9 best free access points

Free access points, often referred to as "open access points" or "public Wi-Fi hotspots," are network access points that provide internet connectivity to users without requiring authentication or a password. These access points are typically found in public spaces, businesses, or other locations where individuals may need internet access.

Here are some key points related to free access points:

Public Wi-Fi Hotspots: Free access points are commonly found in places such as cafes, libraries, airports, hotels, parks, and shopping centers. They allow visitors or customers to connect to the internet without needing to subscribe to a specific internet service or enter a password.
No Authentication Required: Users can usually connect to free access points without any authentication process. This convenience makes them accessible to anyone within the range of the Wi-Fi signal.
Usage Guidelines: While free access points don't typically require authentication, they often come with terms of use or guidelines that users should follow. These guidelines may include restrictions on the type of content that can be accessed and the duration of usage.
Security Considerations: Public Wi-Fi hotspots, including free access points, can pose security risks. Since they are open and unsecured networks, data transmitted over them can potentially be intercepted by malicious actors. It's important for users to exercise caution when using such networks, avoiding sensitive activities like online banking and ensuring that their devices have up-to-date security measures, such as firewalls and antivirus software.
Signal Range: The range of a free access point's Wi-Fi signal can vary depending on the hardware and location. Users need to be within this range to connect to the network.
Common Uses: Free access points are commonly used by people who need internet access on the go, such as travelers, students, and individuals working remotely.They are also useful for casual internet browsing and checking emails.
Network Speed: The speed and quality of the internet connection provided by free access points can vary. It may be slower during peak usage times or in areas with many connected users.
Responsible Usage: Users of free access points should be mindful of responsible usage to ensure that the network remains accessible to all. This includes not overwhelming the network with bandwidth-intensive activities and adhering to any usage limits or guidelines set by the network provider.

In summary, free access points are open Wi-Fi networks that provide internet connectivity to users without requiring authentication. They are commonly found in public spaces and can be convenient for those in need of temporary internet access. However, users should be aware of the security risks associated with open networks and exercise caution when using them.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best free access points on the market

TP-LINK EAP110-Outdoor V3 N300 Long Range 11n 2.4G Wireless Outdoor Access Point, Flexible Installation, Free EAP Controller Software (Renewed)

Based on 51 reviews Check latest price

Up to 300Mbps Wi-Fi with 2x2 MIMO technology ; Rate limit on per SSID to restrict the bandwidth of each client
Built for outdoor Wi-Fi applications ; WPA/WPA2-enterprise, 802.1X with RADIUS secure authentication and rogue access point detection ensure the security of WLAN
High transmission power and high gain antennas provide a long-range coverage area
Passive PoE Power over Ethernet support and simple mounting design allow for flexible deployment and convenient installation
Free Aura net Controller Software lets administrators easily manage hundreds of EAPs
NOT supporting RE/Bridge mode currently.Wireless Transmit Power: < 27dBm; Power Supply: 24V Passive PoE (+4,5pins; -7,8pins. PoE Adapter Included)

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this new version supports the Omada app
Answer:	Yes! I keep getting the same to connect my husbands cell phone to the extender too. It worked for my cell fine with the same password!
Question:	Do's this need to be pluged in to a router or will it pick up a signal and repeat it
Answer:	Yes, it plugs directly into a 120 VAC wall outlet. Or, you can do what I did. I plugged it into a 8 ft. extension cord that allowed me to hang it almost 8 ft. high on my downstairs wall, providing for better coverage.
Question:	How is it powered
Answer:	5

Ubiquiti UniFi AC Lite AP - Wireless Access Point - 802.11 B/A/G/n/AC (UAPACLITEUS) 6-Pack Bundle

Ubiquiti Networks

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22

EnGenius Outdoor Wireless WiFi 6 2x2 Managed Access Point EWS850AP Features OFDMA, MU-MIMO, PoE+ Injector Included, WPA3, 2.5Gbps Port, IP67 Rated, License-Free Remote Management Tools Included

