WAVLINK WN588HX3 AX3000 Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Access Point: specs and uses

The WAVLINK WN588HX3 is a weatherproof Wi-Fi 6 access point for outdoor use. It extends a wired network to places such as a yard, a workshop, a barn or a campsite, where a normal indoor router wouldn't survive or reach. It is powered over an Ethernet cable and mounts on a pole or wall.

Built for the weather

WAVLINK gives the housing an IP67 classification, which means it is sealed against dust and can handle temporary immersion in water. The brand also lists lightning protection and says the unit is designed for extreme cold, heat and continuous moisture. One caution from the listing: the PoE part, meaning the included adapter, is not waterproof and should be kept dry and indoors or in a sheltered spot.

What AX3000 means

AX3000 is a Wi-Fi 6 class label that adds up the maximum speeds of both bands. WAVLINK lists up to 2402Mbps on 5GHz and 573Mbps on 2.4GHz. These are theoretical link rates, and typical real-world speeds are lower and depend on distance, walls and the devices connecting. Using two bands lets you put newer devices on 5GHz and range-hungry or older ones on 2.4GHz.

Antennas and coverage

Six 7dBi omni-directional antennas and high-power amplifiers give the coverage, according to WAVLINK. Omni-directional antennas spread signal in all directions around the unit, which suits mounting in the middle of an area. Coverage still depends on obstacles like trees, metal and buildings.

Modes: mesh, AP, router and repeater

The unit supports Mesh, AP, Router, Repeater and AP plus Repeater modes. Access point mode turns a wired connection into Wi-Fi. In Mesh mode, WAVLINK says you get a single network name and password across compatible units. The listing also says it works with Starlink.

Power over Ethernet and mounting

The access point accepts 802.3af, 802.3at and 48V PoE, so one network cable carries both data and power, and a PoE adapter is included. A mounting bracket allows installation on poles or walls. The listing gives its weight as 2.9 lb (about 1.3 kg).

What to check before you buy

• Whether you have an Ethernet run to the mounting spot, and its length. Ethernet cables have distance limits.
• Where the PoE adapter will sit, since it isn't waterproof.
• Whether your router or switch can supply PoE, or whether you will use the included adapter.
• Which mode you need, and whether other mesh units are compatible.
• Local rules and electrical codes for outdoor wiring and mounting, and follow the manual.

The short version

• An outdoor Wi-Fi 6 access point with IP67 protection, with lightning protection.
• Dual band, up to 2402Mbps on 5GHz and 573Mbps on 2.4GHz.
• Six 7dBi antennas and five operating modes including mesh.
• Powered by 802.3af/at or 48V PoE, with an adapter included.
• The PoE adapter is not waterproof.

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