With the explosion in popularity of smart home devices and countless streaming media services like Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify, Wi-Fi coverage of the entire home has become a necessity. For this reason we teach you that it is a Mesh Network or Meshed Wireless Network.

Index of contents

What is a Mesh Network or Meshed Wireless Network

Many of the newer wireless routers can provide strong coverage to most rooms in a typical mid-size home, but larger homes and dwellings with dense walls, multiple floors, metal substructures, and other structural impediments may require additional components. to bring Wi-Fi to areas that the router cannot reach.

Wi-Fi repeaters do a good job of padding in dead zones, but typically provide much less coverage than a good router.

Access points offer more bandwidth than Wi-Fi repeaters, but require a wired connection to the main router. And both solutions often create a new network SSID that you have to access as you move from one area of the home to another.

If this all sounds too complicated, consider installing a mesh network instead.

If you live in a big house, especially one with dense concrete or brick walls, your Wi-Fi router probably won't go everywhere.

In these cases, what you really need is a Wi-Fi mesh network, designed to cover your home with free coverage of dead spots. These mesh networks consist of a router that connects to your modem, as well as satellite units or nodes that communicate both with the router and with each other, releasing 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for you. All of this forms a single wireless network and shares the same SSID and password.

Unlike Wi-Fi coverage extenders, which communicate with the router through the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz radio bands, most Wi-Fi satellite systems use mesh technology to communicate with the router and vice versa.

This concept of mesh nets (mesh nets) first emerged in the 1980s in military experiments, and was put up for sale in the 1990s.

How mesh networks work

Mesh wireless networks can make the dream of a perfectly connected world come true.

Mesh wireless networks can connect entire cities easily, effectively and wirelessly using existing and inexpensive technology.

Traditional networks rely on a small number of wired access points or wireless hotspots to connect users.

But in a Wi-Fi mesh network the network connection spans dozens or even hundreds of wireless mesh nodes that "talk" to each other to share the network connection over a large area.

Mesh nodes are small radio transmitters that work in the same way as a wireless router. The nodes use common Wi-Fi standards known as 802.11a, b and g to communicate wirelessly with users and, most importantly, with each other.

The nodes are programmed with software that tells them how to interact within the network. Information travels through the network from point A to point B, jumping wirelessly from one mesh node to the next. Nodes automatically choose the fastest and safest route in a process known as dynamic routing.

The biggest advantage of mesh networks, unlike fixed or wired wireless networks, is that they are truly wireless. Most traditional wireless access points still need to connect to the internet to transmit their signal. For large wireless networks, Ethernet cables must be buried in ceilings and walls and in public areas.

In a mesh network, only one node needs to be physically connected to a WAN (Internet) network connection. That wired node wirelessly shares its internet connection with all other nearby nodes.

The more nodes, the more the connection is extended, creating a wireless "connectivity cloud" that can serve a small office or a city of millions of people.

It is only necessary that a node of the wired network is directly connected to the internet. That wired node wirelessly shares the internet connection with the closest node cluster, which then shares it with its closest node cluster, and so on.

This means that each individual node does not need to be connected to anything. You only need a power source such as traditional plugs, batteries, or solar panels if you are outdoors. The outer nodes are encapsulated in a weatherproof protection shield and can be mounted anywhere, including phone pools, roofs, etc.

Meshed wireless networks are effective at sharing internet connectivity because the more nodes that are installed, the farther the signal can travel. And the more nodes it has, the stronger and faster the internet connection will be for the user.

Advantages of mesh Wi-Fi networks

The use of fewer cables means that it costs less to install a network, especially in large coverage areas. The more nodes you install, the wider and better coverage your wireless network will have. They are based on the same WiFi standards (802.11a, b, g and AC) that already exist for most wireless networks. They are convenient where Ethernet connections are lacking, for example in outdoor concert halls or transportation environments. They are useful for Non-Line-Of-Sight (NLoS) network configurations) where wireless signals are intermittently blocked. For example, in an amusement park, a ferris wheel occasionally blocks the signal from a wireless access point. If there are dozens or hundreds of other nodes around, the meshed wireless network will adjust to find a clear signal. Mesh networks are "self-configuring"; The network automatically incorporates a new node into the existing structure without the need for adjustments by the network administrator. Mesh networks automatically find the fastest and most reliable routes to send data, even if the nodes are blocked or lose their signal. Mesh network configurations allow local networks to run faster since local packets do not have to travel back to a central server. Mesh nodes are easy to install and uninstall, making the network extremely adaptable and Expandable as more or less coverage is needed.

