The main difference between industrial APs and routers is their intended use. Industrial APs are designed for use in harsh environments, such as factories, warehouses, and outdoor locations. They are typically more rugged and have a wider temperature range than consumer-grade APs and routers. Industrial APs also often have features that are specific to industrial applications, such as support for industrial protocols and security features.
Here is the summarizing the key differences between industrial APs and routers:
Intended use
Maxon Industrial AP: Harsh environments(IP67 IP68 protect level)
Router: General purpose (Small business & Home)
Ruggedness
Maxon Industrial AP: More rugged (Aluminum enclosure)
Router: Less rugged (Plastic cases)
Temp. range
Maxon Industrial AP: Wider temperature range (-40～+70℃/-40～+158℉)
Router: Narrower temperature range
Features
Maxon Industrial AP: Support for industrial & security features
Router: Normal features
Cost
Maxon Industrial AP: More expensive
Router: Less expensive
In general, an industrial AP is a good choice for use in a harsh environment where a high level of reliability and security is required. A router is a good choice for general-purpose use in a home or office environment.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when choosing between an industrial AP and a router:
The environment:
If you need to use your AP in a harsh environment, such as a factory or warehouse, you will need an industrial AP. Consumer-grade APs and routers are not designed for use in these environments and may not be able to withstand the elements.
The features:
If you need your AP to support industrial protocols or security features, you will need an industrial AP. Consumer-grade APs and routers do not typically have these features.
Budget:
Industrial APs are more expensive than consumer-grade APs and routers. However, if you need the reliability and security that an industrial AP can provide, the extra cost may be worth it.
