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10 Best Outdoor Access Points 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

HPE Networking Instant On Access Point AP27 2x2 WiFi 6 Outdoor Wireless Access Point (5 Pack) | Power Source Not Included | US Model (S1T36A-5PACK)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,237
Range
Weatherproofing
Speed

Most important from
16 reviews

Range
Built to withstand harsh weather, this access point delivers reliable outdoor coverage up to 100 yards with heavy-duty, weatherproof construction.
Weatherproofing
Built to withstand harsh weather, this access point delivers reliable outdoor coverage up to 100 yards with heavy-duty, weatherproof construction.
Speed
The device offers solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, ideal for small businesses needing fast, secure connections and guest network options.
Power Options
Integration with the Instant On PoE switch simplifies powering and adding devices by scanning QR codes, streamlining network expansion.
Security Features
The device offers solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, ideal for small businesses needing fast, secure connections and guest network options.
Management and Monitoring
Network insights and remote management capabilities allow monitoring and control from anywhere via web or mobile app.

The HPE Instant On AP27 is designed specifically for outdoor use, making it a strong choice for businesses needing reliable Wi-Fi in places like parking lots, outdoor work areas, or poolside. Its IP67 rating means it's well protected against dust and moisture, and it can handle extreme temperatures from -40°F to 149°F, so it stands up well to tough weather conditions. The AP27 supports Wi-Fi 6, offering good speed with up to 1.2Gbps on 5GHz and 574Mbps on 2.4GHz bands, capable of connecting up to 75 devices simultaneously.

It uses dual radios and an omni-directional antenna to provide steady coverage over a decent outdoor range. Powering this access point requires Power over Ethernet (PoE) with a 30W standard, but power sources are not included, so you'll need to provide your own compatible PoE injector or switch. Setup is straightforward through an easy-to-use app or web portal without any subscription fees, and Smart Mesh technology allows you to expand coverage without extra cables.

This 5-pack is well suited for small to medium outdoor deployments that need durable hardware, solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, and simple management. The main consideration is the need to supply your own PoE power source, which adds to initial setup requirements.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,237
Range
Weatherproofing
Speed

Most important from
16 reviews

Range
Built to withstand harsh weather, this access point delivers reliable outdoor coverage up to 100 yards with heavy-duty, weatherproof construction.
Weatherproofing
Built to withstand harsh weather, this access point delivers reliable outdoor coverage up to 100 yards with heavy-duty, weatherproof construction.
Speed
The device offers solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, ideal for small businesses needing fast, secure connections and guest network options.
Power Options
Integration with the Instant On PoE switch simplifies powering and adding devices by scanning QR codes, streamlining network expansion.
Security Features
The device offers solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, ideal for small businesses needing fast, secure connections and guest network options.
Management and Monitoring
Network insights and remote management capabilities allow monitoring and control from anywhere via web or mobile app.
#2

Cisco Meraki MR86 3 Year Licensed Outdoor Access Point Bundle

The Cisco Meraki MR86 is a robust outdoor access point designed for high-performance use. With a data transfer rate of 3.55 Gbps, it's capable of handling high-speed internet requirements, making it suitable for demanding environments. The device supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard and operates on the 5 GHz frequency band, providing a fast and reliable connection.

It’s worth noting that the device and its essential accessories, such as antennas, PoE injector, and power adapter, are sold separately, which could add to the cost. Additionally, a Meraki license is required for operation, adding another layer of expense. The MR86 is weatherproof, making it suitable for outdoor installations and ensuring durability in various weather conditions. It also features security and Bluetooth radio, enhancing its versatility and security management capabilities.

The device supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying the installation process by allowing both power and data to be transmitted over a single cable. The management and monitoring are streamlined through the Meraki dashboard, providing intuitive control and ease of use. This access point is ideal for users who need a reliable, high-speed outdoor network solution and are willing to invest in the additional accessories and licensing required.

#3

Cisco Meraki MR76 Wi-Fi 6 Outdoor/Industrial Access Point w/External Antennas Bluetooth Radios and 5YR License and Support (MR76-HW+LIC-ENT-5YR)

Rating
10.0
Range

Most important from
5 reviews

Range
The product does not include any antennas despite expectations, leading to disappointment regarding what is actually provided.