EnGenius

Check latest price

Product description

EnGenius EWS850AP WiFi 6 802.11ax 2x2 Managed Outdoor Wireless Access Point Features OFDMA, MU-MIMO, PoE+, WPA3, 2.5Gbps Port, Remote Management (PoE Injector Included)

[Higher User Capacity] Client devices can work faster with more users up to 1024 client devices
[2.5 Gbps PoE Port] 802.3.at Compliant for Easy Deployment up to 328ft from source
[1024 QAM] Boosts throughput by 25% and provides greater reliability
[Uplink/Downlink of OFDMA] Allows for more efficient channel usage
[IP67 RATED] Weatherproof & Dustproof Housing Can Withstand Any Harsh Environment
[Signal Reliability] Beamforming Optimizes Antenna Signal & Reception for Client Devices
[Remote Management] On-Premise Managed Device via SkyKey or EzMaster (No Lifetime License Fees)

Product features

Ultrafast Wireless Performance & High Performance for Demanding Applications

The newest EnGenius Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Outdoor AP support existing and future device and application needs for the forward-thinking SMB.

EnGenius EWS850AP is an Outdoor Wi-Fi 6, IP67 ( IP67 means the unit can be dropped into a body of water up to a meter deep for half an hour), MU-MIMO Dual-Band Wireless AX1800 Access Point reaching speeds to 1,200Mbps on 5GHz and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. Designed to perform in harsh environments, this feature-rich AP leverages advanced Wi-Fi and Beamforming technology, maximizing performance and reliability while greatly increasing network user capacities.

Multi-Gigabit Speeds with Flexible Power Options and Exceptional Performance in Harsh Outdoor Climates

The EWS850AP’s 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port allows for greater throughput speeds realized by Wi-Fi 6 and supports PoE+ (802.3at) to connect.

Designed for peak performance in harsh climates, the EWS850AP features an IP67-rated waterproof ( IP67 means the unit can be dropped into a body of water up to a meter deep for half an hour) and dustproof enclosure ensuring it can withstand harsh outdoor and indoor environments. This includes prolonged exposure outdoors to sunlight, extreme cold, frost, snow, rain, hail, heat, and humidity, and indoors where temperature may be a factor

OFDMA (in both uplink and downlink)

Enables more efficient channel use, reduces latency between AP and client devices, and provides backward-compatibility with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

Uplink & Downlink of MU-MIMO

Supports up to eight client devices and provides greater network efficiency, focuses radio energy on specific users, and ensures optimal signal and reception reliability.

1024 QAM

Boosts throughput by 25% and provides greater reliability in short distances.

BSS Coloring & Spatial Reuse

BSS coloring tags packets with a 'color' to differentiate between adjacent service sets. Spatial reuse enables simultaneous transmissions on the same channel via BSS coloring.

Longer OFDM Symbols

Enables shorter wait times between data transmissions and tolerates more noise, which allows greater coverage.

Target Wake Time (TWT)

Reduces power consumption, schedules wake times, and extends client battery life of mobile and IoT devices.

EnGenius EWS357AP WiFi 6 802.11ax 2x2 Managed Indoor Wireless Access Point features OFDMA, MU-MIMO, PoE+, WPA3, 1Gbps Port, Remote Management (Power Adapter Not Included)

EnGenius

Based on 75 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EnGenius EWS357AP Wi-Fi 6 (802. 11ax) 2x2 managed indoor wireless access point Features 802.11ax technology, such as OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and spatial reuse, to expand the capabilities of Wi-Fi and also utilizes EnGenius enterprise-level management and AP features

