What does a wireless access point connect devices to?

A wireless access point primarily connects devices to a local wired network. This device serves as a bridge between wireless clients (such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets) and the wired infrastructure of a network. By connecting to the wired network, the access point allows wireless devices to communicate with each other and access shared resources, such as printers or file servers, that are connected to the local network.

The role of the wireless access point is to extend the reach of a wired network, allowing devices to connect wirelessly while still being part of the same local area network (LAN). This is essential in environments like homes or offices, where multiple devices need network access without being tethered by cables.

While other options mention various types of connectivity, they don't accurately represent the primary function of a wireless access point. For instance, a satellite network pertains to satellite communication methods, cloud-based services are typically accessed over the internet rather than through a local network, and a virtual private network (VPN) involves a secure tunnel over the internet, which differs from the direct access provided by an access point to a local network.