Why are wireless routers cheaper than wireless access points?

[Pastore]

I am looking between the Linksys WRT54G wireless router and the WAP54G wireless access point. Almost every site lists the router as being between $5 and $10 less than the access point. How does this work? They are basically the same device except the router has DHCP? So how could it be cheaper? This doesn't only go for the Linksys lines either, it's across the board with all routers versus access points, so what makes them cheaper?

 

[spidey07]

the market/competition.

as cheap as these devices are most people don't need/want an access point only. In the commerical realm access points run 700-1000 dollars a piece.

 

[Bluestealth]

Unfortunatly this is why there are a lot of people buying Routers when they need APs, luckily almost all are convertible to AP + switch mode. I prefer APs and having a seperate router.

 

[JackMDS]

The major reason is expressed by Spidey above.

In addtion most Access Points as Wireless Devices provide more flexibilty.

However 98% of End Users (Home & SOHO) do no need the extras.

Wireless Network - Configuration Modes.

:sun:

 

[nweaver]

Jack is right, an AP often has more functionality (not sure on SOHO, this is enterprise grade).

Spidey hit the price pretty well, I just priced A/G 1231 cisco AP's at about $900 a piece. Getting a screaming deal on ACS 4 at $5,600 though )