MikroTik hAP

The MikroTik hAP is the essential device for home and small office environments, offering seamless wireless connectivity and multiple wired connections. Building on the success of the RB951-2n, the hAP introduces several enhancements, making it an even more capable and efficient networking solution. Whether you need a robust wireless access point (AP) or just a few wired connections, the hAP delivers with simplicity and reliability. Equipped with a 2.4GHz AP, the MikroTik hAP adheres to the 802.11b/g/n wireless network standards, providing a radio rate of up to 300Mbps. This makes it great for bandwidth-intensive tasks like HD video streaming, large file transfers, and video conferencing.

The hAP also features five 100 Mbps Ethernet ports, providing ample wired connection options for devices that require stable, high-speed internet access. Wired connections are typically more stable and less prone to interference compared to wireless connections, making them essential for devices that require consistent connectivity, such as desktop computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. The hAP's Ethernet ports are also suitable for connecting critical infrastructure components like routers, switches, and access points, ensuring a reliable network backbone. A unique feature of the hAP is the PoE-out functionality on port #5, allowing you to power other PoE-capable devices with the same voltage supplied to the hAP. This feature simplifies network infrastructure by reducing the need for separate power supplies and electrical outlets for network devices. The PoE-out functionality is ideal for deploying IP cameras, wireless access points, or VoIP phones in locations where power outlets are not readily available. It also enables easier placement of devices for optimal coverage and performance, as power is delivered through Ethernet cables. The maximum load capacity for the PoE-out port is 500mA, ensuring safe power delivery and protecting both the PoE switch and the connected devices from electrical overloads.

One of the standout qualities of the MikroTik hAP is its user-friendly setup, designed with preconfigured settings that eliminate the need for a complex installation process. The device comes ready with default network settings such as SSID and security protocols, allowing users to quickly deploy it in their home or office environments. This simplicity and ease of use make the MikroTik hAP ideal for those who may not have extensive technical knowledge. All you need to do is connect the internet cable and power supply, and you’re ready to go, creating an instant wireless network with minimal effort. This plug-and-play approach is perfect for users who prefer minimal setup hassle, enabling you to start using your internet connection almost immediately. This significantly enhances user convenience, reduces setup time, and minimizes the need for technical support. Such devices are especially beneficial in environments where quick deployment is necessary, such as small offices, home networks, or temporary setups like conferences or events.

Adding to its versatility, the MikroTik hAP includes a USB port (USB-A 2.0), supporting a wide range of peripherals and offering data transfer speeds up to 480 Mbps. This port can be used to connect external devices such as printers, storage devices, or dongles. One of the key uses for this port in networking equipment is to support 3G/4G USB dongles, enabling the access point to connect to cellular networks. This capability is particularly useful for providing internet connectivity in areas where wired broadband access is unavailable or as a backup in case of primary connection failures. Supporting 3G/4G connections through the USB port provides several significant advantages. It allows for internet access in remote or rural areas where traditional wired internet infrastructure may be lacking. Additionally, it offers a reliable backup internet connection in urban areas, ensuring continuous connectivity during wired network outages.

Under the hood, the MikroTik hAP is powered by the robust QCA9531 chipset, designed by Qualcomm Atheros. This chipset integrates a powerful single-core CPU clocked at 650 MHz, providing ample processing power for typical home and small office networking tasks, including routing, firewall management, and bandwidth shaping. The hAP is complemented by 64 MB of RAM and 16 MB of storage memory, ensuring efficient handling of network traffic, multiple user connections, and running additional services like DHCP, DNS, and VPN. This configuration allows the device to operate smoothly and efficiently, even under demanding conditions.

The MikroTik hAP’s maximum power consumption is just 5 W, making it an energy-efficient option for continuous operation. It is designed to operate within a wide temperature range from -30 °C to 70 °C, making it suitable for various environments, including outdoor installations with appropriate housing and areas with significant temperature fluctuations. This capability ensures that the device maintains consistent performance and longevity, even in challenging conditions. One of the standout features of the MikroTik hAP is its flexible power options. The device can be powered either through a DC plug with dimensions of 2.1 x 5.5 mm or via passive Power over Ethernet (PoE) from a PoE injector. This flexibility is particularly useful in environments where power outlets may be limited. The inclusion of passive PoE allows the device to receive both power and data over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying the installation process and reducing cable clutter.