Mesh Networks: An Answer to Weak WiFi and Dead Spots
As wireless mesh networks become more advanced, it could be the innovation that finally brings to an end the problem of weak WiFi.
If you don’t have reliable WiFi coverage in your home or there are areas that are out of the range of your router, a mesh network might just be what you need. This post highlights the importance of a mesh network, how it works and when to use one.
Understanding A Mesh Network
A mesh network is made up of several WiFi access points called nodes. The first node is connected or integrated into the wireless router. Nodes can then be placed in different locations and connect to any other nodes that are in range. This “mesh” on interconnecting nodes allows a strong WiFi signal to be available from any room or floor of the house.
Whereas most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer a single wireless router that provides network coverage within a certain range. A mesh network overcomes this limitation resulting in faster and wider wireless coverage.
One great feature of a mesh network is that you can add more nodes to the system to increase the network’s coverage anytime, i.e. you can install multiple nodes that can provide a network to an entire 10-story building or even your entire neighborhood.
Before Upgrading to a Mesh Network
To determine if a mesh network is right for you, consider improving your current WiFi first. It’s cheaper to fix WiFi strength issues than to adopt a mesh network.
If there are dead zones in your home i.e. areas with no WiFi signals, you can try moving your WiFi router around to see where it can function optimally. Relocating your router may eliminate the dead zones. You could also consider buying a newer, stronger router if your current one is old.
A WiFi extender can also improve the WiFi signal in your home and it is more economical than a mesh system. Depending on your Internet needs, a WiFi extender may solve your problems if you are looking to connect just a few devices.
When to Use a Mesh Network
If you live in a house with large floorplan and multiple floors, you may need a mesh network. A mesh system with several nodes can broadcast WiFi to every area of your home, ensuring that you’re always within the range of WiFi signals. Further, Mesh networks can help if your home has obstructions that are blocking out your WiFi signals, such as concrete walls or electronic appliances that can cause interference.
You Don’t Have to be Tech Savvy
The best part of a mesh network is it’s easy to set up. In most cases all you have to do is scan your WiFi’s QR code to connect the nodes. In fact, deciding on where to install the nodes take more time than getting them to work.
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YesNoAs wireless mesh networks become more advanced, it could be the innovation that finally brings to an end the problem of weak WiFi.
If you don’t have reliable WiFi coverage in your home or there are areas that are out of the range of your router, a mesh network might just be what you need. This post highlights the importance of a mesh network, how it works and when to use one.
Understanding A Mesh Network
A mesh network is made up of several WiFi access points called nodes. The first node is connected or integrated into the wireless router. Nodes can then be placed in different locations and connect to any other nodes that are in range. This “mesh” on interconnecting nodes allows a strong WiFi signal to be available from any room or floor of the house.
Whereas most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer a single wireless router that provides network coverage within a certain range. A mesh network overcomes this limitation resulting in faster and wider wireless coverage.
One great feature of a mesh network is that you can add more nodes to the system to increase the network’s coverage anytime, i.e. you can install multiple nodes that can provide a network to an entire 10-story building or even your entire neighborhood.
Before Upgrading to a Mesh Network
To determine if a mesh network is right for you, consider improving your current WiFi first. It’s cheaper to fix WiFi strength issues than to adopt a mesh network.
If there are dead zones in your home i.e. areas with no WiFi signals, you can try moving your WiFi router around to see where it can function optimally. Relocating your router may eliminate the dead zones. You could also consider buying a newer, stronger router if your current one is old.
A WiFi extender can also improve the WiFi signal in your home and it is more economical than a mesh system. Depending on your Internet needs, a WiFi extender may solve your problems if you are looking to connect just a few devices.
When to Use a Mesh Network
If you live in a house with large floorplan and multiple floors, you may need a mesh network. A mesh system with several nodes can broadcast WiFi to every area of your home, ensuring that you’re always within the range of WiFi signals. Further, Mesh networks can help if your home has obstructions that are blocking out your WiFi signals, such as concrete walls or electronic appliances that can cause interference.
You Don’t Have to be Tech Savvy
The best part of a mesh network is it’s easy to set up. In most cases all you have to do is scan your WiFi’s QR code to connect the nodes. In fact, deciding on where to install the nodes take more time than getting them to work.