What term is used to describe a public Wi-Fi access point?

The term "hotspot" specifically refers to a public Wi-Fi access point that allows users to connect to the Internet wirelessly. Hotspots are often found in public places such as cafes, airports, and libraries, providing a convenient way for people to access the Internet without needing a private connection. This term conveys the notion of a localized area where network connectivity is available to the public.

Other terms, while related to networking, do not accurately describe a public Wi-Fi access point. A "node" typically refers to any device in a network that can send, receive, or forward data, which can include computers, routers, or switches. The term "network" is a broader concept that encompasses any collection of interconnected devices that communicate with each other, and it does not specifically refer to access points. Finally, "station" can refer to a device that connects to a network but is more commonly associated with the terminology of radio communications or specific types of network devices, rather than public Wi-Fi access points.