Choose a better router or mesh system for improved network performance.
Choose a better router or mesh system for improved network performance.
Hi everyone, I'm really new to network systems. Most of the time I just plug in an ethernet or WiFi password and hope it works—otherwise I turn it off and on again. I live in a solid concrete building from the 1940s, now renovated but still with a 3-story layout. My main challenge is getting a strong WiFi signal up to the top floor. The house is roughly 30-40 feet (10-13 meters) high, and the current router is on the ground floor. It's a standard modem/router setup from my ISP.
Question: Should I install a mesh network throughout the house, or would a better router provide enough coverage? I’m getting weak signals there, but streaming works fine. There are no big black spots inside, though the signal drops near the garden end, which is the same distance from the router as the top floor. I can’t move the router because the cable runs through my TV service area. Ideally, I’d switch the IPS unit into a modem-only role and use either a new router or a mesh system to boost range. Any suggestions would be great! Thanks!
I've got a mesh setup, though I think it's quite costly for what it offers—just a router with a built-in Wi-Fi access point. The top choices are: 1. A simpler workaround—use an extender like this one; it won't be part of the same network but will give you a separate one (e.g., "My Wifi Network" vs. "My Wifi Network-EXT"). 2. A better solution—buy another affordable router and connect it to your ISP's modem via Ethernet, then switch it to AP mode. 3. Opt for a mesh system; I've heard Eero is solid and much cheaper than what you're using now.
Are there solid internal barriers? Are the floors made of concrete or wood as well? Omnidirectional WiFi signals perform well horizontally but struggle vertically. Signal strength drops quickly when WiFi moves through walls and floors, depending on the materials present. In homes with many concrete or brick walls, mesh networks depend heavily on WiFi for communication between devices, not just between nodes and clients. If the connection to the main unit is slow, the whole network slows down. Some users have solved this by using Ethernet as a backhaul between the main unit and devices. A more sophisticated wireless approach uses multiple access points placed strategically to extend coverage. Advanced systems may employ several APs or software that supports smooth handoffs, similar to mesh networks. I’d steer clear of products labeled as wireless extenders or range boosters—they’re outdated and inefficient compared to the alternatives discussed. Unless you need just a tiny area with poor signal, skip those devices.
The house features some concrete interiors but all floors remain timber. The upper level appears to be the only area without a dead spot. Central heating and wiring are embedded in the floors, suggesting possible interference with signals. I’m not upset about running cables between floors since I’d prefer avoiding wall runs or junction boxes. The signal works well until the top floor, where wireless performance drops—especially for devices like Chromecast. It might just be the building’s vertical structure affecting coverage.
Unless directional antennas are used. If I understand correctly, much of the signal gets lost outside. The best approach would be to connect Ethernet from the ISP gateway to the upper floor and install an access point. This ensures a stable, consistent connection for your wireless devices because you have a wired link and eliminate signal loss from floors. Setting up Ethernet can be more time-consuming, but it delivers better performance over time. If running Ethernet isn't possible, consider a mesh network and test its effectiveness. Results vary by home construction.
In this case, using a standard router with an antenna aimed at the third floor and a mesh satellite positioned near the window might work, could it be correct? Your home layout is an L-shape, with a single-story kitchen behind and three stories ahead—definitely should have included that detail! The issue isn’t about the technical challenge itself, but rather convincing the boss to abandon her vision of the freshly remodeled house we just spent a lot on.
Mesh systems rely on omnidirectional antennas. For optimal performance, use compatible devices—typically the same brand or model unless you're using Asus' AiMesh. Establishing reliable vertical connections will be tricky. It would help to spread mesh points throughout the home so the software can determine the best route for links.
My point is clear: Would you prefer seeing several hidden "alien ships" with exposed cables, or a clean AP with mostly concealed wires? You don’t need extra conduit if you already have it for low-voltage or coax cables. Ethernet can fit in the same space if room allows. In fact, you won’t need conduit at all if you can access the walls and route through studs.