In today’s digital age, maintaining a strong and reliable internet connection is essential for both work and pleasure. As technology evolves, the options for home networking have expanded, leading to choices that can be confusing. Among these choices are mesh wifi systems and traditional wifi routers. Both of these have distinct features and benefits. Understanding the differences between these two types of wifi can help you make an informed decision about which is best for your home or office. In this post, we’ll look at the differences between mesh wifi and regular wifi so you’ll know how each one works and which is better.
Mesh Wifi vs. Regular Wifi: What’s the Difference?
Installation
When setting up a regular wifi network, the process usually involves connecting a single traditional router to the modem. Some folks even have their router as part of their cable modem. This router then distributes the internet signal to the devices that are connected to it. The installation is generally pretty easy, but you’ll want to find a central location for good coverage.
Installing a mesh wifi system involves placing multiple mesh nodes or units around the area. These nodes work together to create a single network. The initial mesh router connects to the modem, while the additional nodes connect to each other and the modem. It can take some additional planning to setup a mesh network, since you’ll want to be sure to space out the nodes for good coverage.
How Mesh Routers and Wifi Routers Work
Regular wifi routers are a single broadcast point that connects to multiple devices. If the router looses power or otherwise becomes unavailable, the whole network comes down since there is no redundancy in the network. Also, because regular routers are a single broadcast point, extending their coverage can be really difficult and potentially result in reduced speed or interference since you would need to add a whole new router or wifi extender, and most likely a new network.
In contrast, mesh routers all connect to each other and also to whatever devices they are providing wifi to. This means that if a single extender node goes down, the mesh system as a whole stays up ( and can sometimes even cover for the missing node ). This redundancy is a huge feature of mesh networks. Extending mesh wi-fi systems is also super easy, simply add more nodes to the network to expand it’s coverage range.
Coverage and Performance
Mesh systems are designed to provide broader coverage compared to traditional routers. This is achieved by using multiple nodes that work together to blanket an area with a consistent signal. Each node acts as a point in the network, allowing users to move through different spaces without experiencing a drop in connection quality. This setup is beneficial in large homes or buildings where a single router may not reach all areas effectively.
In terms of signal strength, mesh wifi systems can offer a more stable connection. Since the nodes are strategically placed around the space, they help maintain strong signal strength throughout. Mesh wifi systems are great for a large home, since the multiple nodes can be spread out to provide good wifi coverage over your whole home. Regular wifi routers, on the other hand, have a stronger signal near the router but can weaken as the distance from the router increases. This can result in dead zones or areas with reduced connectivity. Overall, mesh wifi tends to provide a more uniform signal strength across a wider range compared to regular wifi routers.
The Main Difference Between Mesh and Regular Wifi Routers
The main difference between mesh wifi and regular wifi networks is the way they spread internet coverage over a space. A regular wifi network typically relies on a single router to broadcast the internet signal, which can weaken as you move further away from the router. In contrast, a mesh wifi system uses multiple nodes or access points spread throughout the area to create a cohesive network that provides more consistent coverage. Each node communicates with the others to ensure a stable connection, effectively eliminating dead spots that may occur with a single router setup. This setup is particularly beneficial in larger homes or buildings where a single router may not suffice. While regular wifi can be sufficient for smaller spaces, mesh networks offer a more scalable solution for extensive coverage needs.
In Summary
The choice between mesh wifi and regular wifi largely depends on your needs and the space where you’ll be installing the network. Mesh wifi systems are generally more suited for larger areas or homes with multiple floors, as they provide broader coverage and more consistent connections throughout the space. Regular wifi routers, on the other hand, may be more appropriate for smaller homes or apartments where a single router can adequately cover the area. Both options have their own sets of advantages and limitations, including factors such as cost, ease of setup, and network management features. Understanding these differences can help you make a good choice when it comes to deciding what type of network to install.
