How Many Access Points?

Except for an ad hoc network, the simplest wireless networks operate with just one access point and a handful of network nodes. But when you're trying to cover a large space, an irregular space with obstructions, or if you expect to have many wireless users, you will probably have to add at least one additional access point on a different channel.

If the anticipated coverage area of your indoor network extends more than about 150 feet from the access point, consider a network with more than one access point. Outdoors you should be able to get a reliable signal from an access point at least 200 feet away if a clean line of sight is available.

As a practical limit, if more than about half a dozen computers are trying to connect ...

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