The Cisco Meraki MR76 is a strong choice for outdoor and industrial Wi-Fi needs. It supports Wi-Fi 6 technology, which means faster speeds and better handling of many devices at once, ideal for busy outdoor environments. The device operates on dual frequency bands, helping to reduce interference and improve connection quality. It’s weatherproof, making it suitable for harsh outdoor conditions without worry. One great feature is its cloud management system, which allows easy monitoring and control remotely, simplifying maintenance for business users. Additionally, it includes Bluetooth radios, offering extra connectivity options like location tracking or IoT integration.

Security is robust, backed by Cisco’s well-regarded IOS platform and a 5-year license and support package, which adds peace of mind for long-term use. The product weighs over 5 pounds and has a somewhat large size that might require careful mounting. While it’s positioned for business and industrial use rather than casual home use, its price and complexity might be more than what simple outdoor Wi-Fi needs require.

The MR76 delivers reliable, fast, and secure outdoor Wi-Fi with strong management features, particularly suited for professional environments that need durable and scalable wireless coverage.

Rating
10.0
Range

Most important from
5 reviews

Range
The product does not include any antennas despite expectations, leading to disappointment regarding what is actually provided.

Buying Guide for the Best Outdoor Access Points

Choosing the right outdoor access point is crucial for ensuring reliable and strong wireless connectivity in outdoor environments. Whether you need it for a large outdoor event, a business, or simply extending your home network to your backyard, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an outdoor access point.
RangeRange refers to the distance over which the access point can provide a reliable wireless signal. This is important because it determines how far your Wi-Fi coverage will extend. Typically, ranges can vary from a few hundred feet to several miles. For small areas like a backyard, a shorter range might suffice, while larger areas like parks or campuses will require a longer range. Consider the size of the area you need to cover and choose an access point that can handle that distance.
WeatherproofingWeatherproofing indicates how well the access point can withstand outdoor conditions such as rain, wind, dust, and extreme temperatures. This is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the device in various weather conditions. Look for access points with high IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, such as IP65 or higher, which indicate strong resistance to water and dust. If you live in an area with harsh weather, prioritize models with robust weatherproofing.
SpeedSpeed refers to the maximum data transfer rate that the access point can handle, usually measured in Mbps (megabits per second) or Gbps (gigabits per second). This is important for ensuring fast and efficient internet connectivity. Speeds can range from basic (300 Mbps) to high-performance (over 1 Gbps). If you need the access point for basic browsing and email, lower speeds might be sufficient. For streaming, gaming, or supporting multiple users, opt for higher speeds.
Frequency BandsFrequency bands refer to the radio frequencies the access point uses to transmit data, typically 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Dual-band access points can operate on both frequencies, providing better performance and flexibility. The 2.4 GHz band offers longer range but slower speeds, while the 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but shorter range. If you need to cover a large area with fewer obstacles, 2.4 GHz might be better. For high-speed applications in a smaller area, 5 GHz is preferable. Dual-band access points offer the best of both worlds.
Power OptionsPower options refer to how the access point is powered, which can include traditional AC power, Power over Ethernet (PoE), or solar power. This is important for installation flexibility. PoE allows the access point to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and reducing the need for additional power outlets. Solar-powered options are ideal for remote locations without easy access to electricity. Choose the power option that best fits your installation environment and convenience.
Security FeaturesSecurity features refer to the measures in place to protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity and privacy of your data. Look for access points that support the latest security protocols, such as WPA3, and offer features like guest networks, VPN support, and advanced encryption. If you are setting up a network in a public or business environment, robust security features are essential to protect sensitive information.
Management and MonitoringManagement and monitoring refer to the tools and interfaces available for configuring and overseeing the access point's performance. This is important for maintaining optimal network performance and quickly addressing any issues. Some access points offer cloud-based management, allowing you to monitor and configure the device remotely. Others may have user-friendly mobile apps or web interfaces. If you prefer hands-on control and easy troubleshooting, look for access points with comprehensive management and monitoring features.

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