehouses, etc. It not only provides basic wireless access services, but also supports various advanced functions such as wireless hotspot distribution system WDS, relay, bridging, etc. These functions enable wireless APs to flexibly respond to various complex network environments, achieving optimization and expansion of wireless networks.
It is worth noting that there is a certain overlap in functionality between wireless APs and wireless bridges. In some scenarios, wireless APs can also be used as wireless bridges to bridge between two wireless networks. However, from a professional perspective, wireless bridges are more focused on long-distance wireless data transmission, while wireless APs are more focused on providing wireless access services.
Cellular Wifi Router is a combination of wireless AP and router, which integrates multiple functions such as wireless access, routing forwarding, network management, etc. Ce ll ul ar Wi fi Ro ut er Provide access services for wireless devices through wireless signals, and connect to wired networks through wired interfaces to achieve data routing, forwarding, and network management.
In the industrial Internet of Things, Ce ll ul ar Wi fi Ro ut er Widely used in homes, offices, small factories, and other places. It not only provides stable wireless access services, but also supports multiple network protocols and security mechanisms to ensure secure data transmission. In addition, Ce ll ul ar Wi fi Ro ut er It also has rich network management functions, such as DHCP services, NAT firewalls, MAC address filtering, etc., which can easily manage network devices and user permissions.
Wireless bridges, wireless APs and cellular Wifi routers play different roles in the industrial Internet of Things, but they are closely related to each other. Understanding the differences and connections between them can help us better select and apply these devices, providing strong support for the development of industrial IoT.
