Which network equipment is typically utilized for creating a wireless local area network (WLAN)?

The equipment typically utilized for creating a wireless local area network (WLAN) is the access point. Access points serve as a bridge between the wired network and wireless clients, allowing devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets to connect to the network wirelessly. They transmit and receive data over radio waves, enabling wireless communication within a specific area, such as an office or home.

An access point connects to a wired network and provides a Wi-Fi signal, allowing for connectivity without the use of cables. This makes it essential for establishing a WLAN, as it is exclusively designed for facilitating wireless communication among devices within that network.

Other types of network equipment, such as modems, routers, and switches, serve different roles. A modem connects to the internet service provider and translates the signal for use on the network. A router directs traffic between local devices and the internet, while a switch connects multiple devices in a wired network. However, these devices do not inherently provide the wireless capabilities necessary for a WLAN, which is why the access point is the correct choice in this scenario.