Mesh routers vs. Wi-Fi routers: What's best for your home ...

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In the modern world, it's easy to assume that mesh routers would always be superior to traditional Wi-Fi routers. However, that's not always true. Everyday connectivity has evolved, demanding more from our home network devices. With the proliferation of mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, as well as IoT gadgets like security cameras and smart appliances, our routers have more to handle than ever before.

Also: The best mesh Wi-Fi systems right now

Remote and hybrid work setups have also altered the landscape, making home offices a likely long-term fixture. Despite some companies pushing back against these trends, the rise of home office environments seems here to stay.

This is where mesh networks can be very beneficial. Designed to alleviate end-point load and reduce congestion, mesh systems can be incredibly effective for maintaining a steady connection; however, they are not a universal solution. Sometimes, a high-quality Wi-Fi router is all you need, while a mesh system might be excessive. In terms of sheer speed, traditional Wi-Fi routers and LAN cables often excel.

Let's break down the differences and help you decide whether to invest in a mesh network or stick with a standard Wi-Fi router.

Also: The best Wi-Fi routers (and where you should place yours)

Understanding Traditional Wi-Fi Routers

A basic Wi-Fi router serves as a central hub through which all internet traffic flows. These routers can cater to devices wirelessly or through an Ethernet connection and usually require password protection for secure access.

Reasons to Opt for a Traditional Wi-Fi Router

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1. Budget Considerations

Standard routers are typically more cost-effective compared to mesh network solutions. While high-end models can still be pricey, there are plenty of affordable options that offer fast and stable performance for home office needs.

2. High Bandwidth and Speed Needs

Devices like the Netgear Nighthawk or TP-Link routers are designed to handle heavy bandwidth demands and streaming needs. Gamers and live streamers, in particular, will benefit from wired Ethernet connections that offer increased speed and stability over Wi-Fi.

3. Ease of Setup

Traditional routers are generally easier to set up and use, providing a plug-and-play experience. Once configured, they require minimal maintenance.

4. Segregating Devices and Networks

Standard routers allow for the creation of guest networks, making it easy to keep IoT devices on a separate network for added security. This setup is straightforward and doesn't require significant effort.

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Understanding Mesh Routers

Unlike traditional routers that act as a single access point, mesh networks are decentralized and consist of multiple nodes. These nodes collectively provide Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home, offering seamless connectivity as you move from one area to another. For larger homes or offices, this can mean the difference between dead zones and consistent coverage.

Reasons to Opt for a Mesh Networking System

TP-Link

1. Enhanced Coverage

The primary advantage of a mesh network is its ability to cover large areas, potentially up to 5,000 square feet or more with additional nodes. This makes it ideal for eliminating dead zones and ensuring a robust connection throughout your property.

2. Stable Connection Everywhere

With a mesh network, your device connects to the nearest node, reducing the likelihood of connectivity drops. This feature is particularly beneficial for home offices located in remote or separate areas of your property.

Mesh systems also tend to be more aesthetically pleasing and discreet compared to bulky traditional routers, providing more flexibility in placement.

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3. Advanced Controls

Many mesh networks come with user-friendly mobile apps that allow you to monitor network traffic, reboot devices, or even turn off the internet with ease. Some systems also act as smart hubs and are compatible with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Note: Initial setup and configuration can be a bit time-consuming.

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FAQs

What are the disadvantages of using a Wi-Fi router?

There are three key drawbacks to traditional Wi-Fi routers:

• Coverage Limitations: Single-point internet distribution can lead to poor connectivity in areas far from the router. While range extenders can mitigate this, they add to your overall cost.

• Overload: Without additional extenders or channel separation, multiple connections can overload a router, causing lag or drops in connectivity.

• Complex Configuration: Advanced settings often require accessing a desktop platform, which can be cumbersome compared to the seamless mobile app interfaces that modern services offer.

What router system is best for my home office?

The decision hinges on whether the investment in a full mesh network is justified. For large homes plagued by dead spots, mesh systems can provide widespread, reliable coverage--albeit at a considerable cost. Conversely, for smaller homes or single-person usage, a high-quality traditional router paired with an Ethernet cable might suffice.

Adding a Wi-Fi extender can also be a practical and budget-friendly solution for extending coverage without overhauling your entire setup. Systems like Google WiFi, Netgear Orbi, and Amazon Eero offer relatively affordable mesh options if you don't need extensive node setups.

In cases where only one or two individuals are using the network for bandwidth-heavy activities such as gaming, a traditional router and Ethernet cable could be ideal for providing stable and fast connectivity. Extenders could also serve as an alternate solution to mesh networks by localized boosting of signal strength and coverage.

Mesh "bolt-ons" like Asus’ AiMesh offer another solution, allowing you to create mesh-like coverage while retaining the core functionality of your existing network. However, they will likely require some configuration and setup adjustments.

Is mesh Wi-Fi better for gaming?

To answer this, consider latency. Many modern mesh systems might prioritize extended coverage over speed. Casual gamers might not notice lag, but professional gamers will likely prefer the speed and stability of a wired traditional router connection.

Personally, for PC and online gaming sessions with friends, I use an Ethernet connection to ensure no lag disrupts the experience.

Is mesh Wi-Fi better than an extender?

Each option has its pros and cons. Mesh systems provide seamless transitions between nodes and easy updates via mobile apps but can be costly. Wi-Fi extenders, though cheaper, are less effective at reducing congestion and might still face performance issues.

Review your ISP first

Before making any changes to your network setup, review your internet service provider (ISP) package. If you're on a low-speed plan or experience throttling during peak times, new hardware won't fix these issues. Upgrading to a better package might be a more feasible solution.

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