Easy configuration and administration of mesh networks

Setting up and maintaining a traditional wireless home network can be daunting, even if you are a technology expert. On the other hand, mesh networks are aimed at users with little or no technical knowledge and can be installed in a matter of minutes.

Typically, they come with an easy-to-use mobile app that will guide you through the installation process with easy-to-follow illustrated instructions.

The app tells you where to place each node for maximum coverage, and choose the best Wi-Fi channel and radio band for optimal performance, so you can maintain a strong wireless connection on the go.

Mesh networks are easy to expand (no node limit) and manage with your smartphone, allowing you to disable Wi-Fi access to specific devices with the push of a button and prioritize certain devices on the network without having to start session in a complicated network console.

Design and characteristics of a mesh network

Mesh networks are nothing like a traditional configuration with a router from your provider and a Wi-Fi signal repeater.

The router and nodes use internal antennas and are almost always tastefully designed so you can place them outdoors instead of in a closet or under a desk.

Don't expect to find many flashing LED indicators, as these systems are designed to blend in with your home decor.

They usually have at least one LAN port to connect to devices like televisions and video game consoles, but USB connectivity is a rare feature at this point.

Some models offer support for Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology, which transfers data to multiple compatible wireless clients simultaneously rather than sequentially.

Most mesh wireless systems use band steering to automatically select the radio band with the fewest people for best performance, and many offer easy-to-use parental controls, guest networks, and device prioritization options.

Although they are designed to be easy to use, they usually allow you to configure port forwarding and wireless security settings, but they lack advanced network management options like individual band control, firewall settings, and speed settings. wireless transmission you get with a traditional router.

You also cannot use third-party WRT firmware to customize the system and improve network performance and monitoring.

Wi-Fi router and repeater vs. Wireless mesh system

Mesh network systems are priced from € 130 for a single node system to € 500 for a system with two nodes.

In most cases, they will cost you more than you would pay for a similarly powered router and signal repeater solution. But remember: all mesh systems are easy to use.

They are easy to set up and manage, offer whole-house coverage through a number of attractive nodes, and offer seamless roaming from room to room over a single network.

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If you want to have full control over your network and have the best possible connectivity and performance options, don't forget to use a traditional router solution.

However, if you don't want to take care of things like assigning radio bands and connecting to different networks while moving around your house, a mesh network system is best.

How internet connection is strengthened and accelerated

If your laptop is in the transmission range of all four nodes, you are taking advantage of four times the bandwidth of a traditional wireless router. Distance plays a huge role in wireless signal strength. If you reduce the distance between your computer and the closest wireless node twice, the signal strength will be four times higher. The nodes can also provide internet connectivity to devices connected within the network such as VoIP phones, video cameras, servers and desktop workstations using traditional Ethernet cables. Most nodes come with two or more Ethernet ports, and through a technology called Power Over Ethernet (PoE), the node can supply power to independent devices such as surveillance cameras without having to plug the camera into an electrical outlet..

Now let's look at some actual and potential applications of meshed networks.

Applications for wireless mesh networks

With mesh networks (or meshed networks), cities can connect citizens and public services through an extensive high-speed wireless connection.

An increasing number of areas in various cities are installing public Wi-Fi access points. Mesh networks allow cities to connect economically and easily all those critical points to cover the entire municipality.

Advantages of mesh networks in a city:

Commuters can check their email on the train, in the park, at a restaurant, or anywhere in public places. Public works officials can monitor the diagnosis of the city's energy and water supply by installing wireless nodes in the water treatment, sewerage and generators facilities. There is no need to dig cable trenches. Public safety and emergency workers can access secure virtual networks within the broader network to keep communication lines open, even when regular cellular or telephone service is down. With mesh nodes mounted on streetlights and traffic lights, police and firefighters can stay connected to the network, even while on the move.

According to a MuniWireless report , as of March 2007, 81 US cities had already installed municipal wireless networks throughout the city or region and 164 more were actively building such networks. The report also says that 38 cities in the United States already have municipal wireless networks for the exclusive use of public safety and city employees.

However, not all existing municipal wireless networks are mesh networks. Some are powered by a technology called WiMAX that has the ability to transmit signals over long distances using powerful microwave transmissions. Other municipal networks use a combination of mesh, WiMAX and others.

Developing countries

Mesh networks are useful in countries that lack a generalized wireline infrastructure, such as telephone service or even electricity. Solar power nodes can connect to a cellular or satellite internet connection, allowing an entire town to be kept online.

