Having a reliable and fast internet connection (Wi-Fi) is essential for both businesses in today’s interconnected world. A technology known as Point-to-Point (PtP) Wireless has revolutionized the way wireless networks and wireless connections are established, providing a strong and efficient solution.
For businesses that need reliable, dedicated and secure data transmission between multiple and often remote sites, point-to-point (P2P or PTP) wireless networks have a unique advantage: They don’t require a cabled infrastructure. For this reason, they’re far more flexible, scalable and affordable than traditional cabled wide-area networks.
We’ll explain P2P wireless networks, how they work and connect and how they benefit companies with multiple sites.
What is point-to-point wireless?
A Point-to-Point wireless network offers numerous benefits for business internet needs. It’s among the simplest network types available in telecommunications. By bridging two access points, a P2P wireless network can securely transmit data between two devices.
Thanks to its reliability, a P2P wireless internet connection can create a secure online network across multiple worksites several miles apart.
Bluetooth shares many similarities with P2P. With Bluetooth, you can transfer data between devices in proximity with no need to physically connect the devices. P2P wireless is similar but on a larger, more sophisticated scale.
Instead of two connecting two phones, a P2P wireless connection creates a bridge between two secure access points with a clear line of sight. Once a P2P connection is established, you can connect multiple systems to create a secure network for your entire business.
Advances in P2P wireless technology have led to cost-effective, highly secure networks that offer the speed and flexibility a network needs to grow with your business.
How does point-to-point internet work?
A P2P wireless connection operates through a dedicated device in a network called a “point” to send data to an endpoint over the air through radio waves.
Other types of equipment can also allow a point-to-multipoint wireless connection, where data is transmitted to multiple endpoints simultaneously. Other types of P2P connection technology use laser instead of radio. However a system is configured, the utility is the same. Here are the basics:
P2P internet requires a clear line of sight: The different points on a P2P wireless network require a clear line of sight between each other to work, whether you’re using repeater hub antennas, microwave relays or parabolic dishes.
P2P internet uses radio waves: P2P wireless access points send data in 3D radio waves, similar to radio stations. But instead of the garbled audio, you get with a bad radio signal, you get a slower network with the potential to lose data.
P2P point ranges can differ: The range between two links or points on a P2P wireless or network connection can be anywhere from 100 feet to 30 miles, depending on the device.
Different frequencies affect P2P internet: Different frequencies give you different ranges and speeds to work with. For example, a P2P bridge running at a 2.4GHz frequency can deliver internet transfer speeds of 170 Mbps with up to 9 miles between the two locations. Meanwhile, a P2P laser connection can provide blazing speeds, topping out at 10 Gbps, but has a range of only 350 meters.
Your network directly impacts P2P connections: Data flows in both directions on P2P connections, so your network speed, reach and configuration will impact performance directly. For example, if you have a complex surveillance system taking up all your bandwidth on a low-speed connection, the network will become unstable and slow for the rest of your team. You must consider these kinds of “bandwidth bandits” before you build your network and decide on the internet speed you want.
P2P access points work with common Wi-Fi protocols: Most of today’s P2P access points work well with common Wi-Fi protocols, such as 802.11ac, 802.11 and the emerging 802.11ax. This means your business can expect a similar performance level to a standard Wi-Fi network but not to the standard of an Ethernet connection.
P2P access point devices are secure: P2P access point devices come with Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) wireless security as an extra precaution to keep prying eyes out and your data safe.
It’s true that Point-to-Point Wireless Systems are evolving at a tremendous rate and it can be a daunting task to find the right solution for your business. So, if you’re looking for a technology partner to help you optimize your difficult communication solutions, the Engineers at Advanced Network Connections can help get you started with the security system that is right for you.
To find out more email us at ancsupport@advancednetworkconnections.com or call at 508-297-2632 and Discover the Advanced Network Connections Difference.