Having good WiFi in your home is essential for every person, but unfortunately, many domestic WiFi setups are inadequate for various reasons. Issues like subpar hardware provided by your internet service provider or walls that disrupt wireless signals can hinder your WiFi experience. This is where mesh systems come in. Mesh routers consist of distributed WiFi nodes that are strategically placed throughout your home to ensure that internet is accessible in every corner.
Mesh routers are not a new concept, and there are already plenty of options available on the market. However, with the maturity and affordability of WiFi 6E, these systems can now offer transformative wireless performance for everyone. It’s important to understand the basics of WiFi technology before diving into mesh routers.
WiFi is governed by the International Standard IEEE 802.11, and over the years, the standards have evolved. Previously, routers were sold under their IEEE designations such as 802.11 b/a/g/n/ac, confusing consumers with a variety of options. To simplify things, the standards were rebranded as WiFi 4, WiFi 5, and WiFi 6. Currently, we are in the transition between WiFi 6 and WiFi 6E, which refers to the frequencies the standard utilizes.
WiFi 6 operates on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, while WiFi 6E can also utilize the 6GHz band. Each WiFi band has its tradeoffs, as the lower frequency bands provide better range but lower speed. On the other hand, the 6GHz band offers blisteringly fast speeds but can be hindered by obstacles like brick walls. Many WiFi-enabled devices, including smart home products, primarily use the 2.4GHz band for its better range and affordability. However, this band is often overcrowded and can result in slower speeds.
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Mesh systems address these challenges by offering multiple nodes that can be placed throughout your home. Each node acts as a transmitter and receiver, communicating with each other to create a seamless network. This eliminates the need for separate networks for different WiFi bands and ensures ubiquity of WiFi coverage. Linksys’ CEO Jonathan Bettino explains that mesh systems provide an advancement in WiFi technology, especially in homes with obstacles like thick walls or interference.
To make the most of mesh WiFi systems, it’s important to consider certain factors when choosing a system. WiFi 6E represents a significant leap in technology, offering faster speeds and the ability to utilize a broader spectrum of wireless frequencies. Matt MacPherson, Cisco’s Chief Technology Officer for Wireless, states that WiFi 6E is an inflection point that can deliver significant gains in speed. With a theoretical per-stream speed of 1.2 Gbps, WiFi 6E is fast enough to outrun most internet connections.
When evaluating mesh systems, it’s crucial to consider range and speed. While manufacturers provide theoretical range and speed specifications, real-world performance can be influenced by various factors like internet speed, home construction materials, and layout. It’s important to remember that raw speed isn’t everything, and for most users, an internet speed of just 15 Mbps is sufficient for streaming 4K videos.
Backhaul is another crucial aspect of mesh systems. Higher-end systems offer dedicated wireless backhaul, which separates node-to-node communication from user device connections. This reduces clutter and improves performance by allowing faster and more efficient communication between nodes.
Connectivity options also play a role in selecting a mesh WiFi system. While wireless connections are convenient, wired connections offer faster speeds and can be essential for certain devices that require an ethernet connection. Some routers can use these wired connections as backhaul, further reducing wireless clutter.
Flexibility and scalability are important considerations as well. Mesh systems allow users to add or remove nodes as needed, providing flexibility in expanding or adjusting the network. It’s important to ensure that the system you choose can handle the number of nodes and simultaneous connections required.
Placement of the nodes is critical for optimal performance. Physical obstacles like walls can impact WiFi signal strength, so nodes should be placed strategically to minimize interruptions. Ideally, nodes should be placed no more than two rooms away from each other, and obstacles should be avoided.
When testing mesh systems, various factors come into play. The size and layout of your home, as well as construction materials, can affect WiFi coverage. In a real-world scenario, there are often WiFi dead zones caused by obstacles like pipes in walls. Testing should be conducted in different areas of the home to evaluate how well the system performs.
In conclusion, mesh WiFi systems offer a solution to common WiFi problems by providing widespread coverage and seamless connectivity throughout your home. With the introduction of WiFi 6E, these systems can deliver transformative wireless performance. When selecting a mesh system, factors like range, speed, backhaul, connectivity options, flexibility, scalability, and strategic node placement should be considered. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can choose a mesh WiFi system that best suits your needs and ensures reliable and fast internet access throughout your home.