Isolated locations

Even in developed countries, there are very remote locations for traditional high speed internet service providers. Mesh networks for these areas are being considered. This could mount a series of nodes from the closest available wired access point to the hard-to-reach area.

Education

Many colleges and universities are converting their campuses into mesh networks. This solution eliminates the need to bury cables in older buildings and on all campuses. With dozens of well-located indoor and outdoor nodes, they'll all be connected all the time.

Meshed networks also have the ability to handle the bandwidth needs required by students who need to download large files.

Schools can also equip their entire public security system to the network, monitoring security cameras and keeping all staff in constant communication in emergency situations.

Health

Many hospitals are scattered across densely built groups of buildings that were not built with computer networks in mind. Mesh nodes can sneak around corners and send signals at close range through thick glass to ensure access in every operating room, lab, and office.

Hotels

High-speed internet connectivity in hotels and resorts has become the rule, not the exception. Mesh networks are quick and easy to install indoors and outdoors without having to remodel existing structures or disrupt business.

Temporary spaces

Construction sites can capitalize on the easy installation of mesh networks. Architects and engineers can stay connected to the office, and Ethernet-powered surveillance cameras can reduce theft and vandalism. Mesh nodes can be shifted and supplemented as the construction project progresses.

The best mesh Wi-Fi network systems

Sounds complicated? It really isn't. Mesh Wi-Fi systems are aimed at people with limited technical knowledge, making setup and control very easy. We've rounded up some of our favorites to make the process even easier.

Netgear Orbi High-Performance AC3000

Netgear, a name synonymous with Wi-Fi, is at the top of the list with its high-performance Orbi AC3000, which offers 460 square meters.

Complete with an identical router and satellite, the Orbi system features very fast production speeds, simultaneous MU-MIMO data transmission, and various customizable features.

It is a three-band system with six internal antennas and can deliver 1, 266 Mbps output rates (400 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 866 Mbps in the 5 GHz band). Its additional 5 GHz band communicates only between the router and the satellite and reaches speeds of up to 1, 733 Mbps.

At the base of the router is a WAN port, three Gigabit LAN ports, and a USB 2.0 port, while the satellite has four Gigabit LAN ports and a USB 2.0 port, giving you stellar connectivity options.

Linksys Velop Tri-Band AC6600

It is made up of three elegant white nodes, each about the size of a Jenga tower and good-looking enough to display rather than be hidden.

Each node covers 185 square meters, together covering a 550 square meter house, so this is a great option if you have a large house. If you don't need such a wide coverage, you can also buy the nodes individually.

Each node is an AC2200 router that offers maximum speeds of up to 400Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps in each of the two 5 GHz bands.

Velop is one of the few systems that supports Multi-User Multiple Input and Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) streaming, which translates to faster production speeds. It also offers a host of customizable features in the mobile app, including parental controls, device prioritization, and guest networking.

Google Wi-Fi

This system contains three satellites, which Google calls "Wi-Fi hotspots", each of which covers 140 square meters, for a total of 418 square meters of coverage. The dots are shaped like thick hockey pucks and look wonderful to the naked eye. Unfortunately, they lack USB ports, which means that peripherals cannot be connected.

Each point houses a quad-core CPU, 512 MB of RAM and 4 GB of eMMC flash memory, as well as AC1200 (2X2) 802.11ac and 802.11s (mesh) circuits and a Bluetooth radio. Google combines its 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands into a single band, which means that you can't designate a device to a single band, but on the plus side, it uses beamforming technology, which automatically directs devices to the stronger signal.

Google Wi-Fi wins our choice for the best design, not only for its hardware, but also for its software. The accompanying application (for Android or iOS) is intuitive and allows you to manage the status of your points, as well as configure guest networks, test speeds, forward ports and much more. Unfortunately, there are no parental controls, but despite everything, Google Wi-Fi will get your home connected quickly and easily.

Securifi Almond 3

While most Wi-Fi systems on this list are around $ 300 to $ 500, the Securifi Almond 3 system will get your entire house connected for half the price. At that low price, you'll be making some sacrifices, and in this case it comes in the form of an AC1200 (2 × 2) router that delivers top speeds of 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps in the 5 GHz band. Still, that's not bad.

The design is a little different than what you might be used to, but it is nevertheless elegant. It comes in black or white and uses Windows-like tiles on its touchscreen to guide you through setup and customization. Parental controls are limited (access to certain websites cannot be restricted), but access to specific devices can be blocked, which is done through a practical mobile or desktop application.

