What type of device is necessary to establish a home wireless network and provide internet access to multiple devices?

To establish a home wireless network and provide internet access to multiple devices, a wireless router is essential. A wireless router serves as a central hub that connects to the internet via a modem and distributes the internet connection wirelessly to various devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs.

In a typical home setup, the modem connects to the internet through your Internet Service Provider (ISP). The wireless router then connects to the modem and enables the Wi-Fi signal, allowing devices within the range to access the internet without the need for wired connections. In addition to providing wireless connectivity, a wireless router often includes firewall capabilities and network management features, enhancing overall security and performance for the home network.

Other devices, like a modem or access point, do not provide the full range of functionalities required for a comprehensive home network. A switch is primarily designed to facilitate wired connections between multiple devices within a local area network but does not have wireless capabilities. An access point, while it can extend Wi-Fi coverage, requires a wired connection to a network and is not sufficient on its own to establish a new network or connect directly to the internet. Hence, the wireless router is critical for setting up and managing a home wireless network efficiently.