Active element in a wireless WiFi network represents a device that acts as an access point (AP) or router. These devices offer facilities that connect a computer, multiple computers or other network devices (clients), and are responsible for subsequent communication and connection to wireless networks. They can also be used to create a wireless network. Active devices are most commonly used to create wireless home or office networks, where the computer (client) connects wirelessly, while the active element is connected to a cable Internet connection (eg. ADSL, cable internet) for sharing Internet access. Active elements can simply be used to wirelessly connect two computers without a line of sight. Line of sight is in fact ideal for establishing a wireless connection between two points.
