What is the minimal configuration to create an Access Point?

To establish a functional Access Point in a MikroTik environment, the most fundamental configuration needed is to set the mode to "AP Bridge." This mode is crucial because it defines the operational characteristics of the wireless interface, allowing it to accept connections from wireless clients and serve as a point of access to the network.

The mode determines how the wireless interface interacts with other devices and its overall role within the network. When set to Access Point Bridge, it facilitates the necessary communication protocols for wireless devices to connect, authenticate, and communicate with one another and the wired network.

While the radio name, frequency, and SSID are important configuration parameters, they are considered secondary to establishing the core functionality of the wireless interface as an Access Point. The radio name helps in identifying the interface, the frequency determines the channel of operation, and the SSID allows clients to find and connect to the network, but none of these settings will allow the device to operate as an Access Point without first setting the correct mode.