Differences betw. WiFi Access Point, Ethernet Hub, Bridge, Receiver

What are the differences between technologies that encompass WiFi Access Point, Ethernet Hub, Bridge and Receiver? The main difference between these would be that they are various different types of wireless technology deployment methods. Read features of each below, to fully understand the differences.

Wi-Fi Access Points.

Sometimes referred to, as WiFi hotspots, Wi-Fi access points enable Internet connectivity for devices which have Wi-Fi capabilities. While Wi-Fi access points are often found inside a modem or router, the creation of a freestanding Wi-Fi access point with an external router connection tends to have a far greater range.

In some instances, Wi-Fi access points can provide signal through trees or walls, but it is always preferable for compatible wireless devices to have a clean line of sight in order to best communicate with each other.

Wireless Ethernet Hubs.

An effect of a wireless ethernet hub is to create a dome, up to 5 kilometres in diameter, providing wireless services. When coupled with an additional hub within the existing dome, up to 2.5 kilometres away, the ethernet coverage can be extended over vast areas. In this way, wireless ethernet hubs can create a Wi-Fi hotspot or access point of up to 200 meters in diameter.

Wireless Ethernet Bridges.

Sometimes referred to, as point-to-point communication, a wireless ethernet bridge can be used to facilitate a wireless connection between two locations. Used in pairs, wireless ethernet bridges are only capable of straight-line transmission and must be within view of each other with no obstacles between.

Often used as a viable alternative to a CAT-6 or CAT-5 ethernet cable, wireless ethernet bridges tend to cost less than using a physical cable between two devices. Another advantage is that the maximum length of a cable tends to be no more than 100 meters, whereas wireless ethernet bridges can reach distances of up to 8 kilometres, or even further if mounted high above sea level.

Wireless Ethernet Receivers.

Transmitting and receiving wireless signals within a dome, wireless ethernet receivers can connect to a variety of devices via an ethernet connection. Wireless ethernet receivers are typically used when a Wi-Fi hotspot is not required, or additional domes are not possible to be created.