Mercusys Halo S12 is a simple, efficient and affordable home Mesh Wi-Fi system. The system is available in two versions: a set of two modules (2-pack) and three modules (3-pack). I have on review a set of two modules that provide coverage up to 260 m².
This Mesh system consists of modules supporting 802.11k / v protocols. Thanks to this, the modules are combined and create a seamless Wi-Fi network. A fast-roaming wireless network in which all devices seamlessly and seamlessly switch between all Halo S12 modules. The main feature of such a connection is the long range of the Wi-Fi network. The more modules, the greater the range of the network. Up to 10 Halo S12 modules can be networked together. This makes it possible to build a seamless Wi-Fi network in a large multi-storey building, or in a large apartment. Where one router is not enough for stable Wi-Fi coverage in all rooms.
AC1200 standard device. This means that there is support for 802.11ac (5 GHz band). Speed over Wi-Fi network up to 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz range and up to 867 Mbps in the 5 GHz range. Two Ethernet ports with automatic WAN / LAN detection. The ports support speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Additional characteristics:
- Automatic reconnection function between Halo S12 modules.
- MU-MIMO support. This technology allows you to simultaneously exchange data with multiple devices. This increases the bandwidth of the wireless network.
- Beamforming technology improves wireless performance.
- Smart Connect manages the connection of devices. Selects the optimal Wi-Fi network frequency for each device.
- There is support for the function "Parental Control" and "Guest Wi-Fi network".
The functionality and performance of the Mercusys Halo S12 is more than enough for home use.
Completion and appearance
The box that the Mesh system comes in is as bright as other products from Mercusys. The box contains a photo of the device itself and the main characteristics.
The package contents are standard for such devices: two Halo S12 modules, two power adapters and an Ethernet cable. Also included is a small quick setup guide.
This is what the Halo S12 modules themselves look like:
Two small cubes, which are almost entirely made of white matte plastic. The lower part is made of light blue plastic. The quality of plastic and workmanship is good. The modules look very interesting. and stylish.
On the front there is a Pair button, with the help of which the modules are connected into one network. The same button has a built-in LED indicator.
Above is the Mercusys logo.
Two WAN / LAN ports, a Reset button (to reset the settings) and a power adapter connector are located on the back of the device.
Below there are small legs, holes for air ventilation and cooling of the device, and a sticker with the necessary information. From the information that is useful to us, on the sticker you can find the factory name of the Wi-Fi network (SSID) and the address for entering the settings (Default Access).
The Mercusys Halo S12 case was examined from all sides. Now let's see how the web interface looks like (the settings page).
Mercusys Halo S12 web interface
The Mesh Wi-Fi settings of the Mercusys Halo S12 system can be accessed at mwlogin.net (or IP address 192.168.0.1). Detailed instructions on this link: how to enter the settings of the Mercusys router on mwlogin.net. When entering the settings for the first time, the system will ask you to set an administrator password.
The setup wizard immediately opens, where you can walk through the Halo S12 setup.
The main page (Status) looks like this:
All connected devices are displayed on the Device Management tab. You can also block or unlock the required device there.
On the "Network" tab, you can configure WAN (connection to the provider) and LAN network.
The Wi-Fi network settings (name and password) are located in the "Wireless" section.
All other settings (DHCP, IPv6, parental control, etc.) are collected in the "Advanced" section.
With Halo S12, you can build a large and stable Wi-Fi network. This solution is much better than a regular router and Wi-Fi signal booster. This device is primarily for large houses and apartments, where the capabilities of one router will not be enough. Well, as a nice addition - an interesting and unusual appearance of the modules themselves.
Be sure to leave your feedback on the Mercusys Halo S12 in the comments!