[Uplink/Downlink of OFDMA] Allows for more efficient channel usage
[Upgraded to 1GB RAM] Version 3 now supports up to 1024 concurrent client devices
[1024 QAM] Boosts throughput by 25% and provides greater reliability
[Longer OFDM Symbols] for shorter waits between data transmissions
[Target Wake Time] Wake time scheduling increases battery life efficiency for devices
[1 Gbps PoE Port] 802.3.af Compliant for Easy Deployment up to 328ft from source
[Local and Remote Management] License-free Management Interface with EzMaster or an EnGenius Switch
[TAA Compliant] We source only from the US and other approved countries, adhering to the highest ethical, financial, and security standards established by the GSA

User questions & answers

Question:	Will the ews377ap support dynamic vlan assignment with radius server, i.e. one single ssid: traffic for clients will be locally tagged differently
Answer:	EWS377AP only supported VLAN per SSID, i.e. each SSID can have different VLAN assignment, SSID1: VLAN100, SSID2: VLAN 400
Question:	Does this support radius assigned vlans on the same ssid
Answer:	It support RADIUS & VLAN per SSID.
Question:	Does this come with free firmware upgrades
Answer:	yes, free firmware upgrade. NO licensing or subscription fee. Free tech supported.
Question:	does it support 160Mhz channel width
Answer:	80Mhz

Product features

Greater Capacities. Stronger Connections. Future Capabilities.

The newest EnGenius 802.11ax products support existing and future device and application needs for the forward-thinking SMB. They allow advancements within a network without demanding a major restructuring of what is already in place.

The new 802.11ax technology (Wi-Fi 6) builds upon real-world deployment of 802.11ac. The stronger, steadier, and more efficient, 802.11ax enables more efficient channel use, reduces latency between AP and client devices, and provides other groundbreaking features.

OFDMA (in both uplink and downlink)

Enables more efficient channel use, reduces latency between AP and client devices, and provides backward-compatibility with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

Uplink & Downlink of MU-MIMO

Supports up to eight client devices and provides greater network efficiency, focuses radio energy on specific users, and ensures optimal signal and reception reliability.

1024 QAM

Boosts throughput by 25% and provides greater reliability in short distances.

BSS Coloring & Spatial Reuse

BSS coloring tags packets with a 'color' to differentiate between adjacent service sets. Spatial reuse enables simultaneous transmissions on the same channel via BSS coloring.

Longer OFDM Symbols

Enables shorter wait times between data transmissions and tolerates more noise, which allows greater coverage.

Target Wake Time (TWT)

Reduces power consumption, schedules wake times, and extends client battery life of mobile and IoT devices.

Zyxel WiFi 11ac 3x3 Access Point, Easy Setup and Management, Free NebulaFlex Cloud Management, Dual Band, 802.11ac, No PoE Injector (NWA1123-AC Pro) (3x3 Dual Optimized (No PoE Injector))

ZyXEL

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Nebula Flex Access Point- 100% flexible management allowing switch between standalone/ Nebula cloud mode
Central management anywhere, anytime through intuitive license free Nebula cloud platform
Dual-optimized antenna offers flexibility for either wall or ceiling mount, delivering solid performance without sacrificing coverage
Excellent Coverage and performance with the latest 3x3 802. 11AC technology
Solid state capacitors and advanced heat dissipation ensure high reliability and long life—Backed by a Lifetime and US based support team

Product features

NWA1123-AC PRO

Zyxel delivers speed and convenience with its NWA1123-AC PRO 802.11ac PoE access point, offers streamlined controller-less deployment for a trouble-free small business or home office wireless LAN experience. Building with innovative dual-optimized antenna design, the ultra-fast AP brings together great performance and coverage enhancements, with a user-friendly interface and robust components.

The stylish exterior makes

the AP ideal for not only in ceiling mount installation but also in wall-mount deployment without creating inter-floor interference, meanwhile the device provides smooth Wi-Fi services without detracting from interior design aesthetics. The NWA1123-AC PRO also supports repeater mode that makes it a flexible solution for small businesses, hotels and school environments.

