A network-connected access point is disclosed having a network access transceiver configured to provide access to a network for computing devices in communication therewith. The network access point also comprises one or more environmental sensors each configured to determine at least one environmental characteristic value that quantifies an environmental characteristic at a location distant from the network access point. Without limitation, environmental characteristics include temperature, humidity, sound, light, motion, and air quality, The network access point further comprises a sensor controller in communication with the at least one environmental sensor. The sensor controller may be separate from the network access transceiver, or may be part of the same component. The sensor controller is configured to receive the at least one environmental characteristic value from the at least one environmental sensor, and transmit information based on the at least one environmental characteristic value to a network.