Configuring a wired connection for mesh Wi-Fi networks
Configuring a wired connection for mesh Wi-Fi networks
I possess two TP-Link Deco M4 mesh routers, one in my bedroom connected to the ISP's GPON terminal and another in the living room. They operate on wireless backhaul, but that doesn’t meet expectations. My 200mbps downlink drops to about 80mbps when linked to the satellite unit because of the concrete walls. The fix would involve setting up an Ethernet backhaul, yet I face several challenges. Currently, only one Ethernet cable runs between the rooms—used for IPTV. One end connects to a dedicated IPTV port on the GPON terminal, the other goes into an IPTV receiver. Adding another cable isn’t feasible at the moment. I have two choices: install Ethernet splitters at each end, which would cap speeds at 100mbps and likely not improve performance, or use powerline adapters. However, reviews suggest these often deliver inconsistent speeds and fall short of promises. Can I reach a faster connection without sacrificing speed?
There are several devices featuring gigabit ports such as the TP-Link TL-PA8010P. I could just try and see what happens.
Another approach exists. Install smart-managed switches at each end and set up VLANs to route two Ethernet ports from the GPON terminal through the existing cable, then reroute them. Assign one port to the IPTV VLAN while others connect to the Internet, allowing multiple wired devices in one space. A router using OpenWRT could serve as both the second switch and a Wi-Fi hub in one device. An older OpenWRT router might even function as the initial switch, offering cost savings.
The existing cable is already in the wall, and adding another one would be very difficult. I'll prepare for it during my next home improvement project, though that won't happen soon.
It's definitely worth giving it a shot, thanks! The costs for managed switches seem high, but I have some old routers that could be useful.
I purchased a set of affordable Zyxel gigabit managed switches and set up two VLANs—one for the Ethernet backbone and another for IPTV—as recommended by @Alex Atkin UK. Everything functions as intended so far. The full 200mbps downlink reaches my living room via the Ethernet backbone, and the IPTV service operates smoothly. Here’s a visual overview of the network if anyone wants to see it:
This approach works well because it avoids common recommendations. Setting up VLANs might initially seem challenging, but this method offers a practical alternative.