Traditional (Side View)

Pattern for wall-mount (H-plane, side view)

Dual-optimized (Side View)

Pattern for wall-mount (H-plane, side view)

Traditional (Top View)

Pattern for wall-mount (E-plane, top view)

Dual-optimized (Top View)

Pattern for wall-mount (E-plane, top view)

Aruba Instant On AP22 802.11ax 2x2 WiFi Access Point | US Model | Power Source not Included (R4W01A)

Aruba a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Aruba Instant On AP22 Indoor Access Points bring the latest WiFi technology -- 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 -- to the Instant On portfolio of SMB and small business Access Points, delivering high performance and bandwidth. Business-grade capabilities are designed to meet the mobile, IoT, and security needs of reimagined offices, schools, and retail / hospitality businesses.
Get setup and running in minutes with the Aruba Instant On Cloud app management system. The cloud-hosted web interface and mobile app make it easy to manage multiple Aruba Instant On APs deployed in your facility, keeping network access logins and security settings consistent.
Powering: AP22 APs can be powered with Power over Ethernet (802.1af Class 2) or using a 12V local power adapter. The AP22 package R4W01A provides only the unit, with the package R6M49A provides unit with 12V local power adapter.
Mounting: AP22 APs provide best coverage when mounted on a ceiling or high on a wall. Unit ships with mounting hardware for drop ceiling rails and for wall placement.
Performance: Specified hardware for 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz (.11ax Wi-Fi 6) | 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz (.11ax Wi-Fi 6) | Total 1774 Mbps throughput | Unit has one Gigabit 100/1000 uplink connection | recommended for up to 75 max active devices. Wi-FI CERTIFIED 6 (Wi-Fi 6).

No Public Access Sign No Access Beyond This Point Private Entrance, 10" x 14" Industrial Grade Aluminum, Easy Mounting, Rust-Free/Fade Resistance, Indoor/Outdoor, USA Made by MY SIGN CENTER

Visual 52

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

PREMIUM QUALITY: We use only high quality durable rust-free aluminum for all our signs. Made in USA
NO FADING: Will withstand the elements, no matter sun, rain or extreme weather these signs will last
EASY INSTALLATION: Pre-Drilled Holes in all four corners ready to install, No extra preparations
PERFECT SIZE: Big enough for a big and bold message, Small enough to stay in line with your decor
PROFESSIONAL GRAPHICS: Ideal home or business use, elegant design that still conveys strong message

TP-Link Omada AC1350 Gigabit Wireless Access Point | Business WiFi Solution w/ Mesh Support, Seamless Roaming & MU-MIMO | PoE Powered | SDN Integrated | Cloud Access & App for Easy Management (EAP225)

TP-Link

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EAP225 supports both 802.3af PoE and passive PoE power supply, can be either powered by a PoE switch or the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible.

Maximum wireless transmission rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Range and coverage specifications along with the number of connected devices were defined according to test results under normal usage conditions. Actual wireless transmission rate, wireless coverage, and number of connected devices are not guaranteed, and will vary as a result of 1) environmental factors, including building materials, physical objects and obstacles, 2) network conditions, including local interference, volume and density of traffic, product location, network complexity, and network overhead and 3) client limitations, including rated performance, location, connection quality, and client condition.

MU-MIMO capability requires client devices that also support MU-MIMO.

Seamless roaming requires both the access point and client devices to support 802.11k and 802.11v protocols.

