Difference between Linksys 802.11g AP and router

[Rainsford]

So for father's day I'm getting my dad a 802.11g wireless setup. I'm looking at the Linksys stuff, and I noticed that I can get the Linksys g router and AP for less than the Linksys g AP only at Best Buy with rebates. My question is, since I don't need the routing stuff of the router, just the AP features, is there any reason not to get the router over the AP since it is cheaper? As far as features and performance go as an AP, are they identical?

 

[shud]

As far as wireless goes, a little FAQ...

Router = Regular 4-port wired router WITH wireless capability.
AP = Wireless capability without ports.

If you already have a wired router, go with the AP. Plug some CAT5 into an open port on the router, and then plug the other end into the uplink port on the AP.

Have the Linksys 802.11b AP here, works great. 100% signal in the basement as I type this.

 

[Rainsford]

Thanks for the recommendation, but actually I was just looking for any features differences in the AP and router as far as AP features. I have a router already, but if the AP+router is cheaper, is there any reason not to get it?

 

[ViRGE]

Nope, go for it.

 

[shud]

Ah, I misunderstood your question.

Don't get the wireless router in place of the current router you have.

The only difference I've heard of between the router and plain AP is that (aside from the router acting as a switch and AP, obviously) is that a few of my friends have told me about weak signals with their wireless routers. I've had great reception with the AP.

But I'd go with what's cheaper.