Perhaps one of the most unique features of the Almond 3 is the fact that it can function as a home automation system. It works with devices like Philips Hue bulbs, the Nest thermostat, and Amazon Alexa, which is something no other system can say.

Ubiquiti AmpliFi HD (High-Density)

Of the Ubiquiti devices, AmpliFi HD is the most powerful. Made for large multi-story houses with dense walls and other obstructions, this device uses six high-density, long-range antennas to cover up to 1, 860 square meters. These antennas are internal, thus maintaining an elegant aesthetic.

The system consists of a router and two pluggable mesh points that, while quite large, are almost modern works of art. The front of the router has a beautiful full-color LCD touchscreen that displays the time and date, and you can tap the screen to reveal statistics like current internet speeds (upload and download), the router, and the IP addresses of the WAN, as well as current performance speeds.

The router includes a single core CPU, 802.11ac circuits that support 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands and offers an aggregate speed of up to 5.25Gbps.

Like other systems, AmpliFi HD has a mobile app that allows you to manage settings, but also allows you to segregate its two radio bands and have separate SSIDs, allowing you to manage traffic more easily. Unfortunately, there are no parental controls on this unit, but most won't find that to be a problem.

Amped Wireless Ally Plus Whole

If Wi-Fi security keeps you awake at night, the Ally Plus will let you rest easy. The system is made up of two identical units: a router and a satellite.

It's just a two-band network, lacking a third band to connect the two units together, so speeds will be slower than the three-band systems on this list.

But luckily, the Ally Plus uses a 5 Ghz three-channel (3 × 3) wireless band that picks up at 1, 300 Mbps and a 2.4 Ghz 4 × 4 signal that picks up to 800 Mbps (compared to most systems dual-flow), so you can maintain fast speeds despite signal loss.

The favorite part of the Ally Plus is its security features. Through the mobile app, you can not only manage your Wi-Fi networks, but you can also enable AVG security. This protects you against harmful websites, phishing attacks, and malware downloads. You can also block certain device group websites or restrict access at a certain time of day, and if you have children, you know this will come in handy.

Eero

Common to most mesh Wi-Fi systems, it stands out for its ease of configuration, but Eero takes this to a new level. The company claims it will be up and running in a few minutes with the help of its mobile app, and opinions on Amazon can support that.

All you need to do is connect it to the modem via the included Ethernet cable, wait for the indicator light to blink blue, and follow the on-screen instructions. After you are done configuring it, the app will also come in handy for testing internet speeds, managing networks, creating guest networks, and more.

The Eero's design is also commendable. After all, for a reason it is named after the famous architect and industrial designer Eero Saarinen.

The three identical units (one router and two satellites) measure 4.75 x 4.75 x 1.34 inches and are high-gloss white on top, but matte on the edges. Inside is a 1GHz dual-core CPU with five internal antennas and AC1200 Wi-Fi circuits, all of which contribute to solid performance speeds.

Luma Whole

A fast and easy Wi-Fi connection sounds like a blessing, but if you have a home full of children, you know it can be dangerous, too.

Fortunately, Luma comes with great parental controls, so you don't have to worry about what your kids are up to.

In settings, by accessing the mobile app, you can set a content filter policy using five rating levels: Unrestricted, R-rated, PG-13, PG, and G.

You can then add users and specify their level of access. It also has a practical pause function that allows you to freeze internet access throughout the network.

Beyond parental controls, Luma offers solid performance, thanks to its three modules that contain an 802.11ac router, a quad-core processor and two radio bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

They are AC1200 routers with a maximum speed of 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps in the 5 GHz band. Their automatic band direction directs traffic to the most efficient band, giving it the fastest speeds. Overall, it's an easy way to get your Wi-Fi up and running, allowing you to keep control over kids.

conclusion

Chipmakers and network software developers like the Ember Corporation already sell automated solutions for home and automated buildings that employ mesh networks to remotely control and monitor surveillance, climate control, and entertainment systems. Future applications for mesh networks are limited only by our imaginations.

Consumers would probably be satisfied with either of these systems compared to a traditional router. If speed is your top priority, consider the Orbi system. If price is a concern, choose the Google Wifi system. Or if your goal is to reduce the headache of setting up Wi-Fi, buy an Eero system.

We recommend you read the best routers on the market

If you live in a tiny space, like a studio apartment, a mesh network is probably overkill. But still, you can consider buying a single Eero or a Google Wi-Fi hub to take advantage of its intuitive applications to manage your Wi-Fi.