【Superior Speeds with MU-MIMO】Designed with the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, the EAP225 reliably delivers dual-band Wi-Fi speeds up to 1350 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time.
【Integrated into Omada SDN】Omada’s Software Defined Networking (SDN) platform integrates network devices, including access points, switches and gateways. Pick your preferred method of network management from these Omada offerings - Omada hardware controller, Omada software controller or Omada cloud-based controller. Standalone Mode also applies.
【Cloud Based Controller】Zero-Touch provisioning (coming soon) allows remote deployment and configuration of multi-site networks. AI-Driven Technology (coming soon) delivers stronger performance and easy network maintenance. Additional fees apply for use of cloud-based controller.
【Cloud Access】Remote Cloud access and Omada app brings centralized cloud management of the whole network from different sites—all controlled from a single interface anywhere, anytime.
【SDN Compatibility】For SDN usage, make sure your devices/controllers are either equipped with or can be upgraded to SDN version. SDN controllers work only with SDN APs, Switches and Routers. Non-SDN controllers work only with non-SDN APs. For devices that are compatible with SDN firmware, please visit ‘From the manufacturer – Q&A’ section or tplink website.
【Advanced Wireless Tech】Support Mesh WiFi, Seamless Roaming, Band Steering, Airtime Fairness and Beamforming technologies.
【Multiple PoE Options for Easy Installation】EAP225 supports both 802.3af/at PoE and Passive PoE power supply, can be either powered by a PoE switch or the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible.
【Limited Lifetime Warranty】Backed by our industry-leading limited lifetime warranty and free 24/7 technical support, you can work with confidence.

Product features

Seamless Roaming

Seamless roaming switches clients to the AP with the best signal automatically, even when moving. This allows sensitive applications like VoIP and video conferences to go uninterrupted.

Omada SDN with Flexible Management and Cloud Access

Omada SDN integrates network devices including access points, switches & gateways with multiple control options provided - Hardware controller, Software Controller & Cloud-based Controller. Centralized cloud allows for remote management of the entire network via a single interface anywhere, anytime.

Cloud-Based Controller Unlocks More Possibilities

Zero Touch Provisioning (coming soon) allows for remote deployment and configuration of multi-site networks. AI-Driven technology (coming soon) delivers stronger performance and easy network maintenance.

Both require the use of cloud-based controller.

NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 - Coverage Up to 1000 Sq Ft and 15 Devices with AC750 Dual Band Wireless Signal Booster & Repeater (Up to 750Mbps Speed), and Compact Wall Plug Design

NETGEAR

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender (EX3700-100NAS). System Requirements:2.4 and/or 5GHz, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless router or gateway, Microsoft. Internet Explorer. 8.0, Firefox. 20, Safari. 5.1, Google Chrome 25.0 browsers or higher. Troubleshooting tip- If you cannot get a WiFi connection working, you can use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the extender. Data throughput, signal range, and wireless coverage per sq. ft. may vary due to differences in operating environments of wireless networks, including without limitation building materials and wireless interference. Operating temperature: 32°to 104°F.

Extended wireless coverage: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 1000 square feet, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
AC750 WIFI speed: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual band and patented FastLane technology
Universal compatibility: works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with wifi. The product may not be compatible with routers or gateways with firmware that has been altered, is based on open source programs, or is non standard or outdated
Wired Ethernet port: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one 10/100M port for maximum speed
Safe & secure: Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
Simple to setup: Press the WPS button to connect to your router. Use the NETGEAR WiFi Analyzer app for optimal location

User questions & answers

Question:	My family has two appartments next to each other, both separate electrical installations. Would this work if we wanted to split the internet bill
Answer:	Yes the EX8000 used as a wifi extender you have the option of having a guest network. You can use same SSID name as your main router or use a different SSID altogether. I did have issues with more than one extender on the same network using same SSID name as main router so I had to change one of the extenders to a different SSID.
Question:	Has anyone connected a ps4 of xbox one to the wifi from the range extender? if so, signal and game play any good
Answer:	If you mean an AT&T router signal, yes. If you mean cell tower signal, then no.
Question:	Does it create a new sid or does it exteneded your current sid, so one does not have to switch to differing networks when in range
Answer:	the input voltage is from 100 to 240 volts
Question:	I don't understand how some people give this 4-5 stars and others can't get it to work and give it 1 star
Answer:	there are 4 ports. I use multiple ones as this is the only system I can find that does not change the network name but once a year I also have one break and have to replace it or hard reset it myself.