Hello! I was looking for answers to my question on your site in different sections, but in the end I could not come to a complete understanding.
Such a situation - the router is outdated, we want to update it. A picture formed in my head that something like a Mesh system of two devices was needed (I really want "seamless roaming"). One of them should receive the Internet via wire, distribute it to the floor of the apartment and also have LAN ports (preferably 4) for wired connection of a computer and others. The second device of the system should work without an Internet cable, just receive wi-fi (or some advanced signal in mesh systems) from the first and distribute it to the second half of the apartment.
Accordingly, there are several questions for you - do such systems exist, and if so, what points should you rely on when choosing them? (for example, I am looking for mesh systems in online stores, and many in the description do not have a word about that seamless switching, and they are sold almost all one at a time). And in general, how expedient is it to look for mesh systems in this case, is it possible to do with a little blood - to use something easier?
I would very much like to hear at least just a general answer, but if you can show at least one system as an example that fits my description, I will simply be immensely grateful to you!
(type 801.11ac, 2.4 and 5 GHz (which work at the same time), wi-fi limit is around 100 Mbps, wired - around 400 Mbps, usb is not needed)
Thank you in advance for your reply, and in general for maintaining such a wonderful site !!
Answer
Hello! I understand correctly, if you are considering buying a Wi-Fi Mesh system, then one Wi-Fi router is not enough for your apartment or house? Need to use a signal booster?
Almost any Mesh system is suitable for your requirements, except for one point - LAN ports. As far as I know, there are no Mesh systems with 4 LAN ports. There are usually two ports. And on the main module (to which the Internet is connected) one of the ports is used as WAN (incoming). It turns out that you only have one LAN port to connect other devices. I think this problem can be solved by purchasing and installing a switch.
In the characteristics of Mesh systems, there is no information about seamless switching for the reason that all these systems support the required protocols by default and create a seamless Wi-Fi network (with fast roaming).
Another option is to buy a router and amplifier with Mesh technology support. For example, TP-Link has devices from the OneMesh line. Read more here: What is TP-Link OneMesh. In short, a TP-Link Mesh enabled router + amplifier creates the same seamless Wi-Fi network (just like a Wi-Fi Mesh system). But at the same time, as the main device you have a regular router with the number of LAN ports you need.
Other manufacturers also have lines of routers and amplifiers that support Mesh technology. You can generally only buy a Mesh-enabled router first. And if the signal is weak, you will need to amplify it, then buy an amplifier from the same line of devices and combine them into a network.
Related articles:
- Choosing a router for an apartment or house in 2020
- Seamless Wi-Fi. Fast roaming (802.11r) in Wi-Fi Mesh settings
- Wi-Fi Mesh systems - what it is and why Mesh networks are the future.
When choosing between a regular router and a Mesh system, I would certainly advise buying a Mesh system, or a router that supports this technology. Especially if you have a large house or apartment and need a Wi-Fi signal booster. One access point is not enough to cover an entire house with a signal.
03.06.20
2
Asked by Eugene
