Access point accessories are the add-ons that mount, power or extend WiFi access points, such as mounting brackets, power injectors and antennas. They suit network administrators and installers fitting out an office, shop or warehouse. This section of our range is small and currently carries Cisco.
How to choose access point accessories
Compatibility with your access point. Check the exact model of the access point before buying anything. Brackets, mounting kits and antenna connectors are often designed for specific product lines, so an accessory that fits one model may not fit another from the same manufacturer.
What the accessory does. Decide whether you need a way to mount the unit, a way to power it, or a way to improve coverage. A bracket solves a fixing problem, an injector solves a power problem and an antenna changes how the signal spreads. Buying for the wrong problem is the most common mistake.
Power over Ethernet support. Many access points are powered through the network cable. If your switch does not supply PoE, you will usually need an injector or a PoE switch. Match the PoE standard the access point requires with what the injector or switch delivers.
Installation location. Ceiling, wall, pole and outdoor installations call for different hardware. Think about the surface, the cable route and whether the accessory needs to cope with dust, moisture or temperature changes.
Consistency across the network. If you manage several access points, using the same vendor's accessories makes replacement and expansion simpler, because spare parts and mounting methods stay the same across the site.
Brands we carry
- Cisco: one of the largest networking manufacturers in the world, with access point lines that include Aironet and Catalyst, and the cloud-managed Meraki range.
Access point accessories FAQ
What are access point accessories?
Access point accessories are the extra parts used to install, power or improve a WiFi access point. Typical examples are mounting brackets, power injectors, antennas and patch cables. They are bought separately from the access point itself.
Do I need a power injector for my access point?
You need one only if your access point is powered over Ethernet and your switch does not provide PoE. In that case the injector sits between the switch and the access point and sends power along the same network cable. If you already have a PoE switch with enough capacity, an injector is not necessary.
Can I use accessories from another brand with a Cisco access point?
Sometimes, but it depends on the accessory. Standards-based items such as network cables and many PoE injectors can work across brands, provided the power standard matches. Mounting kits and antennas are usually model-specific, so check the compatibility details for your access point first.
Where should I mount a WiFi access point?
A central position, high up on a ceiling or wall, generally gives the most even coverage. Keep the unit away from thick walls, metal cabinets and other obstructions where possible. The right bracket depends on the surface and on the access point model you have.
