Final answer:
An Access Point (AP) in a Wireless LAN is a device that connects wireless devices to a wired network by broadcasting Wi-Fi signals. It acts as a bridge between wireless and wired segments, managing client connections and routing network traffic.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a Wireless LAN (WLAN), an Access Point (AP) is a device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network. APs act as a bridge between the wireless and wired segments of a network, enabling wireless devices to communicate with other wired or wireless network devices. Access Points facilitate network connectivity for devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, by broadcasting Wi-Fi signals that these devices can connect to.
The primary function of an Access Point is to manage wireless client connections and route traffic between the wireless and wired segments. Unlike a wireless router, which typically integrates a router, switch, and access point into a single unit, a standalone Access Point does not have routing capabilities and must be connected to a network router to provide internet access to connected devices.