During a connectivity test on a wireless network, which component is primarily responsible for signal strength and quality?

The component primarily responsible for signal strength and quality in a wireless network is the access point. The access point serves as the central hub that disseminates the wireless signal to connected devices. It determines the range and strength of the wireless signal, affecting how well devices can connect to the network and maintain a stable connection.

While routers have integral roles in directing traffic between networks and may include built-in access points, their focus is more on the routing of data rather than on signal strength. The wireless adapter receives the signal provided by the access point and can affect connectivity and performance based on its capabilities, but it does not generate or distribute the signal itself. An Ethernet switch is designed for wired network connectivity and is not involved in wireless signal transmission or quality. Therefore, the correct answer identifies the component directly responsible for managing and optimizing the wireless signal.